烙印 (làoyìn) refers to a 'brand' or 'mark' that is burned onto a surface, often used metaphorically to indicate a lasting impression or influence left by experiences or events. It can describe both physical marks and figurative concepts, such as one's identity being shaped by life experiences or societal expectations.
HSK 7, 16 strokes, Hard
làoyìn(lao4yin4) T4
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May 27, 2026
烙印làoyìn(lao4yin4)
烙印 (làoyìn) refers to a 'brand' or 'mark' that is burned onto a surface, often used metaphorically to indicate a lasting impression or influence left by experiences or events. It can describe both physical marks and figurative concepts, such as one's identity being shaped by life experiences or societal expectations.
Strokes16Frequency#—DifficultyHard
Cultural Note
In Chinese culture, the concept of 烙印 can resonate with the idea of one's legacy and how personal experiences shape one's character and life path, reflecting the importance of history in personal identity.
Memory Tip
Imagine a hot iron stamp that burns a unique symbol into the skin of a cow; this is a '烙印.' The character 烙 (lào) resembles a flame, while 印 (yìn) suggests an imprint, helping you remember that it’s about leaving a lasting mark.
About 烙印
烙印Simplified
16Strokes
—Radical
名词míngcínoun (n.)Part of Speech
#—Frequency Rank
HSK 3.0L7AdvancedCEFRC2
Podcast: 烙印
Podcast: 烙印
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AI Study Notes for 烙印
Quick Contrast
烙印 (làoyìn) vs 印记 (yìnjì) — choose 烙印 when emphasizing a permanent or burning mark, while 印记 refers more generally to any kind of imprint or mark.
Memory Mnemonic
Imagine a hot iron stamp that burns a unique symbol into the skin of a cow; this is a '烙印.' The character 烙 (lào) resembles a flame, while 印 (yìn) suggests an imprint, helping you remember that it’s about leaving a lasting mark.
Usage Notes
烙印 is often used in both literal and figurative contexts, so be mindful of how you apply it. In formal writing, it can describe deep societal or personal impacts, while in informal speech, it might refer to lighter impressions. Ensure you pronounce it correctly with a falling tone on 'lào' and a falling tone on 'yìn' to avoid confusion.
HSK Study Tips
As an HSK 7 word, focus on using 烙印 in complex sentences to express nuanced thoughts about identity and influence. It connects well with vocabulary related to personal experiences and history, enhancing your ability to discuss these themes in depth.
Cultural Note
In Chinese culture, the concept of 烙印 can resonate with the idea of one's legacy and how personal experiences shape one's character and life path, reflecting the importance of history in personal identity.
Common Mistakes
Learners often confuse 烙印 with 印记 (yìnjì), which also means mark but is used in different contexts. Remember that 烙印 emphasizes the burning or lasting nature of the mark, while 印记 can be more general.
AI-enhanced 2026-05-27
Pronunciation of 烙印
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Cultural Notes for 烙印
🏮Cultural insight
In Chinese culture, the concept of 烙印 can resonate with the idea of one's legacy and how personal experiences shape one's character and life path, reflecting the importance of history in personal identity.
Frequently Asked Questions about 烙印
No, 烙印 can also refer to metaphorical marks, such as the lasting effects of experiences on a person.
Yes, while it can be formal, it is also appropriate in casual discussions about personal influences.
You might say, '这次经历在我心中留下了深刻的烙印' (This experience left a deep mark in my heart).
