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March 24, 2026
图案(圖案)tú’àn(tu2an4)
图案 (tú'àn) refers to a design or pattern, often used in the context of art, textiles, or decorative elements. It conveys the idea of a repeated motif or a stylistic element that enhances visual appeal, commonly found in clothing, wallpapers, and ceramics.
Frequency#6947DifficultyMedium
Cultural Note
In Chinese culture, patterns often carry symbolic meanings; for instance, certain designs are thought to bring good fortune or happiness. Traditional Chinese textiles frequently showcase elaborate 图案 that reflect cultural heritage and artistic skill.
Memory Tip
Imagine a 'turtle' (sounds like 'tu') with 'an' intricate pattern on its shell. This visual of a decorated turtle can help you remember both the sound and meaning of 图案, as it embodies the essence of a design or pattern.
Meanings of 图案
tú’àn(tu2an4)
1design
2pattern
Exercise 1 of 2
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About 图案
图案Simplified
圖案Traditional
—Strokes
—Radical
名词míngcínoun (n.)Part of Speech
#6947Frequency Rank
HSK 2.0L6HSK 3.0L6IntermediateTOCFLL4HSKKL2CEFRB1
Podcast: 图案
Podcast: 图案
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AI Study Notes for 图案
Quick Contrast
花纹 (huāwén) - use 图案 (tú'àn) for a broader design concept, while 花纹 (huāwén) specifically refers to decorative patterns, often floral or intricate.
Memory Mnemonic
Imagine a 'turtle' (sounds like 'tu') with 'an' intricate pattern on its shell. This visual of a decorated turtle can help you remember both the sound and meaning of 图案, as it embodies the essence of a design or pattern.
Usage Notes
Be careful not to confuse 图案 with other similar words like 设计 (shèjì), which means 'design' in terms of planning or blueprinting. 图案 is more about the visual representation rather than the conceptual process. It is commonly used in both formal and informal contexts, especially in artistic discussions.
HSK Study Tips
At HSK Level 6, students should focus on using 图案 in context, such as discussing fashion or art. It connects to other vocabulary about art and aesthetics, enhancing your ability to describe visual elements in detail. Practice using it in sentences to solidify your understanding.
Cultural Note
In Chinese culture, patterns often carry symbolic meanings; for instance, certain designs are thought to bring good fortune or happiness. Traditional Chinese textiles frequently showcase elaborate 图案 that reflect cultural heritage and artistic skill.
Common Mistakes
Learners often confuse 图案 with similar terms like 模式 (móshì), which means 'model' or 'template'. For example, saying '这种图案是个模式' (This pattern is a model) is incorrect; it should be '这种图案是个设计' (This pattern is a design).
AI-enhanced 2026-03-24
Pronunciation of 图案
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Grammar Patterns of 图案
图案 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 2 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.
As long as the verticals align, the design will look regular.
7
每个房间都以淡雅或鲜艳的颜色和印花图案装饰成独特的风格。
měi gè fáng jiān dū yǐ dàn yǎ huò xiān yàn de yán sè hé yìn huā tú àn zhuāng shì chéng dú tè de fēng gé。
Each room is distinctively decorated with light, bright colors and floral prints.
8
桌上铺着带装饰图案的网织的桌布, 上面是七道菜的晚餐.
zhuō shàng pū zháo dài zhuāng shì tú àn de wǎng zhī de zhuō bù, , shàng miàn shì qī dào cài de wǎn.
Champagne corks popped , and on lace tablecloths seven - course dinners were laid.
9
常可在纯白色或带图案的彩色围巾中作出选择。
cháng kě zài chún bái sè huò dài tú àn de cǎi sè wéi jīn zhōng zuò chū xuǎn zé。
You can often choose between plain white or coloured and patterned scarves.
10
许多画都是基于简单的几何图案。
xǔ duō huà dū shì jī yú jiǎn dān de jī hé tú àn。
Many pictures have been based on simple geometric designs.
Cultural Notes for 图案
🏮Cultural insight
In Chinese culture, patterns often carry symbolic meanings; for instance, certain designs are thought to bring good fortune or happiness. Traditional Chinese textiles frequently showcase elaborate 图案 that reflect cultural heritage and artistic skill.
Frequently Asked Questions about 图案
图案 refers to the actual visual pattern or design, while 设计 focuses on the process of planning or creating that design.
Yes, 图案 can describe both man-made designs and natural patterns, such as those found on animal skins or in plant life.
Generally, yes, but it can also be used critically to refer to overly repetitive or uninspired designs.
