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円 — pronunciations, definitions, and tags
HanziPinyinEnglishTags
円yuáncircle; yenx, 4 strokes, radical 冂, rank #12844, Very Hard
円yuányen (Japanese currency)unknown, 4 strokes, radical 冂, rank #12844, Very Hard
円yuánJapanese variant of 圓|圆unknown, 4 strokes, radical 冂, rank #12844, Very Hard
yuán(yuan2)yuan T2
  1. 1circle; yen
  2. 2yen (Japanese currency)
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March 24, 2026

円yuán(yuan2)

The character '圆' (yuán) primarily means 'circle' in Mandarin, representing the shape and concept of roundness. Additionally, it is used to denote the Chinese currency unit 'yuan' and can refer to the Japanese yen due to its historical ties. In everyday contexts, it can describe anything circular or a complete unit, like in discussions about money or shapes.

Strokes4Radical冂Frequency#12844DifficultyVery Hard
Cultural Note

'圆' is significant in Chinese culture as it symbolizes completeness and harmony, often represented in traditional designs and art. The concept of '圆' relates to the idea of unity and wholeness, which is a recurring theme in Chinese philosophy.

Memory Tip

Imagine a 'yuán' (円) as a 'round' plate filled with delicious food. The circular shape of the plate helps you remember that '圆' means 'circle'. Additionally, visualize a 'yen' coin rolling smoothly along this plate, reinforcing that '円' relates to currency.

Meanings of 円

yuán(yuan2)
1circle; yen
2yen (Japanese currency)
Exercise 1 of 2

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About 円

円Simplified
4Strokes
冂Radical
非语素字non-morpheme character (n-m.)Part of Speech
#—Frequency Rank

Podcast: 円

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Podcast: 円

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AI Study Notes for 円

Usage Notes

Learners often confuse '圆' with its more formal variant '圓', which is less commonly used in modern Mandarin. While '圆' is used in everyday language, be cautious about using it in formal financial contexts, where '人民币' (Renminbi) might be more appropriate. Pay attention to the pronunciation, as a mix-up with similar-sounding words can lead to misunderstandings.

HSK Study Tips

Although '圆' is not assigned a specific HSK level, it is useful for learners at HSK level 2 and above, especially in contexts involving currency and basic geometric shapes. Focus on its pronunciation and usage in financial contexts to strengthen vocabulary relevant to daily life.

Common Mistakes

Learners might mistakenly use '圆' in contexts that require the traditional form '圓', especially in written Chinese. For example, using '圆' in a formal document where '圓' is expected can be incorrect. Remember that '圆' is more common in everyday language.

AI-enhanced 2026-03-24

Pronunciation of 円

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Etymology of 円

Decomposition of 円

IDS Structure⿵冂丄
円Full Character
=
冂jiong1
enclosing
丄shang4
inner
Exercise 1 of 2

Parts

Which of these is part of 円?

How to say circle; yen in Chinese

“circle; yen” in Chinese is円yuán

The character '圆' (yuán) primarily means 'circle' in Mandarin, representing the shape and concept of roundness. Additionally, it is used to denote the Chinese currency unit 'yuan' and can refer to the Japanese yen due to its historical ties. In everyday contexts, it can describe anything circular or a complete unit, like in discussions about money or shapes.

When to use 円

Learners often confuse '圆' with its more formal variant '圓', which is less commonly used in modern Mandarin. While '圆' is used in everyday language, be cautious about using it in formal financial contexts, where '人民币' (Renminbi) might be more appropriate. Pay attention to the pronunciation, as a mix-up with similar-sounding words can lead to misunderstandings.

What learners get wrong

Learners might mistakenly use '圆' in contexts that require the traditional form '圓', especially in written Chinese. For example, using '圆' in a formal document where '圓' is expected can be incorrect. Remember that '圆' is more common in everyday language.

Write 円

円

Practice writing 円 stroke by stroke. Watch the animation to learn the stroke order, then try writing it yourself.

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Word Family of 円

Words Containing This Character1
円yuányen (Japanese currency)

Frequently Asked Questions about 円

'圆' is the simplified form used in Mainland China, while '圓' is the traditional form used in Taiwan and Hong Kong.

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