Meanings of 漩
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About 漩
Podcast: 漩
Podcast: 漩
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AI Study Notes for 漩
涡 (wō) refers specifically to a vortex or whirlpool, while 漩 (xuán) emphasizes the swirling motion, often in a broader context.
This word is typically used in both formal and informal contexts, but learners should be careful not to confuse it with similar-sounding words. Common collocations include 漩涡 (xuánwō), which specifically means 'whirlpool.' Note the tonal distinction, as mispronouncing it can lead to confusion with the word 旋 (xuán), which has a different meaning.
While 漩 is not part of the HSK vocabulary, understanding it can enhance your comprehension of water-related terms. Focus on the radicals and tones when studying this character, as they are common in other HSK vocabulary related to nature.
Learners often confuse 漩 with 旋 (xuán), which means 'to turn' or 'rotate.' For example, saying 漩转 (xuánzhuǎn) instead of 旋转 (xuánzhuǎn) would be incorrect, as the latter is the correct term for 'to rotate.'
Pronunciation of 漩
Drill the tone of 漩 with AI-powered exercises, get instant feedback, and earn XP toward mastery. Interactive tone practice is part of Pro.
Etymology of 漩
Swirling 旋 water 氵; 旋 also provides the pronunciation
Jason Etymology Detective
Case file: 漩
- 1The giveawaySwirling 旋 water 氵; 旋 also provides the pronunciation
- 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 漩? 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 漩?
Decomposition of 漩
Identify the Components
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How to say eddy, whirlpool in Chinese
“eddy, whirlpool” in Chinese is漩
The character 漩 (xuán) refers to a swirling, circular movement of water, often associated with natural phenomena like eddies and whirlpools. It is used both literally to describe water movements and metaphorically in various contexts, such as describing chaotic situations or feelings.
When to use 漩
This word is typically used in both formal and informal contexts, but learners should be careful not to confuse it with similar-sounding words. Common collocations include 漩涡 (xuánwō), which specifically means 'whirlpool.' Note the tonal distinction, as mispronouncing it can lead to confusion with the word 旋 (xuán), which has a different meaning.
漩 or something close to it
涡 (wō) refers specifically to a vortex or whirlpool, while 漩 (xuán) emphasizes the swirling motion, often in a broader context.
What learners get wrong
Learners often confuse 漩 with 旋 (xuán), which means 'to turn' or 'rotate.' For example, saying 漩转 (xuánzhuǎn) instead of 旋转 (xuánzhuǎn) would be incorrect, as the latter is the correct term for 'to rotate.'
Write 漩
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Practice writing 漩 stroke by stroke. Watch the animation to learn the stroke order, then try writing it yourself.
Grammar Patterns of 漩
漩 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 2 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
最近的一场雨把瀑布搅成了泥水____涡。
The recent rain had churned up the waterfall into a muddy whirlpool.
Example Sentences for 漩 (2)
Word Family of 漩
Compound Meaning
What does 漩涡 mean?
Frequently Asked Questions about 漩
Make sure to use the second tone, xuán, which rises in pitch.
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