Meanings of 黍
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About 黍
Podcast: 黍
Podcast: 黍
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AI study notes for 黍
When discussing grains, avoid using 黍 interchangeably with rice (米) as they are distinctly different. The word is more commonly used in agricultural or culinary contexts. Note that the tone 'shǔ' should be pronounced with a falling-rising intonation, as mispronunciation can lead to misunderstanding.
Although 黍 is not part of the HSK vocabulary list, it relates to HSK Level 4 words about food and agriculture, such as 米 (rice) and 饭 (meal). Students should focus on recognizing this character in context, especially in discussions about traditional foods.
Learners often confuse 黍 with other similar-sounding grains, such as 粟 (sù, sorghum). To clarify, remember that 黍 specifically refers to millet, while 粟 refers to a different grain type.
Pronunciation of 黍
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Learning Lab
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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 黍
Grain 禾 that can be fermented to make wine 氺
Origin
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Decomposition of 黍
Parts
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How to say broomcorn millet; glutinous millet in Chinese
“broomcorn millet; glutinous millet” in Chinese is黍
黍 (shǔ) refers to a type of grain known as broomcorn millet or glutinous millet, which is often used in traditional Chinese dishes. It is a staple food in some regions and is recognized for its gluten-free properties. In various cultural contexts, it can symbolize sustenance and prosperity.
When to use 黍
When discussing grains, avoid using 黍 interchangeably with rice (米) as they are distinctly different. The word is more commonly used in agricultural or culinary contexts. Note that the tone 'shǔ' should be pronounced with a falling-rising intonation, as mispronunciation can lead to misunderstanding.
What learners get wrong
Learners often confuse 黍 with other similar-sounding grains, such as 粟 (sù, sorghum). To clarify, remember that 黍 specifically refers to millet, while 粟 refers to a different grain type.
Write 黍
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Practice writing 黍 stroke by stroke. Watch the animation to learn the stroke order, then try writing it yourself.
Grammar patterns of 黍
黍 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). The example sentences below show it in action, with practice buttons (Listen, Practice Writing, Practice Speaking) on every line.
Fill the gap
Type the missing word. Pinyin works; then pick the character.
这家餐馆有鲜煮玉____螺.
This restaurant serves freshly boiled winkles.
Example sentences for 黍 (1)
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Word Family of 黍
Words with 黍
What does 玉蜀黍 mean?
Frequently asked questions about 黍
Yes, while not as common as rice,黍 is still used in some traditional dishes, especially in rural areas.
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