HSK 7, unknown, 8 strokes, radical 凵, rank #17690, Hard
函
hán
case
HSK 7, unknown, 8 strokes, radical 凵, rank #17690, Hard
函
hán
letter
HSK 7, unknown, 8 strokes, radical 凵, rank #17690, Hard
hán(han2) T2
1correspondence; a case, a box
2envelope
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March 24, 2026
函hán(han2)
The character 函 (hán) primarily refers to correspondence or a letter, often in the context of written communication. It can also denote an envelope or a box used for holding items, indicating a sense of containment. This word is commonly used in formal settings when discussing letters and official documents.
Strokes8Radical凵Frequency#17690DifficultyHard
Cultural Note
In traditional Chinese culture, sending letters was a crucial part of maintaining relationships, especially in formal or familial contexts. The use of 函 reflects the importance of written communication in Chinese history.
Memory Tip
Imagine a letter (函) being cradled in a box (the box is the character's outer shape). The 'h' in 'hán' can remind you of 'hand' delivering a letter, while the 'án' sounds like 'an envelope' that holds your correspondence.
Meanings of 函
hán(han2)
1correspondence; a case, a box
2envelope
Exercise 1 of 2
Listen & Choose the Meaning
Choose the correct answer:
About 函
函Simplified
8Strokes
凵Radical
名词míngcínoun (n.)Part of Speech
#—Frequency Rank
HSK 3.0L7
Podcast: 函
Podcast: 函
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AI Study Notes for 函
Quick Contrast
信 (xìn) — use 函 (hán) for formal correspondence, while 信 (xìn) is more casual and can also mean 'trust' or 'letter' in a general sense.
Memory Mnemonic
Imagine a letter (函) being cradled in a box (the box is the character's outer shape). The 'h' in 'hán' can remind you of 'hand' delivering a letter, while the 'án' sounds like 'an envelope' that holds your correspondence.
Usage Notes
Be mindful to use 函 in formal contexts, as it might not be suitable for casual conversations about letters. Common collocations include '信函' (xìnhán - letter of correspondence) and '函件' (hánjiàn - correspondence item). A common mistake is confusing it with '信' (xìn), which specifically means a letter in a more casual sense.
HSK Study Tips
While 函 is not explicitly part of the HSK vocabulary, it connects with other words related to communication and documentation at beginner levels. Focus on associating it with related terms like '信' (xìn) and '邮件' (yóujiàn - email) to build a broader understanding.
Cultural Note
In traditional Chinese culture, sending letters was a crucial part of maintaining relationships, especially in formal or familial contexts. The use of 函 reflects the importance of written communication in Chinese history.
Common Mistakes
Learners often confuse 函 with '信' (xìn) and use it interchangeably in casual contexts. For example, saying '我写了一函给他' ('I wrote a letter to him') is overly formal; instead, use '我写了一封信给他' ('I wrote a letter to him').
AI-enhanced 2026-03-24
Pronunciation of 函
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Grammar Patterns of 函
函 functions as a noun — it names a person, place, thing, or concept. Place it as a subject before the verb (主+谓) or as an object after the verb (谓+宾). Most Chinese nouns require a measure word between the number and the noun (e.g. 一个/三本). It carries 4 related meanings, each with its own usage notes below. The example sentences below show it in action, with practice buttons (Listen, Practice Writing, Practice Speaking) on every line.
Exercise 1 of 4
Complete the Sentence
我未收到任何复____或答复。
I have received neither an acknowledgment nor a reply.
Example Sentences for 函 (10)
Listen to all sentences once to receive XP
1
我未收到任何复函或答复。
wǒ wèi shōu dào rèn hé fù hán huò dá fù。
I have received neither an acknowledgment nor a reply.
2
请于今日将随函附上的捐款表格用所提供的邮资预付的信封寄回。
qǐng yú jīn rì jiāng suí hán fù shàng de juān kuǎn biǎo gé yòng suǒ tí gōng de yóu zī yù fù de xìn fēng jì huí。
Return the enclosed Donation Form today in the prepaid envelope provided.
If you are dissatisfied with our service, please write to the manager.
10
特此告知贵方7月25日的来函收悉.
tè cǐ gào zhī guì fāng7 725 yuè 25 rì de lái hán.
I hereby acknowledge receipt of your letter of 25 July.
Cultural Notes for 函
🏮Cultural insight
In traditional Chinese culture, sending letters was a crucial part of maintaining relationships, especially in formal or familial contexts. The use of 函 reflects the importance of written communication in Chinese history.
Word Family of 函
Words Containing This Character20
邀请函invitation letter邀請函
函háncase
函数function (math.)函數
信函letter
函授hánshòuto teach by correspondence
致函to send a letter
回函a reply (in writing)
函件letters
来函incoming letter來函
公函gōnghánofficial letter
三角函数trigonometric function三角函數
函馆Hakodate, main port of south Hokkaidō 北海道[Běihǎidào], Japan函館
二次函数quadratic function二次函數
波函数wave function (in quantum mechanics)波函數
函谷关Hangu Pass in modern day Henan Province, strategic pass forming the eastern gate of the Qin State during the Warring States Period (770-221 BC)函谷關
密函secret letter
一次函数linear function (math.)一次函數
书函letter書函
反函数inverse function (math.)反函數
便函an informal letter sent by an organization
Exercise 1 of 4
Compound Meaning
What does 邀请函 mean?
Frequently Asked Questions about 函
No, 函 is more formal and typically used in written communication or official contexts.
No, 函 specifically refers to letters or correspondence and does not commonly include modern digital communications.
Common phrases include '信函' (xìnhán - letter of correspondence) and '回函' (huífán - reply letter).
