勾勒 (gōulè) means to outline or sketch something, often referring to drawing or illustrating a concept. It can also imply the act of delineating or describing in broad strokes, such as outlining a plan or idea. This word is commonly used in artistic contexts as well as in discussions about strategies or frameworks.
HSK 7, 16 strokes, Hard
gōulè(gou1le4) T1
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May 27, 2026
勾勒gōulè(gou1le4)
勾勒 (gōulè) means to outline or sketch something, often referring to drawing or illustrating a concept. It can also imply the act of delineating or describing in broad strokes, such as outlining a plan or idea. This word is commonly used in artistic contexts as well as in discussions about strategies or frameworks.
Strokes16Frequency#—DifficultyHard
Cultural Note
In Chinese culture, the idea of 勾勒 is not just about physical drawing but also about the importance of outlining ideas clearly before delving into details, reflecting the value placed on planning and foresight.
Memory Tip
Imagine a skilled artist using a pencil to 'hook' (勾) the outline of a beautiful landscape, carefully 'drawing' (勒) every curve and edge. The shape of the character 勾 resembles a hook or curve, reminding you of the act of sketching.
About 勾勒
勾勒Simplified
16Strokes
—Radical
动词dòngcíverb (v.)Part of Speech
#—Frequency Rank
HSK 3.0L7AdvancedCEFRC2
Podcast: 勾勒
Podcast: 勾勒
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AI Study Notes for 勾勒
Quick Contrast
描绘 (miáohuì) - use 勾勒 when emphasizing an outline or rough sketch, while 描绘 is more about detailed depiction.
Memory Mnemonic
Imagine a skilled artist using a pencil to 'hook' (勾) the outline of a beautiful landscape, carefully 'drawing' (勒) every curve and edge. The shape of the character 勾 resembles a hook or curve, reminding you of the act of sketching.
Usage Notes
Learners often confuse 勾勒 with similar verbs like 描绘 (miáohuì, to depict) and 绘画 (huìhuà, to paint), which emphasize different aspects of drawing. This word is generally used in both formal and informal contexts, especially in art and planning discussions.
HSK Study Tips
At HSK Level 7, focus on using 勾勒 in more complex sentences to discuss topics like art, design, or strategy. Connect this word to vocabulary related to creativity and planning, such as 设计 (shèjì, design) and 计划 (jìhuà, plan).
Cultural Note
In Chinese culture, the idea of 勾勒 is not just about physical drawing but also about the importance of outlining ideas clearly before delving into details, reflecting the value placed on planning and foresight.
Common Mistakes
Learners often misuse 勾勒 in contexts where they should use 描绘 (miáohuì) instead, as 勾勒 is more about outlining than detailed depiction. For example, saying '我勾勒了这幅画' (I outlined this painting) might imply a lack of detail that 描绘 would better convey.
AI-enhanced 2026-05-27
Pronunciation of 勾勒
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Cultural Notes for 勾勒
🏮Cultural insight
In Chinese culture, the idea of 勾勒 is not just about physical drawing but also about the importance of outlining ideas clearly before delving into details, reflecting the value placed on planning and foresight.
Frequently Asked Questions about 勾勒
Yes, 勾勒 can be applied in both artistic contexts to refer to sketching and in discussions about outlining ideas or plans.
勾勒 can be used in both formal and informal situations, making it versatile for various contexts.
Synonyms include 描绘 (miáohuì, to depict) and 轮廓 (lúnkuò, outline), though each has its nuances.
