glutinous rice and choice of filling wrapped in leaves and boiled
HSK 6, unknown, rank #38722, Very Hard
zòngzi(zong4zi5) T4
1glutinous rice and choice of filling wrapped in leaves and boiled
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March 24, 2026
粽子()zòngzi(zong4zi5)
粽子 (zòngzi) refers to a traditional Chinese food made of glutinous rice filled with various ingredients, wrapped in bamboo or reed leaves, and then boiled or steamed. It is especially popular during the Dragon Boat Festival, symbolizing the remembrance of the poet Qu Yuan. The fillings can vary widely, including meats, beans, and nuts, making it a versatile dish.
Frequency#38722DifficultyVery Hard
Cultural Note
粽子 is deeply rooted in Chinese culture, particularly associated with the Dragon Boat Festival, where it honors the memory of Qu Yuan, a beloved poet. It is a time for family gatherings and sharing this special food.
Memory Tip
Think of 粽子 (zòngzi) as a 'zong' of rice and 'zi' for the tiny fillings tucked inside. Imagine a zong of delicious treasures wrapped tightly in green leaves, waiting to be unwrapped and enjoyed, creating a feast for your senses.
Meanings of 粽子
zòngzi(zong4zi5)
1glutinous rice and choice of filling wrapped in leaves and boiled
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About 粽子
粽子Simplified
Traditional
—Strokes
—Radical
名词míngcínoun (n.)Part of Speech
#—Frequency Rank
HSK 3.0L6AdvancedCEFRC2
Podcast: 粽子
Podcast: 粽子
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AI Study Notes for 粽子
Memory Mnemonic
Think of 粽子 (zòngzi) as a 'zong' of rice and 'zi' for the tiny fillings tucked inside. Imagine a zong of delicious treasures wrapped tightly in green leaves, waiting to be unwrapped and enjoyed, creating a feast for your senses.
Usage Notes
When using 粽子 in conversation, ensure you specify the type of filling if relevant, as there are many variations. It's commonly used in both informal and formal contexts, especially during festivals. Be careful with the tones; 'zòng' is pronounced with a falling tone, while 'zi' is neutral.
HSK Study Tips
Although 粽子 is not part of the official HSK vocabulary, it connects to cultural lessons at HSK level 3 and 4, where food-related vocabulary is introduced. Students should focus on the context of festivals and meals when learning this term.
Cultural Note
粽子 is deeply rooted in Chinese culture, particularly associated with the Dragon Boat Festival, where it honors the memory of Qu Yuan, a beloved poet. It is a time for family gatherings and sharing this special food.
Common Mistakes
Learners often confuse 粽子 with other rice dishes. For example, saying '米饭 (mǐfàn)' for 粽子 is incorrect; 米饭 refers to plain rice, while 粽子 is a specific wrapped dish. Always remember to emphasize the wrapping and fillings.
AI-enhanced 2026-03-24
Pronunciation of 粽子
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Cultural Notes for 粽子
🏮Cultural insight
粽子 is deeply rooted in Chinese culture, particularly associated with the Dragon Boat Festival, where it honors the memory of Qu Yuan, a beloved poet. It is a time for family gatherings and sharing this special food.
🌏Cross-cultural Insight
In Western cultures, the concept of wrapped food exists but may not carry the same historical and cultural significance as 粽子 does in Chinese traditions.
Frequently Asked Questions about 粽子
Fillings vary greatly, but common options include pork, red bean paste, and salted egg yolk.
While they are most popular during this festival, 粽子 can be enjoyed year-round.
You typically boil or steam them for about 1-2 hours, depending on their size.
