Chinese course / Character learning
Start recognising Chinese characters
Start with five characters, then stop and revisit them tomorrow. Read the useful word aloud, notice one detail in its shape, and cover the help before trying again. You can keep learning spoken Chinese while character recognition develops.
New to pinyin? First try sounds and pinyin. The character foundations lesson explains characters, words and components.
How to practise without rushing
- Look at one character and its useful word. Use the help as often as you need today.
- Close the help. Try saying the word and recalling its meaning. If it is new, reopen the model and try again later.
- Tomorrow, mix yesterday's five with a few new ones. Spend extra time on shapes you confuse.
- For handwriting, open the stroke panel and follow the model. Copy once carefully on paper, then cover it and write once from memory. Compare the shape and proportions; repeated copying alone does not check recall.
Recognition, pronunciation, typing and handwriting are separate skills. Practise the one you need. Shape cues help you distinguish characters; stroke panels show how to form them. A component clue is not a guaranteed meaning or reading.
Pinyin may show the usual tone of 一 or 不. Their spoken tones can change in a sentence. The foundation lesson on tone changes explains how to say these changes.
This sequence is arranged for learning, not by syllabus level. It teaches 1940 simplified characters in useful words, including the shared HSK 1–2 handwriting targets. The readings below apply to those words; some characters have other readings. Use the stroke panels when handwriting is your goal.
Page 36 of 65. Start with one five-character group today. Use the words here first; sentence examples may introduce language you have not studied yet.
211. Pleasant feelings, linking, preparation, reasons and arrangements
Separate a preparation activity from later review.
愉
Learn the shape and a useful word
忄 is beside 俞. Compare 输, whose left side is 车.
愉快
Show word reading and meaning
yúkuài
pleasant; happy and enjoyable
愉快 means pleasant or happy. It is a description of an experience or feeling, rather than an instruction to smile.
Read a sentence
祝你周末愉快！
Show sentence reading and meaning
zhù nǐ zhōu mò yú kuài！
Have a pleasant weekend!
Learn the 12 strokes · write 愉
Watch the direction and order. Use “Next stroke” to go slowly, then try writing with the model hidden. On paper, copy once, cover the model, write once, and compare.
Open this panel to load the model.
The writing check compares your strokes with this model. A completed trace is practice, rather than proof of independent handwriting. Your strokes stay on this page.
The model's font shape can differ from the reading font. Compare stroke structure and proportions rather than font styling.
与
Learn the shape and a useful word
Trace the upper turn, the lower hook and the long horizontal. 写 adds a roof over the related lower outline.
与
Show word reading and meaning
yǔ
and; with; a more formal connector than 和
与 can link nouns or mean with in context. It is often used in written language; it is a different character from 予 in 预.
Read a sentence
我想与你讨论这个问题。
Show sentence reading and meaning
wǒ xiǎng yǔ nǐ tǎo lùn zhè ge wèn tí。
I would like to discuss this question with you.
Learn the 3 strokes · write 与
Watch the direction and order. Use “Next stroke” to go slowly, then try writing with the model hidden. On paper, copy once, cover the model, write once, and compare.
Open this panel to load the model.
The writing check compares your strokes with this model. A completed trace is practice, rather than proof of independent handwriting. Your strokes stay on this page.
The model's font shape can differ from the reading font. Compare stroke structure and proportions rather than font styling.
预
Learn the shape and a useful word
予 is on the left and 页 on the right. Compare with 序, where 广 surrounds 予.
预习
Show word reading and meaning
yùxí
prepare a lesson in advance; study material before class
预习 means prepare a lesson before class. It is different from 复习, reviewing material afterwards.
Read a sentence
上课前，请先预习课文。
Show sentence reading and meaning
shàng kè qián， qǐng xiān yù xí kè wén。
Please preview the text before class.
Learn the 10 strokes · write 预
Watch the direction and order. Use “Next stroke” to go slowly, then try writing with the model hidden. On paper, copy once, cover the model, write once, and compare.
Open this panel to load the model.
The writing check compares your strokes with this model. A completed trace is practice, rather than proof of independent handwriting. Your strokes stay on this page.
The model's font shape can differ from the reading font. Compare stroke structure and proportions rather than font styling.
原
Learn the shape and a useful word
厂 covers 白 above 小. Keep the middle 白 distinct from 日 by noticing its small top stroke.
