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March 24, 2026
杪miǎo(miao3)
The character 杪 (miǎo) refers to the tip or end of a branch or twig. It can also denote the uppermost part of a tree or the limit of something. This character is often used in botanical contexts or metaphorically to signify the pinnacle or extremity of an object or concept.
Strokes8Radical木Frequency#25690DifficultyHard
Cultural Note
In traditional Chinese culture, trees are often symbols of longevity and resilience, making the concept of the tip of a branch significant in poetry and art, where growth or reaching new heights is celebrated.
Memory Tip
Imagine a tiny tree branch reaching up to touch the sky, representing the highest point (the tip) of the tree. The character 杪 visually resembles a tree (木) with a small twig (丿) on top, symbolizing its meaning of the tip of a branch.
Meanings of 杪
miǎo(miao3)
1twig, branch tip; the top of a tree
2the limit
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About 杪
杪Simplified
8Strokes
木Radical
状态词stative word (stat.)Part of Speech
#—Frequency Rank
Podcast: 杪
Podcast: 杪
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AI Study Notes for 杪
Memory Mnemonic
Imagine a tiny tree branch reaching up to touch the sky, representing the highest point (the tip) of the tree. The character 杪 visually resembles a tree (木) with a small twig (丿) on top, symbolizing its meaning of the tip of a branch.
Usage Notes
It's important to use the correct tone when pronouncing 杪 (miǎo), as mispronunciation could lead to confusion with other similar-sounding words. This character is less commonly used in everyday conversation and is more prevalent in literary or botanical discussions.
HSK Study Tips
Although 杪 is not part of the HSK vocabulary, understanding its composition (木 for tree) can help learners connect it to other characters related to nature at this level. Focus on recognizing the radicals and how they contribute to the meaning.
Cultural Note
In traditional Chinese culture, trees are often symbols of longevity and resilience, making the concept of the tip of a branch significant in poetry and art, where growth or reaching new heights is celebrated.
Common Mistakes
Learners often confuse 杪 (miǎo) with similar characters due to the tone. A common mistake is pronouncing it as 'miào', which changes its meaning. Always remember to use the third tone (miǎo).
AI-enhanced 2026-03-24
Pronunciation of 杪
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Cultural Notes for 杪
🏮Cultural insight
In traditional Chinese culture, trees are often symbols of longevity and resilience, making the concept of the tip of a branch significant in poetry and art, where growth or reaching new heights is celebrated.
Word Family of 杪
Words Containing This Character1
杪miǎothe limit
Exercise 1 of 1
Compound Meaning
What does 杪 mean?
Frequently Asked Questions about 杪
It means 'tip of a branch' or 'twig', often used to describe the uppermost part of a tree.
It is pronounced as 'miǎo', with a falling-rising tone.
You would use it in botanical discussions or when describing parts of a tree.
