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 50 of 65. Start with one five-character group today. Use the words here first; sentence examples may introduce language you have not studied yet.
295. History, hesitation and preschool
Distinguish hesitation from a final decision and preschool from a missing syllable.
悠
Learn the shape and a useful word
The upper part resembles 攸, with 心 below. Keep the bottom 心 when comparing with the upper part alone.
悠久
Show word reading and meaning
yōujiǔ
long-established; stretching far back in time
悠久 describes a long-established history. It does not mean that a particular journey takes a long time today.
Read a sentence
这座城市有悠久的历史。
Show sentence reading and meaning
zhè zuò chéng shì yǒu yōu jiǔ de lì shǐ。
This city has a long history.
Learn the 11 strokes · write 悠
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.
犹
Learn the shape and a useful word
犭 stands beside 尤. Compare the dot and sloping hook in 尤 with the undotted 九.
犹豫
Show word reading and meaning
yóuyù
hesitate; have difficulty deciding
犹豫 means hesitate or have difficulty deciding. It does not establish that a decision has already been made.
Read a sentence
她犹豫了一会儿，最后还是决定参加。
Show sentence reading and meaning
tā yóu yù le yí huìr， zuì hòu hái shi jué dìng cān jiā。
She hesitated for a moment but finally decided to take part.
Learn the 7 strokes · write 犹
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.
幼
Learn the shape and a useful word
幺 stands beside 力. Compare the short left-hand 幺 with the longer thread side 纟.
幼儿园
Show word reading and meaning
yòu’éryuán
kindergarten; preschool
幼儿园 is kindergarten or preschool. 儿 has its own ér syllable here; it is not an erhua ending attached to 幼.
Read a sentence
我妹妹今年开始上幼儿园。
Show sentence reading and meaning
wǒ mèi mei jīn nián kāi shǐ shàng yòu ér yuán。
My younger sister is starting kindergarten this year.
Learn the 5 strokes · write 幼
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.
余
Learn the shape and a useful word
人 sits above horizontal strokes and a central vertical with spreading lower strokes. Compare the full outline with 未.
其余
Show word reading and meaning
qíyú
the rest; the remaining people or things
其余 means the rest or the remaining people or things. The sentence supplies the set they are left from.
Read a sentence
我先看了两本书，其余的下周再看。
Show sentence reading and meaning
wǒ xiān kàn le liǎng běn shū， qí yú de xià zhōu zài kàn。
I read two books first and will read the rest next week.
Learn the 7 strokes · write 余
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.
娱
Learn the shape and a useful word
女 stands beside 吴, with 口 above 天 on the right. Compare the right side with the 女 in 如.
娱乐
Show word reading and meaning
yúlè
entertainment; activities for enjoyment
娱乐 means entertainment, with 乐 read lè here. 音乐 uses a different reading for 乐.
Read a sentence
看电影是我喜欢的一种娱乐方式。
Show sentence reading and meaning
kàn diàn yǐng shì wǒ xǐ huan de yī zhǒng yú lè fāng shì。
Watching films is one form of entertainment I enjoy.
Learn the 10 strokes · write 娱
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 many syllables are in 幼儿园? What do 悠久 and 其余 describe?
Check and learn
Words: 悠久 yōujiǔ — long-established; stretching far back in time; 犹豫 yóuyù — hesitate; have difficulty deciding; 幼儿园 yòu’éryuán — kindergarten; preschool; 其余 qíyú — the rest; the remaining people or things; 娱乐 yúlè — entertainment; activities for enjoyment. 幼儿园 yòu’éryuán has three syllables, including separate ér. 悠久 describes long-established history; 其余 is the rest. 犹豫 is hesitation and 娱乐 is entertainment, with 乐 read lè.
Try a new context
她犹豫了一会儿，最后选择了离幼儿园近的房子。
Was a decision eventually made, and which location mattered?
Compare your interpretation
Yes. After hesitating, she chose a home near the kindergarten. 犹豫 describes the earlier uncertainty; 最后选择了 establishes the eventual decision. 幼儿园 supplies the location that mattered.
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.
296. Food, a field and a figurative comparison
Read the selected whole words without translating each component literally.
玉
Learn the shape and a useful word
A 王-like framework has an extra dot at the lower right. Keep that dot when comparing with 王.
玉米
Show word reading and meaning
yùmǐ
corn; maize
玉米 is corn or maize. Translating 玉 and 米 separately does not give the normal English name of the food.
