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 44 of 65. Start with one five-character group today. Use the words here first; sentence examples may introduce language you have not studied yet.
259. Collecting, causing a feeling, browsing, dragons and omissions
Use the selected verb sense rather than a different dictionary entry.
领
Learn the shape and a useful word
令 stands beside 页. Compare the two complete parts with 令 alone.
领
Show word reading and meaning
lǐng
collect or receive something provided
The selected 领 means collect or receive something provided, as in 领表格. It is not the clothing part named by 衣领.
Read a sentence
请到办公室领一份表格。
Show sentence reading and meaning
qǐng dào bàn gōng shì lǐng yī fèn biǎo gé。
Please collect a form from the office.
Learn the 11 strokes · write 领
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.
令
Learn the shape and a useful word
A sloping upper roof sits above extra lower turning strokes. Compare the complete outline with 今.
令
Show word reading and meaning
lìng
make or cause someone to feel something
The selected 令 means make or cause someone to feel something, as in 令人高兴. It is not the command sense of another entry.
Read a sentence
这个消息令人高兴。
Show sentence reading and meaning
zhè ge xiāo xi lìng rén gāo xìng。
This news makes people happy.
Learn the 5 strokes · write 令
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.
浏
Learn the shape and a useful word
氵 stands beside 刘, which includes 文 and 刂. Keep the separate water-side strokes.
浏览
Show word reading and meaning
liúlǎn
browse; look through something without reading every detail
浏览 is liúlǎn, browse. This revisits the same selected word as the 览 card, not an additional reading task.
Read a sentence
我每天早上浏览新闻。
Show sentence reading and meaning
wǒ měi tiān zǎo shang liú lǎn xīn wén。
I browse the news every morning.
Learn the 9 strokes · write 浏
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.
龙
Learn the shape and a useful word
Compare with 尤 and notice the extra inner falling stroke. Keep the lower curved stroke and upper-right dot.
龙
Show word reading and meaning
lóng
dragon; a traditional mythical creature
龙 means dragon in this selected word. Descriptions in a story provide its particular features.
Read a sentence
这幅画上有一条龙。
Show sentence reading and meaning
zhè fú huà shàng yǒu yī tiáo lóng。
There is a dragon in this painting.
Learn the 5 strokes · write 龙
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.
漏
Learn the shape and a useful word
氵 stands beside a 尸-like cover over a 雨-like lower section. Keep the outer water-side strokes separate.
漏
Show word reading and meaning
lòu
leak; let liquid or air escape
漏 can describe leaking or something being left out in context. Use its object or result to identify the sense.
Read a sentence
这个水瓶漏水了。
Show sentence reading and meaning
zhè ge shuǐ píng lòu shuǐ le。
This water bottle is leaking.
Learn the 14 strokes · write 漏
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 do 领 and 令 mean in their selected entries?
Check and learn
Words: 领 lǐng — collect or receive something provided; 令 lìng — make or cause someone to feel something; 浏览 liúlǎn — browse; look through something without reading every detail; 龙 lóng — dragon; a traditional mythical creature; 漏 lòu — leak; let liquid or air escape. 领 means collect or receive something provided. 令 means cause a feeling or state, as in 令人高兴; it is not the command sense here.
Try a new context
领到新钥匙之后，他才发现通知里漏写了房间号。
What has been collected, and where is information missing?
Compare your interpretation
He has collected the new key. The room number was left out of the notice; the key itself is not said to be missing.
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.
260. Land, recording, being busy, logic and networks
Distinguish producing a recording from merely being active.
陆
Learn the shape and a useful word
阝 stands beside 击. Compare the left-hand form with 讠 in a different character.
陆地
Show word reading and meaning
lùdì
land; the earth's surface apart from seas and lakes
陆地 means land, contrasted with water in this selected word. It is not the financial numeral use of 陆.
Read a sentence
船离开港口后，我们渐渐看不到陆地了。
Show sentence reading and meaning
chuán lí kāi gǎng kǒu hòu， wǒ men jiàn jiàn kàn bú dào lù dì le。
After the boat left the harbor, the land gradually disappeared from view.
Learn the 7 strokes · write 陆
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.
