Meanings of 鱷
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About 鱷
Podcast: 鱷
Podcast: 鱷
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AI study notes for 鱷
鳄 (è) refers to a crocodile, which is a closely related species but distinct from an alligator; use 鱷 specifically for alligators.
This term is relatively formal and is used in scientific contexts or when discussing animals in a more serious manner. A common mistake is confusing 鱷 with related characters like 鳄 (è), which also means alligator but is more commonly used in everyday language. Be careful with the tone, as mispronouncing it can lead to misunderstandings.
As 鱷 is not commonly included in the HSK vocabulary, learners might not encounter it until they delve into specialized subjects like biology. Students should focus on recognizing the character's structure and nuances related to animal vocabulary at lower HSK levels.
Learners often confuse 鱷 with 鳄, leading to incorrect usage in casual conversations. For example, saying '我看到一个鱷' (I saw an alligator) in a casual setting might be overly formal; instead, use '我看到一个鳄' for a more natural expression.
Pronunciation of 鱷
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Its meaning, its character, its pinyin, its tone — hearing it, saying it, writing it. The Learning Lab measures each one from your own practice, on every word you study, so you see what you actually know rather than how much you have done.
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Etymology of 鱷
fish
Origin
鱷 = 魚 + 噩. What kind of character does that make it?
Decomposition of 鱷
Parts
Which of these is part of 鱷?
How to say alligator in Chinese
“alligator” in Chinese is鱷
The character 鱷 (è) refers specifically to an alligator, a large aquatic reptile known for its powerful jaws and aggressive behavior. This term is commonly used in discussions about wildlife, ecology, and in contexts related to zoology. It can also be found in literature or media discussing nature or environmental issues.
When to use 鱷
This term is relatively formal and is used in scientific contexts or when discussing animals in a more serious manner. A common mistake is confusing 鱷 with related characters like 鳄 (è), which also means alligator but is more commonly used in everyday language. Be careful with the tone, as mispronouncing it can lead to misunderstandings.
鱷 or something close to it
鳄 (è) refers to a crocodile, which is a closely related species but distinct from an alligator; use 鱷 specifically for alligators.
What learners get wrong
Learners often confuse 鱷 with 鳄, leading to incorrect usage in casual conversations. For example, saying '我看到一个鱷' (I saw an alligator) in a casual setting might be overly formal; instead, use '我看到一个鳄' for a more natural expression.
Write 鱷
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Practice writing 鱷 stroke by stroke. Watch the animation to learn the stroke order, then try writing it yourself.
Grammar patterns of 鱷
鱷 carries one core meaning. Below you'll find the patterns that show how it combines with other words, plus example sentences pulled directly from native usage.
Fill the gap
Type the missing word. Pinyin works; then pick the character.
那只羚羊无法从____鱼张开的大口中逃脱.
The antelope could not escape the crocodile's gaping jaws.
Example sentences for 鱷 (1)
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Word Family of 鱷
Words with 鱷
What does 鳄鱼 mean?
Frequently asked questions about 鱷
No, 鱷 is more commonly used in formal or scientific contexts, while 鳄 (è) is preferred in everyday conversations.
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