Read a sentence
我买了两根玉米，准备煮着吃。
Show sentence reading and meaning
wǒ mǎi le liǎng gēn yù mǐ， zhǔn bèi zhǔ zhe chī。
I bought two ears of corn to boil and eat.
Learn the 5 strokes · write 玉
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.
域
Learn the shape and a useful word
土 stands beside 或. Compare the inner 口 and sloping outer stroke on the right with the simpler right side of 城.
领域
Show word reading and meaning
lǐngyù
field; an area of work or knowledge
领域 is a field of work or knowledge. It is not necessarily a physical enclosed area.
Read a sentence
她在教育领域工作了多年。
Show sentence reading and meaning
tā zài jiào yù lǐng yù gōng zuò le duō nián。
She has worked in education for many years.
Learn the 11 strokes · write 域
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.
喻
Learn the shape and a useful word
口 stands beside 俞. Compare the right-hand 俞 with its separate shape and retain the left 口.
比喻
Show word reading and meaning
bǐyù
metaphor; describing one thing as another
比喻 is a metaphor or figurative comparison, not a literal identity between two objects.
Read a sentence
“时间是金钱”是一个比喻。
Show sentence reading and meaning
“ shí jiān shì jīn qián ” shì yí gè bǐ yù。
“Time is money” is a metaphor.
Learn the 12 strokes · write 喻
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.
寓
Learn the shape and a useful word
宀 covers 禺. Compare 禺 alone with the added roof.
公寓
Show word reading and meaning
gōngyù
apartment; a home within an apartment building
公寓 is an apartment or apartment residence in the selected entry. It differs from a room reserved only for sleeping.
Read a sentence
我租了一套小公寓。
Show sentence reading and meaning
wǒ zū le yī tào xiǎo gōng yù。
I rented a small apartment.
Learn the 12 strokes · write 寓
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.
豫
Learn the shape and a useful word
予 stands beside 象. Compare the right side with 象 alone and with 木 beside 象 in 橡.
犹豫
Show word reading and meaning
yóuyù
hesitate; have difficulty deciding
犹豫 means hesitate or have difficulty deciding. Read both characters together; the sentence tells you whether hesitation ends with a decision.
Read a sentence
她犹豫了一会儿，最后还是决定参加。
Show sentence reading and meaning
tā yóu yù le yí huìr， zuì hòu hái shi jué dìng cān jiā。
She hesitated for a moment but finally decided to take part.
Learn the 15 strokes · write 豫
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 selected word names corn, and how does 比喻 differ from a literal identity?
Check and learn
Words: 玉米 yùmǐ — corn; maize; 领域 lǐngyù — field; an area of work or knowledge; 比喻 bǐyù — metaphor; describing one thing as another; 公寓 gōngyù — apartment; a home within an apartment building; 犹豫 yóuyù — hesitate; have difficulty deciding. 玉米 is corn or maize. 比喻 is a metaphor or figurative comparison, not literal identity. 领域 is a field of work or knowledge, 公寓 an apartment, and 犹豫 hesitation.
Try a new context
我把学习比喻成种玉米，需要时间，不能只着急。
Is learning literally the same activity as growing corn? Use 种 (zhòng), grow, here.
Compare your interpretation
No. The speaker compares learning to growing corn to emphasise the time needed. 比喻 signals the figurative comparison; 玉米 names the crop used in that comparison.
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.
297. Source, complaint and the download reading
Distinguish downloading information from checking its origin or receiving praise.
圆
Learn the shape and a useful word
囗 encloses 员. Compare 团, whose enclosure contains 才 instead.
圆
Show word reading and meaning
yuán
round; circular
圆 means round or circular. It does not by itself name the Chinese currency unit 元.
Read a sentence
这张桌子是圆的。
Show sentence reading and meaning
zhè zhāng zhuō zi shì yuán de。
This table is round.
Learn the 10 strokes · write 圆
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.
源
Learn the shape and a useful word
氵 stands beside 原. Compare the upper 厂 and lower 白/小-like structure on the right.
来源
Show word reading and meaning
láiyuán
source; where something comes from
来源 is a source or where something comes from. Naming a source does not automatically make information reliable.
Read a sentence
写报告时，要说明资料的来源。
Show sentence reading and meaning
xiě bào gào shí， yào shuō míng zī liào de lái yuán。
When writing a report, state the sources of your information.
Learn the 13 strokes · write 源
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.
怨
Learn the shape and a useful word
夗 sits above 心. Compare the lower 心 with the heart below 慰.
抱怨
Show word reading and meaning
bàoyuàn
complain about something
抱怨 means complain about something. It does not necessarily include a proposed solution.
