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March 24, 2026
词典(詞典)cídiǎn(ci2dian3)
The term 词典 (cí diǎn) refers to a dictionary that specializes in the definitions and usages of words in the Chinese language. It is commonly used in educational settings and for reference in writing and speaking. This word is particularly relevant for students learning Chinese, as it provides essential insights into vocabulary and grammar.
Strokes15Frequency#20876DifficultyMedium
Cultural Note
In Chinese culture, dictionaries are highly valued as tools for education and literacy, reflecting the importance placed on language mastery. Traditional Chinese scholars often relied on dictionaries for writing poetry and essays, highlighting the depth of language.
Memory Tip
Think of 词 (cí) as the word 'word' itself, and 典 (diǎn) can be imagined as a 'tome' or 'classic' reference book. Picture a towering dictionary filled with words and their meanings, helping you navigate the sea of Chinese vocabulary.
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AI Study Notes for 词典
Quick Contrast
同义词 (tóngyìcí, synonym) - use 词典 (cídiǎn) when referring specifically to a dictionary, while 同义词 (tóngyìcí) refers to words with similar meanings.
Usage Notes
When using 词典, it is important to understand that it typically refers to dictionaries that focus on word meanings rather than encyclopedic content. Avoid using it in casual conversations where simpler terms might suffice. Note that the tone for 词 is the second tone, and for 典, it is the third tone, which can be tricky to pronounce correctly.
HSK Study Tips
As an HSK Level 3 word, 词典 connects to other vocabulary related to education and language learning. Students should focus on understanding how to use it in context, such as asking for definitions or referring to it in discussions about language.
Common Mistakes
Learners often confuse 词典 with similar terms, mistakenly using it to refer to encyclopedias or foreign language dictionaries. Remember, 词典 specifically refers to dictionaries of Chinese words and their meanings.
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Pronunciation of 词典
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How Well Do You Know 词典?
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Knowing 词典 is seven skills, not one.
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.
How to say dictionary (of Chinese compound words) in Chinese
“dictionary (of Chinese compound words)” in Chinese is词典cídiǎn
The term 词典 (cí diǎn) refers to a dictionary that specializes in the definitions and usages of words in the Chinese language. It is commonly used in educational settings and for reference in writing and speaking. This word is particularly relevant for students learning Chinese, as it provides essential insights into vocabulary and grammar.
When to use 词典
When using 词典, it is important to understand that it typically refers to dictionaries that focus on word meanings rather than encyclopedic content. Avoid using it in casual conversations where simpler terms might suffice. Note that the tone for 词 is the second tone, and for 典, it is the third tone, which can be tricky to pronounce correctly.
词典 or something close to it
同义词 (tóngyìcí, synonym) - use 词典 (cídiǎn) when referring specifically to a dictionary, while 同义词 (tóngyìcí) refers to words with similar meanings.
What learners get wrong
Learners often confuse 词典 with similar terms, mistakenly using it to refer to encyclopedias or foreign language dictionaries. Remember, 词典 specifically refers to dictionaries of Chinese words and their meanings.
Write 词典
词
典
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Grammar Patterns of 词典
词典 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 3 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.
The teacher said that '词典' and '辭典' mean the same thing.
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Frequently Asked Questions about 词典
Both terms refer to a dictionary, but 辞典 is more formal and often used in academic contexts, while 词典 is the more common term for everyday use.
Start by familiarizing yourself with the structure of the dictionary, including radicals and phonetic components, and practice looking up words regularly to enhance your vocabulary.
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