原因
Show word reading and meaning
yuányīn
reason; cause of something
原因 means a reason or cause. A proposed 原因 still needs evidence.
Read a sentence
你迟到的原因是什么？
Show sentence reading and meaning
nǐ chí dào de yuán yīn shì shén me？
Why were you late?
Learn the 10 strokes · write 原
Watch the direction and order. Use “Next stroke” to go slowly, then try writing with the model hidden. On paper, copy once, cover the model, write once, and compare.
Open this panel to load the model.
The writing check compares your strokes with this model. A completed trace is practice, rather than proof of independent handwriting. Your strokes stay on this page.
The model's font shape can differ from the reading font. Compare stroke structure and proportions rather than font styling.
约
Learn the shape and a useful word
纟 stands beside 勺. Keep the dot inside 勺 and compare the left side with 钓, which uses 钅.
约
Show word reading and meaning
yuē
arrange to meet; make an appointment
约 can mean arrange to meet or make an appointment here. The sentence supplies who, when and whether it is confirmed.
Read a sentence
我约了朋友下午三点见面。
Show sentence reading and meaning
wǒ yuē le péng you xià wǔ sān diǎn jiàn miàn。
I arranged to meet a friend at three this afternoon.
Learn the 6 strokes · write 约
Watch the direction and order. Use “Next stroke” to go slowly, then try writing with the model hidden. On paper, copy once, cover the model, write once, and compare.
Open this panel to load the model.
The writing check compares your strokes with this model. A completed trace is practice, rather than proof of independent handwriting. Your strokes stay on this page.
The model's font shape can differ from the reading font. Compare stroke structure and proportions rather than font styling.
Try with the help closed: Recall the five selected words. How do 预习 and 复习 differ, and is 与 a pronunciation variant of 予?
Check and learn
Words: 愉快 yúkuài — pleasant; happy and enjoyable; 与 yǔ — and; with; a more formal connector than 和; 预习 yùxí — prepare a lesson in advance; study material before class; 原因 yuányīn — reason; cause of something; 约 yuē — arrange to meet; make an appointment. 预习 is preparation before class; 复习 is review afterwards. 与 is a different character from 予 in 预.
Try a new context
我与同学约好，先预习，再一起讨论不懂的地方。
What is arranged before the discussion?
Compare your interpretation
The classmates arrange to prepare first, then discuss the parts they do not understand.
This is a comparison model for self-review, not an automatic mark.
Tomorrow, close the help and recall each selected word. Recheck a confused shape or word reading, then interpret the new sentence again. If practising handwriting, compare a memory attempt with the stroke model and name one detail to change.
212. Reading, clouds, permission, magazines and carefulness
Distinguish permission from obligation and reading from an exact detail.
阅
Learn the shape and a useful word
门 encloses 兑. Compare the enclosed right-side shape with 兑 beside 月 in 脱.
阅读
Show word reading and meaning
yuèdú
read; reading as an activity or skill
阅读 means read or reading. Opening a text does not by itself show understanding.
Read a sentence
我每天阅读一小段汉语文章。
Show sentence reading and meaning
wǒ měi tiān yuè dú yī xiǎo duàn hàn yǔ wén zhāng。
I read a short passage in Chinese every day.
Learn the 10 strokes · write 阅
Watch the direction and order. Use “Next stroke” to go slowly, then try writing with the model hidden. On paper, copy once, cover the model, write once, and compare.
Open this panel to load the model.
The writing check compares your strokes with this model. A completed trace is practice, rather than proof of independent handwriting. Your strokes stay on this page.
The model's font shape can differ from the reading font. Compare stroke structure and proportions rather than font styling.
云
Learn the shape and a useful word
Two horizontal strokes sit above 厶. Compare 云 with the lower section of 运, which adds 辶.
云
Show word reading and meaning
yún
cloud; clouds in the sky
云 means cloud in this selected entry. Other modern uses require their own word context.
Read a sentence
天空中有很多白云。
Show sentence reading and meaning
tiān kōng zhōng yǒu hěn duō bái yún。
There are many white clouds in the sky.
Learn the 4 strokes · write 云
Watch the direction and order. Use “Next stroke” to go slowly, then try writing with the model hidden. On paper, copy once, cover the model, write once, and compare.
Open this panel to load the model.
