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 53 of 65. Start with one five-character group today. Use the words here first; sentence examples may introduce language you have not studied yet.
313. A story role, dust and a timely action
Read a time condition without confusing it with the result.
臣
Learn the shape and a useful word
A long angular outer frame surrounds short inner strokes. Compare with 巨; the internal strokes differ.
大臣
Show word reading and meaning
dàchén
minister in a monarchy or historical court
大臣 is a minister in a monarchy or historical court, rather than a general label for any worker.
Read a sentence
故事里，大臣向国王提出了建议。
Show sentence reading and meaning
gù shi lǐ， dà chén xiàng guó wáng tí chū le jiàn yì。
In the story, a minister made a suggestion to the king.
Learn the 6 strokes · write 臣
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.
尘
Learn the shape and a useful word
小 sits above 土. Compare the upper 小 with the larger upper part of 坐.
灰尘
Show word reading and meaning
huīchén
dust
灰尘 is dust, not the same substance as every kind of ash.
Read a sentence
书架上积了一层灰尘。
Show sentence reading and meaning
shū jià shàng jī le yī céng huī chén。
A layer of dust has collected on the bookshelf.
Learn the 6 strokes · write 尘
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.
趁
Learn the shape and a useful word
走 extends to the left and below an upper 人 with three sloping strokes. Compare the outer sweep with 起.
趁
Show word reading and meaning
chèn
take the opportunity while a favorable condition lasts
趁 means make use of a favourable time or condition while it lasts.
Read a sentence
趁天气还好，我们出去走走吧。
Show sentence reading and meaning
chèn tiān qì hái hǎo， wǒ men chū qù zǒu zǒu ba。
Let's go for a walk while the weather is still good.
Learn the 12 strokes · write 趁
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.
撑
Learn the shape and a useful word
扌 stands beside 掌. Keep the lower 手 within the right-hand part.
撑
Show word reading and meaning
chēng
open or hold something up; support
撑 can mean hold up or open something in this selected entry; check the object.
Read a sentence
雨下大了，她撑起了伞。
Show sentence reading and meaning
yǔ xià dà le， tā chēng qǐ le sǎn。
The rain got heavier, and she opened her umbrella.
Learn the 15 strokes · write 撑
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.
呈
Learn the shape and a useful word
口 sits above 王. Compare 皇, which has 白 above 王.
呈现
Show word reading and meaning
chéngxiàn
present; show a particular appearance or state
呈现 means show or present an appearance or state; appearance need not explain its cause.
Read a sentence
天空呈现出淡淡的粉色。
Show sentence reading and meaning
tiān kōng chéng xiàn chū dàn dàn de fěn sè。
The sky took on a pale pink color.
Learn the 7 strokes · write 呈
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 趁 introduce, and which word concerns opening/supporting something?
Check and learn
Words: 大臣 dàchén — minister in a monarchy or historical court; 灰尘 huīchén — dust; 趁 chèn — take the opportunity while a favorable condition lasts; 撑 chēng — open or hold something up; support; 呈现 chéngxiàn — present; show a particular appearance or state. 趁 introduces taking an opportunity while a condition lasts. 撑 is opening or supporting in context. 大臣 is a historical/monarchical minister, 灰尘 dust and 呈现 showing an appearance.
Try a new context
趁雨还小，他撑起伞出门了。
What condition made the timing favourable, and which action happened?
Compare your interpretation
The rain was still light. He opened the umbrella and went out while that condition lasted. 趁 connects the timing to the opportunity; 撑起 reports opening the umbrella.
This is a comparison model for self-review, not an automatic mark.
Tomorrow, mix these five words with a previous group. Close all help, recall each word and meaning, explain one shape or reading contrast, and interpret the new context again. Reopen the model after trying. For handwriting, compare a memory attempt with the stroke model and choose one detail to improve.
314. Worry, preparation and storage
Distinguish preparation for an event from the event happening.
惩
Learn the shape and a useful word
征 sits above 心, with 彳 and 正 in the upper section.
惩罚
Show word reading and meaning
chéngfá
punish; punishment for wrongdoing
惩罚 means punishment for wrongdoing; the sentence identifies the action and consequence.
Read a sentence
我们应该帮助他改正，而不只是惩罚他。
Show sentence reading and meaning
wǒ men yīng gāi bāng zhù tā gǎi zhèng， ér bù zhǐ shì chéng fá tā。
We should help him improve rather than only punish him.
