HSK 5, k, 6 strokes, radical 弋, rank #1600, Medium
式
shì
form
HSK 5, k, 6 strokes, radical 弋, rank #1600, Medium
式
shì
pattern
HSK 5, k, 6 strokes, radical 弋, rank #1600, Medium
式
shì
style
HSK 5, k, 6 strokes, radical 弋, rank #1600, Medium
式
shì
formula, pattern, rule, style, system
HSK 5, k, 6 strokes, radical 弋, rank #1600, Medium
shì(shi4) T4
1type
2form
Listen to the audio pronunciation 3 times to gain XP
March 24, 2026
式shì(shi4)
The character 式 (shì) refers to a type, form, pattern, or style. It is commonly used in contexts related to formulas, styles in design, or specific methodologies, such as in mathematics or writing. It conveys the idea of a systematic approach or a defined way of doing something.
Strokes6Radical弋Frequency#1600DifficultyMedium
Cultural Note
In Chinese culture, 式 (shì) is often used in contexts like traditional ceremonies or formal events, where specific styles or formats are adhered to, reflecting the importance of structure and order in societal practices.
Memory Tip
Think of 式 (shì) as an image of a stylish model (the '式' character resembles a model on a runway) presenting a specific form or style. The left part ‘弓’ resembles a bow, symbolizing structure, while the right part ‘式’ can remind you of 'style.' Together, they form a distinct type.
Meanings of 式
shì(shi4)
1type
2form
Exercise 1 of 2
Listen & Choose the Meaning
Choose the correct answer:
About 式
式Simplified
6Strokes
弋Radical
后接成分suffix-forming morpheme (suff.)Part of Speech
#1600Frequency Rank
HSK 3.0L5IntermediateHSKKL3CEFRB2
Podcast: 式
Podcast: 式
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AI Study Notes for 式
Quick Contrast
式 (shì) vs 形 (xíng) — choose 式 for a specific pattern or method, while 形 refers to a more general shape or form.
Memory Mnemonic
Think of 式 (shì) as an image of a stylish model (the '式' character resembles a model on a runway) presenting a specific form or style. The left part ‘弓’ resembles a bow, symbolizing structure, while the right part ‘式’ can remind you of 'style.' Together, they form a distinct type.
Usage Notes
Be careful not to confuse 式 (shì) with similar characters like 形 (xíng), which also means form but is more about shape. In formal contexts, it may be associated with academic or technical language, while in informal settings, it could refer to everyday styles.
HSK Study Tips
Although 式 (shì) is not part of HSK levels 1-6, it connects with vocabulary related to styles and methods typically introduced at higher levels. Focus on recognizing it in phrases like 公式 (gōngshì, formula) to enhance comprehension.
Cultural Note
In Chinese culture, 式 (shì) is often used in contexts like traditional ceremonies or formal events, where specific styles or formats are adhered to, reflecting the importance of structure and order in societal practices.
Common Mistakes
Learners often confuse 式 (shì) with 形 (xíng), leading to errors like using '形' when referring to a formula. The correct term for a mathematical formula is 公式 (gōngshì), not 形式.
AI-enhanced 2026-03-24
Pronunciation of 式
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Grammar Patterns of 式
式 carries 5 distinct meanings. Below you'll find the patterns that show how it combines with other words, plus example sentences pulled directly from native usage.
In Chinese culture, 式 (shì) is often used in contexts like traditional ceremonies or formal events, where specific styles or formats are adhered to, reflecting the importance of structure and order in societal practices.
Word Family of 式
Compounds12
试shi4to test
拭shi4to wipe away stains with a cloth
弑shi4patricide, matricide
轼shi4carriage crossbar
栻
侙
弒shi4patricide, matricide
恜
烒
試shi4to try, to experiment; exam, test
軾shi4carriage crossbar
鉽
Words Containing This Character20
方式fāngshìway
正式zhèngshìformal
式shìtype
模式móshìmode
形式xíngshìform
仪式yíshìceremony儀式
款式kuǎnshìpattern
开幕式kāimùshìopening ceremony開幕式
格式géshiform
老式old type
公式gōngshìformula
生活方式way of life
方程式equation
非正式unofficial
法式rule
样式yàngshìtype樣式
程式form
新式xīnshìnew style
各式各样gèshìgèyàngvarious各式各樣
首映式premiere of a movie
Exercise 1 of 4
Compound Meaning
What does 试 mean?
Frequently Asked Questions about 式
Some common phrases that include 式 (shì) are '公式' (gōngshì), meaning 'formula', and '样式' (yàngshì), meaning 'style' or 'format'. These phrases are frequently used in academic and everyday contexts.
You can use 式 (shì) in a sentence to describe a specific type or form of something. For example, you might say '这种式很流行' (zhè zhǒng shì hěn liúxíng), which means 'this style is very popular.' It can be combined with other words to specify the context.
式 (shì) means type, form, pattern, or style in Chinese. It is often used to describe various forms or models in different contexts, such as mathematics or fashion. For example, in mathematics, we may refer to a certain formula as a '式'.
In everyday conversation, 式 can refer to a style or way of doing something, such as in fashion or cooking.
In mathematics, 式 often refers to a formula or equation, emphasizing the structured form of mathematical expressions.
Yes, common phrases include 公式 (gōngshì, formula) and 风式 (fēngshì, style), which help illustrate its use in specific contexts.
