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 47 of 65. Start with one five-character group today. Use the words here first; sentence examples may introduce language you have not studied yet.
277. Special features, vegetables, belonging, devices and description
Distinguish a device word from an animal name and a relationship from a mere association.
殊
Learn the shape and a useful word
歹 stands beside 朱. Compare the two separate parts rather than dropping the left-hand strokes.
特殊
Show word reading and meaning
tèshū
special; different from the usual
特殊 means special or unusual. The sentence identifies how something differs; it does not automatically mean better.
Read a sentence
他今天有特殊情况，不能来上课。
Show sentence reading and meaning
tā jīn tiān yǒu tè shū qíng kuàng， bù néng lái shàng kè。
He has an unusual situation to deal with today and cannot come to class.
Learn the 10 strokes · write 殊
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.
蔬
Learn the shape and a useful word
艹 sits above 疏. Compare the upper grass strokes with 疏 alone.
蔬菜
Show word reading and meaning
shūcài
vegetables
蔬菜 means vegetables. A classifier or number supplies any particular quantity.
Read a sentence
这家店每天都有新鲜蔬菜。
Show sentence reading and meaning
zhè jiā diàn měi tiān dōu yǒu xīn xiān shū cài。
This shop has fresh vegetables every day.
Learn the 15 strokes · write 蔬
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.
属
Learn the shape and a useful word
尸 surrounds a 禹-like lower section. Compare the outer cover with the entire lower shape.
属于
Show word reading and meaning
shǔyú
belong to
属于 is shǔyú, belong to. The selected word is not a name for every kind of relationship between two things.
Read a sentence
这本书属于图书馆。
Show sentence reading and meaning
zhè běn shū shǔ yú tú shū guǎn。
This book belongs to the library.
Learn the 12 strokes · write 属
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.
鼠
Learn the shape and a useful word
An 臼-like upper section sits above an extended folded lower outline with smaller inner strokes.
鼠标
Show word reading and meaning
shǔbiāo
computer mouse
鼠标 means a computer mouse. It is the device word rather than the animal itself in this selected entry.
Read a sentence
这个鼠标可以无线连接电脑。
Show sentence reading and meaning
zhè ge shǔ biāo kě yǐ wú xiàn lián jiē diàn nǎo。
This mouse can connect to the computer wirelessly.
Learn the 13 strokes · write 鼠
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.
述
Learn the shape and a useful word
术 sits inside movement-side 辶. Keep the small dot of 术.
描述
Show word reading and meaning
miáoshù
describe; say what something is like
描述 means describe. This revisits the same selected word as 描 to study its second shape.
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 8 strokes · write 述
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 are 属于 and 鼠标 read, and what does 属于 state?
Check and learn
Words: 特殊 tèshū — special; different from the usual; 蔬菜 shūcài — vegetables; 属于 shǔyú — belong to; 鼠标 shǔbiāo — computer mouse; 描述 miáoshù — describe; say what something is like. 属于 is shǔyú, belong to; 鼠标 is shǔbiāo, computer mouse. 属于 states a belonging relation in context.
Try a new context
这个鼠标不属于我，我只是帮别人保管。
Who owns the mouse according to the information given?
Compare your interpretation
It does not belong to the speaker. They are only keeping it for someone else; the owner is not named.
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.
278. Falling, taxes, private matters, searching and customs
Distinguish finding information from making a universal claim about a community.
摔
Learn the shape and a useful word
扌 stands beside 率. Compare 率 alone with the extra hand-side strokes.
摔
Show word reading and meaning
shuāi
fall; lose balance and hit the ground
摔 can mean fall or drop/throw something in context. The sentence pattern identifies who falls or what is dropped.
Read a sentence
他在路上摔了一跤。
Show sentence reading and meaning
tā zài lù shang shuāi le yī jiāo。
He fell over on the road.
Learn the 14 strokes · write 摔
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.
税
Learn the shape and a useful word
禾 stands beside 兑. Compare 说, whose left side is 讠.
税
Show word reading and meaning
shuì
tax; money paid to the government
税 is tax in the selected entry. An amount, rate or rule needs further information in its context.