Learn the 12 strokes · write 惩
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.
崇
Learn the shape and a useful word
山 sits above 宗. Compare the lower 宗 with the right side of 综.
崇拜
Show word reading and meaning
chóngbài
admire greatly; idolize
崇拜 is strong admiration or idolisation, stronger than merely liking something.
Read a sentence
她从小就很崇拜这位运动员。
Show sentence reading and meaning
tā cóng xiǎo jiù hěn chóng bài zhè wèi yùn dòng yuán。
She has greatly admired this athlete since childhood.
Learn the 11 strokes · write 崇
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.
愁
Learn the shape and a useful word
秋 sits above 心. Notice 禾 beside 火 in the upper part.
发愁
Show word reading and meaning
fāchóu
worry; feel troubled about something
发愁 means worry about something. Worrying is different from resolving the problem.
Read a sentence
她正在为周末的安排发愁。
Show sentence reading and meaning
tā zhèng zài wèi zhōu mò de ān pái fā chóu。
She is worrying about the arrangements for the weekend.
Learn the 13 strokes · write 愁
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.
筹
Learn the shape and a useful word
A bamboo top sits above 寿. Compare the lower 寿 with its complete separate shape.
筹备
Show word reading and meaning
chóubèi
prepare and organize for a future event
筹备 is preparation for a future event, not confirmation that it has taken place.
Read a sentence
我们从上个月就开始筹备这场演出。
Show sentence reading and meaning
wǒ men cóng shàng gè yuè jiù kāi shǐ chóu bèi zhè chǎng yǎn chū。
We started preparing for this performance last month.
Learn the 13 strokes · write 筹
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.
储
Learn the shape and a useful word
亻 stands beside 诸. Within the right-hand part, 讠 stands beside 者.
储存
Show word reading and meaning
chǔcún
store; keep for later use
储存 means keep something for later use; it can apply to materials or information.
Read a sentence
请把文件储存在这个文件夹里。
Show sentence reading and meaning
qǐng bǎ wén jiàn chǔ cún zài zhè ge wén jiàn jiā lǐ。
Please store the files in this folder.
Learn the 12 strokes · write 储
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 筹备 and 储存 differ, and what does 发愁 describe?
Check and learn
Words: 惩罚 chéngfá — punish; punishment for wrongdoing; 崇拜 chóngbài — admire greatly; idolize; 发愁 fāchóu — worry; feel troubled about something; 筹备 chóubèi — prepare and organize for a future event; 储存 chǔcún — store; keep for later use. 筹备 is preparation for a future event; 储存 is storing for later use. 发愁 means worry, 崇拜 strong admiration and 惩罚 punishment.
Try a new context
演出还在筹备，资料已经储存好了，她不用再为丢文件发愁。
What is finished, and what is still in preparation? Use 丢文件 (diū wénjiàn), lose files.
Compare your interpretation
The material has been stored, but the performance is still being prepared. 储存好了 is completed storage; 还在筹备 is ongoing preparation, not evidence that the performance has occurred.
This is a comparison model for self-review, not an automatic mark.
Tomorrow, mix these five words with a previous group. Close all help, recall each word and meaning, explain one shape or reading contrast, and interpret the new context again. Reopen the model after trying. For handwriting, compare a memory attempt with the stroke model and choose one detail to improve.
315. A bunch, forceful entry and vertical form
Distinguish a count word from a shape description.
串
Learn the shape and a useful word
Two box-like sections are pierced by one long central vertical. Compare the single box in 中.
串
Show word reading and meaning
chuàn
string or bunch (a measure word for things joined together)
串 counts things joined on a string or in a bunch; the noun specifies what is counted.
Read a sentence
这串钥匙是谁的？
Show sentence reading and meaning
zhè chuàn yào shi shì shéi de？
Whose bunch of keys is this?
Learn the 7 strokes · write 串
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.
闯
Learn the shape and a useful word
门 encloses 马. Compare the enclosed 马 with 木 inside 闲.
闯
Show word reading and meaning
chuǎng
rush or enter forcefully, often without permission
闯 describes rushing or entering forcefully, often without permission; it is not neutral arrival.
Read a sentence
有人突然闯进了会议室。
Show sentence reading and meaning
yǒu rén tū rán chuǎng jìn le huì yì shì。
Someone suddenly burst into the meeting room.
Learn the 6 strokes · write 闯
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.
垂
Learn the shape and a useful word
A short upper sloping stroke leads into a central vertical crossed by layered horizontals and short side strokes. Check the full model.
