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March 24, 2026
式shì(shi4)
The character 式 (shì) refers to a type, form, pattern, or style. It is commonly used in contexts related to formulas, styles in design, or specific methodologies, such as in mathematics or writing. It conveys the idea of a systematic approach or a defined way of doing something.
Strokes6Radical弋Frequency#1600DifficultyHard
Cultural Note
In Chinese culture, 式 (shì) is often used in contexts like traditional ceremonies or formal events, where specific styles or formats are adhered to, reflecting the importance of structure and order in societal practices.
Memory Tip
Think of 式 (shì) as an image of a stylish model (the '式' character resembles a model on a runway) presenting a specific form or style. The left part ‘弓’ resembles a bow, symbolizing structure, while the right part ‘式’ can remind you of 'style.' Together, they form a distinct type.
Meanings of 式
shì(shi4)
1type
2form
Exercise 1 of 2
Listen & Choose the Meaning
Choose the correct answer:
About 式
式Simplified
6Strokes
弋Radical
后接成分suffix-forming morpheme (suff.)Part of Speech
#1600Frequency Rank
HSK 3.0L5IntermediateHSKKL3CEFRB2
Podcast: 式
Podcast: 式
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AI Study Notes for 式
Quick Contrast
式 (shì) vs 形 (xíng) — choose 式 for a specific pattern or method, while 形 refers to a more general shape or form.
Usage Notes
Be careful not to confuse 式 (shì) with similar characters like 形 (xíng), which also means form but is more about shape. In formal contexts, it may be associated with academic or technical language, while in informal settings, it could refer to everyday styles.
HSK Study Tips
Although 式 (shì) is not part of HSK levels 1-6, it connects with vocabulary related to styles and methods typically introduced at higher levels. Focus on recognizing it in phrases like 公式 (gōngshì, formula) to enhance comprehension.
Common Mistakes
Learners often confuse 式 (shì) with 形 (xíng), leading to errors like using '形' when referring to a formula. The correct term for a mathematical formula is 公式 (gōngshì), not 形式.
AI-enhanced 2026-03-24
Pronunciation of 式
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Drill the tone of 式 with AI-powered exercises, get instant feedback, and earn XP toward mastery. Interactive tone practice is part of Pro.
Phonosemantic compound. 工 represents the meaning and 弋 represents the sound.
1The giveawayA craftsman using an awl 弋 and a measuring square 工
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 式? Jason searches the paleographic record, weighs the competing accounts and judges the popular story.
Charged once for this character — everyone reads it afterwards.
Exercise 1 of 1
Character Formation Type
What type of character formation is 式?
Decomposition of 式
IDS Structure⿹弋工
式Full Character
=
弋yi4
enclosing
工gong1
inner
Exercise 1 of 2
Identify the Components
Which of these is a component of 式?
How to say type in Chinese
“type” in Chinese is式shì
The character 式 (shì) refers to a type, form, pattern, or style. It is commonly used in contexts related to formulas, styles in design, or specific methodologies, such as in mathematics or writing. It conveys the idea of a systematic approach or a defined way of doing something.
When to use 式
Be careful not to confuse 式 (shì) with similar characters like 形 (xíng), which also means form but is more about shape. In formal contexts, it may be associated with academic or technical language, while in informal settings, it could refer to everyday styles.
式 or something close to it
式 (shì) vs 形 (xíng) — choose 式 for a specific pattern or method, while 形 refers to a more general shape or form.
What learners get wrong
Learners often confuse 式 (shì) with 形 (xíng), leading to errors like using '形' when referring to a formula. The correct term for a mathematical formula is 公式 (gōngshì), not 形式.
Write 式
式
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Practice writing 式 stroke by stroke. Watch the animation to learn the stroke order, then try writing it yourself.
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Grammar Patterns of 式
式 carries 5 distinct meanings. Below you'll find the patterns that show how it combines with other words, plus example sentences pulled directly from native usage.
Some common phrases that include 式 (shì) are '公式' (gōngshì), meaning 'formula', and '样式' (yàngshì), meaning 'style' or 'format'. These phrases are frequently used in academic and everyday contexts.
You can use 式 (shì) in a sentence to describe a specific type or form of something. For example, you might say '这种式很流行' (zhè zhǒng shì hěn liúxíng), which means 'this style is very popular.' It can be combined with other words to specify the context.
式 (shì) means type, form, pattern, or style in Chinese. It is often used to describe various forms or models in different contexts, such as mathematics or fashion. For example, in mathematics, we may refer to a certain formula as a '式'.
In everyday conversation, 式 can refer to a style or way of doing something, such as in fashion or cooking.
In mathematics, 式 often refers to a formula or equation, emphasizing the structured form of mathematical expressions.
Yes, common phrases include 公式 (gōngshì, formula) and 风式 (fēngshì, style), which help illustrate its use in specific contexts.
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