Read a sentence
这个价格已经包含税。
Show sentence reading and meaning
zhè ge jià gé yǐ jīng bāo hán shuì。
This price already includes tax.
Learn the 12 strokes · write 税
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.
私
Learn the shape and a useful word
禾 stands beside 厶. Compare the full character with the small right-hand 厶 alone.
私人
Show word reading and meaning
sīrén
private or personal
私人 means private or personal. It describes whose matter or use something concerns, not a person's actual name.
Read a sentence
这是我的私人时间。
Show sentence reading and meaning
zhè shì wǒ de sī rén shí jiān。
This is my personal time.
Learn the 7 strokes · write 私
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.
搜
Learn the shape and a useful word
扌 stands beside 叟. Notice the central upright and lower 又-like strokes in the right side.
搜
Show word reading and meaning
sōu
search for something
The selected 搜 means search, as in 搜一个词. Finding a result is a separate step.
Read a sentence
我在网上搜了一下这个词。
Show sentence reading and meaning
wǒ zài wǎng shang sōu le yí xià zhè ge cí。
I searched for this word online.
Learn the 12 strokes · write 搜
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.
俗
Learn the shape and a useful word
亻 stands beside 谷. Compare 谷 alone with the complete form.
风俗
Show word reading and meaning
fēngsú
custom; a traditional practice in a community
风俗 means customs or practices in a community. The word does not imply that every individual follows them.
Read a sentence
旅行时，要尊重当地的风俗。
Show sentence reading and meaning
lǚ xíng shí， yào zūn zhòng dāng dì de fēng sú。
When traveling, respect local customs.
Learn the 9 strokes · write 俗
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 风俗 name, and does 搜 by itself establish a result?
Check and learn
Words: 摔 shuāi — fall; lose balance and hit the ground; 税 shuì — tax; money paid to the government; 私人 sīrén — private or personal; 搜 sōu — search for something; 风俗 fēngsú — custom; a traditional practice in a community. 风俗 names customs or practices. 搜 is search; finding a reliable answer needs further information.
Try a new context
我搜到了一些当地风俗的介绍，还没有仔细读。
Has finding the introductions already established close reading?
Compare your interpretation
No. The speaker has found introductions to local customs but has not read them carefully.
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.
279. Seriousness, factors, dormitories, fragments and losses
Distinguish a factor from a complete explanation and a damaged object from an intact one.
肃
Learn the shape and a useful word
Notice the stacked upper horizontal strokes crossed by an upright, with lower upright and slanting strokes beneath.
严肃
Show word reading and meaning
yánsù
serious; solemn in attitude or expression
严肃 means serious or solemn. It is different from 严格, strict about a requirement or rule.
Read a sentence
讨论这个问题时，大家的表情都很严肃。
Show sentence reading and meaning
tǎo lùn zhè ge wèn tí shí， dà jiā de biǎo qíng dōu hěn yán sù。
Everyone looked serious while discussing this issue.
Learn the 8 strokes · write 肃
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.
素
Learn the shape and a useful word
A crossed upper section sits above 糸. Keep the lower thread-like strokes.
因素
Show word reading and meaning
yīnsù
factor; something that helps cause a result
因素 means a factor. Several 因素 can contribute to an outcome without any one being its complete explanation.
Read a sentence
天气是影响比赛的一个因素。
Show sentence reading and meaning
tiān qì shì yǐng xiǎng bǐ sài de yí gè yīn sù。
Weather is one factor that affects the competition.
Learn the 10 strokes · write 素
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.
宿
Learn the shape and a useful word
宀 forms a roof over 亻 beside 百. Keep all three sections.
宿舍
Show word reading and meaning
sùshè
dormitory; shared student accommodation
宿舍 is sùshè, a dormitory. It differs in reading and meaning from 舍得 shěde.
Read a sentence
我和两个同学住在同一间宿舍。
Show sentence reading and meaning
wǒ hé liǎng gè tóng xué zhù zài tóng yī jiān sù shè。
I share a dormitory room with two classmates.
Learn the 11 strokes · write 宿
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.
碎
Learn the shape and a useful word
石 stands beside 卒. Compare the extra stone-side with 卒 alone.
