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March 24, 2026
冼xiǎn(Xian3)
The character 冼 (xiǎn) is primarily used as a surname in Chinese. It is not commonly used in everyday vocabulary outside of proper names, and its usage is more prevalent in specific regions or among certain family lineages.
Strokes8Radical冫Frequency#—DifficultyVery Hard
Cultural Note
The surname 冼 has historical significance, often associated with notable figures in Chinese history, particularly in southern regions like Guangdong. It reflects the rich tapestry of Chinese genealogy and the importance of family lineage in Chinese culture.
Memory Tip
To remember 冼, think of a 'shower' (the character looks like a person under water droplets) and imagine someone washing away their worries. The pronunciation 'xiǎn' can remind you of 'shine' as if the water makes everything bright again.
Meanings of 冼
xiǎn(Xian3)
1surname
Exercise 1 of 2
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About 冼
冼Simplified
8Strokes
冫Radical
人名míngcíproper noun (pr.n.)Part of Speech
#—Frequency Rank
Podcast: 冼
Podcast: 冼
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AI Study Notes for 冼
Memory Mnemonic
To remember 冼, think of a 'shower' (the character looks like a person under water droplets) and imagine someone washing away their worries. The pronunciation 'xiǎn' can remind you of 'shine' as if the water makes everything bright again.
Usage Notes
When using the surname 冼, it is important to note that it is less common than many other Chinese surnames. This character is more formal and should be used in contexts where surnames are required, such as formal introductions or documentation.
HSK Study Tips
Although 冼 is not included in the HSK vocabulary lists, it is useful for learners to recognize surnames in Chinese. Understanding this character can help learners connect with family names and improve their comprehension when interacting with native speakers.
Cultural Note
The surname 冼 has historical significance, often associated with notable figures in Chinese history, particularly in southern regions like Guangdong. It reflects the rich tapestry of Chinese genealogy and the importance of family lineage in Chinese culture.
Common Mistakes
Learners often confuse 冼 with similar-sounding surnames, such as 仙 (xiān) or 鲜 (xiān). It's important to clarify the context when using names to avoid confusion.
AI-enhanced 2026-03-24
Pronunciation of 冼
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Cultural Notes for 冼
🏮Cultural insight
The surname 冼 has historical significance, often associated with notable figures in Chinese history, particularly in southern regions like Guangdong. It reflects the rich tapestry of Chinese genealogy and the importance of family lineage in Chinese culture.
Word Family of 冼
Words Containing This Character2
冼xiǎnsurname Xian
冼星海Xian Xinghai (1905-1945), violinist and composer, known for patriotic wartime pieces, including Yellow River Oratorio 黃河大合唱|黄河大合唱
Exercise 1 of 2
Compound Meaning
What does 冼 mean?
Frequently Asked Questions about 冼
No, 冼 is not one of the most common Chinese surnames, but it does exist and is recognized in certain regions.
You would typically use it in a formal context, such as introducing someone: '这是冼先生' (This is Mr. Xian).
Yes, there are notable individuals with this surname, particularly in the context of historical figures from southern China.