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 49 of 65. Start with one five-character group today. Use the words here first; sentence examples may introduce language you have not studied yet.
289. Outer form, category and an open mind
Distinguish shape from category and appreciation from purchase.
斜
Learn the shape and a useful word
余 stands beside 斗. Contrast the right-hand 斗 with the movement side in 途.
斜
Show word reading and meaning
xié
slanted; tilted
斜 means slanted or tilted. It differs from horizontal or vertical without necessarily saying something is damaged.
Read a sentence
墙上的画有点斜，我把它摆正了。
Show sentence reading and meaning
qiáng shàng de huà yǒu diǎn xié， wǒ bǎ tā bǎi zhèng le。
The picture on the wall was a little crooked, so I straightened it.
Learn the 11 strokes · write 斜
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.
欣
Learn the shape and a useful word
斤 stands beside 欠. Compare the left-hand 斤 with the 木 in 析.
欣赏
Show word reading and meaning
xīnshǎng
appreciate; admire; enjoy a work of art or a view
欣赏 can mean appreciate or enjoy art or a view. It does not necessarily mean buying the thing appreciated.
Read a sentence
我们坐在窗边欣赏外面的风景。
Show sentence reading and meaning
wǒ men zuò zài chuāng biān xīn shǎng wài miàn de fēng jǐng。
We sat by the window and admired the scenery outside.
Learn the 8 strokes · write 欣
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.
形
Learn the shape and a useful word
开 stands beside three sloping strokes 彡. Compare this side-by-side layout with 型 and its lower 土.
外形
Show word reading and meaning
wàixíng
outer shape; physical form
外形 is outer shape or physical form. It does not by itself describe the inside or the material.
Read a sentence
这座建筑的外形像一艘船。
Show sentence reading and meaning
zhè zuò jiàn zhù de wài xíng xiàng yì sōu chuán。
The shape of this building resembles a ship.
Learn the 7 strokes · write 形
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.
型
Learn the shape and a useful word
刑 sits above 土. Notice the lower 土 before comparing with 形.
类型
Show word reading and meaning
lèixíng
type; a category of things sharing features
类型 is a type or category. It groups things by shared features rather than merely naming their outline.
Read a sentence
图书馆有各种类型的书。
Show sentence reading and meaning
tú shū guǎn yǒu gè zhǒng lèi xíng de shū。
The library has books of all kinds.
Learn the 9 strokes · write 型
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.
虚
Learn the shape and a useful word
虍 covers 业. Compare the upper covering shape with 虎 and keep the lower 业.
虚心
Show word reading and meaning
xūxīn
humble and willing to learn from others
虚心 describes being humble and willing to learn. It does not mean having no ideas or knowledge.
Read a sentence
她虚心听取了大家的建议。
Show sentence reading and meaning
tā xū xīn tīng qǔ le dà jiā de jiàn yì。
She listened to everyone's suggestions with an open mind.
Learn the 11 strokes · write 虚
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 外形 and 类型 differ, and what does 虚心 describe?
Check and learn
Words: 斜 xié — slanted; tilted; 欣赏 xīnshǎng — appreciate; admire; enjoy a work of art or a view; 外形 wàixíng — outer shape; physical form; 类型 lèixíng — type; a category of things sharing features; 虚心 xūxīn — humble and willing to learn from others. 外形 is outer physical form; 类型 is a category based on shared features. 虚心 is willingness to learn humbly. 欣赏 means appreciate or enjoy; 斜 means slanted or tilted.
Try a new context
这两件东西外形相似，但属于不同类型。
Does a similar outer form prove the objects belong to one category? Use 相似 (xiāngsì), similar, and 属于 (shǔyú), belong to.
Compare your interpretation
No. The sentence says their appearance is similar but their types differ. 外形 concerns their visible form; 类型 can depend on other shared features, such as use or construction.
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.
290. Announcing, searching and asking
Distinguish announced plans and information-seeking from completed results.
绪
Learn the shape and a useful word
纟 stands beside 者. Compare the same 者 in 猪, with a different left-hand side.
情绪
Show word reading and meaning
qíngxù
mood; emotional state
情绪 is an emotional state or mood. A visible expression can suggest it without showing everything a person feels.
Read a sentence
休息后，她的情绪好多了。
Show sentence reading and meaning
xiū xi hòu， tā de qíng xù hǎo duō le。
Her mood improved a lot after resting.
Learn the 11 strokes · write 绪
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.