Read a sentence
他总是抱怨工作太多。
Show sentence reading and meaning
tā zǒng shì bào yuàn gōng zuò tài duō。
He always complains that he has too much work.
Learn the 9 strokes · write 怨
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.
载
Learn the shape and a useful word
Notice 车 among the crossing upper strokes and the long sloping hook. Compare the full outline with 裁, whose inner part includes 衣.
下载
Show word reading and meaning
xiàzài
download
载 is zài in 下载, download. 记载 uses zǎi; do not transfer that reading into the selected word.
Read a sentence
你可以在网站上下载这份文件。
Show sentence reading and meaning
nǐ kě yǐ zài wǎng zhàn shàng xià zài zhè fèn wén jiàn。
You can download this file from the website.
Learn the 10 strokes · write 载
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.
赞
Learn the shape and a useful word
Two 先-like upper parts stand above 贝. Keep both upper parts when comparing with 先 alone.
称赞
Show word reading and meaning
chēngzàn
praise
称赞 means praise. 称 is chēng here, not a claim that 称 has the same reading in every word.
Read a sentence
老师称赞她写的文章很有意思。
Show sentence reading and meaning
lǎo shī chēng zàn tā xiě de wén zhāng hěn yǒu yì si。
The teacher praised her essay for being interesting.
Learn the 16 strokes · write 赞
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 载 read in 下载? What do 来源 and 称赞 describe?
Check and learn
Words: 圆 yuán — round; circular; 来源 láiyuán — source; where something comes from; 抱怨 bàoyuàn — complain about something; 下载 xiàzài — download; 称赞 chēngzàn — praise. 下载 uses zài, unlike the zǎi in 记载. 来源 is the source of information; 称赞 is praise. 抱怨 is complaining, and 圆 means round. Downloading does not prove a source is reliable.
Try a new context
我下载了报告，但还没有核实资料来源。
Has the information source been checked? Use 核实 (héshí), verify.
Compare your interpretation
No. The report has been downloaded, but the source has not yet been verified. 下载 confirms obtaining a file, not the reliability of its contents or its 来源.
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.
298. Making, giving, frying and picking
Keep physical construction, a gift and two food-related actions distinct.
糟
Learn the shape and a useful word
米 stands beside 曹, with 日 at the lower right. Compare the left 米 with the 纟 in 练.
糟糕
Show word reading and meaning
zāogāo
terrible; awful
糟糕 means terrible or awful. The sentence identifies what went badly rather than specifying one particular type of accident.
Read a sentence
这次经历很糟糕，但我也学到了不少。
Show sentence reading and meaning
zhè cì jīng lì hěn zāo gāo， dàn wǒ yě xué dào le bù shǎo。
This experience was awful, but I also learned a lot.
Learn the 17 strokes · write 糟
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.
造
Learn the shape and a useful word
辶 wraps 告. Compare 告 alone with the added movement side.
建造
Show word reading and meaning
jiànzào
construct; physically build something
建造 means physically construct something. It is narrower than using 创造 for any kind of creation.
Read a sentence
工人们正在建造一座桥。
Show sentence reading and meaning
gōng rén men zhèng zài jiàn zào yī zuò qiáo。
The workers are building a bridge.
Learn the 10 strokes · write 造
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.
赠
Learn the shape and a useful word
贝 stands beside 曾. Compare the right side with the full 曾 shape and retain its lower 日.
赠送
Show word reading and meaning
zèngsòng
give as a gift; present someone with something
赠送 means give as a gift. It differs from selling the same item for a price.
Read a sentence
活动结束后，主办方赠送了小礼物。
Show sentence reading and meaning
huó dòng jié shù hòu， zhǔ bàn fāng zèng sòng le xiǎo lǐ wù。
At the end of the event, the organizers gave out small gifts.
Learn the 16 strokes · write 赠
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.
炸
Learn the shape and a useful word
火 stands beside 乍. Compare the same 乍 below 穴 in 窄.
炸
Show word reading and meaning
zhá
deep-fry; cook in hot oil
The selected 炸 is zhá, deep-fry in hot oil. The explosive sense uses zhà and is a different entry.
Read a sentence
奶奶正在炸春卷。
Show sentence reading and meaning
nǎi nai zhèng zài zhá chūn juǎn。
Grandma is deep-frying spring rolls.
Learn the 9 strokes · write 炸
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.
摘
Learn the shape and a useful word
扌 stands beside 亠 and two short strokes above a frame with 古 inside. Compare its full right side with the simpler 交 in 校.
