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March 24, 2026
鼍(鼉)tuó(tuo2)
The character 鼍 (tuó) refers specifically to a large reptile, commonly known as a Chinese alligator. It is often used in discussions about wildlife, conservation, and the natural habitat of these creatures, which are primarily found in freshwater environments in China.
Strokes20Radical黾Frequency#—DifficultyVery Hard
Cultural Note
The Chinese alligator is an endangered species and is a symbol of China's rich biodiversity and the need for wildlife conservation efforts. Awareness of this creature is integral to understanding China's approach to environmental protection.
Memory Tip
Imagine a giant water lizard lounging by a river. The character 鼍 looks like a creature with a broad mouth (the top part resembles a wide jaw), reminding you of the alligator's fierce look, which helps you remember both the form and pronunciation 'tuó'.
Meanings of 鼍
tuó(tuo2)
1large reptile, water lizard
2Chinese alligator (Alligator sinensis)
Exercise 1 of 2
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About 鼍
鼍Simplified
鼉Traditional
20Strokes
黾Radical
语素morpheme (morph.)Part of Speech
#—Frequency Rank
Podcast: 鼍
Podcast: 鼍
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AI Study Notes for 鼍
Memory Mnemonic
Imagine a giant water lizard lounging by a river. The character 鼍 looks like a creature with a broad mouth (the top part resembles a wide jaw), reminding you of the alligator's fierce look, which helps you remember both the form and pronunciation 'tuó'.
Usage Notes
This term is quite formal and is often found in scientific or ecological contexts. A common mistake is to confuse it with the more general term for lizard, which is 蜥蜴 (xīyì). Ensure to use 鼍 specifically when referring to the Chinese alligator.
HSK Study Tips
Although 鼍 is not currently included in the HSK vocabulary lists, it can be beneficial to students studying wildlife or environmental topics. Connecting this word with other animal-related vocabulary at HSK level 4 or 5 can enhance understanding and retention.
Cultural Note
The Chinese alligator is an endangered species and is a symbol of China's rich biodiversity and the need for wildlife conservation efforts. Awareness of this creature is integral to understanding China's approach to environmental protection.
Common Mistakes
Learners often mistakenly use the word 鳄鱼 (èyú), which means 'crocodile', instead of 鼍 for the Chinese alligator. Remember that 鼍 specifically denotes the Chinese alligator, highlighting its unique species.
AI-enhanced 2026-03-24
Pronunciation of 鼍
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Cultural Notes for 鼍
🏮Cultural insight
The Chinese alligator is an endangered species and is a symbol of China's rich biodiversity and the need for wildlife conservation efforts. Awareness of this creature is integral to understanding China's approach to environmental protection.
Word Family of 鼍
Words Containing This Character1
鼍tuóChinese alligator (Alligator sinensis)鼉
Exercise 1 of 1
Compound Meaning
What does 鼍 mean?
Frequently Asked Questions about 鼍
It means 'Chinese alligator' or 'large water lizard'.
No, it is more often found in formal contexts related to ecology and wildlife.