宣
Learn the shape and a useful word
宀 covers a central 日 with horizontal strokes above and below. Contrast this arrangement with the lower 谷 in 容.
宣布
Show word reading and meaning
xuānbù
announce; make information publicly known
宣布 means make information publicly known. It is an announcement, not proof that a planned event has already occurred.
Read a sentence
校长宣布了比赛结果。
Show sentence reading and meaning
xiào zhǎng xuān bù le bǐ sài jié guǒ。
The principal announced the competition results.
Learn the 9 strokes · write 宣
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.
寻
Learn the shape and a useful word
彐 sits above 寸. Compare the lower 寸 with the part beside 衤 in 衬.
寻找
Show word reading and meaning
xúnzhǎo
look for; try to find
寻找 means look for or try to find. It does not by itself guarantee success.
Read a sentence
我们正在寻找合适的房子。
Show sentence reading and meaning
wǒ men zhèng zài xún zhǎo hé shì de fáng zi。
We are looking for a suitable home.
Learn the 6 strokes · write 寻
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.
询
Learn the shape and a useful word
讠 stands beside 旬, whose outer 勹 surrounds 日. Compare the enclosed 日 with 句 and its 口.
询问
Show word reading and meaning
xúnwèn
ask; inquire about information
询问 means ask for information. It does not tell us that an answer has already been received.
Read a sentence
你可以向工作人员询问开门时间。
Show sentence reading and meaning
nǐ kě yǐ xiàng gōng zuò rén yuán xún wèn kāi mén shí jiān。
You can ask a member of staff about the opening time.
Learn the 8 strokes · write 询
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.
训
Learn the shape and a useful word
讠 stands beside 川. Compare its three long right-side strokes with the crowded right side of 询.
训练
Show word reading and meaning
xùnliàn
train; practice to develop a skill
训练 is training to develop a skill. Taking part in training does not alone establish mastery.
Read a sentence
她每天训练，为下个月的比赛做准备。
Show sentence reading and meaning
tā měi tiān xùn liàn， wèi xià gè yuè de bǐ sài zuò zhǔn bèi。
She trains every day to prepare for next month's competition.
Learn the 5 strokes · write 训
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 words describe an announcement, a search and asking for information?
Check and learn
Words: 情绪 qíngxù — mood; emotional state; 宣布 xuānbù — announce; make information publicly known; 寻找 xúnzhǎo — look for; try to find; 询问 xúnwèn — ask; inquire about information; 训练 xùnliàn — train; practice to develop a skill. 宣布 is announce, 寻找 is look for, and 询问 is ask for information. 训练 develops a skill through training; 情绪 is mood. A search or inquiry does not automatically yield its intended result.
Try a new context
学校宣布要寻找新教练，学生可以询问报名时间。
Has the new coach already been found? Use 教练 (jiàoliàn), coach, and 报名 (bàomíng), enrol.
Compare your interpretation
No. The school has announced an intention to seek a new coach. Students may ask about enrolment times, but neither that inquiry nor the announcement establishes a successful appointment.
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.
291. Quick action, a deposit and extra time
Read 呀 in its selected exclamation use and distinguish speed from accuracy.
迅
Learn the shape and a useful word
辶 surrounds an upper turning shape crossed by strokes. Compare the whole upper shape with 凡; do not add a small inner dot.
迅速
Show word reading and meaning
xùnsù
quickly; rapid
迅速 means quickly or rapid. It describes speed, not necessarily accuracy.
Read a sentence
收到消息后，他迅速作出了决定。
Show sentence reading and meaning
shōu dào xiāo xi hòu， tā xùn sù zuò chū le jué dìng。
After receiving the news, he quickly made a decision.
Learn the 6 strokes · write 迅
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.
押
Learn the shape and a useful word
扌 stands beside 甲. Compare the vertical running through the lower edge of 甲 with 由.
押金
Show word reading and meaning
yājīn
deposit; money held as security and usually returned if conditions are met
押金 is money held as security, normally returned if the conditions are met. It is not always the same as the price paid to keep an item.
Read a sentence
租这辆自行车需要交押金。
Show sentence reading and meaning
zū zhè liàng zì xíng chē xū yào jiāo yā jīn。
You need to pay a deposit to rent this bicycle.
Learn the 8 strokes · write 押
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.
鸭
Learn the shape and a useful word
甲 stands beside 鸟. Compare the left-hand 甲 with the right side of 押.
鸭子
Show word reading and meaning
yāzi
duck
鸭子 is duck, with neutral zi. Keep 鸟 in the written shape without translating the animal as simply bird.
