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March 24, 2026
箴zhēn(zhen1)
The character 箴 (zhēn) primarily means 'needle' or 'probe,' and it can also refer to the act of admonishing or warning someone. In cultural contexts, it is often used to denote a cautionary remark or advice intended to guide someone away from a misstep.
Strokes15Radical⺮Frequency#—DifficultyVery Hard
Cultural Note
In Chinese literature, the concept of admonishing or giving wise counsel is deeply rooted, with many classical texts emphasizing the value of constructive criticism, making 箴 a significant term in such discussions.
Memory Tip
Imagine a needle (represented by the character's structure) piercing through ignorance, delivering a sharp warning. Visualize the needle not only sewing fabric but also stitching together wise advice.
Meanings of 箴
zhēn(zhen1)
1needle, probe; to admonish, to warn
Exercise 1 of 2
Listen & Choose the Meaning
Choose the correct answer:
About 箴
箴Simplified
15Strokes
⺮Radical
状态词stative word (stat.)Part of Speech
#—Frequency Rank
Podcast: 箴
Podcast: 箴
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AI Study Notes for 箴
Memory Mnemonic
Imagine a needle (represented by the character's structure) piercing through ignorance, delivering a sharp warning. Visualize the needle not only sewing fabric but also stitching together wise advice.
Usage Notes
Common mistakes include confusing 箴 with similar characters like 针 (zhēn), which also means 'needle' but is used more frequently. Use 箴 in formal contexts when advising or warning others, as it conveys a sense of seriousness.
HSK Study Tips
Although not part of the standard HSK, understanding 箴 can enhance vocabulary related to caution and advice. Students should focus on its usage in proverbs or literary contexts where moral lessons are conveyed.
Cultural Note
In Chinese literature, the concept of admonishing or giving wise counsel is deeply rooted, with many classical texts emphasizing the value of constructive criticism, making 箴 a significant term in such discussions.
Common Mistakes
Learners often confuse 箴 with 针 (zhēn), leading to incorrect usage in contexts related to warnings. For example, saying '我给你一个针' (I give you a needle) instead of '我给你一个箴' (I give you an admonition) is incorrect.
AI-enhanced 2026-03-24
Pronunciation of 箴
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Grammar Patterns of 箴
箴 carries one core meaning. Below you'll find the patterns that show how it combines with other words, plus example sentences pulled directly from native usage.
Exercise 1 of 1
Complete the Sentence
我相信这样一条____言：“不破不修”。
I believe in the maxim "if it ain't broke, don't fix it".
I believe in the maxim "if it ain't broke, don't fix it".
Cultural Notes for 箴
🏮Cultural insight
In Chinese literature, the concept of admonishing or giving wise counsel is deeply rooted, with many classical texts emphasizing the value of constructive criticism, making 箴 a significant term in such discussions.
Word Family of 箴
Words Containing This Character2
箴言admonition
箴zhēnto warn
Exercise 1 of 2
Compound Meaning
What does 箴言 mean?
Frequently Asked Questions about 箴
You can use it in a sentence like '他的箴言让我深思' (His admonition made me ponder deeply).
No, it's more often found in literary or formal contexts rather than in casual conversation.
Synonyms include 警告 (jǐnggào) meaning 'warning' and 劝告 (quàn gào) meaning 'advice'.
