Meanings of 周
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About 周
Podcast: 周
Podcast: 周
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AI Study Notes for 周
周 (Zhōu) vs 周围 (zhōuwéi) — use 周 when specifically referring to the Zhou Dynasty or the concept of 'circle,' while 周围 refers to the surrounding area.
周 is versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. Common mistakes include confusing it with 週 (zhōu), which is used for weeks in more formal contexts. Pay attention to the context to avoid using it incorrectly.
Although 周 is not currently listed in HSK, it connects well with other words related to time (like 星期 for 'week') and space (like 圆 for 'circle'). Focus on its various meanings and practice using it in sentences for better retention.
Learners often confuse 周 with 週, mistakenly using one where the other is contextually appropriate. For example, saying '我每周去公园' (I go to the park every 周) should use 週 instead for clarity.
Pronunciation of 周
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Etymology of 周
Originally a pictograph of engraved jade, now written as 琱. 口 (mouth) indicates that the character is only "mouthed", i.e. only used for its phonetic value. In simplified Chinese 周 is also used to mean "week", while in traditional Chinese this meani
Border 冂 around land 土 with a well 口
Jason Etymology Detective
Case file: 周
Originally a pictograph of engraved jade, now written as 琱. 口 (mouth) indicates that the character is only "mouthed", i.e. only used for its phonetic value. In simplified Chinese 周 is also used to mean "week", while in traditional Chinese this meani
- 1The giveawayBorder 冂 around land 土 with a well 口
- 2On the record asideographic — someone drew an idea rather than an object.
Every clue here comes from the character's recorded structure — nothing is guessed.
Want the full history of 周? Jason searches the paleographic record, weighs the competing accounts and judges the popular story.
Charged once for this character — everyone reads it afterwards.Character Formation Type
What type of character formation is 周?
Decomposition of 周
Identify the Components
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How to say week in Chinese
“week” in Chinese is周
The character 周 (Zhōu) primarily refers to the Zhou Dynasty, an important historical period in China from 1046 to 256 BC. It can also mean 'circle' or 'circumference,' and is used in various contexts to indicate completeness or thoroughness, as well as referring to weeks in terms like 'weekly.'
When to use 周
周 is versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. Common mistakes include confusing it with 週 (zhōu), which is used for weeks in more formal contexts. Pay attention to the context to avoid using it incorrectly.
周 or something close to it
周 (Zhōu) vs 周围 (zhōuwéi) — use 周 when specifically referring to the Zhou Dynasty or the concept of 'circle,' while 周围 refers to the surrounding area.
What learners get wrong
Learners often confuse 周 with 週, mistakenly using one where the other is contextually appropriate. For example, saying '我每周去公园' (I go to the park every 周) should use 週 instead for clarity.
Write 周
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Practice writing 周 stroke by stroke. Watch the animation to learn the stroke order, then try writing it yourself.
Grammar Patterns of 周
周 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 16 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.
Complete the Sentence
____末我喜欢看看书、听听音乐什么的。
On weekends I like to read books, listen to music, and stuff like that.
Common Confusions with 周
Similar shape but different meaning.
Spot the Difference
Which character means "week"?
Example Sentences for 周 (10)
Cultural Notes for 周
周姓是中国常见的姓氏之一，许多历史名人都姓周，例如周恩来，是中国的前总理。
Word Family of 周
Compound Meaning
What does 调 mean?
Frequently Asked Questions about 周
The Zhou Dynasty is significant in Chinese history as it is considered one of the longest-lasting dynasties, known for its cultural and philosophical advancements. This period saw the development of Confucianism and Daoism, which greatly influenced Chinese society and governance. The dynasty is also marked by the feudal system and the concept of the Mandate of Heaven.
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