The writing check compares your strokes with this model. A completed trace is practice, rather than proof of independent handwriting. Your strokes stay on this page.
The model's font shape can differ from the reading font. Compare stroke structure and proportions rather than font styling.
允
Learn the shape and a useful word
厶 sits above two lower spreading strokes 儿. Compare 台, whose lower part is 口.
允许
Show word reading and meaning
yǔnxǔ
allow; permit someone to do something
允许 can introduce a person and an action, as in 允许学生提问, allow students to ask questions. Permission is different from a requirement.
Read a sentence
这里不允许拍照。
Show sentence reading and meaning
zhè lǐ bù yǔn xǔ pāi zhào。
Photography is not allowed here.
Learn the 4 strokes · write 允
Watch the direction and order. Use “Next stroke” to go slowly, then try writing with the model hidden. On paper, copy once, cover the model, write once, and compare.
Open this panel to load the model.
The writing check compares your strokes with this model. A completed trace is practice, rather than proof of independent handwriting. Your strokes stay on this page.
The model's font shape can differ from the reading font. Compare stroke structure and proportions rather than font styling.
杂
Learn the shape and a useful word
九 sits above 木. Compare the top 九 with a rounded enclosure that would add extra strokes.
杂志
Show word reading and meaning
zázhì
magazine; a periodical publication
杂志 means a magazine. It is one word, not a command to mix pieces of writing.
Read a sentence
这本杂志介绍了旅行的经验。
Show sentence reading and meaning
zhè běn zá zhì jiè shào le lǚ xíng de jīng yàn。
This magazine shares travel experiences.
Learn the 6 strokes · write 杂
Watch the direction and order. Use “Next stroke” to go slowly, then try writing with the model hidden. On paper, copy once, cover the model, write once, and compare.
Open this panel to load the model.
The writing check compares your strokes with this model. A completed trace is practice, rather than proof of independent handwriting. Your strokes stay on this page.
The model's font shape can differ from the reading font. Compare stroke structure and proportions rather than font styling.
仔
Learn the shape and a useful word
亻 is beside 子. Compare with 好, whose left side is 女.
仔细
Show word reading and meaning
zǐxì
careful; closely and attentively
仔细 is zǐxì, carefully or careful. Learn this selected zǐ reading instead of borrowing another reading of 仔.
Read a sentence
请仔细检查你的答案。
Show sentence reading and meaning
qǐng zǐ xì jiǎn chá nǐ de dá àn。
Please check your answers carefully.
Learn the 5 strokes · write 仔
Watch the direction and order. Use “Next stroke” to go slowly, then try writing with the model hidden. On paper, copy once, cover the model, write once, and compare.
Open this panel to load the model.
The writing check compares your strokes with this model. A completed trace is practice, rather than proof of independent handwriting. Your strokes stay on this page.
The model's font shape can differ from the reading font. Compare stroke structure and proportions rather than font styling.
Try with the help closed: Recall the five selected words. Does 允许 mean that an action is compulsory, and how is 仔细 read?
Check and learn
Words: 阅读 yuèdú — read; reading as an activity or skill; 云 yún — cloud; clouds in the sky; 允许 yǔnxǔ — allow; permit someone to do something; 杂志 zázhì — magazine; a periodical publication; 仔细 zǐxì — careful; closely and attentively. 允许 means permission, not an obligation. 仔细 is zǐxì in the selected entry.
Try a new context
老师允许我们仔细阅读杂志，再提出问题。
What are students allowed to do before asking questions?
Compare your interpretation
They may read the magazine carefully before asking questions. Permission is stated; an exact reading duration is not.
This is a comparison model for self-review, not an automatic mark.
Tomorrow, close the help and recall each selected word. Recheck a confused shape or word reading, then interpret the new sentence again. If practising handwriting, compare a memory attempt with the stroke model and name one detail to change.
213. Temporary states, conditions, responsibility and increase
Read a condition and its consequence without treating them as two unrelated facts.
暂
Learn the shape and a useful word
斩 sits above 日. Compare the upper 车-and-斤 section with the lower box.
暂时
Show word reading and meaning
zànshí
for the time being; temporarily
暂时 means temporarily. It does not promise that a situation will never change.
Read a sentence
这个问题暂时不用回答。
Show sentence reading and meaning
zhè ge wèn tí zàn shí bú yòng huí dá。
There is no need to answer this question for the time being.
