unknown, 16 strokes, radical ⺮, rank #81089, Very Hard
gāo(gao1) T1
1a pole used to punt a boat
2pole for punting boats
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March 24, 2026
篙gāo(gao1)
The character 篙 (gāo) refers to a long pole traditionally used in boating, especially for punting or propelling a boat through shallow waters. It is often associated with activities on rivers or lakes in China where such poles are necessary for navigation. The term may also evoke imagery of leisure and traditional water transport.
Strokes16Radical⺮Frequency#81089DifficultyVery Hard
Cultural Note
In Chinese culture, the use of a 篙 is deeply rooted in the tradition of river transport, especially in regions like Jiangnan, where boating is a common means of travel and trade. The character reflects the relationship between nature and daily life in these areas.
Memory Tip
Imagine a tall, sturdy pole (the 篙) used by a boatman to push his vessel forward in a serene lake. The character features the radical ' bamboo' (竹), reminiscent of the pole's material, aiding in remembering both its shape and usage as a punting tool.
Meanings of 篙
gāo(gao1)
1a pole used to punt a boat
2pole for punting boats
Exercise 1 of 2
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About 篙
篙Simplified
16Strokes
⺮Radical
名语素míngcínoun root (n.root)Part of Speech
#—Frequency Rank
Podcast: 篙
Podcast: 篙
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AI Study Notes for 篙
Memory Mnemonic
Imagine a tall, sturdy pole (the 篙) used by a boatman to push his vessel forward in a serene lake. The character features the radical ' bamboo' (竹), reminiscent of the pole's material, aiding in remembering both its shape and usage as a punting tool.
Usage Notes
When using 篙, it's important to be aware that it is more common in specific contexts such as traditional boating, and may not be understood in more modern or urban settings. Learners might confuse it with similar-sounding words, so practicing pronunciation and context is essential.
HSK Study Tips
Although 篙 is not part of the HSK vocabulary, it connects well with HSK Level 2 words related to water and transportation. Students should focus on recognizing the radical and understanding its application in boating and outdoor contexts.
Cultural Note
In Chinese culture, the use of a 篙 is deeply rooted in the tradition of river transport, especially in regions like Jiangnan, where boating is a common means of travel and trade. The character reflects the relationship between nature and daily life in these areas.
Common Mistakes
Learners often mistake 篙 for similar-sounding words like 高 (gāo, meaning 'tall'). To avoid confusion, remember that 篙 is specifically related to boating, while 高 refers to height.
AI-enhanced 2026-03-24
Pronunciation of 篙
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Cultural Notes for 篙
🏮Cultural insight
In Chinese culture, the use of a 篙 is deeply rooted in the tradition of river transport, especially in regions like Jiangnan, where boating is a common means of travel and trade. The character reflects the relationship between nature and daily life in these areas.
Word Family of 篙
Words Containing This Character1
篙gāopole for punting boats
Exercise 1 of 1
Compound Meaning
What does 篙 mean?
Frequently Asked Questions about 篙
篙 means 'a pole used to punt a boat'.
You would use 篙 when discussing boating activities, especially in traditional or rural settings.
Think of 'gao' as the sound a boat makes while being pushed forward by a pole.
