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March 24, 2026
冓gòu(gou4)
The character 冓 (gòu) refers to a hidden or secret space, often associated with niches or cabinets. It can denote inner rooms of a palace and even signify a large quantity, such as ten billion. This term is less common in everyday language and is often used in literary or historical contexts.
Strokes10Radical冂Frequency#—DifficultyVery Hard
Cultural Note
In historical Chinese architecture, the concept of hidden rooms or secret compartments was significant, especially in palatial designs where privacy and security were paramount. This reflects the value placed on secrecy in traditional Chinese culture.
Memory Tip
Imagine a secret cabinet (冓) where hidden treasures are stored away from prying eyes. The character's structure resembles a roof (the top part) protecting the valuables inside, while the bottom suggests a hidden compartment.
Meanings of 冓
gòu(gou4)
1secret, niche, hiding-hole, cabinet
2inner rooms of palace
Exercise 1 of 2
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About 冓
冓Simplified
10Strokes
冂Radical
状态词stative word (stat.)Part of Speech
#—Frequency Rank
Podcast: 冓
Podcast: 冓
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AI Study Notes for 冓
Memory Mnemonic
Imagine a secret cabinet (冓) where hidden treasures are stored away from prying eyes. The character's structure resembles a roof (the top part) protecting the valuables inside, while the bottom suggests a hidden compartment.
Usage Notes
Learners should note that 冓 is not frequently used in modern conversations and might be more relevant in literary texts. Be cautious with tone, as 'gòu' can be confused with other similar-sounding words. It is typically used in a formal context.
HSK Study Tips
Although 冓 is not part of the HSK vocabulary, understanding its components can help with recognizing other characters with similar structures. Focus on the concept of hidden or secret spaces, which can connect with various other HSK characters.
Cultural Note
In historical Chinese architecture, the concept of hidden rooms or secret compartments was significant, especially in palatial designs where privacy and security were paramount. This reflects the value placed on secrecy in traditional Chinese culture.
Common Mistakes
Learners often confuse 冓 with similar characters due to pronunciation. For instance, mixing it up with 购 (gòu), which means to purchase. Correct usage would be: '这个房间是一个秘密的冓' (This room is a secret niche).
AI-enhanced 2026-03-24
Pronunciation of 冓
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Cultural Notes for 冓
🏮Cultural insight
In historical Chinese architecture, the concept of hidden rooms or secret compartments was significant, especially in palatial designs where privacy and security were paramount. This reflects the value placed on secrecy in traditional Chinese culture.
Word Family of 冓
Words Containing This Character1
冓gòuten billions
Exercise 1 of 1
Compound Meaning
What does 冓 mean?
Frequently Asked Questions about 冓
Synonyms include 隐蔽 (yǐnbì), which means hidden or concealed.
No, 冓 is rarely used in everyday conversation and is more often found in literary or historical contexts.