Learn the 12 strokes · write 暂
Watch the direction and order. Use “Next stroke” to go slowly, then try writing with the model hidden. On paper, copy once, cover the model, write once, and compare.
Open this panel to load the model.
The writing check compares your strokes with this model. A completed trace is practice, rather than proof of independent handwriting. Your strokes stay on this page.
The model's font shape can differ from the reading font. Compare stroke structure and proportions rather than font styling.
则
Learn the shape and a useful word
贝 stands beside 刂. Compare the right side with 败, which has 攵 instead.
否则
Show word reading and meaning
fǒuzé
otherwise; if the stated condition is not met
否则 means otherwise or if not. Identify the preceding condition before interpreting the consequence.
Read a sentence
我们得早点儿出发，否则会迟到。
Show sentence reading and meaning
wǒ men děi zǎo diǎnr chū fā， fǒu zé huì chí dào。
We have to set off a little earlier; otherwise, we will be late.
Learn the 6 strokes · write 则
Watch the direction and order. Use “Next stroke” to go slowly, then try writing with the model hidden. On paper, copy once, cover the model, write once, and compare.
Open this panel to load the model.
The writing check compares your strokes with this model. A completed trace is practice, rather than proof of independent handwriting. Your strokes stay on this page.
The model's font shape can differ from the reading font. Compare stroke structure and proportions rather than font styling.
责
Learn the shape and a useful word
A crossed upper section sits above 贝. Keep the 贝 shape complete at the bottom.
责任
Show word reading and meaning
zérèn
responsibility; a duty one must take care of
责任 is the noun responsibility. Compare it with 负责, be responsible for; the words play different grammatical roles.
Read a sentence
我有责任完成自己的任务。
Show sentence reading and meaning
wǒ yǒu zé rèn wán chéng zì jǐ de rèn wu。
I am responsible for completing my own task.
Learn the 8 strokes · write 责
Watch the direction and order. Use “Next stroke” to go slowly, then try writing with the model hidden. On paper, copy once, cover the model, write once, and compare.
Open this panel to load the model.
The writing check compares your strokes with this model. A completed trace is practice, rather than proof of independent handwriting. Your strokes stay on this page.
The model's font shape can differ from the reading font. Compare stroke structure and proportions rather than font styling.
增
Learn the shape and a useful word
土 is on the left and 曾 on the right. Compare 曾 alone with the whole character.
增加
Show word reading and meaning
zēngjiā
increase; add more
增加 means increase or add. The context specifies what increases and by how much.
Read a sentence
这周我想增加阅读时间。
Show sentence reading and meaning
zhè zhōu wǒ xiǎng zēng jiā yuè dú shí jiān。
I would like to spend more time reading this week.
Learn the 15 strokes · write 增
Watch the direction and order. Use “Next stroke” to go slowly, then try writing with the model hidden. On paper, copy once, cover the model, write once, and compare.
Open this panel to load the model.
The writing check compares your strokes with this model. A completed trace is practice, rather than proof of independent handwriting. Your strokes stay on this page.
The model's font shape can differ from the reading font. Compare stroke structure and proportions rather than font styling.
章
Learn the shape and a useful word
立 sits above 早. Compare the upper 立 with the smaller cap on 辛.
文章
Show word reading and meaning
wénzhāng
article; a piece of writing
文章 means an article or piece of writing. It is not a count of printed pages.
Read a sentence
这篇文章介绍了学习方法。
Show sentence reading and meaning
zhè piān wén zhāng jiè shào le xué xí fāng fǎ。
This article describes ways of studying.
Learn the 11 strokes · write 章
Watch the direction and order. Use “Next stroke” to go slowly, then try writing with the model hidden. On paper, copy once, cover the model, write once, and compare.
Open this panel to load the model.
The writing check compares your strokes with this model. A completed trace is practice, rather than proof of independent handwriting. Your strokes stay on this page.
The model's font shape can differ from the reading font. Compare stroke structure and proportions rather than font styling.
Try with the help closed: Recall the five selected words. What does 否则 connect, and what does 暂时 say about duration?
Check and learn
Words: 暂时 zànshí — for the time being; temporarily; 否则 fǒuzé — otherwise; if the stated condition is not met; 责任 zérèn — responsibility; a duty one must take care of; 增加 zēngjiā — increase; add more; 文章 wénzhāng — article; a piece of writing. 否则 introduces what follows if the preceding condition is not met. 暂时 means temporarily, rather than forever.
