unknown, 11 strokes, radical 石, rank #40281, Very Hard
xī(xi1) T1
1selenium
2selenium (chemistry)
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March 24, 2026
硒xī(xi1)
The character 硒 (xī) refers to the chemical element selenium, which is a non-metal that plays a significant role in biology and is used in various industrial applications. It is commonly encountered in discussions about nutrition, chemistry, and environmental science, particularly in relation to its antioxidant properties and potential health benefits.
Strokes11Radical石Frequency#40281DifficultyVery Hard
Cultural Note
In Chinese culture, the importance of minerals like selenium is often discussed in the context of health and nutrition, especially in regions where the soil is deficient in this element, which can lead to health issues.
Memory Tip
Imagine a 'sea' (sounds like 'xī') of 'selenium' sparkling under the sun, representing its role in health and industry. The character 硒 is made up of the radical for stone (石) and a component that resembles a sun, hinting at its mineral origins and its bright benefits in small doses.
Meanings of 硒
xī(xi1)
1selenium
2selenium (chemistry)
Exercise 1 of 2
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About 硒
硒Simplified
11Strokes
石Radical
名词míngcínoun (n.)Part of Speech
#—Frequency Rank
Podcast: 硒
Podcast: 硒
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AI Study Notes for 硒
Memory Mnemonic
Imagine a 'sea' (sounds like 'xī') of 'selenium' sparkling under the sun, representing its role in health and industry. The character 硒 is made up of the radical for stone (石) and a component that resembles a sun, hinting at its mineral origins and its bright benefits in small doses.
Usage Notes
When using 硒 in conversation, it is mostly utilized in scientific or academic contexts, so be cautious of the register. Common mistakes include confusing it with similar sounding elements like 硅 (silicon), so ensure you remember its unique pronunciation and context.
HSK Study Tips
Although 硒 is not part of the current HSK vocabulary, it connects to other chemistry-related terms and can be a good addition for learners interested in specialized fields. Focus on recognizing its usage in texts related to science and health.
Cultural Note
In Chinese culture, the importance of minerals like selenium is often discussed in the context of health and nutrition, especially in regions where the soil is deficient in this element, which can lead to health issues.
Common Mistakes
Learners often confuse 硒 (selenium) with 硅 (silicon) due to their similar pronunciations. Remember, 硒 is specifically related to health and nutrition, while 硅 relates to technology and materials.
AI-enhanced 2026-03-24
Pronunciation of 硒
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Cultural Notes for 硒
🏮Cultural insight
In Chinese culture, the importance of minerals like selenium is often discussed in the context of health and nutrition, especially in regions where the soil is deficient in this element, which can lead to health issues.
Word Family of 硒
Words Containing This Character1
硒xīselenium (chemistry)
Exercise 1 of 1
Compound Meaning
What does 硒 mean?
Frequently Asked Questions about 硒
硒 refers to selenium, a trace element essential for human health.
硒 is often mentioned in health discussions and nutritional supplements.
It can be found in certain foods, especially in regions where the soil contains higher levels of selenium.