Meanings of 皿
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About 皿
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Podcast: 皿
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AI Study Notes for 皿
皿 is often used in compound words to refer to various types of dishes or containers, such as in 盘子 (pánzi, plate). Be careful not to confuse it with similar characters like 碗 (wǎn, bowl), which has a deeper shape. It's an informal character, so it's commonly seen in everyday conversation rather than formal writing.
皿 is not included in the HSK levels but is useful for learners at the beginner stage to expand their vocabulary related to dining. Focus on recognizing it in context, especially when learning food-related vocabulary.
Learners may confuse 皿 with other similar characters like 碗 (wǎn, bowl) or 盆 (pén, basin). Remember that 皿 specifically denotes shallow dishes, so avoid using it to refer to deeper containers.
Pronunciation of 皿
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Etymology of 皿
Pictograph of a container for holding food.
Jason Etymology Detective
Case file: 皿
Pictograph of a container for holding food.
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Decomposition of 皿
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How to say dish, vessel; shallow container in Chinese
“dish, vessel; shallow container” in Chinese is皿
The character 皿 (mǐn) refers to a dish or vessel, typically a shallow container used for holding food or other items. It is commonly used in contexts related to dining or serving, and can also represent the concept of receptacles in a broader sense.
When to use 皿
皿 is often used in compound words to refer to various types of dishes or containers, such as in 盘子 (pánzi, plate). Be careful not to confuse it with similar characters like 碗 (wǎn, bowl), which has a deeper shape. It's an informal character, so it's commonly seen in everyday conversation rather than formal writing.
What learners get wrong
Learners may confuse 皿 with other similar characters like 碗 (wǎn, bowl) or 盆 (pén, basin). Remember that 皿 specifically denotes shallow dishes, so avoid using it to refer to deeper containers.
Write 皿
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Practice writing 皿 stroke by stroke. Watch the animation to learn the stroke order, then try writing it yourself.
Grammar Patterns of 皿
皿 carries 2 distinct meanings. Below you'll find the patterns that show how it combines with other words, plus example sentences pulled directly from native usage.
Complete the Sentence
他用铜、不锈钢和银制造装饰性器____。
He makes decorative vessels in copper, stainless steel and silver.
Example Sentences for 皿 (5)
Word Family of 皿
Compound Meaning
What does 器皿 mean?
Frequently Asked Questions about 皿
Common words include 盘 (pán, plate), 碟 (dié, small dish), and 餐具 (cānjù, tableware).
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