Try a new context
请暂时不要增加人数，否则房间里会太挤。
What is the requested limit, and what consequence is anticipated if it is ignored?
Compare your interpretation
For now, the group should not add more people. Otherwise the room is expected to become too crowded.
This is a comparison model for self-review, not an automatic mark.
Tomorrow, close the help and recall each selected word. Recheck a confused shape or word reading, then interpret the new sentence again. If practising handwriting, compare a memory attempt with the stroke model and name one detail to change.
214. Bills, recruitment, discounts, injections and competition
Keep a selected reading and distinguish the direction of an action.
账
Learn the shape and a useful word
贝 is beside 长. Compare the left side with 张, which has 弓 instead.
结账
Show word reading and meaning
jiézhàng
settle a bill; pay at the end of a meal or purchase
结账 means settle or pay a bill in the selected entry, not simply make an account name.
Read a sentence
吃完饭以后，我们去结账。
Show sentence reading and meaning
chī wán fàn yǐ hòu， wǒ men qù jié zhàng。
We went to pay the bill after the meal.
Learn the 8 strokes · write 账
Watch the direction and order. Use “Next stroke” to go slowly, then try writing with the model hidden. On paper, copy once, cover the model, write once, and compare.
Open this panel to load the model.
The writing check compares your strokes with this model. A completed trace is practice, rather than proof of independent handwriting. Your strokes stay on this page.
The model's font shape can differ from the reading font. Compare stroke structure and proportions rather than font styling.
招
Learn the shape and a useful word
扌 stands beside 召, which has 刀 above 口. Compare 召 alone with the extra hand-side strokes.
招聘
Show word reading and meaning
zhāopìn
recruit; look for people to fill jobs
招聘 means recruit staff. This card studies the other target shape in the same word as the 聘 card.
Read a sentence
这家饭馆正在招聘厨师。
Show sentence reading and meaning
zhè jiā fàn guǎn zhèng zài zhāo pìn chú shī。
This restaurant is recruiting chefs.
Learn the 8 strokes · write 招
Watch the direction and order. Use “Next stroke” to go slowly, then try writing with the model hidden. On paper, copy once, cover the model, write once, and compare.
Open this panel to load the model.
The writing check compares your strokes with this model. A completed trace is practice, rather than proof of independent handwriting. Your strokes stay on this page.
The model's font shape can differ from the reading font. Compare stroke structure and proportions rather than font styling.
折
Learn the shape and a useful word
扌 is beside 斤. Compare with 拆, which adds an extra dot to the right side.
打折
Show word reading and meaning
dǎzhé
offer or sell at a discount
打折 is dǎzhé, offer a discount. The selected reading is zhé; other words can use different readings of 折.
Read a sentence
这家店今天打折。
Show sentence reading and meaning
zhè jiā diàn jīn tiān dǎ zhé。
This shop is offering discounts today.
Learn the 7 strokes · write 折
Watch the direction and order. Use “Next stroke” to go slowly, then try writing with the model hidden. On paper, copy once, cover the model, write once, and compare.
Open this panel to load the model.
The writing check compares your strokes with this model. A completed trace is practice, rather than proof of independent handwriting. Your strokes stay on this page.
The model's font shape can differ from the reading font. Compare stroke structure and proportions rather than font styling.
针
Learn the shape and a useful word
钅 is on the left and 十 on the right. Compare the metal-side strokes with 氵 in 汁.
打针
Show word reading and meaning
dǎzhēn
have or give an injection
打针 means have or give an injection in context. The sentence identifies who is carrying out the action.
Read a sentence
护士正在给病人打针。
Show sentence reading and meaning
hù shi zhèng zài gěi bìng rén dǎ zhēn。
The nurse is giving the patient an injection.
Learn the 7 strokes · write 针
Watch the direction and order. Use “Next stroke” to go slowly, then try writing with the model hidden. On paper, copy once, cover the model, write once, and compare.
Open this panel to load the model.
The writing check compares your strokes with this model. A completed trace is practice, rather than proof of independent handwriting. Your strokes stay on this page.
The model's font shape can differ from the reading font. Compare stroke structure and proportions rather than font styling.
争
Learn the shape and a useful word
Notice the short upper turning strokes and the central upright through the lower horizontal group. Compare 净, which adds 冫.
