Meanings of 元
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About 元
Podcast: 元
Podcast: 元
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AI Study Notes for 元
元 (yuán) vs 钱 (qián) — use 元 for specific currency units, while 钱 is a more general term for money.
Imagine a golden coin (元) representing the first unit of money everyone wants. The top part looks like a roof, suggesting it’s the 'head' of currency, and the bottom part resembles a base, grounding its primary nature.
In financial contexts, remember that 元 is often written as RMB (Renminbi) or simply ¥. Be cautious not to confuse it with other monetary units from different countries. The tone can be tricky; ensure you pronounce it with the second tone (rising) to avoid misunderstandings.
As an HSK 3 level word, 元 connects with other words related to money and numbers, such as 钱 (qián - money) and 价 (jià - price). Focus on using it in sentences related to pricing and currency exchanges.
The Yuan dynasty is significant in Chinese history as it marked the Mongol Empire's rule over China, influencing culture, trade, and social structures. Today, the term 元 remains central in discussions about Chinese economy and history.
Learners often confuse 元 with the character for 'money' (钱). For example, saying '我有十钱' (I have ten money) instead of '我有十元' (I have ten yuan) is incorrect.
Pronunciation of 元
Drill the tone of 元 with AI-powered exercises, get instant feedback, and earn XP toward mastery. Interactive tone practice is part of Pro.
Etymology of 元
Pictograph of a person with two lines added at the head area, representing the meaning the meaning "head" or "first".
A man 儿 with two lines emphasizing their head 二
Character Formation Type
What type of character formation is 元?
Decomposition of 元
Identify the Components
Which of these is a component of 元?
Write 元
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Practice writing 元 stroke by stroke. Watch the animation to learn the stroke order, then try writing it yourself.
Grammar Patterns of 元
元 functions as a number. It almost always combines with a measure word before a noun (三个人, 五本书). Standalone numbers are rare outside of math or counting. It carries 14 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.
Complete the Sentence
大致的估计费用为每月9,000万美____。
Ballpark estimates indicate a price tag of $90 million a month.
Common Confusions with 元
Similar shape but different meaning.
Same pronunciation but different meaning.
Spot the Difference
Which character means "unit of money (in PRC: Chinese yuan, in USA: dollar, etc)"?
Usage Notes for 元
Learners often confuse '元' (yuán) with '员' (yuán) due to similar pronunciation. Remember that '元' refers to 'original' or 'primary,' while '员' means 'member' or 'staff.'
他是公司的一名员工。
He is a member of the company.
Example Sentences for 元 (10)
Cultural Notes for 元
The Yuan Dynasty was the first foreign-led dynasty in China, established by the Mongols under Kublai Khan. It significantly influenced Chinese culture, trade, and governance.
The Yuan dynasty is significant in Chinese history as it marked the Mongol Empire's rule over China, influencing culture, trade, and social structures. Today, the term 元 remains central in discussions about Chinese economy and history.
Word Family of 元
Compound Meaning
What does 完 mean?
Frequently Asked Questions about 元
Yes, 元 is still commonly used in modern Chinese. It appears in contexts such as currency, where it represents the basic unit of Chinese money (RMB or Renminbi). Additionally, it is used in phrases and expressions related to foundational concepts.