信函 (xìnhán) refers to a formal letter or correspondence, typically used in business or official communication. It conveys important information and is often structured in a specific format, making it distinct from informal letters or notes.
HSK 4, 16 strokes, Hard
xìnhán(xin4han2) T4
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May 27, 2026
信函xìnhán(xin4han2)
信函 (xìnhán) refers to a formal letter or correspondence, typically used in business or official communication. It conveys important information and is often structured in a specific format, making it distinct from informal letters or notes.
Strokes16Frequency#—DifficultyHard
Cultural Note
In Chinese culture, formal letters are an important part of business etiquette, reflecting respect and professionalism. The structure and language used in 信函 can convey the sender's seriousness and attention to detail.
Memory Tip
Imagine sending a formal letter (信函) through a post office. The character '信' looks like a person holding a letter, while '函' resembles a box that holds the letter securely. Together, they make you think of a securely packed letter being sent.
About 信函
信函Simplified
16Strokes
—Radical
名词míngcínoun (n.)Part of Speech
#—Frequency Rank
HSK 3.0L4IntermediateHSKKL2CEFRB1
Podcast: 信函
Podcast: 信函
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AI Study Notes for 信函
Quick Contrast
信件 (xìnjiàn) refers to any type of letter or mail, while 信函 (xìnhán) specifically denotes formal correspondence.
Memory Mnemonic
Imagine sending a formal letter (信函) through a post office. The character '信' looks like a person holding a letter, while '函' resembles a box that holds the letter securely. Together, they make you think of a securely packed letter being sent.
Usage Notes
When using 信函, be mindful that it is more formal than just '信' (letter) and is appropriate in professional contexts. A common mistake is using it interchangeably with '邮件' (email), which is less formal. Ensure you use the correct context to avoid sounding awkward.
HSK Study Tips
As an HSK 4 word, focus on using 信函 in formal writing and understand its structure. Connect it with other related vocabulary like 书信 (shūxìn – letter) and 邮件 (yóujiàn – mail) to expand your understanding of communication terms.
Cultural Note
In Chinese culture, formal letters are an important part of business etiquette, reflecting respect and professionalism. The structure and language used in 信函 can convey the sender's seriousness and attention to detail.
Common Mistakes
Learners often confuse 信函 with informal terms like '信' or '邮件'. For example, saying '我写了一封信函给我的朋友' (I wrote a formal letter to my friend) is incorrect; use '信' instead for friends.
AI-enhanced 2026-05-27
Pronunciation of 信函
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Cultural Notes for 信函
🏮Cultural insight
In Chinese culture, formal letters are an important part of business etiquette, reflecting respect and professionalism. The structure and language used in 信函 can convey the sender's seriousness and attention to detail.
Frequently Asked Questions about 信函
信 is a general term for any letter, while 信函 specifically refers to a formal letter used in business or official contexts.
It's not recommended, as 信函 is specifically for formal communication; use 信 for personal letters instead.
A 信函 typically follows a formal structure including the date, recipient's address, salutation, body, and closing.