录
Learn the shape and a useful word
A 彐-like top sits above spreading water-like strokes. Compare the full form with 绿, which adds 纟.
录
Show word reading and meaning
lù
record sound or images
The selected 录 means record sound or images. The object tells you what is recorded.
Read a sentence
我想把这首歌录下来。
Show sentence reading and meaning
wǒ xiǎng bǎ zhè shǒu gē lù xià lái。
I want to record this song.
Learn the 8 strokes · write 录
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.
碌
Learn the shape and a useful word
石 stands beside 录. Compare 录 alone with the wider complete character.
忙碌
Show word reading and meaning
mánglù
busy; occupied with many tasks
忙碌 means busy. It describes activity rather than necessarily showing that a task has been completed.
Read a sentence
经过忙碌的一天，她终于可以休息了。
Show sentence reading and meaning
jīng guò máng lù de yī tiān， tā zhōng yú kě yǐ xiū xi le。
After a busy day, she can finally rest.
Learn the 13 strokes · write 碌
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.
逻
Learn the shape and a useful word
罗 sits inside movement-side 辶. Compare the lower path with 罗 alone.
逻辑
Show word reading and meaning
luójí
logic; how ideas or reasoning fit together
逻辑 is logic. This revisits the same selected word as 辑 to learn the first target shape.
Read a sentence
这篇文章的逻辑很清楚。
Show sentence reading and meaning
zhè piān wén zhāng de luó jí hěn qīng chu。
The reasoning in this article is clear.
Learn the 11 strokes · write 逻
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.
络
Learn the shape and a useful word
纟 stands beside 各. Compare 格, whose left side is 木.
网络
Show word reading and meaning
wǎngluò
network; the internet
网络 means a network or the internet in context. The word does not guarantee that a device is connected.
Read a sentence
这里的网络不太稳定，视频有点卡。
Show sentence reading and meaning
zhè lǐ de wǎng luò bù tài wěn dìng， shì pín yǒu diǎn kǎ。
The internet connection here is not very stable, so the video keeps freezing.
Learn the 9 strokes · write 络
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 the selected 录 mean, and how does it differ from 忙碌?
Check and learn
Words: 陆地 lùdì — land; the earth's surface apart from seas and lakes; 录 lù — record sound or images; 忙碌 mánglù — busy; occupied with many tasks; 逻辑 luójí — logic; how ideas or reasoning fit together; 网络 wǎngluò — network; the internet. 录 means record sound or images. 忙碌 means busy; it does not name what has been recorded or completed.
Try a new context
他忙着整理网络资料，直到晚上才把采访录下来。
Was the interview recorded before the evening?
Compare your interpretation
No. He was busy organizing online materials, but recorded the interview only in the evening. Earlier activity did not mean the recording was already finished.
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.
261. Rates, scolding, conflicts, roses and media
Keep the selected rate reading and a communication channel distinct.
率
Learn the shape and a useful word
A dot and horizontal sit above a narrow central section with side strokes; 十 is at the bottom.
汇率
Show word reading and meaning
huìlǜ
exchange rate; the value of one currency relative to another
汇率 is huìlǜ, exchange rate. The selected reading is lǜ; the word itself does not give a current rate.
Read a sentence
换钱前，我想了解一下汇率。
Show sentence reading and meaning
huàn qián qián， wǒ xiǎng liǎo jiě yí xià huì lǜ。
Before exchanging money, I would like to check the exchange rate.
Learn the 11 strokes · write 率
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.
骂
Learn the shape and a useful word
Two 口 shapes sit above 马. Keep both mouths rather than writing only one.
骂
Show word reading and meaning
mà
scold; speak angrily or abusively to someone
骂 means scold or verbally abuse in context. The sentence identifies the target and circumstances.
Read a sentence
别骂他了，先听听他的解释。
Show sentence reading and meaning
bié mà tā le， xiān tīng tīng tā de jiě shì。
Stop scolding him and listen to his explanation first.
Learn the 9 strokes · write 骂
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.
矛
Learn the shape and a useful word
Notice the hooked central outline and a long falling stroke on the left. Compare 矛 with 予.
