Meanings of 芋
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About 芋
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Podcast: 芋
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AI Study Notes for 芋
Be careful not to confuse 芋 (yù) with other similar characters like 蕉 (jiāo), which means banana. This word is used in both formal and informal contexts, especially in culinary discussions. Common collocations include 芋头 (yùtóu, taro root) and 芋泥 (yùnì, taro paste).
While 芋 is not part of the official HSK vocabulary, it connects to the theme of food-related words found in lower levels. Focus on recognizing its use in recipes and discussions about regional Chinese dishes that feature taro.
Learners often confuse 芋 (yù) with similar-sounding characters; for example, some might mistakenly use 鱼 (yú, fish) when talking about food. It’s important to remember that 芋 specifically refers to taro.
Pronunciation of 芋
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Etymology of 芋
Phonosemantic compound. 艹 represents the meaning and 于 represents the sound.
plant
Jason Etymology Detective
Case file: 芋
Phonosemantic compound. 艹 represents the meaning and 于 represents the sound.
- 1The meaning half艹 carries the sense.
- 2The sound half于 is there for the reading, not the meaning.
- 3The giveawayplant
- 4On the record aspictophonetic.
Every clue here comes from the character's recorded structure — nothing is guessed.
Want the full history of 芋? 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
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Decomposition of 芋
Identify the Components
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How to say taro in Chinese
“taro” in Chinese is芋
The character 芋 (yù) refers to taro, a starchy root vegetable commonly used in various cuisines. It is notable for its nutty flavor and is often used in soups, desserts, or as a side dish in Chinese cooking. Taro is also associated with certain traditional dishes during festivals and celebrations.
When to use 芋
Be careful not to confuse 芋 (yù) with other similar characters like 蕉 (jiāo), which means banana. This word is used in both formal and informal contexts, especially in culinary discussions. Common collocations include 芋头 (yùtóu, taro root) and 芋泥 (yùnì, taro paste).
What learners get wrong
Learners often confuse 芋 (yù) with similar-sounding characters; for example, some might mistakenly use 鱼 (yú, fish) when talking about food. It’s important to remember that 芋 specifically refers to taro.
Write 芋
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Practice writing 芋 stroke by stroke. Watch the animation to learn the stroke order, then try writing it yourself.
Grammar Patterns of 芋
芋 carries 3 distinct meanings. Below you'll find the patterns that show how it combines with other words, plus example sentences pulled directly from native usage.
Complete the Sentence
削一袋又一袋洋____皮真是苦差使.
Peeling bags of potatoes is really a chore.
Example Sentences for 芋 (1)
Word Family of 芋
Compound Meaning
What does 芋 mean?
Frequently Asked Questions about 芋
芋头 specifically refers to taro, which has a unique flavor and texture compared to potatoes or sweet potatoes.
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