fig. knack or trick (esp. scheme to get sth cheaper)
HSK 7, unknown, rank #17118, Hard
ménkǎn(men2kan3) T2
1doorstep
2sill
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March 24, 2026
门槛(門檻)ménkǎn(men2kan3)
门槛 (ménkǎn) refers to the physical threshold or doorstep of a doorway, symbolizing the boundary between two spaces. Figuratively, it can also denote a knack or trick to achieve something, often implying a clever or resourceful way to obtain a desired outcome, particularly in a bargain or deal context.
Frequency#17118DifficultyHard
Cultural Note
In Chinese culture, the concept of bargaining and finding a '门槛' or trick to negotiate prices is very common, especially in markets and street vendors where haggling is expected.
Memory Tip
Imagine stepping over a '门' (mén) which is a door, and as you cross the '槛' (kǎn), you discover a secret trick to save money. The characters together create an image of crossing into a new opportunity or scheme, making it easier to remember their meaning and pronunciation.
Meanings of 门槛
ménkǎn(men2kan3)
1doorstep
2sill
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About 门槛
门槛Simplified
門檻Traditional
—Strokes
—Radical
名词míngcínoun (n.)Part of Speech
#—Frequency Rank
HSK 3.0L7AdvancedCEFRC2
Podcast: 门槛
Podcast: 门槛
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AI Study Notes for 门槛
Memory Mnemonic
Imagine stepping over a '门' (mén) which is a door, and as you cross the '槛' (kǎn), you discover a secret trick to save money. The characters together create an image of crossing into a new opportunity or scheme, making it easier to remember their meaning and pronunciation.
Usage Notes
Be careful not to confuse 门槛 with similar terms like '门口' (ménkǒu), which means doorway. This word is generally used in informal contexts when discussing tricks or schemes, and it may not be appropriate in formal discussions.
HSK Study Tips
While 门槛 is not an HSK word, it can be connected to other words related to home and entrances, such as '门' (door) and '口' (mouth/opening). Focus on the figurative use in conversations about deals and bargains.
Cultural Note
In Chinese culture, the concept of bargaining and finding a '门槛' or trick to negotiate prices is very common, especially in markets and street vendors where haggling is expected.
Common Mistakes
Learners often misuse 门槛 to refer to the door itself instead of the threshold. For example, saying '我站在门槛里面' (I am standing inside the door threshold) should be corrected to '我站在门槛上' (I am standing on the threshold).
AI-enhanced 2026-03-24
Pronunciation of 门槛
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Cultural Notes for 门槛
🏮Cultural insight
In Chinese culture, the concept of bargaining and finding a '门槛' or trick to negotiate prices is very common, especially in markets and street vendors where haggling is expected.
Frequently Asked Questions about 门槛
Generally, 门槛 is more suitable for informal conversations, especially when discussing tricks or schemes.
门槛 refers specifically to the threshold or sill of a door, while 门口 refers to the entrance area outside the door.
You might say, '我找到了一种省钱的门槛' (I found a way to save money).