Read a sentence
湖里有几只鸭子在游泳。
Show sentence reading and meaning
hú lǐ yǒu jǐ zhī yā zi zài yóu yǒng。
There are a few ducks swimming in the lake.
Learn the 10 strokes · write 鸭
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.
呀
Learn the shape and a useful word
口 stands beside 牙. Notice the long lower sloping stroke and hook within 牙; retain the separate 口 when comparing 呀 with 牙 alone.
呀
Show word reading and meaning
yā
an exclamation expressing surprise
The selected entry is the surprised exclamation 呀 yā. The neutral sentence particle ya in other contexts is a different use.
Read a sentence
呀，这里的风景真漂亮！
Show sentence reading and meaning
yā， zhè lǐ de fēng jǐng zhēn piào liang！
Wow, the scenery here is beautiful!
Learn the 7 strokes · write 呀
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.
延
Learn the shape and a useful word
廴 sweeps around the lower left of a right-hand part with a short upper sloping stroke and a 止-like lower shape. Compare the sweeping side with 辶 in 迅.
延长
Show word reading and meaning
yáncháng
extend; make a period of time or a distance longer
延长 means extend a period or distance. It differs from postponing an event's start time.
Read a sentence
图书馆延长了周末的开放时间。
Show sentence reading and meaning
tú shū guǎn yán cháng le zhōu mò de kāi fàng shí jiān。
The library has extended its weekend opening hours.
Learn the 6 strokes · write 延
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 呀 read in its selected entry? What do 押金 and 延长 mean?
Check and learn
Words: 迅速 xùnsù — quickly; rapid; 押金 yājīn — deposit; money held as security and usually returned if conditions are met; 鸭子 yāzi — duck; 呀 yā — an exclamation expressing surprise; 延长 yáncháng — extend; make a period of time or a distance longer. 呀 yā is a surprised exclamation here. 押金 is a security deposit; 延长 means extend a period or distance. 迅速 concerns speed and 鸭子 means duck. A deposit is distinct from the purchase price.
Try a new context
租期可以延长，但押金是否退还要看约定。
Does extending the hire period guarantee that the deposit is returned? Use 租期 (zūqī), hire period, and 约定 (yuēdìng), agreed terms.
Compare your interpretation
No. The hire period can be extended, but returning the deposit depends on the agreed terms. 延长 concerns duration; 押金 concerns security money. The sentence leaves its return conditional.
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.
292. Following a route and relying on support
Separate route direction, body parts and actions involving movement.
沿
Learn the shape and a useful word
氵 stands beside two upper spreading strokes over 口. Compare the same right-hand arrangement with the metal-side 铅.
沿
Show word reading and meaning
yán
along; following the course of something
沿 means along, following the course of something. It normally needs a route or edge to explain the direction.
Read a sentence
沿这条路一直走，就能看到车站。
Show sentence reading and meaning
yán zhè tiáo lù yì zhí zǒu， jiù néng kàn dào chē zhàn。
Go straight along this road, and you will see the station.
Learn the 8 strokes · write 沿
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.
腰
Learn the shape and a useful word
月 stands beside 要. Keep the lower 女 in the right-hand part.
腰
Show word reading and meaning
yāo
waist; lower back
腰 names the waist or lower back. It is not the general word for every part of the back.
Read a sentence
这条裤子的腰有点紧。
Show sentence reading and meaning
zhè tiáo kù zi de yāo yǒu diǎn jǐn。
The waist of these trousers is a little tight.
Learn the 13 strokes · write 腰
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.
摇
Learn the shape and a useful word
扌 stands beside upper 爫-like strokes over 缶. Compare that complete right side with the simpler right part of 拖.
摇
Show word reading and meaning
yáo
shake; move back and forth
摇 means shake or move back and forth. The sentence identifies what moves.
Read a sentence
她摇了摇头，表示不同意。
Show sentence reading and meaning
tā yáo le yáo tóu， biǎo shì bù tóng yì。
She shook her head to show that she disagreed.
Learn the 13 strokes · write 摇
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.
咬
Learn the shape and a useful word
口 stands beside 交. Compare the same 交 in 校, which has 木 on the left.
咬
Show word reading and meaning
yǎo
bite
咬 means bite. It differs from merely eating without specifying a biting action.
Read a sentence
这个苹果太硬了，我咬不动。
Show sentence reading and meaning
zhè ge píng guǒ tài yìng le， wǒ yǎo bù dòng。
This apple is too hard for me to bite into.
