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March 24, 2026
阏(閼)è(e4)
The character 阏 (è) means to block, obstruct, or stop up something. It is often used in contexts where something prevents movement or progress, such as blocking a road or obstructing communication. This character can also imply restraint or control over a situation or object.
Strokes11Radical门Frequency#—DifficultyVery Hard
Cultural Note
In ancient Chinese literature, 阏 is sometimes associated with the concept of barriers or control in governance, reflecting historical themes of power and restriction. It can also relate to various philosophical ideas about the balance of forces.
Memory Tip
Imagine a heavy gate (阝) blocking a road, preventing any cars from passing. The sound 'è' can remind you of the sound of an engine being halted, emphasizing the blockage.
Meanings of 阏
è(e4)
primary
1to block, to obstruct, to stop up
2to restrain
Exercise 1 of 2
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About 阏
阏Simplified
閼Traditional
11Strokes
门Radical
非语素字non-morpheme character (n-m.)Part of Speech
#—Frequency Rank
Podcast: 阏
Podcast: 阏
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AI Study Notes for 阏
Memory Mnemonic
Imagine a heavy gate (阝) blocking a road, preventing any cars from passing. The sound 'è' can remind you of the sound of an engine being halted, emphasizing the blockage.
Usage Notes
Be cautious about the context in which you use 阏, as it can have a slightly formal tone. It commonly appears in literary or historical contexts rather than everyday conversation. Avoid confusing it with similar-sounding words like '恶' (è), which means 'evil.'
HSK Study Tips
While 阏 is not part of HSK vocabulary, it can enrich your understanding of words related to obstruction at higher levels. Focus on recognizing its components and how they relate to similar characters like '阻' (zǔ) meaning 'to obstruct.'
Cultural Note
In ancient Chinese literature, 阏 is sometimes associated with the concept of barriers or control in governance, reflecting historical themes of power and restriction. It can also relate to various philosophical ideas about the balance of forces.
Common Mistakes
Learners often confuse 阏 with 阻 (zǔ), leading to incorrect usage in sentences. For example, saying 阏路 (è lù) instead of 阻路 (zǔ lù) for 'block the road' can create confusion.
AI-enhanced 2026-03-24
Pronunciation of 阏
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Cultural Notes for 阏
🏮Cultural insight
In ancient Chinese literature, 阏 is sometimes associated with the concept of barriers or control in governance, reflecting historical themes of power and restriction. It can also relate to various philosophical ideas about the balance of forces.
Word Family of 阏
Words Containing This Character1
阏èto block閼
Exercise 1 of 1
Compound Meaning
What does 阏 mean?
Frequently Asked Questions about 阏
You might say 阏住了入口 (è zhù le rùkǒu), which means 'blocked the entrance.'
No, it is more prevalent in classical texts or formal writing.
Yes, '阻' (zǔ) is a common synonym that also means to obstruct.