矛盾
Show word reading and meaning
máodùn
conflict or contradiction
矛盾 means contradiction or conflict in the selected word. It is not naming a physical spear here.
Read a sentence
这两个说法有矛盾。
Show sentence reading and meaning
zhè liǎng gè shuō fǎ yǒu máo dùn。
These two statements contradict each other.
Learn the 5 strokes · write 矛
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.
玫
Learn the shape and a useful word
王 stands beside 攵. Compare the same left side with 瑰, whose right-hand part is 鬼.
玫瑰
Show word reading and meaning
méigui
rose; the flower
玫瑰 is méigui with neutral gui. This revisits the selected flower name from the 瑰 card.
Read a sentence
她在花园里种了几株玫瑰。
Show sentence reading and meaning
tā zài huā yuán lǐ zhòng le jǐ zhū méi gui。
She planted a few rose bushes in the garden.
Learn the 8 strokes · write 玫
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.
媒
Learn the shape and a useful word
女 stands beside 某, with 甘 above 木 on the right.
媒体
Show word reading and meaning
méitǐ
media; organizations that report news or publish information
媒体 means media, such as channels of communication. It is not the same word as the information carried.
Read a sentence
当地媒体报道了这次活动。
Show sentence reading and meaning
dāng dì méi tǐ bào dào le zhè cì huó dòng。
The local media reported on this event.
Learn the 12 strokes · write 媒
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 汇率 read, and does 媒体 name the message itself?
Check and learn
Words: 汇率 huìlǜ — exchange rate; the value of one currency relative to another; 骂 mà — scold; speak angrily or abusively to someone; 矛盾 máodùn — conflict or contradiction; 玫瑰 méigui — rose; the flower; 媒体 méitǐ — media; organizations that report news or publish information. 汇率 is huìlǜ. 媒体 refers to media or communication channels; the information carried is a separate idea.
Try a new context
不同媒体对这件事的描述有矛盾，需要进一步核对。
Are the accounts already consistent?
Compare your interpretation
No. Accounts from different media conflict and need further checking. The sentence does not identify which account is correct.
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.
262. Appeal, secrets, sleep, description and sensitivity
Distinguish a description or feeling from a measured conclusion.
魅
Learn the shape and a useful word
鬼 stands beside 未. Compare 未 with 末 and keep its upper horizontal shorter than the lower one.
魅力
Show word reading and meaning
mèilì
charm; a quality that attracts interest
魅力 means charm or appeal. The sentence tells you what is appealing and to whom.
Read a sentence
这座古城有独特的魅力。
Show sentence reading and meaning
zhè zuò gǔ chéng yǒu dú tè de mèi lì。
This ancient city has a unique charm.
Learn the 14 strokes · write 魅
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.
秘
Learn the shape and a useful word
禾 stands beside 必. Compare the grain-side with the roof over 必 in 密.
秘密
Show word reading and meaning
mìmì
secret; information kept private
秘密 is mìmì, secret or confidential in context. In this selected word 秘 is mì.
Read a sentence
这是我们之间的秘密。
Show sentence reading and meaning
zhè shì wǒ men zhī jiān de mì mì。
This is a secret between us.
Learn the 10 strokes · write 秘
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.
眠
Learn the shape and a useful word
目 stands beside 民. Compare the eye-side with the roof of 宿, a different sleep-related character.
睡眠
Show word reading and meaning
shuìmián
sleep; the state or duration of sleeping
睡眠 means sleep as an activity or state. It is not a claim about how well or how long someone slept.
Read a sentence
充足的睡眠有助于集中注意力。
Show sentence reading and meaning
chōng zú de shuì mián yǒu zhù yú jí zhōng zhù yì lì。
Enough sleep helps you concentrate.
Learn the 10 strokes · write 眠
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.
描
Learn the shape and a useful word
扌 stands beside 苗, with 艹 above 田. Compare 苗 alone with the complete form.
描述
Show word reading and meaning
miáoshù
describe; say what something is like
描述 means describe or a description. A description reports features, but the sentence still determines whose account it is.
Read a sentence
请描述一下你看到的画面。
Show sentence reading and meaning
qǐng miáo shù yí xià nǐ kàn dào de huà miàn。
Please describe the scene you saw.