碎
Show word reading and meaning
suì
broken into pieces
碎 means broken into pieces in the selected entry. Check whether the sentence describes the state or the action causing it.
Read a sentence
杯子掉在地上，碎了。
Show sentence reading and meaning
bēi zi diào zài dì shàng， suì le。
The cup fell to the ground and broke.
Learn the 13 strokes · write 碎
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.
损
Learn the shape and a useful word
扌 stands beside 员. Compare the hand-side with 土 in a different character using 员.
损失
Show word reading and meaning
sǔnshī
loss; something lost because of an event
损失 means loss or suffer a loss. The sentence identifies what is lost rather than the word fixing a monetary amount.
Read a sentence
这场暴雨造成了很大的损失。
Show sentence reading and meaning
zhè chǎng bào yǔ zào chéng le hěn dà de sǔn shī。
This heavy rain caused major losses.
Learn the 10 strokes · write 损
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 宿舍 read, and what does 因素 name?
Check and learn
Words: 严肃 yánsù — serious; solemn in attitude or expression; 因素 yīnsù — factor; something that helps cause a result; 宿舍 sùshè — dormitory; shared student accommodation; 碎 suì — broken into pieces; 损失 sǔnshī — loss; something lost because of an event. 宿舍 is sùshè. 因素 means a factor, which need not be the only cause of an outcome.
Try a new context
宿舍里有东西摔碎了，大家严肃地讨论赔偿问题。
What happened, and is a compensation agreement already described?
Compare your interpretation
Something in the dormitory fell and broke. The people are discussing compensation seriously; no agreement or amount is stated.
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.
280. Size reduction, searching, locks, fruit and replacement
Distinguish replacing an object from repairing or merely finding it.
缩
Learn the shape and a useful word
纟 stands beside 宿. Compare 宿 alone with the added thread-side strokes.
缩小
Show word reading and meaning
suōxiǎo
reduce in size or narrow a gap
缩小 means make smaller or become smaller. It is not specifically the length reduction in 缩短 unless the context says so.
Read a sentence
我们需要缩小搜索范围。
Show sentence reading and meaning
wǒ men xū yào suō xiǎo sōu suǒ fàn wéi。
We need to narrow the search area.
Learn the 14 strokes · write 缩
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.
索
Learn the shape and a useful word
十 and a roof-like cap sit above 糸. Compare the lower thread-like strokes with 素.
搜索
Show word reading and meaning
sōusuǒ
search; look for information or an item systematically
搜索 means search. This is a different complete word from the shorter selected 搜, although the actions can be related.
Read a sentence
你可以用关键词搜索资料。
Show sentence reading and meaning
nǐ kě yǐ yòng guān jiàn cí sōu suǒ zī liào。
You can search for information using keywords.
Learn the 10 strokes · write 索
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.
锁
Learn the shape and a useful word
钅 stands beside small upper strokes over 贝. Compare the metal-side with the right-hand 贝 shape.
锁
Show word reading and meaning
suǒ
lock; fasten something with a lock
锁 means lock in the selected entry. It can name an object or an action depending on the sentence.
Read a sentence
出门前，请把门锁好。
Show sentence reading and meaning
chū mén qián， qǐng bǎ mén suǒ hǎo。
Please lock the door before going out.
Learn the 12 strokes · write 锁
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.
桃
Learn the shape and a useful word
木 stands beside 兆. Compare 跳, whose left side is 足.
桃
Show word reading and meaning
táo
peach
桃 means peach. The object name is not the jumping action 跳, despite the shared right-hand shape.
Read a sentence
这个桃很甜，我想再买几个。
Show sentence reading and meaning
zhè ge táo hěn tián， wǒ xiǎng zài mǎi jǐ gè。
This peach is very sweet. I would like to buy a few more.
Learn the 10 strokes · write 桃
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.
替
Learn the shape and a useful word
Two 夫-like shapes sit above a lower 日-shaped box. Keep both upper parts.
代替
Show word reading and meaning
dàitì
replace; take the place of something or someone
代替 means replace or take the place of. The sentence identifies what replaces what.
Read a sentence
这次我代替他参加比赛。
Show sentence reading and meaning
zhè cì wǒ dài tì tā cān jiā bǐ sài。
I am taking his place in the competition this time.
