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March 24, 2026
貞zhēn(zhen1)
The character 貞 (zhēn) signifies virtues such as chastity, purity, and loyalty. It is often used in contexts that emphasize moral integrity and steadfastness in relationships, particularly in traditional Chinese culture where these values are highly esteemed.
Strokes9Radical貝Frequency#—DifficultyVery Hard
Cultural Note
In Chinese culture, the concept of 貞 is historically significant, especially in the context of women’s roles in society, where chastity and loyalty were highly valued virtues. This character is often associated with historical figures known for their unwavering loyalty and moral integrity.
Memory Tip
Imagine a loyal knight (the meaning of the character) standing firmly on a pedestal marked with the character's components. The '牛' radical suggests strength and firmness, akin to the unwavering nature of a virtuous person.
Meanings of 貞
zhēn(zhen1)
1virtuous, chaste, pure; loyal
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About 貞
貞Simplified
9Strokes
貝Radical
非语素字non-morpheme character (n-m.)Part of Speech
#—Frequency Rank
Podcast: 貞
Podcast: 貞
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AI Study Notes for 貞
Quick Contrast
贞 (zhēn) vs 忠 (zhōng) — choose 貞 for purity and chastity in relationships, while 忠 emphasizes loyalty and faithfulness.
Memory Mnemonic
Imagine a loyal knight (the meaning of the character) standing firmly on a pedestal marked with the character's components. The '牛' radical suggests strength and firmness, akin to the unwavering nature of a virtuous person.
Usage Notes
While 貞 is commonly used in formal texts discussing ethics or relationships, it may sound overly archaic in everyday conversation. Be mindful of using it appropriately, as it often collocates with words like '婦女' (women) and '忠誠' (loyalty).
HSK Study Tips
Though 貞 is not part of the official HSK vocabulary, it shares themes with words related to integrity and character, which are important at higher levels. Focus on understanding its usage in classical texts or discussions about moral values.
Cultural Note
In Chinese culture, the concept of 貞 is historically significant, especially in the context of women’s roles in society, where chastity and loyalty were highly valued virtues. This character is often associated with historical figures known for their unwavering loyalty and moral integrity.
Common Mistakes
Learners often confuse 貞 with similar-sounding characters like 真 (zhēn), which means 'true.' For example, saying '我很貞' (Wǒ hěn zhēn) instead of '我很真' (Wǒ hěn zhēn) to express sincerity is incorrect; it should be the latter.
AI-enhanced 2026-03-24
Pronunciation of 貞
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Cultural Notes for 貞
🏮Cultural insight
In Chinese culture, the concept of 貞 is historically significant, especially in the context of women’s roles in society, where chastity and loyalty were highly valued virtues. This character is often associated with historical figures known for their unwavering loyalty and moral integrity.
