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March 24, 2026
溘kè(ke4)
The character 溘 (kè) is used to describe something that happens suddenly or unexpectedly. It conveys a sense of abruptness and can be used in various contexts, such as describing changes in situations or emotions that occur without warning.
Strokes13Radical氵Frequency#—DifficultyVery Hard
Cultural Note
In Chinese literature, sudden events often symbolize fate or destiny, reflecting the cultural belief in the unpredictability of life. The character 溘 can be seen in poems or stories where characters experience sudden revelations or changes.
Memory Tip
Imagine a sudden splash in a calm pond, where the water bursts forth unexpectedly, representing the abruptness of 溘 (kè). The character's radical 水 (water) hints at sudden changes, like a wave crashing unexpectedly.
Meanings of 溘
kè(ke4)
1sudden, abrupt, unexpected
2suddenly
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About 溘
溘Simplified
13Strokes
氵Radical
成语chéngyǔidiom (id.)Part of Speech
#—Frequency Rank
Podcast: 溘
Podcast: 溘
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AI Study Notes for 溘
Memory Mnemonic
Imagine a sudden splash in a calm pond, where the water bursts forth unexpectedly, representing the abruptness of 溘 (kè). The character's radical 水 (water) hints at sudden changes, like a wave crashing unexpectedly.
Usage Notes
Learners often confuse 溘 with similar-sounding words. It is typically used in more formal contexts, so using it in casual conversation may come off as overly dramatic. Be aware of the tone; using it incorrectly can change the meaning significantly.
HSK Study Tips
Although not part of the HSK vocabulary, understanding 溘 can enhance your comprehension of more advanced texts. Focus on the contexts where abruptness is emphasized, and practice with phrases that convey sudden changes.
Cultural Note
In Chinese literature, sudden events often symbolize fate or destiny, reflecting the cultural belief in the unpredictability of life. The character 溘 can be seen in poems or stories where characters experience sudden revelations or changes.
Common Mistakes
Learners may confuse 溘 with 突然 (tūrán), which also means 'sudden'. An incorrect usage might be saying '我很溘高兴' (I am very sudden happy), when it should be '我突然很高兴' (I suddenly feel very happy).
AI-enhanced 2026-03-24
Pronunciation of 溘
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Cultural Notes for 溘
🏮Cultural insight
In Chinese literature, sudden events often symbolize fate or destiny, reflecting the cultural belief in the unpredictability of life. The character 溘 can be seen in poems or stories where characters experience sudden revelations or changes.
Word Family of 溘
Words Containing This Character3
溘然suddenly
溘kèsuddenly
溘先朝露the morning dew will swiftly dissipate (idiom); fig. ephemeral and precarious nature of human existence
Exercise 1 of 3
Compound Meaning
What does 溘然 mean?
Frequently Asked Questions about 溘
Phrases like '突然溘然' (tūrán kè rán), meaning 'suddenly and unexpectedly,' highlight its use.
It's more common in literary or formal contexts rather than casual speech.
Yes, it can describe sudden emotional changes, such as feeling happy or sad unexpectedly.
