Meanings of 石
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About 石
Podcast: 石
Podcast: 石
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AI Study Notes for 石
Be mindful that 石 (dàn) is often confused with other similar-sounding words. It is generally used in more formal or traditional contexts, especially when discussing measurements or historical topics. Common collocations include '石头' (shítou) for 'stone' and '干石' (gānshí) for 'dry stone'.
Although 石 is not part of the standard HSK vocabulary, it connects with other HSK words related to nature and materials, like 土 (tǔ - earth) and 木 (mù - wood). Students should focus on recognizing its usage in various contexts, especially in traditional settings.
Learners often confuse 石 (dàn) with 土 (tǔ), which means 'earth' or 'soil'. A common mistake would be using 石 to describe soil, as in '石的土' (shí de tǔ), which should be '土' instead.
Pronunciation of 石
Drill the tone of 石 with AI-powered exercises, get instant feedback, and earn XP toward mastery. Interactive tone practice is part of Pro.
Etymology of 石
Pictograph of a stone chime.
A rock 口 at the base of a cliff 厂
Jason Etymology Detective
Case file: 石
Pictograph of a stone chime.
- 1The giveawayA rock 口 at the base of a cliff 厂
- 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 石? 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 石?
Decomposition of 石
Identify the Components
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How to say dry measure for grain equal to ten dou 斗 in Chinese
“dry measure for grain equal to ten dou 斗” in Chinese is石
The character 石 (dàn) primarily refers to 'stone' or 'rock' and can also denote a dry measure for grain equal to ten dou 斗. It is used in various contexts, including as a surname and in traditional measurements. In a broader sense, it carries connotations of solidity and permanence.
When to use 石
Be mindful that 石 (dàn) is often confused with other similar-sounding words. It is generally used in more formal or traditional contexts, especially when discussing measurements or historical topics. Common collocations include '石头' (shítou) for 'stone' and '干石' (gānshí) for 'dry stone'.
What learners get wrong
Learners often confuse 石 (dàn) with 土 (tǔ), which means 'earth' or 'soil'. A common mistake would be using 石 to describe soil, as in '石的土' (shí de tǔ), which should be '土' instead.
Write 石
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Practice writing 石 stroke by stroke. Watch the animation to learn the stroke order, then try writing it yourself.
Grammar Patterns of 石
石 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 10 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
现急需煤炭、____油、电力及其他能源。
Coal, petroleum, electricity, and other energy sources are urgently needed.
Common Confusions with 石
Similar pronunciation but different meaning.
Similar pronunciation but different meaning.
Spot the Difference
Which character means "dry measure for grain equal to ten dou 斗"?
Example Sentences for 石 (10)
Word Family of 石
Compound Meaning
What does 确 mean?
Frequently Asked Questions about 石
石 (shí) is a common Chinese surname, meaning 'stone.' Many Chinese people with this surname may have ancestral ties to regions where stone carving was prominent or where stone resources were abundant. It is a name associated with strength and durability.
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