Meanings of 周
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About 周
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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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Jason Explains 周 to You
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Learning Lab
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Its meaning, its character, its pinyin, its tone — hearing it, saying it, writing it. The Learning Lab measures each one from your own practice, on every word you study, so you see what you actually know rather than how much you have done.
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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
Origin
What kind of character is 周?
Decomposition of 周
Parts
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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.
Fill the gap
Type the missing word. Pinyin works; then pick the character.
____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.
Which one
Which one means “week”?
Example Sentences for 周 (10)
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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
Characters with 周
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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