Learn the 11 strokes · write 描
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.
敏
Learn the shape and a useful word
每 stands beside 攵. Compare the two complete parts rather than dropping the right-hand strokes.
敏感
Show word reading and meaning
mǐngǎn
sensitive; easily affected by something
敏感 means sensitive in context. The sentence identifies what someone or something is sensitive to.
Read a sentence
她对声音很敏感，一点儿动静就会醒。
Show sentence reading and meaning
tā duì shēng yīn hěn mǐn gǎn， yī diǎnr dòng jìng jiù huì xǐng。
She is sensitive to sound and wakes up at the slightest noise.
Learn the 11 strokes · write 敏
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 秘密 read, and does 睡眠 specify a sleep duration by itself?
Check and learn
Words: 魅力 mèilì — charm; a quality that attracts interest; 秘密 mìmì — secret; information kept private; 睡眠 shuìmián — sleep; the state or duration of sleeping; 描述 miáoshù — describe; say what something is like; 敏感 mǐngǎn — sensitive; easily affected by something. 秘密 is mìmì. 睡眠 names sleep; the duration and quality require further information.
Try a new context
她只描述了昨晚的睡眠，没有透露那个秘密。
What does she describe, and what remains undisclosed?
Compare your interpretation
She describes last night's sleep. The secret is not revealed; the sentence does not state her sleep duration.
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.
263. Touching, indistinctness, unfamiliarity, deserts and unnamed people
Distinguish an unnamed person from an unfamiliar person and touch from looking.
摸
Learn the shape and a useful word
扌 stands beside 莫. Compare 模 and 漠, which have 木 and 氵 in the same position.
摸
Show word reading and meaning
mō
touch or feel with the hand
摸 means feel or touch with the hand in this selected entry. It is not simply looking at an object.
Read a sentence
他摸了摸口袋，发现钥匙不见了。
Show sentence reading and meaning
tā mō le mō kǒu dai， fā xiàn yào shi bú jiàn le。
He felt his pocket and realized his keys were missing.
Learn the 13 strokes · write 摸
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.
模
Learn the shape and a useful word
木 stands beside 莫. Compare its left side directly with the 扌 of 摸.
模糊
Show word reading and meaning
móhu
blurry or unclear
模糊 is móhu, indistinct, with neutral hu. The selected mó reading differs from readings in some other words.
Read a sentence
照片有点儿模糊，看不清人的脸。
Show sentence reading and meaning
zhào piàn yǒu diǎnr mó hu， kàn bù qīng rén de liǎn。
The photo is a little blurry, so you cannot see the person's face clearly.
Learn the 14 strokes · write 模
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.
陌
Learn the shape and a useful word
阝 stands beside 百. Compare the entire right-hand 百 with 日.
陌生
Show word reading and meaning
mòshēng
unfamiliar; not known from experience
陌生 means unfamiliar. It does not necessarily mean unfriendly or dangerous.
Read a sentence
刚到这里时，一切都很陌生。
Show sentence reading and meaning
gāng dào zhè lǐ shí， yí qiè dōu hěn mò shēng。
When I first arrived here, everything was unfamiliar.
Learn the 8 strokes · write 陌
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.
漠
Learn the shape and a useful word
氵 stands beside 莫. Compare the same right-hand part with 木 in 模.
沙漠
Show word reading and meaning
shāmò
desert
沙漠 means desert. The word names an environment rather than describing every area of sand.
Read a sentence
沙漠里很少下雨。
Show sentence reading and meaning
shā mò lǐ hěn shǎo xià yǔ。
It rarely rains in the desert.
Learn the 13 strokes · write 漠
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.
某
Learn the shape and a useful word
甘 sits above 木. Compare 某 with 谋, which adds 讠 at the left.
某
Show word reading and meaning
mǒu
a certain; refers to someone or something without naming it
某 refers to someone or something without naming it, as in 某位同学. It is not that person's actual name.
Read a sentence
某位同学把书忘在教室里了。
Show sentence reading and meaning
mǒu wèi tóng xué bǎ shū wàng zài jiào shì lǐ le。
A student has left their book in the classroom.
