Meanings of 黍
Listen & Choose the Meaning
Choose the correct answer:
About 黍
Podcast: 黍
Podcast: 黍
Listen to Jason & Amy break down this word for you
New here?
AI Study Notes for 黍
Imagine a fluffy, yellow broom sweeping across a field of millet. The character 黍 looks like a broom (the 'broom' radical) next to a field of grain, portraying its essence as a grain crop. The pronunciation 'shǔ' can be remembered by thinking of a 'shoe' stepping on the millet, emphasizing its importance as a foundation of food.
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.
In ancient China,黍 was often used in ceremonial foods and offerings, especially during harvest festivals. It is still featured in some regional dishes, symbolizing abundance and gratitude towards the earth.
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
Drill the tone of 黍 with AI-powered exercises, get instant feedback, and earn XP toward mastery. Interactive tone practice is part of Pro.
Etymology of 黍
Grain 禾 that can be fermented to make wine 氺
Character Formation Type
What type of character formation is 黍?
Decomposition of 黍
Identify the Components
Which of these is a component of 黍?
Write 黍
New here? to save your writing progress and earn XP.
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.
Complete the Sentence
这家餐馆有鲜煮玉____螺.
This restaurant serves freshly boiled winkles.
Example Sentences for 黍 (1)
Cultural Notes for 黍
In ancient China,黍 was often used in ceremonial foods and offerings, especially during harvest festivals. It is still featured in some regional dishes, symbolizing abundance and gratitude towards the earth.
Word Family of 黍
Compound Meaning
What does 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.