Meanings of 马
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About 马
Podcast: 马
Podcast: 马
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AI Study Notes for 马
Common mistakes include confusing '马' with similar-sounding characters. It is often used in both formal and informal settings, so context matters. Be mindful of its tone; 'mǎ' (third tone) refers to a horse, while 'má' (second tone) means hemp, which can lead to misunderstandings.
As an HSK Level 3 word, '马' connects to other animal-related vocabulary and transport terms. Students should focus on pronunciation and its various uses in phrases and idioms, as well as its role in counting with the measure word '匹' (pǐ).
Learners often confuse '马' with '妈' due to their similar sounds, leading to incorrect phrases like '我有妈' (I have a horse) instead of the correct '我有马'. Always double-check the tone and context.
Pronunciation of 马
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Etymology of 马
Simplified form of 馬. Pictograph of a horse.
Simplified form of 馬, a horse galloping to the left
Jason Etymology Detective
Case file: 马
Simplified form of 馬. Pictograph of a horse.
- 1The giveawaySimplified form of 馬, a horse galloping to the left
- 2On the record aspictographic — someone drew the thing itself.
Every clue here comes from the character's recorded structure — nothing is guessed.
Want the full history of 马? Jason searches the paleographic record, weighs the competing accounts and judges the popular story.
Charged once for this character — everyone reads it afterwards.Character Formation Type
What type of character formation is 马?
Decomposition of 马
Identify the Components
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How to say horse in Chinese
“horse” in Chinese is马
The character '马' (mǎ) primarily means 'horse' and is commonly used in various contexts related to equestrianism. It can also serve as a surname, particularly 'Ma', and is an abbreviation for Malaysia. The character is essential in Chinese culture, symbolizing speed, strength, and endurance.
When to use 马
Common mistakes include confusing '马' with similar-sounding characters. It is often used in both formal and informal settings, so context matters. Be mindful of its tone; 'mǎ' (third tone) refers to a horse, while 'má' (second tone) means hemp, which can lead to misunderstandings.
What learners get wrong
Learners often confuse '马' with '妈' due to their similar sounds, leading to incorrect phrases like '我有妈' (I have a horse) instead of the correct '我有马'. Always double-check the tone and context.
Write 马
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Practice writing 马 stroke by stroke. Watch the animation to learn the stroke order, then try writing it yourself.
Grammar Patterns of 马
马 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 7 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
医生____上来。
The doctor is coming right away.
Common Confusions with 马
Similar pronunciation but different usage.
Different meaning and tone.
Spot the Difference
Which character means "horse"?
Example Sentences for 马 (12)
Cultural Notes for 马
In Chinese culture, horses symbolize strength, perseverance, and success. They are often associated with good fortune and are featured in many traditional stories and artworks.
Word Family of 马
Compound Meaning
What does 吗 mean?
Frequently Asked Questions about 马
Yes, 马 (Mǎ) is a relatively common surname in China. It is one of the Chinese surnames that has historical significance and is shared by many individuals.
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