竞争
Show word reading and meaning
jìngzhēng
compete; competition between people or organisations
竞争 means competition or compete. It does not state who wins.
Read a sentence
这次比赛的竞争很激烈。
Show sentence reading and meaning
zhè cì bǐ sài de jìng zhēng hěn jī liè。
The competition in this contest is fierce.
Learn the 6 strokes · write 争
Watch the direction and order. Use “Next stroke” to go slowly, then try writing with the model hidden. On paper, copy once, cover the model, write once, and compare.
Open this panel to load the model.
The writing check compares your strokes with this model. A completed trace is practice, rather than proof of independent handwriting. Your strokes stay on this page.
The model's font shape can differ from the reading font. Compare stroke structure and proportions rather than font styling.
Try with the help closed: Recall the five selected words. How is 打折 read, and which word concerns recruiting rather than applying?
Check and learn
Words: 结账 jiézhàng — settle a bill; pay at the end of a meal or purchase; 招聘 zhāopìn — recruit; look for people to fill jobs; 打折 dǎzhé — offer or sell at a discount; 打针 dǎzhēn — have or give an injection; 竞争 jìngzhēng — compete; competition between people or organisations. 打折 is dǎzhé. 招聘 concerns recruiting; 应聘 concerns applying for a position.
Try a new context
这家店打折，但结账时还要看清楚价格。
Does the discount remove the need to check the amount due?
Compare your interpretation
No. The sentence says to check the price carefully when paying even though the shop offers a discount.
This is a comparison model for self-review, not an automatic mark.
Tomorrow, close the help and recall each selected word. Recheck a confused shape or word reading, then interpret the new sentence again. If practising handwriting, compare a memory attempt with the stroke model and name one detail to change.
215. Organizing, documents, sequence, payment and juice
Use the complete word to identify an action and its reference point.
整
Learn the shape and a useful word
The upper section has 束 beside 攵; 正 sits below. Keep the lower 正 rather than ending after the upper parts.
整理
Show word reading and meaning
zhěnglǐ
sort out; organise; put things in order
整理 means organize or put in order. It does not merely describe looking at a pile of things.
Read a sentence
我想整理一下书桌上的资料。
Show sentence reading and meaning
wǒ xiǎng zhěng lǐ yí xià shū zhuō shàng de zī liào。
I would like to organise the materials on my desk.
Learn the 16 strokes · write 整
Watch the direction and order. Use “Next stroke” to go slowly, then try writing with the model hidden. On paper, copy once, cover the model, write once, and compare.
Open this panel to load the model.
The writing check compares your strokes with this model. A completed trace is practice, rather than proof of independent handwriting. Your strokes stay on this page.
The model's font shape can differ from the reading font. Compare stroke structure and proportions rather than font styling.
证
Learn the shape and a useful word
讠 stands beside 正. Compare with 征, which has 彳 instead of 讠.
签证
Show word reading and meaning
qiānzhèng
visa; permission documented for entry or a stay
签证 is a visa. This card learns the second target shape in that existing word.
Read a sentence
旅行前，我需要申请签证。
Show sentence reading and meaning
lǚ xíng qián， wǒ xū yào shēn qǐng qiān zhèng。
I need to apply for a visa before travelling.
Learn the 7 strokes · write 证
Watch the direction and order. Use “Next stroke” to go slowly, then try writing with the model hidden. On paper, copy once, cover the model, write once, and compare.
Open this panel to load the model.
The writing check compares your strokes with this model. A completed trace is practice, rather than proof of independent handwriting. Your strokes stay on this page.
The model's font shape can differ from the reading font. Compare stroke structure and proportions rather than font styling.
之
Learn the shape and a useful word
Trace the top dot, the middle turn and the long spreading final stroke. 芝 adds 艹 above the whole shape.
之后
Show word reading and meaning
zhīhòu
after; following an event or time
之后 means afterwards or after. Identify the event that provides the reference point.
Read a sentence
下课之后，我去图书馆。
Show sentence reading and meaning
xià kè zhī hòu， wǒ qù tú shū guǎn。
I go to the library after class.
Learn the 3 strokes · write 之
Watch the direction and order. Use “Next stroke” to go slowly, then try writing with the model hidden. On paper, copy once, cover the model, write once, and compare.