摘
Show word reading and meaning
zhāi
pick; pluck fruit or flowers
摘 means pick or pluck fruit or flowers in this entry. Other complete words can use 摘 differently.
Read a sentence
我们去果园摘苹果。
Show sentence reading and meaning
wǒ men qù guǒ yuán zhāi píng guǒ。
We went to the orchard to pick apples.
Learn the 14 strokes · write 摘
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 selected 炸 reading concerns cooking, and how does 赠送 differ from 销售?
Check and learn
Words: 糟糕 zāogāo — terrible; awful; 建造 jiànzào — construct; physically build something; 赠送 zèngsòng — give as a gift; present someone with something; 炸 zhá — deep-fry; cook in hot oil; 摘 zhāi — pick; pluck fruit or flowers. 炸 zhá means deep-fry; zhà is the different explosive reading. 赠送 gives something as a gift rather than selling it. 建造 means physical construction, 摘 picking fruit or flowers, and 糟糕 terrible.
Try a new context
奶奶把摘来的苹果送给邻居，自己去炸春卷。
What was picked and given away, and what was fried? Use 春卷 (chūnjuǎn), spring rolls.
Compare your interpretation
Apples were picked and given to the neighbours; spring rolls were deep-fried. 炸 is zhá for cooking in oil. The sentence does not say the apples were fried or sold.
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.
299. Width, occupation, challenge and a rise
Distinguish a rise in price from width or a measure of applause.
窄
Learn the shape and a useful word
穴 sits above 乍. Compare the same 乍 beside 火 in 炸.
窄
Show word reading and meaning
zhǎi
narrow
窄 means narrow. It is about width here, not necessarily the shortness of a journey.
Read a sentence
这条路很窄，两辆车不能同时通过。
Show sentence reading and meaning
zhè tiáo lù hěn zhǎi， liǎng liàng chē bù néng tóng shí tōng guò。
This road is narrow. Two cars cannot pass at the same time.
Learn the 10 strokes · write 窄
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.
占
Learn the shape and a useful word
卜 sits above 口. Compare the same 占 beside 贝 in 贴.
占
Show word reading and meaning
zhàn
occupy; take up space, time, or a share
占 is zhàn for occupying or taking up space, time or a share. Other words can use another reading.
Read a sentence
这张桌子占了房间很大一部分空间。
Show sentence reading and meaning
zhè zhāng zhuō zi zhàn le fáng jiān hěn dà yī bù fen kōng jiān。
This table takes up a large part of the room.
Learn the 5 strokes · write 占
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战
Learn the shape and a useful word
占 stands beside 戈. Compare 贴, whose 贝 stands to the left of 占.
挑战
Show word reading and meaning
tiǎozhàn
challenge; something difficult to attempt
挑战 means a challenge, with 挑 read tiǎo. This differs from the tiāo in 挑选 earlier in the sequence.
Read a sentence
用中文做演讲对我来说是一个挑战。
Show sentence reading and meaning
yòng zhōng wén zuò yǎn jiǎng duì wǒ lái shuō shì yí gè tiǎo zhàn。
Giving a speech in Chinese is a challenge for me.
Learn the 9 strokes · write 战
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.
涨
Learn the shape and a useful word
氵 stands beside 张. Look for 弓 and 长 within the right side.
上涨
Show word reading and meaning
shàngzhǎng
rise; increase in price or amount
上涨 describes a rise in a price or amount, with 涨 read zhǎng. It is not the physical length word 长 cháng.
Read a sentence
最近水果的价格上涨了。
Show sentence reading and meaning
zuì jìn shuǐ guǒ de jià gé shàng zhǎng le。
Fruit prices have risen recently.
Learn the 10 strokes · write 涨
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.
掌
Learn the shape and a useful word
A capped upper part with 口 sits above 手. Compare the lower 手 with its narrow side form 扌.
鼓掌
Show word reading and meaning
gǔzhǎng
applaud; clap one's hands
鼓掌 means applaud or clap one's hands. It does not say whether everyone liked every part of a performance.
Read a sentence
演出结束后，观众热烈鼓掌。
Show sentence reading and meaning
yǎn chū jié shù hòu， guān zhòng rè liè gǔ zhǎng。
The audience applauded enthusiastically after the performance.
Learn the 12 strokes · write 掌
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 涨 read in 上涨? What do 窄 and 占 describe in their selected entries?
