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March 24, 2026
篌hóu(hou2)
The character 篌 (hóu) refers to an ancient Chinese musical instrument, specifically a type of harp. It is often associated with traditional Chinese music and cultural practices, symbolizing elegance and refinement in musical expression.
Strokes15Radical⺮Frequency#—DifficultyVery Hard
Cultural Note
The 篌 is a significant instrument in traditional Chinese music, often played in royal courts and important ceremonies, reflecting its cultural importance in ancient society.
Memory Tip
Imagine a harp made of bamboo, with strings that resonate like the sounds of nature. The character 篌 has a bamboo radical (竹) on the left, hinting at its material, while the right side (口) can remind you of the mouth, suggesting the sound produced when played.
Meanings of 篌
hóu(hou2)
1ancient Chinese harp
2(mus. instr.)
Exercise 1 of 2
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About 篌
篌Simplified
15Strokes
⺮Radical
非语素字non-morpheme character (n-m.)Part of Speech
#—Frequency Rank
Podcast: 篌
Podcast: 篌
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AI Study Notes for 篌
Memory Mnemonic
Imagine a harp made of bamboo, with strings that resonate like the sounds of nature. The character 篌 has a bamboo radical (竹) on the left, hinting at its material, while the right side (口) can remind you of the mouth, suggesting the sound produced when played.
Usage Notes
While 篌 is primarily used in literary or musical contexts, it may not be familiar in everyday conversation. Be cautious with pronunciation, as misplacing tones can lead to confusion with other words. It often appears in discussions about traditional Chinese instruments and music.
HSK Study Tips
Although 篌 is not part of the HSK vocabulary, it connects with HSK Level 5, where students learn about traditional culture and arts. Focus on recognizing its historical significance and how it fits into discussions about Chinese music.
Cultural Note
The 篌 is a significant instrument in traditional Chinese music, often played in royal courts and important ceremonies, reflecting its cultural importance in ancient society.
Common Mistakes
Learners often confuse 篌 with other similar sounding characters, like 侯 (hóu), which means 'marquis' or 'noble.' Remember that 篌 specifically refers to the musical instrument and has its own distinct context.
AI-enhanced 2026-03-24
Pronunciation of 篌
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Cultural Notes for 篌
🏮Cultural insight
The 篌 is a significant instrument in traditional Chinese music, often played in royal courts and important ceremonies, reflecting its cultural importance in ancient society.
Word Family of 篌
Words Containing This Character2
箜篌konghou (Chinese harp)
篌hóu(mus. instr.)
Exercise 1 of 2
Compound Meaning
What does 箜篌 mean?
Frequently Asked Questions about 篌
The 篌 is typically used in traditional Chinese music, often accompanying poetry or storytelling.
Yes, while it is less common than modern instruments, it is still played in traditional performances and cultural events.
The 篌 has a unique sound and structure compared to other string instruments, emphasizing plucked strings and a resonating body.
