Listen to the audio pronunciation 3 times to gain XP
March 24, 2026
鐐liào(liao4)
The character 鐐 (liào) refers to fetters or leg-irons, which are devices used to restrain someone's movement, particularly on the legs. This term often appears in historical contexts related to imprisonment or punishment, emphasizing the physical constraints imposed on individuals.
Strokes20Radical釒
Cultural Note
The concept of 鐐 is tied to historical practices of punishment in ancient China, where physical restraints were commonly used in legal systems. This reflects the cultural attitude toward law and order in historical Chinese society.
Memory Tip
Imagine a heavy iron chain wrapping around someone's legs, making it difficult to walk. The character 鐐 has the radical '金' (metal) on the left, indicating its connection to iron, while the right part resembles legs being bound together, helping you remember its meaning and pronunciation.
Meanings of 鐐
liào(liao4)
1fetters, leg-irons
Exercise 1 of 2
Listen & Choose the Meaning
Choose the correct answer:
About 鐐
鐐Simplified
20Strokes
釒Radical
状态词stative word (stat.)Part of Speech
#—Frequency Rank
Podcast: 鐐
Podcast: 鐐
Listen to Jason & Amy break down this word for you
New here?
AI Study Notes for 鐐
Memory Mnemonic
Imagine a heavy iron chain wrapping around someone's legs, making it difficult to walk. The character 鐐 has the radical '金' (metal) on the left, indicating its connection to iron, while the right part resembles legs being bound together, helping you remember its meaning and pronunciation.
Usage Notes
Be cautious of using 鐐 in informal contexts, as it is more commonly found in literary or historical discussions. Common collocations include '鐐銬' (liàokào), meaning 'handcuffs', which reinforces its association with restraint. Ensure correct pronunciation, as misplacing tones can lead to confusion with other words.
HSK Study Tips
Although 鐐 is not part of the HSK vocabulary, understanding it can enhance your grasp of historical texts in Chinese literature. Focus on the context in which it appears, especially in discussions surrounding justice and punishment, to deepen comprehension.
Cultural Note
The concept of 鐐 is tied to historical practices of punishment in ancient China, where physical restraints were commonly used in legal systems. This reflects the cultural attitude toward law and order in historical Chinese society.
Common Mistakes
Learners may confuse 鐐 with similar characters due to its uncommon usage. For instance, misusing it for '脚' (jiǎo, meaning 'foot') can lead to confusion. Always remember that 鐐 specifically refers to restraints.
AI-enhanced 2026-03-24
Pronunciation of 鐐
Premium — Locked
AI tone practice
Pro
Drill the tone of 鐐 with AI-powered exercises, get instant feedback, and earn XP toward mastery. Interactive tone practice is part of Pro.
New here? to save your writing progress and earn XP.
Practice writing 鐐 stroke by stroke. Watch the animation to learn the stroke order, then try writing it yourself.
Write correctly 3 times to earn XP
Cultural Notes for 鐐
🏮Cultural insight
The concept of 鐐 is tied to historical practices of punishment in ancient China, where physical restraints were commonly used in legal systems. This reflects the cultural attitude toward law and order in historical Chinese society.
Word Family of 鐐
Words Containing This Character3
镣铐manacles and leg-irons鐐銬
脚镣fetters腳鐐
镣liàofetters鐐
Exercise 1 of 3
Compound Meaning
What does 镣铐 mean?
Frequently Asked Questions about 鐐
In modern usage, 鐐 primarily retains its meaning related to fetters or leg-irons, often in historical or literary contexts.
Yes, synonyms include 鐐銬 (liàokào) for handcuffs, highlighting the connotation of restraint.
No, 鐐 is rarely used in everyday conversation and is more frequently encountered in historical texts or discussions about law.
Jason Recommends
Not sure what to learn after 鐐?
Jason picks three words from your level and explains why each one is worth your time next. It takes a free account so he knows what you already know.