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The writing check compares your strokes with this model. A completed trace is practice, rather than proof of independent handwriting. Your strokes stay on this page.
The model's font shape can differ from the reading font. Compare stroke structure and proportions rather than font styling.
支
Learn the shape and a useful word
十 sits above 又. Compare the small cross at the top with the more complex upper part of 友.
支付
Show word reading and meaning
zhīfù
pay; make a payment, often more formal than 付
支付 is a payment verb, as in 支付费用, pay a fee. The sentence supplies the amount or method when that information matters.
Read a sentence
这家店支持手机支付。
Show sentence reading and meaning
zhè jiā diàn zhī chí shǒu jī zhī fù。
This shop accepts payment by mobile phone.
Learn the 4 strokes · write 支
Watch the direction and order. Use “Next stroke” to go slowly, then try writing with the model hidden. On paper, copy once, cover the model, write once, and compare.
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The writing check compares your strokes with this model. A completed trace is practice, rather than proof of independent handwriting. Your strokes stay on this page.
The model's font shape can differ from the reading font. Compare stroke structure and proportions rather than font styling.
汁
Learn the shape and a useful word
氵 stands beside 十. Compare its water-side strokes with 钅 in 针.
果汁
Show word reading and meaning
guǒzhī
fruit juice
果汁 means fruit juice. The whole word names a drink, not a number of fruits.
Read a sentence
你想喝哪种果汁？
Show sentence reading and meaning
nǐ xiǎng hē nǎ zhǒng guǒ zhī？
Which kind of fruit juice would you like?
Learn the 5 strokes · write 汁
Watch the direction and order. Use “Next stroke” to go slowly, then try writing with the model hidden. On paper, copy once, cover the model, write once, and compare.
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The writing check compares your strokes with this model. A completed trace is practice, rather than proof of independent handwriting. Your strokes stay on this page.
The model's font shape can differ from the reading font. Compare stroke structure and proportions rather than font styling.
Try with the help closed: Recall the five selected words. What does 之后 depend on, and how does 支付 differ from 果汁?
Check and learn
Words: 整理 zhěnglǐ — sort out; organise; put things in order; 签证 qiānzhèng — visa; permission documented for entry or a stay; 之后 zhīhòu — after; following an event or time; 支付 zhīfù — pay; make a payment, often more formal than 付; 果汁 guǒzhī — fruit juice. 之后 refers to after some event or time. 支付 is pay, while 果汁 is fruit juice; the shared-looking 十-related shapes do not make the words alike.
Try a new context
整理好资料之后，我们才去支付费用。
What must happen before payment?
Compare your interpretation
The materials should be organized first. Only after that do the people go to pay the fee.
This is a comparison model for self-review, not an automatic mark.
Tomorrow, close the help and recall each selected word. Recheck a confused shape or word reading, then interpret the new sentence again. If practising handwriting, compare a memory attempt with the stroke model and name one detail to change.
216. Value, occupations, plants, stopping and addresses
Contrast three characters with 直 or 止-related right sides.
值
Learn the shape and a useful word
亻 stands beside 直. Compare 植, whose left side is 木.
值得
Show word reading and meaning
zhídé
be worth doing; deserve a certain response
值得 means be worth doing or deserving of something. The following phrase explains what is worth doing.
Read a sentence
这本书值得再读一遍。
Show sentence reading and meaning
zhè běn shū zhí dé zài dú yī biàn。
This book is worth reading again.
Learn the 10 strokes · write 值
Watch the direction and order. Use “Next stroke” to go slowly, then try writing with the model hidden. On paper, copy once, cover the model, write once, and compare.
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The writing check compares your strokes with this model. A completed trace is practice, rather than proof of independent handwriting. Your strokes stay on this page.
The model's font shape can differ from the reading font. Compare stroke structure and proportions rather than font styling.
职
Learn the shape and a useful word
耳 is on the left and 只 on the right. Compare 取, whose right side is 又.
职业
Show word reading and meaning
zhíyè
occupation; profession; one's type of work
职业 names an occupation or profession, such as being a teacher. A person's current task or one busy day is not itself a 职业.
Read a sentence
请在表格上填写职业。
Show sentence reading and meaning
qǐng zài biǎo gé shàng tián xiě zhí yè。
Please enter your occupation on the form.
Learn the 11 strokes · write 职
Watch the direction and order. Use “Next stroke” to go slowly, then try writing with the model hidden. On paper, copy once, cover the model, write once, and compare.
