Meanings of 顶
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Podcast: 顶
Podcast: 顶
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AI Study Notes for 顶
顶 (dǐng) vs 顶部 (dǐngbù) — use 顶 for informal or metaphorical contexts, while 顶部 is more formal and refers specifically to the top part of an object.
In formal contexts, use 顶 to discuss heights or summits, while in informal settings, it can also refer to online discussions. Common mistakes include confusing 顶 with similar characters like 顶替 (dǐngtì, to replace), which is more specific. Pay attention to the tone, as mispronouncing it can change its meaning entirely.
As an HSK Level 5 word, 顶 connects with other words related to height and elevation, such as 高 (gāo, tall) and 顶端 (dǐngduān, peak). Students should focus on its various usages in context, particularly in both physical and metaphorical settings.
Learners often confuse 顶 with similar-sounding words like 丁 (dīng) or 顶替 (dǐngtì). For instance, saying '我想顶替他' (I want to top him) instead of '我想顶他' (I want to carry him) can lead to misunderstandings.
Pronunciation of 顶
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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.
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Etymology of 顶
Phonosemantic compound. 页 represents the meaning and 丁 represents the sound. Simplified form of 頂.
head
Origin
顶 = 页 + 丁. What kind of character does that make it?
Decomposition of 顶
Parts
Which of these is part of 顶?
How to say apex in Chinese
“apex” in Chinese is顶
The character 顶 (dǐng) primarily means 'top' or 'apex' and can refer to the crown of the head or the roof of a building. It is commonly used in both literal and metaphorical contexts, such as describing the highest point of something or expressing the idea of carrying something on one's head. Additionally, it has slang usage in online forums to mean 'bumping' a thread to increase its visibility.
When to use 顶
In formal contexts, use 顶 to discuss heights or summits, while in informal settings, it can also refer to online discussions. Common mistakes include confusing 顶 with similar characters like 顶替 (dǐngtì, to replace), which is more specific. Pay attention to the tone, as mispronouncing it can change its meaning entirely.
顶 or something close to it
顶 (dǐng) vs 顶部 (dǐngbù) — use 顶 for informal or metaphorical contexts, while 顶部 is more formal and refers specifically to the top part of an object.
What learners get wrong
Learners often confuse 顶 with similar-sounding words like 丁 (dīng) or 顶替 (dǐngtì). For instance, saying '我想顶替他' (I want to top him) instead of '我想顶他' (I want to carry him) can lead to misunderstandings.
Write 顶
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Practice writing 顶 stroke by stroke. Watch the animation to learn the stroke order, then try writing it yourself.
Grammar Patterns of 顶
顶 functions as a verb — the action or state of the sentence. The Chinese order is Subject + Verb + Object (我吃饭). Negate it with 不 (habitual / future) or 没(有) (completed action). Add aspect markers like 了, 过, 着 directly after the verb. It carries 14 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.
Fill the gap
Type the missing word. Pinyin works; then pick the character.
建造工人必须把新建房屋的屋____固定得更牢靠些。
Builders must fasten down roofs of newly-built homes more securely.
Common Confusions with 顶
Similar pronunciation and structure.
Which one
Which one means “apex”?
Usage Notes for 顶
顶 is often mistakenly used interchangeably with similar verbs. It's important to understand its specific meaning related to 'top' or 'to carry'.
他顶着一个箱子。
He is carrying a box on his head.
Get it right
Type the missing word. Pinyin works; then pick the character.
他____着一个箱子。
He is carrying a box on his head.
Example Sentences for 顶 (10)
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Word Family of 顶
Words with 顶
What does 屋顶 mean?
Frequently Asked Questions about 顶
Some common phrases that include 顶 are '顶天立地' (to stand tall and firm) and '顶级' (top level or top-notch). These phrases reflect the character's meaning related to height or superiority.
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