Meanings of 檀
Listen & Choose the Meaning
Choose the correct answer:
About 檀
Podcast: 檀
Podcast: 檀
Listen to Jason & Amy break down this word for you
New here?
AI Study Notes for 檀
檀 is used both in formal and informal contexts, especially when discussing types of wood or cultural references involving sandalwood. Common collocations include '檀香' (sandalwood incense). Be careful with the tone; it is pronounced with a rising tone, which can be confused with other words if mispronounced.
While 檀 is not included in HSK levels, it connects with vocabulary related to nature and materials, such as 木 (wood) and 香 (fragrance). Students should focus on recognizing its components and how it relates to other characters involving wood or plants.
Learners often confuse 檀 with other wood-related characters like 树 (shù, tree) or 木 (mù, wood). A common mistake is using it in contexts where generic wood terms are more appropriate, such as saying '我喜欢檀木' (I like sandalwood) instead of simply '我喜欢木头' (I like wood).
Pronunciation of 檀
Drill the tone of 檀 with AI-powered exercises, get instant feedback, and earn XP toward mastery. Interactive tone practice is part of Pro.
Etymology of 檀
tree
Jason Etymology Detective
Case file: 檀
- 1The meaning half木 carries the sense.
- 2The sound half亶 is there for the reading, not the meaning.
- 3The giveawaytree
- 4On the record aspictophonetic.
Every clue here comes from the character's recorded structure — nothing is guessed.
Want the full history of 檀? 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 檀?
Decomposition of 檀
Identify the Components
Which of these is a component of 檀?
How to say surname Tan in Chinese
“surname Tan” in Chinese is檀
檀 (tán) primarily refers to sandalwood, a fragrant wood often used in incense and traditional Chinese medicine. It can also denote hardwood in general and is a common surname in China. The character evokes a sense of luxury and cultural significance, especially in contexts involving traditional crafts and practices.
When to use 檀
檀 is used both in formal and informal contexts, especially when discussing types of wood or cultural references involving sandalwood. Common collocations include '檀香' (sandalwood incense). Be careful with the tone; it is pronounced with a rising tone, which can be confused with other words if mispronounced.
What learners get wrong
Learners often confuse 檀 with other wood-related characters like 树 (shù, tree) or 木 (mù, wood). A common mistake is using it in contexts where generic wood terms are more appropriate, such as saying '我喜欢檀木' (I like sandalwood) instead of simply '我喜欢木头' (I like wood).
Write 檀
New here? to save your writing progress and earn XP.
Practice writing 檀 stroke by stroke. Watch the animation to learn the stroke order, then try writing it yourself.
Grammar Patterns of 檀
檀 functions as a noun — it names a person, place, thing, or concept. Place it as a subject before the verb (主+谓) or as an object after the verb (谓+宾). Most Chinese nouns require a measure word between the number and the noun (e.g. 一个/三本). It carries 3 related meanings, each with its own usage notes below. The example sentences below show it in action, with practice buttons (Listen, Practice Writing, Practice Speaking) on every line.
Complete the Sentence
他显然指的是裘里斯 、 璐西 、 约翰呢-方____和迈克尔的保镖亚伯特-奈里.
He obviously meant Jules, Lucy, Johnny Fontane and Michael's bodyguard, Albert Neri.
Example Sentences for 檀 (3)
Word Family of 檀
Compound Meaning
What does 檀香山 mean?
Frequently Asked Questions about 檀
Sandalwood is valued for its fragrance and is often used in incense for religious and meditative practices.
Jason Recommends
Not sure what to learn after 檀?
Jason picks three words from your level and explains why each one is worth your time next. It takes a free account so he knows what you already know.