Learn the 9 strokes · write 咬
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.
依
Learn the shape and a useful word
亻 stands beside 衣. Compare the complete 衣 with the clothing side 衤 in another character.
依靠
Show word reading and meaning
yīkào
rely on; depend on for support
依靠 means rely or depend on for support. It is not the same as physically wearing the 衣 visible in the shape.
Read a sentence
他依靠自己的努力完成了学业。
Show sentence reading and meaning
tā yī kào zì jǐ de nǔ lì wán chéng le xué yè。
He completed his education through his own efforts.
Learn the 8 strokes · write 依
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 gives a route direction, and which means rely on? Read 摇 and 咬 without treating them as the same tone.
Check and learn
Words: 沿 yán — along; following the course of something; 腰 yāo — waist; lower back; 摇 yáo — shake; move back and forth; 咬 yǎo — bite; 依靠 yīkào — rely on; depend on for support. 沿 yán means along, 依靠 means rely on, 摇 yáo means shake and 咬 yǎo means bite. 腰 yāo is waist or lower back. Tone and complete word distinguish the readings.
Try a new context
沿这条路走，他依靠地图找到了车站。
What did he follow, what support did he use, and did the search succeed?
Compare your interpretation
He followed the road, relied on a map and found the station. 沿 describes the route; 依靠 identifies the support. 找到了 establishes success, which merely 寻找 would not establish.
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.
293. Moving, regret and quantities
Distinguish a label for a party from a number unit and an unmet wish.
移
Learn the shape and a useful word
禾 stands beside 多. Compare the same 多 alone and keep both 夕-like parts.
移动
Show word reading and meaning
yídòng
move; change position
移动 means move or change position. It does not necessarily mean moving house or migrating to another country.
Read a sentence
请不要随意移动桌上的文件。
Show sentence reading and meaning
qǐng bú yào suí yì yí dòng zhuō shàng de wén jiàn。
Please do not move the documents on the desk around without asking.
Learn the 11 strokes · write 移
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.
遗
Learn the shape and a useful word
辶 surrounds 贵. Compare the central 贵 with the added movement-side strokes.
遗憾
Show word reading and meaning
yíhàn
regret; feel sorry that something did not happen
遗憾 expresses regret that something did not happen or work out. It is not a prediction that a later chance is impossible.
Read a sentence
很遗憾，这次没能和你见面。
Show sentence reading and meaning
hěn yí hàn， zhè cì méi néng hé nǐ jiàn miàn。
I am sorry we did not get to meet this time.
Learn the 12 strokes · write 遗
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乙
Learn the shape and a useful word
One continuous turning and hooking stroke makes the character. Compare the complete model with the extra 亻 in 亿.
乙
Show word reading and meaning
yǐ
B; the second item or party in an ordered set
乙 labels the second item or party, like B in an ordered set. It is not the usual numeral 二 in a quantity.
Read a sentence
合同上写着甲方和乙方的名字。
Show sentence reading and meaning
hé tóng shàng xiě zhe jiǎ fāng hé yǐ fāng de míng zi。
The contract lists the names of Party A and Party B.
Learn the 1 stroke · write 乙
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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.
亿
Learn the shape and a useful word
亻 stands beside 乙. Keep the left-hand person strokes when reading the number unit.
亿
Show word reading and meaning
yì
one hundred million (100,000,000)
亿 means one hundred million. 一亿 is 100,000,000; it is not one million or one billion.
Read a sentence
这个项目的投资超过了一亿元。
Show sentence reading and meaning
zhè ge xiàng mù de tóu zī chāo guò le yī yì yuán。
Investment in this project has exceeded one hundred million yuan.
Learn the 3 strokes · write 亿
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.
义
Learn the shape and a useful word
A dot sits above two crossing sloping strokes. Compare the complete form with the added 讠 in 议.
义务
Show word reading and meaning
yìwù
duty; obligation
义务 is a duty or obligation. It differs from choosing to do something solely for entertainment.
Read a sentence
保护公共环境是我们每个人的义务。
Show sentence reading and meaning
bǎo hù gōng gòng huán jìng shì wǒ men měi gè rén de yì wù。
Protecting our shared environment is everyone's responsibility.
Learn the 3 strokes · write 义
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 乙 and 亿 mean? How do 遗憾 and 移动 differ?
