Meanings of 克
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About 克
Podcast: 克
Podcast: 克
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AI Study Notes for 克
克 (kè, to overcome) vs 战胜 (zhànshèng, to defeat) — use 克 when emphasizing the act of overcoming or restraining, while 战胜 focuses on the aspect of defeating an opponent.
Imagine a strong warrior (克) who can conquer his foes effortlessly. The left part of the character suggests strength, while the right part looks like a person overcoming an obstacle. Picture this warrior shouting 'kè' as he triumphs over his challenges.
Be cautious not to confuse 克 (kè) with other similar-sounding words, as its meanings can vary greatly. While it's common in both formal and informal contexts, ensure you're using it correctly in phrases like '克服困难' (overcome difficulties). Avoid using it in contexts where a softer tone might be preferable.
At HSK Level 5, 克 (kè) connects well with words related to overcoming challenges, such as 解决 (jiějué, to solve) and 战胜 (zhànshèng, to defeat). Focus on how it modifies verbs and its usage in phrases involving achievement or success.
In Chinese culture, the concept of overcoming obstacles is deeply rooted in traditional values, emphasizing resilience and perseverance. This is often echoed in proverbs and idioms that highlight the importance of 克服 (kèfú), or overcoming difficulties.
Learners often confuse 克 (kè) with similar characters like 剋 (kè), which has a slightly different meaning. For example, saying '我克服了困难' (Wǒ kèfúle kùnnán) when one means 'I scolded the difficulties' is incorrect; it should emphasize overcoming, not scolding.
Pronunciation of 克
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Etymology of 克
Pictograph of a person (人) carrying a heavy weight on their back.
A weapon 十 used to subdue a beast 兄
Character Formation Type
What type of character formation is 克?
Decomposition of 克
Identify the Components
Which of these is a component of 克?
Write 克
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Practice writing 克 stroke by stroke. Watch the animation to learn the stroke order, then try writing it yourself.
Grammar Patterns of 克
克 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 13 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
志愿者要尽量自己____服困难。
Volunteers should try their best to overcome difficulties on their own.
Common Confusions with 克
Same pronunciation and similar shape, but different meanings.
Similar pronunciation but different meanings.
Spot the Difference
Which character means "to be able to"?
Example Sentences for 克 (10)
Cultural Notes for 克
'克' is often used in everyday language to describe overcoming difficulties, a concept cherished in Chinese culture where perseverance and resilience are highly valued.
In Chinese culture, the concept of overcoming obstacles is deeply rooted in traditional values, emphasizing resilience and perseverance. This is often echoed in proverbs and idioms that highlight the importance of 克服 (kèfú), or overcoming difficulties.
Word Family of 克
Compound Meaning
What does 氪 mean?
Frequently Asked Questions about 克
克 has several meanings in Chinese, including 'to restrain' or 'to conquer'. It also serves as a measure for weight, equivalent to a gram, and as a unit for land area in Tibetan culture. The context in which it is used can change its meaning significantly.