Meanings of 穴
Listen & Choose the Meaning
Choose the correct answer:
About 穴
Podcast: 穴
Podcast: 穴
Listen to Jason & Amy break down this word for you
New here?
AI Study Notes for 穴
Imagine a large cave (穴) where you find treasures hidden in the holes (穴) within the rocky walls. The pronunciation 'xué' sounds like 'sway', as if you're swaying in and out of the cave's entrance, exploring its depths.
Learners often confuse the pronunciation with similar characters due to tonal differences. It's important to note that 穴 is more commonly used in informal contexts, especially when talking about nature. Common collocations include '穴居' (xué jū - cave dwelling) and '穴位' (xué wèi - acupuncture point).
While 穴 is not part of the HSK vocabulary, it relates to other fundamental characters like '洞' (dòng - hole) and '窝' (wō - nest). Focus on recognizing its usage in compound words and practice pronunciation to avoid tonal errors.
In traditional Chinese medicine, the concept of acupuncture points (穴位) is crucial, reflecting the integration of physical and spiritual health in Chinese culture. Each point has specific therapeutic functions, deeply rooted in ancient practices.
Learners often mispronounce 穴 as 'xuè', which changes the meaning. Additionally, they might confuse it with other characters that have similar shapes or pronunciations, such as '血' (xiě - blood). Ensure to practice the correct tone and context.
Pronunciation of 穴
Drill the tone of 穴 with AI-powered exercises, get instant feedback, and earn XP toward mastery. Interactive tone practice is part of Pro.
Etymology of 穴
Pictograph of an opening to a cave.
The mouth of a cave
Character Formation Type
What type of character formation is 穴?
Decomposition of 穴
Identify the Components
Which of these is a component of 穴?
Write 穴
New here? to save your writing progress and earn XP.
Practice writing 穴 stroke by stroke. Watch the animation to learn the stroke order, then try writing it yourself.
Grammar Patterns of 穴
穴 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 7 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.
Complete the Sentence
这正是洞____探险者害怕的那种洪水。
This is the type of flood dreaded by cavers.
Example Sentences for 穴 (10)
Cultural Notes for 穴
In traditional Chinese medicine, the concept of acupuncture points (穴位) is crucial, reflecting the integration of physical and spiritual health in Chinese culture. Each point has specific therapeutic functions, deeply rooted in ancient practices.
Word Family of 穴
Compound Meaning
What does 穿 mean?
Frequently Asked Questions about 穴
穴 refers to a cavity or hole, often with a natural connotation, while 洞 is more general and can refer to any hole or cave.