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March 24, 2026
枘ruì(rui4)
The character 枘 (ruì) refers to a tool handle or a tenon, which is a projecting piece that fits into a mortise to form a joint. It is commonly used in carpentry and woodworking contexts, symbolizing the connection and stability provided by tool handles in creating structures.
Strokes8Radical木Frequency#—DifficultyVery Hard
Cultural Note
In traditional Chinese carpentry, the use of tenons and mortises is a hallmark of craftsmanship, emphasizing durability and skill. The character 枘 reflects this importance, as it is integral to creating long-lasting wooden structures in Chinese architecture.
Memory Tip
Imagine a 'wedge' shaped like a tool handle that fits snugly into a joint. The character 枘 visually resembles a tool with a handle, where the horizontal line represents the top of the handle, and the enclosing structure symbolizes the tool's body. Remember 'ruì' by thinking of how a sturdy handle 'tightens' a connection.
Meanings of 枘
ruì(rui4)
1a handle for a tool
2tenon
Exercise 1 of 2
Listen & Choose the Meaning
Choose the correct answer:
About 枘
枘Simplified
8Strokes
木Radical
状态词stative word (stat.)Part of Speech
#—Frequency Rank
Podcast: 枘
Podcast: 枘
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AI Study Notes for 枘
Memory Mnemonic
Imagine a 'wedge' shaped like a tool handle that fits snugly into a joint. The character 枘 visually resembles a tool with a handle, where the horizontal line represents the top of the handle, and the enclosing structure symbolizes the tool's body. Remember 'ruì' by thinking of how a sturdy handle 'tightens' a connection.
Usage Notes
This term is more technical and formal, primarily found in woodworking and carpentry discussions. Common mistakes include confusing it with similar-sounding words. Ensure you use the correct context to avoid miscommunication.
HSK Study Tips
Although not part of the official HSK vocabulary list, understanding 枘 can deepen your knowledge of woodworking terminology. It connects with basic characters related to tools and construction, enhancing your technical vocabulary.
Cultural Note
In traditional Chinese carpentry, the use of tenons and mortises is a hallmark of craftsmanship, emphasizing durability and skill. The character 枘 reflects this importance, as it is integral to creating long-lasting wooden structures in Chinese architecture.
Common Mistakes
Learners often confuse 枘 with the character 锤 (chuí), which means hammer. For example, saying '我需要一个枘来钉钉子' (I need a ruì to nail) is incorrect; it should be '我需要一个锤来钉钉子' (I need a hammer to nail).
AI-enhanced 2026-03-24
Pronunciation of 枘
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Grammar Patterns of 枘
枘 carries 4 distinct meanings. Below you'll find the patterns that show how it combines with other words, plus example sentences pulled directly from native usage.
Exercise 1 of 2
Complete the Sentence
泰勒显然不是做这份工作的合适人选——简直就是方____圆凿。
Taylor is clearly the wrong man for the job—a square peg in a round hole.
Taylor is clearly the wrong man for the job — a square peg in a round hole.
Cultural Notes for 枘
🏮Cultural insight
In traditional Chinese carpentry, the use of tenons and mortises is a hallmark of craftsmanship, emphasizing durability and skill. The character 枘 reflects this importance, as it is integral to creating long-lasting wooden structures in Chinese architecture.
Word Family of 枘
Words Containing This Character3
枘ruìtenon
方枘圆凿incompatible (idiom)方枘圓鑿
圆凿方枘incompatible (idiom)圓鑿方枘
Exercise 1 of 3
Compound Meaning
What does 枘 mean?
Frequently Asked Questions about 枘
No, 枘 is generally used in specific contexts related to carpentry or woodworking, not in daily conversation.
Sure! '这个家具的框架是用榫头和枘连接的。' (The frame of this furniture is connected with tenons and wedges.)
Yes, characters like 榫 (sǔn) for tenon and 螺 (luó) for screw may be encountered in similar contexts.