Check and learn
Words: 移动 yídòng — move; change position; 遗憾 yíhàn — regret; feel sorry that something did not happen; 乙 yǐ — B; the second item or party in an ordered set; 亿 yì — one hundred million (100,000,000); 义务 yìwù — duty; obligation. 乙 labels the second item or party, like B. 亿 is one hundred million. 遗憾 is regret or feeling sorry; 移动 is changing position. 义务 is a duty or obligation.
Try a new context
乙方同意移动设备，但还没有开始。很遗憾，今天做不完。
What has Party B agreed to, and has the work started? Use 设备 (shèbèi), equipment.
Compare your interpretation
Party B has agreed to move equipment, but work has not started, so it cannot be completed today. 乙方 identifies a party, not a quantity of equipment. Agreement does not equal execution.
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.
294. Benefit, nutrition, reflection and a hug
Distinguish a portrayal of a situation from the reaction to it.
益
Learn the shape and a useful word
Upper spreading strokes sit above 皿. Keep the lower enclosure and its inner vertical divisions.
有益
Show word reading and meaning
yǒuyì
beneficial; good for someone or something
有益 means beneficial to someone or something. The sentence identifies the relevant benefit or activity.
Read a sentence
适当运动对健康有益。
Show sentence reading and meaning
shì dàng yùn dòng duì jiàn kāng yǒu yì。
Moderate exercise is good for your health.
Learn the 10 strokes · write 益
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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.
营
Learn the shape and a useful word
艹 and a roof-like cap sit above two stacked 口 shapes. Compare the lower two boxes with the single 口 in 享.
营养
Show word reading and meaning
yíngyǎng
nutrition; nourishment
营养 means nutrition or nourishment. It is not the same word as 营业, being open for business.
Read a sentence
这道菜味道好，也很有营养。
Show sentence reading and meaning
zhè dào cài wèi dào hǎo， yě hěn yǒu yíng yǎng。
This dish tastes good and is nutritious too.
Learn the 11 strokes · write 营
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.
映
Learn the shape and a useful word
日 stands beside 央. Compare the right-hand 央 with the partly similar right side of 英.
反映
Show word reading and meaning
fǎnyìng
reflect; show or express a situation
反映 means reflect or show a situation here. It is not the reaction word 反应, despite the shared pronunciation.
Read a sentence
这部电影反映了普通人的生活。
Show sentence reading and meaning
zhè bù diàn yǐng fǎn yìng le pǔ tōng rén de shēng huó。
This film reflects the lives of ordinary people.
Learn the 9 strokes · write 映
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.
硬
Learn the shape and a useful word
石 stands beside 更. Compare the right-hand 更 with the same part of 便.
硬
Show word reading and meaning
yìng
hard; firm and difficult to bend or press
硬 describes something firm and difficult to bend or press. It is not the low-price word 便宜.
Read a sentence
这个枕头太硬了，我睡不舒服。
Show sentence reading and meaning
zhè ge zhěn tou tài yìng le， wǒ shuì bù shū fú。
This pillow is too hard for me to sleep comfortably.
Learn the 12 strokes · write 硬
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.
拥
Learn the shape and a useful word
扌 stands beside 用. Compare the complete 用 with 月, retaining its inner vertical stroke.
拥抱
Show word reading and meaning
yōngbào
hug; embrace
拥抱 is a hug or embrace. It is not the same complete word as 拥有, possess.
Read a sentence
见面后，他们高兴地拥抱了彼此。
Show sentence reading and meaning
jiàn miàn hòu， tā men gāo xìng de yōng bào le bǐ cǐ。
They hugged each other happily when they met.
Learn the 8 strokes · write 拥
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 the selected meaning of 反映? Which word describes something firm and hard to bend?
Check and learn
Words: 有益 yǒuyì — beneficial; good for someone or something; 营养 yíngyǎng — nutrition; nourishment; 反映 fǎnyìng — reflect; show or express a situation; 硬 yìng — hard; firm and difficult to bend or press; 拥抱 yōngbào — hug; embrace. 反映 is reflect or show a situation; it differs in spelling and use from 反应, reaction. 硬 describes firmness, 有益 benefit, 营养 nutrition and 拥抱 a hug.
Try a new context
这部电影反映了家人的生活，结尾他们拥抱了彼此。
What does the film portray, and what happens at the end? Is 反映 the reaction word 反应?
Compare your interpretation
The film portrays family members' lives, and they hug one another at the end. 反映 describes the portrayal; 反应 would be reaction, a different written word. 拥抱 names the final action.
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.