Meanings of 锉
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Podcast: 锉
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AI study notes for 锉
When using 锉, it's important to remember it generally refers to a physical tool rather than the action of filing, which is expressed differently in Chinese. It's more commonly used in informal contexts, especially among tradespeople. Be careful with the tone; 锉 is pronounced with a falling tone (cuò), which can be confused with similar-sounding words.
Although 锉 is not included in HSK vocabulary lists, it relates to HSK Level 3 words about tools and actions (e.g., 工具, 'tool'). Students should focus on recognizing how tool-related vocabulary connects to practical activities in carpentry and other crafts.
Learners often confuse 锉 with similar-sounding characters like 错 (cuò, meaning 'wrong'). For example, saying '我用错' instead of '我用锉' (I used the file) can lead to misunderstandings. Always ensure you're using the correct character for the context.
Pronunciation of 锉
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Etymology of 锉
Phonosemantic compound. 钅 represents the meaning and 坐 represents the sound. Simplified form of 銼.
metal
Origin
锉 = 钅 + 坐. What kind of character does that make it?
Decomposition of 锉
Parts
Which of these is part of 锉?
How to say carpenter's file; to file smooth in Chinese
“carpenter's file; to file smooth” in Chinese is锉
锉 (cuò) refers to a carpenter's tool used for filing or smoothing surfaces, particularly in woodworking. It is similar to a rasp and is commonly utilized in carpentry and metalwork to refine shapes and edges. The term can also denote the action of filing something to create a smooth finish.
When to use 锉
When using 锉, it's important to remember it generally refers to a physical tool rather than the action of filing, which is expressed differently in Chinese. It's more commonly used in informal contexts, especially among tradespeople. Be careful with the tone; 锉 is pronounced with a falling tone (cuò), which can be confused with similar-sounding words.
What learners get wrong
Learners often confuse 锉 with similar-sounding characters like 错 (cuò, meaning 'wrong'). For example, saying '我用错' instead of '我用锉' (I used the file) can lead to misunderstandings. Always ensure you're using the correct character for the context.
Write 锉
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Practice writing 锉 stroke by stroke. Watch the animation to learn the stroke order, then try writing it yourself.
Grammar patterns of 锉
锉 functions as a noun — it names a person, place, thing, or concept. Place it as a subject before the verb (主+谓) or as an object after the verb (谓+宾). Most Chinese nouns require a measure word between the number and the noun (e.g. 一个/三本). It carries 3 related meanings, each with its own usage notes below. The example sentences below show it in action, with practice buttons (Listen, Practice Writing, Practice Speaking) on every line.
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这门关不上, 你得把它____一锉.
The door won't fit ; you'll have to file it down.
Example sentences for 锉 (4)
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Word Family of 锉
Words with 锉
What does 锉刀 mean?
Frequently asked questions about 锉
锉 is primarily used as a tool for filing and smoothing surfaces in woodworking and metalworking.
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