Meanings of 曰
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About 曰
Podcast: 曰
Podcast: 曰
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AI Study Notes for 曰
Learners often confuse 曰 with 说 (shuō), which is more commonly used in modern Mandarin. While 曰 is appropriate for formal contexts, it is rarely used in everyday conversation. Be cautious with tone; it is pronounced with a flat tone (first tone).
As a lesser-known character, it does not appear in the HSK levels but understanding it can enrich comprehension of classical texts. Focus on recognizing its usage in context, especially in literary readings, to enhance your vocabulary.
Learners may incorrectly use 曰 in casual conversations where 说 is more appropriate. For example, saying '我曰...' instead of '我说...' would sound overly formal and awkward.
Pronunciation of 曰
Drill the tone of 曰 with AI-powered exercises, get instant feedback, and earn XP toward mastery. Interactive tone practice is part of Pro.
Etymology of 曰
Pictograph of a line, representing speech, coming out of a mouth (口).
Picture of an open 一 mouth 口
Jason Etymology Detective
Case file: 曰
Pictograph of a line, representing speech, coming out of a mouth (口).
- 1The giveawayPicture of an open 一 mouth 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 曰? 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 曰?
Decomposition of 曰
Identify the Components
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How to say to speak; to say in Chinese
“to speak; to say” in Chinese is曰
The character 曰 (yuē) means 'to say' or 'to speak.' It is commonly used in literary or formal contexts, often seen in historical texts or classical Chinese. It conveys the action of verbal communication, emphasizing the act of stating something.
When to use 曰
Learners often confuse 曰 with 说 (shuō), which is more commonly used in modern Mandarin. While 曰 is appropriate for formal contexts, it is rarely used in everyday conversation. Be cautious with tone; it is pronounced with a flat tone (first tone).
What learners get wrong
Learners may incorrectly use 曰 in casual conversations where 说 is more appropriate. For example, saying '我曰...' instead of '我说...' would sound overly formal and awkward.
Write 曰
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Practice writing 曰 stroke by stroke. Watch the animation to learn the stroke order, then try writing it yourself.
Grammar Patterns of 曰
曰 carries one core meaning. Below you'll find the patterns that show how it combines with other words, plus example sentences pulled directly from native usage.
Complete the Sentence
东鲁孔梅溪则题____>.
Kong Meixi of eastern Lu suggested the title Precious Mirror of Love.
Example Sentences for 曰 (2)
Reorder the Sentence
Kong Meixi of eastern Lu suggested the title Precious Mirror of Love.
Word Family of 曰
Compound Meaning
What does 曰 mean?
Frequently Asked Questions about 曰
Use 曰 in more formal or classical contexts, while 说 is preferred in everyday conversation.
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