Meanings of 贝
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About 贝
Podcast: 贝
Podcast: 贝
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AI Study Notes for 贝
Imagine a shiny cowrie shell glistening on the beach. The shape of the shell resembles the character 贝, and you can remember its pronunciation 'bèi' as it sounds like 'bay', where you might find such shells washed up by the tides.
贝 (bèi) is often used in informal contexts related to money or wealth, but can also appear in formal discussions about economics. A common mistake is to confuse it with similar-sounding characters; be mindful of tone as 'bèi' (fourth tone) can alter meaning significantly.
While 贝 (bèi) is not currently in the HSK list, it connects to vocabulary related to money and economics. Students should focus on its usage in financial contexts and as part of compound words like '人民币' (rénmínbì, Chinese currency).
In ancient China, cowrie shells were a primary form of currency used in trade, reflecting their significant role in the economy and culture of the time. The continued use of 贝 in modern terms for money highlights historical value.
Learners often confuse 贝 (bèi) with similar characters, leading to mispronunciation or incorrect usage. For example, saying 'bai' instead of 'bèi' can change the meaning entirely. Remember: 贝 is pronounced with a falling tone (bèi).
Pronunciation of 贝
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Etymology of 贝
Simplified form of 貝. Pictograph of a cowrie shell. In ancient China such shells were used as currency.
A sea shell, once used as currency
Character Formation Type
What type of character formation is 贝?
Decomposition of 贝
Identify the Components
Which of these is a component of 贝?
Write 贝
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Practice writing 贝 stroke by stroke. Watch the animation to learn the stroke order, then try writing it yourself.
Grammar Patterns of 贝
贝 carries 5 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
坎____尔公司的总裁退休后，麦戈文被选定为继任者。
When the chairman of Campbell's retired, McGovern was named as his successor.
Common Confusions with 贝
Simplified form of the traditional character 貝
Spot the Difference
Which character means "cowrie"?
Example Sentences for 贝 (10)
Cultural Notes for 贝
In ancient China, cowrie shells were a primary form of currency used in trade, reflecting their significant role in the economy and culture of the time. The continued use of 贝 in modern terms for money highlights historical value.
Word Family of 贝
Compound Meaning
What does 员 mean?
Frequently Asked Questions about 贝
In ancient China, 贝 (bèi) referred to cowrie shells, which were used as a form of currency. This practice highlights the importance of shellfish in trade and economy during that period. Cowrie shells were one of the earliest types of money used in various cultures.