Learn the 9 strokes · write 某
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 摸, 模 and 漠 differ, and what does 某 do?
Check and learn
Words: 摸 mō — touch or feel with the hand; 模糊 móhu — blurry or unclear; 陌生 mòshēng — unfamiliar; not known from experience; 沙漠 shāmò — desert; 某 mǒu — a certain; refers to someone or something without naming it. Their left sides are 扌, 木 and 氵. 某 refers to an unnamed person or thing; it is not a personal name.
Try a new context
某位同学摸了摸这个模型，却仍然觉得很陌生。
Does touching the model establish familiarity?
Compare your interpretation
No. An unnamed student touches the model but still finds it unfamiliar.
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.
264. Screens, lack of an alternative, reading aloud, concentration and understanding
Keep the selected read-aloud sense and an interjection's purpose distinct.
幕
Learn the shape and a useful word
莫 sits above 巾. Compare with 慕, whose lower part has heart-style strokes.
屏幕
Show word reading and meaning
píngmù
screen of a phone, computer or television
屏幕 means a screen. The whole word does not state what is displayed on it.
Read a sentence
请看屏幕上的图片。
Show sentence reading and meaning
qǐng kàn píng mù shàng de tú piàn。
Please look at the picture on the screen.
Learn the 13 strokes · write 幕
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.
奈
Learn the shape and a useful word
大 sits above 示. Keep both the upper spreading strokes and lower dot-like strokes.
无奈
Show word reading and meaning
wúnài
helpless; unable to find a way around a situation
无奈 expresses being unable to do otherwise or having no good alternative in context. It differs from simply not knowing an answer.
Read a sentence
他无奈地说，今天已经没有票了。
Show sentence reading and meaning
tā wú nài de shuō， jīn tiān yǐ jīng méi yǒu piào le。
He said helplessly that there were no tickets left for today.
Learn the 8 strokes · write 奈
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.
念
Learn the shape and a useful word
今 sits above 心. Compare the same upper shape with 令, which has different lower strokes.
念
Show word reading and meaning
niàn
read aloud
The selected 念 means read aloud, as in 念一遍. It is not the memory-related use of another word such as 想念.
Read a sentence
请把这句话念一遍。
Show sentence reading and meaning
qǐng bǎ zhè jù huà niàn yī biàn。
Please read this sentence aloud once.
Learn the 8 strokes · write 念
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.
浓
Learn the shape and a useful word
氵 stands beside 农. Compare 农 alone with the extra water-side strokes.
浓
Show word reading and meaning
nóng
strong or concentrated in flavor or smell
浓 can describe a strong or concentrated taste in context. It is different from simply having a large volume.
Read a sentence
这杯茶太浓了，我想加一点儿水。
Show sentence reading and meaning
zhè bēi chá tài nóng le， wǒ xiǎng jiā yī diǎnr shuǐ。
This tea is too strong; I would like to add a little water.
Learn the 9 strokes · write 浓
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.
哦
Learn the shape and a useful word
口 stands beside 我. Compare its right-hand 我 with the separate mouth-side strokes.
哦
Show word reading and meaning
ò
oh; an exclamation showing you have just understood, pronounced ò
The selected ò expresses newly understanding something. Actual interjection intonation depends on the utterance; this is a selected-entry reading.
Read a sentence
哦，原来你住在这里。
Show sentence reading and meaning
ò， yuán lái nǐ zhù zài zhè lǐ。
Oh, so you live here.
Learn the 10 strokes · write 哦
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 is 念 doing in its selected example, and how is 哦 recorded?
Check and learn
Words: 屏幕 píngmù — screen of a phone, computer or television; 无奈 wúnài — helpless; unable to find a way around a situation; 念 niàn — read aloud; 浓 nóng — strong or concentrated in flavor or smell; 哦 ò — oh; an exclamation showing you have just understood, pronounced ò. 念 means read aloud here. The selected 哦 is ò, expressing newly understanding something; actual intonation depends on the utterance.
Try a new context
哦，原来要把屏幕上的句子念出来，不是默读。
What has the speaker just understood about the task?
Compare your interpretation
The sentence on the screen must be read aloud rather than silently. 哦 marks the speaker's realization.
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.