Learn the 12 strokes · write 替
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 搜索 and 锁 differ, and what does 代替 describe?
Check and learn
Words: 缩小 suōxiǎo — reduce in size or narrow a gap; 搜索 sōusuǒ — search; look for information or an item systematically; 锁 suǒ — lock; fasten something with a lock; 桃 táo — peach; 代替 dàitì — replace; take the place of something or someone. 搜索 is search, while 锁 concerns a lock or locking in context. 代替 describes one thing taking the place of another.
Try a new context
我想用新锁代替旧锁，所以先搜索合适的型号。
Has the lock already been replaced?
Compare your interpretation
Not according to the sentence. Replacement is the intention, and searching for a suitable model comes first.
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.
281. Choices and effort for a journey
Distinguish selecting an item from attaching it or investing effort.
挑
Learn the shape and a useful word
扌 stands beside 兆. Compare the same right side in 跳, whose left side is 足.
挑选
Show word reading and meaning
tiāoxuǎn
choose; select carefully
挑 is tiāo in 挑选, choose. The different word 挑战 uses tiǎo; the shared character does not fix one reading for every word.
Read a sentence
我正在为朋友挑选生日礼物。
Show sentence reading and meaning
wǒ zhèng zài wèi péng you tiāo xuǎn shēng rì lǐ wù。
I am choosing a birthday present for my friend.
Learn the 9 strokes · write 挑
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.
贴
Learn the shape and a useful word
贝 stands beside 占. Compare the right-hand 占 with the same shape in 战.
贴
Show word reading and meaning
tiē
stick; attach to a surface
贴 describes attaching something to a surface in the selected example, not the act of choosing it.
Read a sentence
请把这张通知贴在门上。
Show sentence reading and meaning
qǐng bǎ zhè zhāng tōng zhī tiē zài mén shàng。
Please stick this notice on the door.
Learn the 9 strokes · write 贴
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.
统
Learn the shape and a useful word
纟 stands beside 充. Keep the upper part of 充 distinct from the right side in 练.
传统
Show word reading and meaning
chuántǒng
tradition; something passed down over time
传统 is a tradition passed down over time. It does not mean every person follows it without change.
Read a sentence
春节回家团聚是我们家的传统。
Show sentence reading and meaning
chūn jié huí jiā tuán jù shì wǒ men jiā de chuán tǒng。
Returning home for a family reunion at Spring Festival is a tradition in our family.
Learn the 9 strokes · write 统
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.
投
Learn the shape and a useful word
扌 stands beside 殳. Compare the right side with the 殳 in 般.
投入
Show word reading and meaning
tóurù
put effort, time, or resources into something
投入 concerns putting time, effort or resources into something here. It is not limited to physically throwing an object.
Read a sentence
她为这个项目投入了很多时间。
Show sentence reading and meaning
tā wèi zhè ge xiàng mù tóu rù le hěn duō shí jiān。
She has put a lot of time into this project.
Learn the 7 strokes · write 投
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.
途
Learn the shape and a useful word
辶 extends to the left and below 余. Compare 余 alone with the extra movement-side strokes.
长途
Show word reading and meaning
chángtú
long-distance; involving a long journey
长途 describes a long-distance journey or service. 长 is cháng in this word.
Read a sentence
长途旅行后，我们都需要休息。
Show sentence reading and meaning
cháng tú lǚ xíng hòu， wǒ men dōu xū yào xiū xi。
We all need to rest after the long journey.
Learn the 10 strokes · write 途
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 挑选 and 贴 differ, and which word describes a long-distance journey?
Check and learn
Words: 挑选 tiāoxuǎn — choose; select carefully; 贴 tiē — stick; attach to a surface; 传统 chuántǒng — tradition; something passed down over time; 投入 tóurù — put effort, time, or resources into something; 长途 chángtú — long-distance; involving a long journey. 挑选 means select; 贴 means attach to a surface. 长途 describes long distance. 投入 concerns putting resources or effort into something; 传统 concerns a practice passed down over time.
Try a new context
我为长途旅行挑选了一本书，还没有把名字贴在封面上。
What choice has been made, and which action has not happened? Use 封面 (fēngmiàn), book cover.