Check and learn
Words: 窄 zhǎi — narrow; 占 zhàn — occupy; take up space, time, or a share; 挑战 tiǎozhàn — challenge; something difficult to attempt; 上涨 shàngzhǎng — rise; increase in price or amount; 鼓掌 gǔzhǎng — applaud; clap one's hands. 上涨 uses 涨 zhǎng for a rise. 窄 is narrow; 占 zhàn is taking up space, time or a share. 挑战 is a challenge, with 挑 tiǎo, and 鼓掌 is applause.
Try a new context
路很窄，停在这里的车占了大半条路。
What is narrow, and what occupies most of it? Does this say prices rose? Use 大半 (dàbàn), most of.
Compare your interpretation
The road is narrow and the parked vehicle occupies most of it. 窄 concerns width; 占 concerns occupied space. No price rise or 上涨 is stated.
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.
300. Meetings, valued things and brief spells
Distinguish convening an event from its completion and a brief spell from a fixed duration.
召
Learn the shape and a useful word
刀 sits above 口. Compare the upper 刀 with the upper 卜 of 占.
召开
Show word reading and meaning
zhàokāi
hold or convene a meeting
召开 means hold or convene a meeting. 召 is zhào in this word.
Read a sentence
公司下周将召开会议讨论新计划。
Show sentence reading and meaning
gōng sī xià zhōu jiāng zhào kāi huì yì tǎo lùn xīn jì huà。
The company will hold a meeting next week to discuss the new plan.
Learn the 5 strokes · write 召
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.
哲
Learn the shape and a useful word
折 sits above 口, with 扌 and 斤 in the upper part. Keep the lower 口 visible.
哲学
Show word reading and meaning
zhéxué
philosophy
哲学 means philosophy. The complete word names a field of study, not a conclusion that an idea is wise.
Read a sentence
这门哲学课讨论了什么是幸福。
Show sentence reading and meaning
zhè mén zhé xué kè tǎo lùn le shén me shì xìng fú。
This philosophy course discussed what happiness is.
Learn the 10 strokes · write 哲
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.
珍
Learn the shape and a useful word
A 王-like left side stands beside an upper 人 and three lower sloping strokes. Compare the same right side in 诊.
珍惜
Show word reading and meaning
zhēnxī
treasure; value and take care of something
珍惜 means value and take care of something precious. It is not limited to expensive physical objects.
Read a sentence
我很珍惜和家人在一起的时间。
Show sentence reading and meaning
wǒ hěn zhēn xī hé jiā rén zài yì qǐ de shí jiān。
I treasure the time I spend with my family.
Learn the 9 strokes · write 珍
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.
诊
Learn the shape and a useful word
讠 stands beside an upper 人 and three lower sloping strokes. Compare 珍 and its 王-like left side.
急诊
Show word reading and meaning
jízhěn
emergency medical service or department
急诊 names emergency medical care or its department. It is not a diagnosis of a particular condition.
Read a sentence
他受伤后去了医院急诊。
Show sentence reading and meaning
tā shòu shāng hòu qù le yī yuàn jí zhěn。
He went to the hospital's emergency department after being injured.
Learn the 7 strokes · write 诊
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.
阵
Learn the shape and a useful word
阝 stands beside 车. Compare 陈, whose right side is 东.
阵
Show word reading and meaning
zhèn
brief spell or burst (a measure word for wind, rain, or sound)
阵 counts a brief spell or burst, such as rain or sound. Its amount is not a fixed number of minutes.
Read a sentence
一阵风吹来，树叶落了下来。
Show sentence reading and meaning
yí zhèn fēng chuī lái， shù yè luò le xià lái。
A gust of wind blew, and the leaves fell.
Learn the 6 strokes · write 阵
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 召开 mean, and does 阵 give a fixed number of minutes?
Check and learn
Words: 召开 zhàokāi — hold or convene a meeting; 哲学 zhéxué — philosophy; 珍惜 zhēnxī — treasure; value and take care of something; 急诊 jízhěn — emergency medical service or department; 阵 zhèn — brief spell or burst (a measure word for wind, rain, or sound). 召开 means hold or convene a meeting. 阵 counts a brief spell or burst without a fixed duration. 哲学 is philosophy, 珍惜 valuing and taking care of something, and 急诊 emergency medical care.
Try a new context
会议刚召开，就传来一阵掌声。
Did the meeting finish before the applause? Does 阵 give an exact duration? Use 刚 (gāng), just.
Compare your interpretation
No. The meeting had just begun when a burst of applause was heard. 一阵 describes a spell or burst, without an exact number of minutes. 召开 does not mean the meeting has finished.
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.