Listen to the audio pronunciation 3 times to gain XP
March 24, 2026
鶉chún(chun2)
The character 鶉 (chún) refers to a type of quail, particularly species in the Turnix genus. These birds are often associated with their small size and distinctive calls, and the term can be used both in a biological context and in poetry to evoke certain imagery related to nature.
Strokes19Radical鳥
Cultural Note
In Chinese poetry, birds like the 鶉 are often symbols of beauty and tranquility, reflecting the appreciation of nature in traditional Chinese culture. The quail is also mentioned in classic texts as a symbol of fidelity and harmony.
Memory Tip
Imagine a tiny bird, the quail, chirping sweetly in a lush garden. The character 鶉 resembles a bird perched on a branch, with the radical 鳥 (bird) at the top, reminding you of its avian nature. The pronunciation 'chún' can be remembered by thinking of 'chun' as a soft, gentle sound like the quail's call.
Meanings of 鶉
chún(chun2)
1quail; Turnix species (various)
Exercise 1 of 2
Listen & Choose the Meaning
Choose the correct answer:
About 鶉
鶉Simplified
19Strokes
鳥Radical
非语素字non-morpheme character (n-m.)Part of Speech
#—Frequency Rank
Podcast: 鶉
Podcast: 鶉
Listen to Jason & Amy break down this word for you
New here?
AI Study Notes for 鶉
Memory Mnemonic
Imagine a tiny bird, the quail, chirping sweetly in a lush garden. The character 鶉 resembles a bird perched on a branch, with the radical 鳥 (bird) at the top, reminding you of its avian nature. The pronunciation 'chún' can be remembered by thinking of 'chun' as a soft, gentle sound like the quail's call.
Usage Notes
When using 鶉 in conversation or writing, it is typically in a more formal or literary context, as everyday discussions rarely involve this specific bird. Be cautious with the pronunciation; learners often confuse it with similar-sounding words. Common collocations include '鶉的叫声' (the call of the quail).
HSK Study Tips
Although 鶉 is not included in the HSK vocabulary, it connects to themes of nature present in HSK Level 3 and above. Students should focus on its usage in descriptive language and poetry, enhancing their vocabulary around animals and nature.
Cultural Note
In Chinese poetry, birds like the 鶉 are often symbols of beauty and tranquility, reflecting the appreciation of nature in traditional Chinese culture. The quail is also mentioned in classic texts as a symbol of fidelity and harmony.
Common Mistakes
Learners often confuse 鶉 with similar bird characters, leading to incorrect usage. For example, using 鳥 instead of 鶉 when referring specifically to quails is a common mistake; remember to use 鶉 for the quail species.
AI-enhanced 2026-03-24
Pronunciation of 鶉
Premium — Locked
AI tone practice
Pro
Drill the tone of 鶉 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 鶉 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 鶉
🏮Cultural insight
In Chinese poetry, birds like the 鶉 are often symbols of beauty and tranquility, reflecting the appreciation of nature in traditional Chinese culture. The quail is also mentioned in classic texts as a symbol of fidelity and harmony.
Word Family of 鶉
Words Containing This Character2
鹌鹑quail鵪鶉
鹑chúnquail鶉
Exercise 1 of 2
Compound Meaning
What does 鹌鹑 mean?
Frequently Asked Questions about 鶉
While 鳥 (niǎo) is a general term for birds, 鶉 specifically refers to the quail, a particular species. It highlights the importance of specificity in Chinese vocabulary.
You might say '田野里有许多鶉在叫' (There are many quails calling in the fields), demonstrating its use in a natural context.
No, 鶉 is more often found in literary and formal contexts rather than in casual conversation.
Jason Recommends
Not sure what to learn after 鶉?
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.