(old) ceremonial tablet (held by officials at an audience)
unknown, 10 strokes, radical ⺮, rank #76672, Very Hard
hù(hu4) T4
1a tablet held by an overseer
2(old) ceremonial tablet (held by officials at an audience)
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March 24, 2026
笏hù(hu4)
The character 笏 (hù) refers to a ceremonial tablet that was traditionally held by officials during formal audiences or ceremonies. This tablet symbolized authority and was used to convey the status of the person holding it, often associated with governance and ritualistic practices in ancient China.
Strokes10Radical⺮Frequency#76672DifficultyVery Hard
Cultural Note
The 笏 was an important symbol in ancient Chinese ceremonies, reflecting the hierarchical structure of society and the respect for authority figures. It played a role in Confucian rituals, underscoring the value placed on order and respect in governance.
Memory Tip
Imagine a wise old official holding a flat wooden tablet, which represents his authority. The character 笏 resembles a stylized tablet with a flat top, reminding you of the ceremonial item he holds, and the 'hù' sound can be linked to 'who', as in 'Who holds the power?'
Meanings of 笏
hù(hu4)
1a tablet held by an overseer
2(old) ceremonial tablet (held by officials at an audience)
Exercise 1 of 2
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About 笏
笏Simplified
10Strokes
⺮Radical
状态词stative word (stat.)Part of Speech
#—Frequency Rank
Podcast: 笏
Podcast: 笏
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AI Study Notes for 笏
Memory Mnemonic
Imagine a wise old official holding a flat wooden tablet, which represents his authority. The character 笏 resembles a stylized tablet with a flat top, reminding you of the ceremonial item he holds, and the 'hù' sound can be linked to 'who', as in 'Who holds the power?'
Usage Notes
It is important to use 笏 in formal contexts related to historical or ceremonial discussions, as it is not commonly used in everyday language. Be cautious of confusing it with similar characters; ensure you're using it in the right historical context.
HSK Study Tips
Although 笏 is not part of the HSK curriculum, understanding it can enhance your grasp of historical texts and cultural discussions. Students should focus on recognizing characters related to governance and authority at higher levels of study.
Cultural Note
The 笏 was an important symbol in ancient Chinese ceremonies, reflecting the hierarchical structure of society and the respect for authority figures. It played a role in Confucian rituals, underscoring the value placed on order and respect in governance.
Common Mistakes
Learners often confuse 笏 with other characters related to governance, such as 官 (guān, official). Remember that 笏 specifically refers to the ceremonial tablet, while 官 is a general term for an official.
AI-enhanced 2026-03-24
Pronunciation of 笏
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Cultural Notes for 笏
🏮Cultural insight
The 笏 was an important symbol in ancient Chinese ceremonies, reflecting the hierarchical structure of society and the respect for authority figures. It played a role in Confucian rituals, underscoring the value placed on order and respect in governance.
Word Family of 笏
Words Containing This Character1
笏hù(old) ceremonial tablet (held by officials at an audience)
Exercise 1 of 1
Compound Meaning
What does 笏 mean?
Frequently Asked Questions about 笏
It symbolizes authority and governance, often used by officials during formal occasions.
No, it is primarily found in historical texts and discussions about ancient ceremonies.
