HSK 6, n, 13 strokes, radical 殳, rank #13825, Hard
殿
diàn
hall; palace; temple
HSK 6, n, 13 strokes, radical 殳, rank #13825, Hard
diàn(dian4)dian T4
1palace hall
2hall; palace; temple
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March 24, 2026
殿diàn(dian4)
The character 殿 (diàn) refers to a hall or palace, often associated with grand structures such as temples or royal residences. It is commonly used in contexts relating to architecture, particularly in historical or ceremonial settings. The term can convey a sense of reverence and importance, as it often denotes spaces meant for dignitaries or deities.
Strokes13Radical殳Frequency#13825DifficultyHard
Cultural Note
In traditional Chinese culture, palaces and temples are central to the concept of authority and spirituality. The character 殿 often appears in historical texts and architectural discussions, reflecting the significance of these structures in Chinese history.
Memory Tip
Imagine a grand palace with intricate architecture. The character 殿 resembles a roof over a large hall, symbolizing a place of honor. Picture a king (diàn sounds like 'dean', a figure of authority) presiding over his subjects in this majestic hall, helping you remember both the form and meaning.
Meanings of 殿
diàn(dian4)
1palace hall
2hall; palace; temple
Exercise 1 of 2
By ear
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About 殿
殿Simplified
13Strokes
殳Radical
名词míngcínoun (n.)Part of Speech
#13825Frequency Rank
HSK 3.0L6
Podcast: 殿
Podcast: 殿
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AI Study Notes for 殿
Quick Contrast
宫 (gōng) - use 殿 (diàn) when referring specifically to a hall or palace with ceremonial significance, whereas 宫 (gōng) generally denotes a palace or residence without the same connotations of reverence.
Usage Notes
When using 殿, it’s important to note that it often carries a formal connotation, making it less common in everyday conversation. Common collocations include '皇宫殿' (imperial palace) and '寺庙殿' (temple hall). Be careful with the tone; using the wrong tone can change the meaning entirely.
HSK Study Tips
Though 殿 is not included in the HSK vocabulary lists, it can be beneficial for learners at a higher level focusing on historical or cultural content. Connecting this word to others related to buildings, like '房' (fáng - room) or '楼' (lóu - building), can enhance understanding.
Common Mistakes
Learners often mistakenly use 殿 in casual conversation where simpler terms like '厅' (tīng - hall) would be more appropriate. For example, saying '我在殿等你' (I wait for you in the hall) sounds overly formal; '我在厅等你' is more suitable.
AI-enhanced 2026-03-24
Pronunciation of 殿
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Example
Learning Lab
Knowing 殿 is seven skills, not one.
Its meaning, its character, its pinyin, its tone — hearing it, saying it, writing it. The Learning Lab measures each one from your own practice, on every word you study, so you see what you actually know rather than how much you have done.
The character 殿 (diàn) refers to a hall or palace, often associated with grand structures such as temples or royal residences. It is commonly used in contexts relating to architecture, particularly in historical or ceremonial settings. The term can convey a sense of reverence and importance, as it often denotes spaces meant for dignitaries or deities.
When to use 殿
When using 殿, it’s important to note that it often carries a formal connotation, making it less common in everyday conversation. Common collocations include '皇宫殿' (imperial palace) and '寺庙殿' (temple hall). Be careful with the tone; using the wrong tone can change the meaning entirely.
殿 or something close to it
宫 (gōng) - use 殿 (diàn) when referring specifically to a hall or palace with ceremonial significance, whereas 宫 (gōng) generally denotes a palace or residence without the same connotations of reverence.
What learners get wrong
Learners often mistakenly use 殿 in casual conversation where simpler terms like '厅' (tīng - hall) would be more appropriate. For example, saying '我在殿等你' (I wait for you in the hall) sounds overly formal; '我在厅等你' is more suitable.
Write 殿
殿
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Practice writing 殿 stroke by stroke. Watch the animation to learn the stroke order, then try writing it yourself.
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Grammar Patterns of 殿
殿 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.
Exercise 1 of 4
Fill the gap
Type the missing word. Pinyin works; then pick the character.
这座宫____完全是各种建筑风格的大杂烩。
The palace is a complete hotch-potch of architectural styles.
