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中国画 — pronunciations, definitions, and tags
HanziPinyinEnglishTags
中国画zhōngguóhuàChinese paintingHSK 7, unknown, 20 strokes, Very Hard
zhōngguóhuà(Zhong1guo2hua4)zhong guo hua T1
  1. 1Chinese painting
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March 24, 2026

中国画(中國畫)zhōngguóhuà(Zhong1guo2hua4)

中国画 (Zhōngguóhuà) refers to traditional Chinese painting, which emphasizes brushwork, ink, and the use of natural subjects. It often incorporates philosophical themes and is known for its unique techniques, such as the use of ink wash. This art form is commonly seen in cultural exhibitions, galleries, and as a decorative element in homes.

Strokes20DifficultyVery Hard
Cultural note

中国画 is deeply rooted in Chinese culture, reflecting the philosophies of Confucianism, Taoism, and Buddhism. It is often associated with the concept of harmony between humanity and nature, which is a significant aspect of Chinese aesthetics.

Memory tip

Imagine a giant paintbrush (画) that has the colors of China (中国) flowing out of it, depicting beautiful landscapes and traditional scenes. The character for painting (画) looks like a brush making strokes, which helps you remember its meaning.

Meanings of 中国画

zhōngguóhuà(Zhong1guo2hua4)
1Chinese painting
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About 中国画

中国画Simplified
中國畫Traditional
20Strokes
—Radical
#—Frequency Rank
HSK 3.0L7AdvancedCEFRC2

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AI study notes for 中国画

Quick Contrast

水墨画 (shuǐmòhuà) - use this entry for traditional Chinese painting that specifically emphasizes the use of ink wash techniques, while 中国画 encompasses a broader range of styles and subjects.

Usage Notes

When using 中国画, it is important to distinguish it from Western painting styles. Common collocations include '欣赏中国画' (appreciate Chinese painting) and '学习中国画' (learn Chinese painting). Be mindful of the tone when discussing art to avoid sounding too casual.

HSK Study Tips

While 中国画 is not specifically listed in the HSK vocabulary, it relates to HSK Level 3-4 themes like culture and art. Students should focus on vocabulary related to art styles and techniques, enhancing their language skills in cultural contexts.

Common Mistakes

Learners often confuse 中国画 with Western painting styles, leading to inappropriate comparisons. For example, saying '中国画 is like oil painting' ignores the distinct techniques and philosophies involved. Instead, emphasize its unique brushwork and ink techniques.

AI-enhanced 2026-03-24

Pronunciation of 中国画

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Component characters

中zhōngmiddle
HSK 34 strokes丨
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国guócountry
HSK 18 strokes囗
View full entry
画huàto draw
HSK 28 strokes田
View full entry

How to say Chinese painting in Chinese

“Chinese painting” in Chinese is中国画zhōngguóhuà

中国画 (Zhōngguóhuà) refers to traditional Chinese painting, which emphasizes brushwork, ink, and the use of natural subjects. It often incorporates philosophical themes and is known for its unique techniques, such as the use of ink wash. This art form is commonly seen in cultural exhibitions, galleries, and as a decorative element in homes.

When to use 中国画

When using 中国画, it is important to distinguish it from Western painting styles. Common collocations include '欣赏中国画' (appreciate Chinese painting) and '学习中国画' (learn Chinese painting). Be mindful of the tone when discussing art to avoid sounding too casual.

中国画 or something close to it

水墨画 (shuǐmòhuà) - use this entry for traditional Chinese painting that specifically emphasizes the use of ink wash techniques, while 中国画 encompasses a broader range of styles and subjects.

What learners get wrong

Learners often confuse 中国画 with Western painting styles, leading to inappropriate comparisons. For example, saying '中国画 is like oil painting' ignores the distinct techniques and philosophies involved. Instead, emphasize its unique brushwork and ink techniques.

Write 中国画

中
国
画

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Cultural Notes for 中国画

🌏Cross-cultural Insight

In Western cultures, painting often emphasizes realism and perspective, while 中国画 values expression and abstraction, focusing on the essence of the subjects instead of their exact appearance.

Frequently asked questions about 中国画

Typically, 中国画 uses rice paper, silk, and special Chinese brushes along with ink and traditional pigments.

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