unknown, 9 strokes, radical 日, rank #51833, Very Hard
mǎo(mao3) T3
1one of the 28 constellations
2the Pleiades
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March 24, 2026
昴mǎo(mao3)
The character 昴 (mǎo) refers specifically to one of the 28 constellations in Chinese astronomy, known as the Pleiades cluster. It is often associated with themes of navigation and guidance due to its visibility in the night sky, and it holds cultural significance in traditional Chinese astrology and folklore.
Strokes9Radical日Frequency#51833DifficultyVery Hard
Cultural Note
In Chinese culture, the Pleiades are often associated with agricultural practices, as their visibility marks important seasonal changes. This connection highlights the importance of celestial bodies in traditional Chinese farming calendars.
Memory Tip
Imagine a bright, shining star cluster (the Pleiades) illuminating the night sky. The character 昴 looks like a sun (日) rising above a mountain (高), symbolizing guidance and navigation through the darkness. Remember 'mǎo' as 'my star' leading the way.
Meanings of 昴
mǎo(mao3)
1one of the 28 constellations
2the Pleiades
Exercise 1 of 2
Listen & Choose the Meaning
Choose the correct answer:
About 昴
昴Simplified
9Strokes
日Radical
语素morpheme (morph.)Part of Speech
#—Frequency Rank
Podcast: 昴
Podcast: 昴
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AI Study Notes for 昴
Memory Mnemonic
Imagine a bright, shining star cluster (the Pleiades) illuminating the night sky. The character 昴 looks like a sun (日) rising above a mountain (高), symbolizing guidance and navigation through the darkness. Remember 'mǎo' as 'my star' leading the way.
Usage Notes
This character is more commonly used in formal or literary contexts, particularly in discussions about astronomy or astrology. A common mistake is confusing 昴 with similar characters; pay attention to context to avoid misunderstandings. Note that the pronunciation (mǎo) has a third tone, which can be easily confused with other tones.
HSK Study Tips
Although 昴 is not part of the HSK vocabulary lists, it connects with themes of nature and celestial bodies found in higher-level HSK words. Students should focus on recognizing it in literature or discussions around astronomy to enhance their vocabulary.
Cultural Note
In Chinese culture, the Pleiades are often associated with agricultural practices, as their visibility marks important seasonal changes. This connection highlights the importance of celestial bodies in traditional Chinese farming calendars.
Common Mistakes
Learners often mispronounce 昴 by using a different tone, such as máo or mào, which alters the meaning. Additionally, some may confuse it with similar characters; ensure to practice its unique form and usage.
AI-enhanced 2026-03-24
Pronunciation of 昴
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Cultural Notes for 昴
🏮Cultural insight
In Chinese culture, the Pleiades are often associated with agricultural practices, as their visibility marks important seasonal changes. This connection highlights the importance of celestial bodies in traditional Chinese farming calendars.
Word Family of 昴
Words Containing This Character2
昴mǎothe Pleiades
昴星团Pleiades M45昴星團
Exercise 1 of 2
Compound Meaning
What does 昴 mean?
Frequently Asked Questions about 昴
昴 is primarily used in literary and astronomical contexts, particularly when discussing constellations or astrology.
The correct pronunciation is mǎo, with a rising tone, which is important to distinguish it from other words.
No, 昴 is not commonly used in everyday conversation and is more likely to appear in specialized discussions about astronomy.