垂直
Show word reading and meaning
chuízhí
vertical; perpendicular
垂直 can mean vertical or perpendicular; the reference line or surface matters.
Read a sentence
这根柱子与地面垂直。
Show sentence reading and meaning
zhè gēn zhù zi yǔ dì miàn chuí zhí。
This column is perpendicular to the ground.
Learn the 8 strokes · write 垂
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.
纯
Learn the shape and a useful word
纟 stands beside 屯. Compare the right-hand turning shape with the straight-sided 由.
单纯
Show word reading and meaning
dānchún
purely; without other factors or motives
单纯 means purely or without other factors in the selected example; other uses depend on context.
Read a sentence
学好语言不能单纯依靠记忆。
Show sentence reading and meaning
xué hǎo yǔ yán bù néng dān chún yī kào jì yì。
Learning a language well cannot rely purely on memorization.
Learn the 7 strokes · write 纯
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.
瓷
Learn the shape and a useful word
次 sits above 瓦. Compare the lower 瓦 with the lower 女 in 姿.
瓷器
Show word reading and meaning
cíqì
porcelain; objects made from porcelain
瓷器 is porcelain ware, not every object made from glass or clay.
Read a sentence
博物馆展出了几件古代瓷器。
Show sentence reading and meaning
bó wù guǎn zhǎn chū le jǐ jiàn gǔ dài cí qì。
The museum displayed several pieces of ancient porcelain.
Learn the 10 strokes · write 瓷
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 串 count, and what reference does 垂直 need?
Check and learn
Words: 串 chuàn — string or bunch (a measure word for things joined together); 闯 chuǎng — rush or enter forcefully, often without permission; 垂直 chuízhí — vertical; perpendicular; 单纯 dānchún — purely; without other factors or motives; 瓷器 cíqì — porcelain; objects made from porcelain. 串 counts things joined in a bunch/string. 垂直 is vertical or perpendicular to a reference. 闯 is forceful entry, 单纯 purely and 瓷器 porcelain ware.
Try a new context
这串钥匙挂在墙上，旁边的线与地面垂直。
What is counted as a bunch, and what is perpendicular to the ground?
Compare your interpretation
The keys form the bunch. The line beside them is perpendicular to the ground. 串 counts the keys together; 垂直 describes the line's orientation, not how many keys there are.
This is a comparison model for self-review, not an automatic mark.
Tomorrow, mix these five words with a previous group. Close all help, recall each word and meaning, explain one shape or reading contrast, and interpret the new context again. Reopen the model after trying. For handwriting, compare a memory attempt with the stroke model and choose one detail to improve.
316. Haste, dimensions and a setback
Distinguish a setback from permanent failure and dimensions from guesswork.
匆
Learn the shape and a useful word
Look for a small inner sloping mark within the outer shape. Compare with 勿, which lacks that added mark.
匆忙
Show word reading and meaning
cōngmáng
in a hurry; hurried
匆忙 means in a hurry; haste does not establish that an action was accurate.
Read a sentence
他出门太匆忙，忘了带手机。
Show sentence reading and meaning
tā chū mén tài cōng máng， wàng le dài shǒu jī。
He left in such a hurry that he forgot his phone.
Learn the 5 strokes · write 匆
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.
醋
Learn the shape and a useful word
酉 stands beside 昔. Compare the left side with the 酉 in 醉.
醋
Show word reading and meaning
cù
vinegar
醋 is vinegar. A figurative expression using it may need a different English translation.
Read a sentence
你想在面条里加一点醋吗？
Show sentence reading and meaning
nǐ xiǎng zài miàn tiáo lǐ jiā yì diǎn cù ma？
Would you like to add a little vinegar to the noodles?
Learn the 15 strokes · write 醋
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.
脆
Learn the shape and a useful word
月 stands beside 危. Compare the same 危 in 跪, which has 足 on the left.
脆弱
Show word reading and meaning
cuìruò
fragile; easily harmed or upset
脆弱 means fragile or easily harmed, physically or emotionally according to context.
Read a sentence
这个生态系统很脆弱，需要保护。
Show sentence reading and meaning
zhè ge shēng tài xì tǒng hěn cuì ruò， xū yào bǎo hù。
This ecosystem is fragile and needs protection.
Learn the 10 strokes · write 脆
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.
寸
Learn the shape and a useful word
A horizontal crosses a vertical hook, with a small separate dot. Compare the complete model with 才.
