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March 24, 2026
奓zhā(zha1)
The character 奓 (zhā) primarily means extravagant or lavish, often in a context that implies excessiveness. It can also refer to the act of opening or spreading something. This character is an older variant of 奢 (shē) and 侈 (chǐ), which similarly convey themes of luxury and excess.
Strokes9Radical大
Cultural Note
In ancient Chinese culture, displaying extravagant wealth was often seen as a reflection of one's status and power, which is still relevant today during festivals and celebrations where opulent displays are common.
Memory Tip
Imagine a lavish banquet where a grand door (the radical '扌' meaning hand) is opened wide to reveal an extravagant feast. The '奓' character resembles an open door, inviting all to indulge in luxury, helping you remember its meaning and pronunciation.
Meanings of 奓
zhā(zha1)
primary
1extravagant
2to open
Exercise 1 of 2
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About 奓
奓Simplified
9Strokes
大Radical
状态词stative word (stat.)Part of Speech
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Podcast: 奓
Podcast: 奓
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AI Study Notes for 奓
Quick Contrast
奢 (shē) - use 奓 (zhā) when emphasizing the act of extravagance or excess, rather than just the state of being luxurious.
Memory Mnemonic
Imagine a lavish banquet where a grand door (the radical '扌' meaning hand) is opened wide to reveal an extravagant feast. The '奓' character resembles an open door, inviting all to indulge in luxury, helping you remember its meaning and pronunciation.
Usage Notes
Be cautious not to confuse 奓 with its modern variants 奢 or 侈, as they are more commonly used in contemporary language. This character is more formal and may not be used in everyday conversation, making it suitable for literary or historical contexts.
HSK Study Tips
Although 奓 is not part of the HSK vocabulary, understanding it can enhance your comprehension of related terms like 奢 and 侈, which are at HSK levels 5 and 6. Focus on recognizing its usage in classical literature and historical texts.
Cultural Note
In ancient Chinese culture, displaying extravagant wealth was often seen as a reflection of one's status and power, which is still relevant today during festivals and celebrations where opulent displays are common.
Common Mistakes
Learners often confuse 奓 with 奢 and 侈 due to their similar meanings. For example, using 奓 in a casual conversation about luxury goods would be incorrect; instead, use 奢. Correct: 奢侈品 (luxury goods).
AI-enhanced 2026-03-24
Pronunciation of 奓
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Cultural Notes for 奓
🏮Cultural insight
In ancient Chinese culture, displaying extravagant wealth was often seen as a reflection of one's status and power, which is still relevant today during festivals and celebrations where opulent displays are common.
Word Family of 奓
Words Containing This Character1
奓zhāto open
Exercise 1 of 1
Compound Meaning
What does 奓 mean?
Frequently Asked Questions about 奓
No, 奓 is considered an old variant and is rarely used in contemporary language.
Focus on the context; 奓 is more formal and literary, while 奢 and 侈 are used in daily conversation.
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