Meanings of 禽
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About 禽
Podcast: 禽
Podcast: 禽
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AI Study Notes for 禽
禽 (qín) vs 鸟 (niǎo) — use 禽 for a broader or more formal reference to birds and animals, while 鸟 specifically refers to birds.
Learners often confuse 禽 with other related terms like 动物 (dòngwù, meaning 'animal'), which is broader. Use 禽 in contexts related to birds or specific hunting references, and be mindful of the tone when pronouncing qín, as mispronunciation can change the meaning.
While 禽 is not included in the HSK vocabulary lists, it connects with other HSK words related to animals and nature. Students should focus on the character's usage in literary contexts and familiarize themselves with related terms like 鸟 (niǎo, 'bird').
Learners sometimes confuse 禽 with 鸟 (niǎo) and use it incorrectly as a general term for all animals. For example, saying 禽 to refer to a dog is incorrect; instead, 动物 should be used.
Pronunciation of 禽
Drill the tone of 禽 with AI-powered exercises, get instant feedback, and earn XP toward mastery. Interactive tone practice is part of Pro.
Etymology of 禽
A legendary beast 离 captured by a man 人
Jason Etymology Detective
Case file: 禽
- 1The giveawayA legendary beast 离 captured by a man 人
- 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 禽? 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 禽?
Decomposition of 禽
Identify the Components
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How to say generic term for birds and animals in Chinese
“generic term for birds and animals” in Chinese is禽
The character 禽 (qín) primarily refers to birds and animals, encompassing a broad range of avian species. In historical contexts, it can also mean 'to capture' or 'to hunt,' showcasing its use in both everyday and literary Chinese. It's important to note that while '禽' is often used in formal or literary settings, it may not be as common in everyday speech.
When to use 禽
Learners often confuse 禽 with other related terms like 动物 (dòngwù, meaning 'animal'), which is broader. Use 禽 in contexts related to birds or specific hunting references, and be mindful of the tone when pronouncing qín, as mispronunciation can change the meaning.
禽 or something close to it
禽 (qín) vs 鸟 (niǎo) — use 禽 for a broader or more formal reference to birds and animals, while 鸟 specifically refers to birds.
What learners get wrong
Learners sometimes confuse 禽 with 鸟 (niǎo) and use it incorrectly as a general term for all animals. For example, saying 禽 to refer to a dog is incorrect; instead, 动物 should be used.
Write 禽
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Practice writing 禽 stroke by stroke. Watch the animation to learn the stroke order, then try writing it yourself.
Grammar Patterns of 禽
禽 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 4 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
菜单上的特色菜是烤肉和家____肉。
The menu features roast meats and poultry.
Example Sentences for 禽 (5)
Cultural Notes for 禽
In Western cultures, the term 'fowl' typically refers to domesticated birds, while 禽 encompasses a broader range of both wild and domestic birds, highlighting a cultural difference in the perception of avian life.
Word Family of 禽
Compound Meaning
What does 擒 mean?
Frequently Asked Questions about 禽
It's more commonly found in formal writing or literature rather than everyday conversation.
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