Compare your interpretation
A book has been selected for the long journey. My name has not yet been attached to its cover. 挑选 and 贴 are different actions; choosing the book does not establish that the label is attached.
This is a comparison model for self-review, not an automatic mark.
Tomorrow, mix these five with a previous group. Close all help, recall each word and meaning, explain one shape contrast, then interpret the new context again. Reopen the model after trying. For handwriting, compare a memory attempt with the stroke model and name one detail to improve.
282. Animal, team and a returned item
Keep an animal name, a group of people and a shopping action distinct.
兔
Learn the shape and a useful word
The lower right has a small dot beneath the turning upper shape. Contrast that dot with the undotted outline of 免.
兔子
Show word reading and meaning
tùzi
rabbit
兔子 is rabbit, with neutral zi. Keep the complete animal word separate from the visual comparison with 免.
Read a sentence
那只兔子正在吃胡萝卜。
Show sentence reading and meaning
nà zhǐ tù zi zhèng zài chī hú luó bo。
That rabbit is eating a carrot.
Learn the 8 strokes · write 兔
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.
团
Learn the shape and a useful word
囗 encloses 才. Compare the enclosed 才 with the 员 inside 圆.
团队
Show word reading and meaning
tuánduì
team
团队 is a team. 团 in another context can count a lump, but that is not the selected word here.
Read a sentence
我们团队的每个人都有自己的任务。
Show sentence reading and meaning
wǒ men tuán duì de měi gè rén dōu yǒu zì jǐ de rèn wu。
Everyone on our team has their own task.
Learn the 6 strokes · write 团
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.
退
Learn the shape and a useful word
辶 wraps the left and lower side of 艮. Compare 艮 inside 限.
退
Show word reading and meaning
tuì
return an item; send it back
退 means return an item in the selected shopping example. The sentence tells you what is being sent back.
Read a sentence
这件衣服太小了，我想退掉。
Show sentence reading and meaning
zhè jiàn yī fu tài xiǎo le， wǒ xiǎng tuì diào。
This item of clothing is too small. I would like to return it.
Learn the 9 strokes · write 退
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.
拖
Learn the shape and a useful word
扌 stands beside a short upper sloping/vertical arrangement over 也. Keep that upper part when comparing with 他.
拖鞋
Show word reading and meaning
tuōxié
slippers
拖鞋 means slippers. The complete footwear word does not mean dragging shoes across the floor.
Read a sentence
进屋以后，你可以换上拖鞋。
Show sentence reading and meaning
jìn wū yǐ hòu， nǐ kě yǐ huàn shàng tuō xié。
You can put on slippers after coming inside.
Learn the 8 strokes · write 拖
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.
弯
Learn the shape and a useful word
The upper part resembles 亦, with 弓 below. Compare the lower 弓 with the outside of 张.
弯
Show word reading and meaning
wān
bent; curved
弯 describes a bent or curved shape here, not a straight line.
Read a sentence
这根管子是弯的，不是直的。
Show sentence reading and meaning
zhè gēn guǎn zi shì wān de， bú shì zhí de。
This pipe is bent rather than straight.
Learn the 9 strokes · write 弯
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. Which word names slippers, and what does 退 mean in the selected shopping entry?
Check and learn
Words: 兔子 tùzi — rabbit; 团队 tuánduì — team; 退 tuì — return an item; send it back; 拖鞋 tuōxié — slippers; 弯 wān — bent; curved. 拖鞋 means slippers; 退 means return an item in this entry. 兔子 names a rabbit, 团队 a team and 弯 a bent or curved shape.
Try a new context
我买的拖鞋太小，想退掉，但还没有去商店。
Has the return already been completed? Explain the difference between intention and action.
Compare your interpretation
No. I want to return the slippers because they are too small, but have not yet gone to the shop. 想退掉 is an intention, not confirmation of a completed return.
This is a comparison model for self-review, not an automatic mark.
Tomorrow, mix these five with a previous group. Close all help, recall each word and meaning, explain one shape contrast, then interpret the new context again. Reopen the model after trying. For handwriting, compare a memory attempt with the stroke model and name one detail to improve.
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.