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March 24, 2026
郑(鄭)zhèng(Zheng4)
The character 郑 (zhèng) primarily refers to the Zheng state, which existed during the Warring States period in ancient China. It is also a common Chinese surname and is an abbreviation for 郑州 (Zhèngzhōu), a major city in Henan province. In modern contexts, it can refer to historical discussions or genealogical references related to the Zheng surname.
Strokes8Radical阝Frequency#19553DifficultyHard
Cultural Note
The Zheng state played a significant role in ancient Chinese history, particularly during the Warring States period, influencing various philosophical and political developments. The city of Zhengzhou is also known for its historical and cultural significance, serving as a vital center in ancient China.
Memory Tip
Imagine a 'Zheng' warrior standing strong in battle, with the character 郑 resembling a shield protecting his name. The '亻' radical on the left suggests a person, while the '郑' part can be visualized as a name banner waving in the wind, reminding you of its significance as a surname.
Meanings of 郑
zhèng(Zheng4)
1Zheng state during the Warring States period
2abbr. for 鄭州
Exercise 1 of 2
Listen & Choose the Meaning
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About 郑
郑Simplified
鄭Traditional
8Strokes
阝Radical
地名míngcíplace name (p.n.)Part of Speech
#19553Frequency Rank
Podcast: 郑
Podcast: 郑
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AI Study Notes for 郑
Memory Mnemonic
Imagine a 'Zheng' warrior standing strong in battle, with the character 郑 resembling a shield protecting his name. The '亻' radical on the left suggests a person, while the '郑' part can be visualized as a name banner waving in the wind, reminding you of its significance as a surname.
Usage Notes
When using 郑, ensure you are aware of its context—whether referring to the surname, the historical state, or the city. A common mistake is confusing it with similar-sounding words; remember that 郑 is specific to the Zheng state and surname. It is often used in formal contexts when discussing history or family names.
HSK Study Tips
Although 郑 is not assigned an HSK level, it is important for learners to connect it with other historical terms and names. Focus on its usage in historical texts and genealogical discussions to enhance vocabulary related to Chinese history.
Cultural Note
The Zheng state played a significant role in ancient Chinese history, particularly during the Warring States period, influencing various philosophical and political developments. The city of Zhengzhou is also known for its historical and cultural significance, serving as a vital center in ancient China.
Common Mistakes
Learners often mispronounce 郑, saying it with a rising tone instead of the correct falling tone. For example, saying 'zhéng' instead of 'zhèng' can lead to misunderstandings. Additionally, some may confuse it with other surnames like 张 (Zhāng).
AI-enhanced 2026-03-24
Pronunciation of 郑
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Grammar Patterns of 郑
郑 functions as a noun — it names a person, place, thing, or concept. Place it as a subject before the verb (主+谓) or as an object after the verb (谓+宾). Most Chinese nouns require a measure word between the number and the noun (e.g. 一个/三本). It carries 6 related meanings, each with its own usage notes below. The example sentences below show it in action, with practice buttons (Listen, Practice Writing, Practice Speaking) on every line.
Exercise 1 of 4
Complete the Sentence
它用讽刺的语言呈现了天主教作家____重其事表明的观点。
It presented in satirical terms points made in earnest by Catholic writers.
Example Sentences for 郑 (5)
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1
它用讽刺的语言呈现了天主教作家郑重其事表明的观点。
tā yòng fěng cì de yǔ yán chéng xiàn le tiān zhǔ jiào zuò jiā zhèng zhòng qí shì biǎo míng de guān diǎn。
It presented in satirical terms points made in earnest by Catholic writers.
The pilots respectfully represented that they were not at all tired.
4
他们穿着帅气的灰色制服时，很难对他们郑重其事起来。
tā mén chuān zháo shuài qì de huī sè zhì fú shí， ， hěn nán duì tā mén zhèng zhòng qí shì qǐ。
It's hard to take them seriously in their pretty grey uniforms.
5
我想要与你郑重其事地谈一谈.
wǒ xiǎng yào yǔ nǐ zhèng zhòng qí shì dì tán yī tán.
I want to have a serious talk with you.
Cultural Notes for 郑
🏮Cultural insight
The Zheng state played a significant role in ancient Chinese history, particularly during the Warring States period, influencing various philosophical and political developments. The city of Zhengzhou is also known for its historical and cultural significance, serving as a vital center in ancient China.
Word Family of 郑
Compounds2
掷zhi4to toss
踯zhi2to hesitate, to waver; irresolute
Words Containing This Character8
郑zhèngsurname Zheng鄭
郑重zhèngzhòngserious鄭重
郑州Zhengzhou prefecture level city and capital of Henan Province in central China鄭州
郑州市Zhengzhou prefecture level city and capital of Henan Province in central China鄭州市
郑重其事serious about the matter鄭重其事
郑成功Koxinga (1624-1662), military leader鄭成功
郑伊健Ekin Cheng (1967-), Hong Kong actor and pop singer鄭伊健
郑州大学Zhengzhou University鄭州大學
Exercise 1 of 4
Compound Meaning
What does 掷 mean?
Frequently Asked Questions about 郑
The surname 郑 (Zhèng) is a common Chinese family name, often associated with historical figures and families from the Zheng state.
No, while 郑 has historical significance, it is also used in modern contexts to refer to the city of Zhengzhou and as a surname.
郑 is pronounced as 'zhèng' with a falling tone, similar to the English word 'chung' but with a sharper ending.