Open this panel to load the model.
The writing check compares your strokes with this model. A completed trace is practice, rather than proof of independent handwriting. Your strokes stay on this page.
The model's font shape can differ from the reading font. Compare stroke structure and proportions rather than font styling.
植
Learn the shape and a useful word
木 stands beside 直. Compare directly with 值 and keep the different left-hand part.
植物
Show word reading and meaning
zhíwù
plant; plants as living things
植物 means plant or plants in context. Learn the complete word rather than substituting the value-related word 值得.
Read a sentence
这个院子里有很多植物。
Show sentence reading and meaning
zhè ge yuàn zi lǐ yǒu hěn duō zhí wù。
There are many plants in this courtyard.
Learn the 12 strokes · write 植
Watch the direction and order. Use “Next stroke” to go slowly, then try writing with the model hidden. On paper, copy once, cover the model, write once, and compare.
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The writing check compares your strokes with this model. A completed trace is practice, rather than proof of independent handwriting. Your strokes stay on this page.
The model's font shape can differ from the reading font. Compare stroke structure and proportions rather than font styling.
止
Learn the shape and a useful word
Notice the upright strokes standing on a long lower horizontal. 正 adds a horizontal above this outline.
停止
Show word reading and meaning
tíngzhǐ
stop; bring an action to an end
停止 means stop. This card revisits the same selected word as the 停 card to learn its second shape.
Read a sentence
铃声响了，请停止答题。
Show sentence reading and meaning
líng shēng xiǎng le， qǐng tíng zhǐ dá tí。
The bell has rung; please stop answering questions.
Learn the 4 strokes · write 止
Watch the direction and order. Use “Next stroke” to go slowly, then try writing with the model hidden. On paper, copy once, cover the model, write once, and compare.
Open this panel to load the model.
The writing check compares your strokes with this model. A completed trace is practice, rather than proof of independent handwriting. Your strokes stay on this page.
The model's font shape can differ from the reading font. Compare stroke structure and proportions rather than font styling.
址
Learn the shape and a useful word
土 is beside 止. Compare the right-hand 止 with 正 in 证.
地址
Show word reading and meaning
dìzhǐ
address
地址 means address. It is not necessarily a website address, which is 网址.
Read a sentence
请把酒店的地址发给我。
Show sentence reading and meaning
qǐng bǎ jiǔ diàn de dì zhǐ fā gěi wǒ。
Please send me the hotel's address.
Learn the 7 strokes · write 址
Watch the direction and order. Use “Next stroke” to go slowly, then try writing with the model hidden. On paper, copy once, cover the model, write once, and compare.
Open this panel to load the model.
The writing check compares your strokes with this model. A completed trace is practice, rather than proof of independent handwriting. Your strokes stay on this page.
The model's font shape can differ from the reading font. Compare stroke structure and proportions rather than font styling.
Try with the help closed: Recall the five selected words. How do 值 and 植 differ, and which left side belongs to 址?
Check and learn
Words: 值得 zhídé — be worth doing; deserve a certain response; 职业 zhíyè — occupation; profession; one's type of work; 植物 zhíwù — plant; plants as living things; 停止 tíngzhǐ — stop; bring an action to an end; 地址 dìzhǐ — address. 值 has 亻 and 植 has 木. 址 has 土 beside 止, as in 地址.
Try a new context
请指出地址里的错误，别马上停止检查。
What should the listener identify, and should checking stop immediately?
Compare your interpretation
They should point out errors in the address and should not stop checking immediately.
This is a comparison model for self-review, not an automatic mark.
Tomorrow, close the help and recall each selected word. Recheck a confused shape or word reading, then interpret the new sentence again. If practising handwriting, compare a memory attempt with the stroke model and name one detail to change.
Choose your next character list
Use the level lists alongside lessons you understand. The lists keep recognition and handwriting requirements separate. A listed character is a study target, rather than evidence of mastery.
HSK 1 charactersHSK 2 charactersHSK 3 charactersHSK 4 charactersHSK 5 charactersHSK 6 characters
Stroke model credits
Models: Hanzi Writer Data, derived from Make Me a Hanzi. Copyright © 1999 Arphic Technology Co., Ltd. Data is provided without warranty and may be redistributed under the Arphic Public License. Renderer: MIT license.