Listen to the audio pronunciation 3 times to gain XP
March 24, 2026
元老()yuánlǎo(yuan2lao3)
元老 (yuánlǎo) refers to a senior figure or elder in a specific context, often someone who has significant experience or authority within a group, organization, or society. This term is commonly used to denote respected elder statesmen or seasoned professionals who are looked up to for their wisdom and knowledge.
Frequency#9670DifficultyHard
Cultural Note
In Chinese culture, the concept of respect for elders is deeply rooted, and terms like 元老 reflect the high regard for individuals who have contributed significantly to society or their fields.
Memory Tip
Think of 元 (yuán) as 'origin' and 老 (lǎo) meaning 'old' or 'elder'. Imagine an ancient tree with deep roots (元) and a wide trunk (老), symbolizing the solid foundation and wisdom that an elder brings to a community.
Meanings of 元老
yuánlǎo(yuan2lao3)
1senior figure
2elder
Exercise 1 of 2
Listen & Choose the Meaning
Choose the correct answer:
About 元老
元老Simplified
Traditional
—Strokes
—Radical
名词míngcínoun (n.)Part of Speech
#—Frequency Rank
HSK 3.0L7AdvancedCEFRC2
Podcast: 元老
Podcast: 元老
Listen to Jason & Amy break down this word for you
New here?
AI Study Notes for 元老
Quick Contrast
资深 (zīshēn) - use 元老 when referring to an elder with authority or respect in a specific context, while 资深 is more general for someone experienced without the same connotation of age or authority.
Memory Mnemonic
Think of 元 (yuán) as 'origin' and 老 (lǎo) meaning 'old' or 'elder'. Imagine an ancient tree with deep roots (元) and a wide trunk (老), symbolizing the solid foundation and wisdom that an elder brings to a community.
Usage Notes
Be cautious with the tone when pronouncing 元老; it should be pronounced with a rising tone on 元 and a falling tone on 老. This term is often used in formal contexts, such as politics or academia, so it may not be appropriate in casual conversations.
HSK Study Tips
元老 is not an HSK vocabulary word, but it relates to other HSK terms about age and authority, such as 老 (lǎo) meaning 'old'. Students should focus on understanding the connotations of respect and seniority associated with this term.
Cultural Note
In Chinese culture, the concept of respect for elders is deeply rooted, and terms like 元老 reflect the high regard for individuals who have contributed significantly to society or their fields.
Common Mistakes
Learners often confuse 元老 with just any elder, using it incorrectly in casual contexts. For example, saying '我爷爷是元老' (My grandfather is a senior figure) is incorrect unless he holds a respected position in a specific group.
AI-enhanced 2026-03-24
Pronunciation of 元老
Premium — Locked
AI tone practice
Pro
Drill the tone of 元老 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 元老 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 元老
🏮Cultural insight
In Chinese culture, the concept of respect for elders is deeply rooted, and terms like 元老 reflect the high regard for individuals who have contributed significantly to society or their fields.
Frequently Asked Questions about 元老
Not necessarily; 元老 specifically refers to someone who holds a position of respect or authority, not just anyone older.
No, 元老 can refer to both men and women who are recognized as senior figures.
老人 (lǎorén) simply means 'elderly person', while 元老 carries a sense of respect and authority.