尺寸
Show word reading and meaning
chǐcùn
size; dimensions
尺寸 means size or dimensions; it does not by itself give a numeric measurement or unit.
Read a sentence
买家具前，请先确认尺寸。
Show sentence reading and meaning
mǎi jiā jù qián， qǐng xiān què rèn chǐ cùn。
Please check the dimensions before buying furniture.
Learn the 3 strokes · write 寸
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.
挫
Learn the shape and a useful word
扌 stands beside 坐. Compare the two 人-like upper parts above 土 on the right.
挫折
Show word reading and meaning
cuòzhé
setback; a difficulty that interrupts progress
挫折 is a setback that interrupts progress, rather than proof of permanent failure.
Read a sentence
遇到挫折时，我们可以调整方法再试。
Show sentence reading and meaning
yù dào cuò zhé shí， wǒ men kě yǐ tiáo zhěng fāng fǎ zài shì。
When we encounter a setback, we can adjust our approach and try again.
Learn the 10 strokes · write 挫
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 尺寸 and 挫折 describe?
Check and learn
Words: 匆忙 cōngmáng — in a hurry; hurried; 醋 cù — vinegar; 脆弱 cuìruò — fragile; easily harmed or upset; 尺寸 chǐcùn — size; dimensions; 挫折 cuòzhé — setback; a difficulty that interrupts progress. 尺寸 is size/dimensions; 挫折 a setback. 匆忙 is hurry, 醋 vinegar and 脆弱 fragile or easily harmed.
Try a new context
他买得太匆忙，没确认尺寸，桌子放不进去。遇到这个挫折后，他决定重新测量。
What caused the problem, and what is the next action? Use 测量 (cèliáng), measure.
Compare your interpretation
He bought in haste without checking dimensions, so the table did not fit. He now plans to measure again. The setback changes his approach; it is not proof that no table can ever fit.
This is a comparison model for self-review, not an automatic mark.
Tomorrow, mix these five words with a previous group. Close all help, recall each word and meaning, explain one shape or reading contrast, and interpret the new context again. Reopen the model after trying. For handwriting, compare a memory attempt with the stroke model and choose one detail to improve.
317. Matching, staying and a delayed plan
Distinguish borrowed money from the emergence of a new idea.
搭
Learn the shape and a useful word
扌 stands beside 艹 above 合. Retain the grass top when comparing with 合 alone.
搭配
Show word reading and meaning
dāpèi
combine or match things so they work well together
搭配 means combine or match things so that they work well together.
Read a sentence
这件外套可以搭配深色裤子。
Show sentence reading and meaning
zhè jiàn wài tào kě yǐ dā pèi shēn sè kù zi。
This coat can be paired with dark trousers.
Learn the 12 strokes · write 搭
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.
呆
Learn the shape and a useful word
口 sits above 木. Compare the open lower 木 with 子 below 口 in other shapes.
呆
Show word reading and meaning
dāi
stay; remain in a place (informal)
呆 is dāi for stay or remain in this informal use; it is not an assessment of intelligence here.
Read a sentence
周末我想呆在家里看书。
Show sentence reading and meaning
zhōu mò wǒ xiǎng dāi zài jiā lǐ kàn shū。
I would like to stay home and read at the weekend.
Learn the 7 strokes · write 呆
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.
贷
Learn the shape and a useful word
代 sits above 贝. Compare the lower 贝 with the 人-like strokes in other endings.
贷款
Show word reading and meaning
dàikuǎn
loan; money borrowed under an agreement to repay
贷款 is borrowed money under an agreement to repay, rather than income earned by working.
Read a sentence
合同上写明了贷款的金额。
Show sentence reading and meaning
hé tóng shàng xiě míng le dài kuǎn de jīn é。
The contract states the amount of the loan.
Learn the 9 strokes · write 贷
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.
耽
Learn the shape and a useful word
耳 stands beside a cap with spreading and hooking lower strokes. Compare the left 耳 with 耳 alone.
耽误
Show word reading and meaning
dānwu
delay; hold up someone's time or progress
耽误 is dānwu, with neutral wu, and means delay or hold up progress.
Read a sentence
路上堵车，耽误了半个小时。
Show sentence reading and meaning
lù shang dǔ chē， dān wu le bàn gè xiǎo shí。
The traffic jam delayed us by half an hour.
Learn the 10 strokes · write 耽
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.
诞
Learn the shape and a useful word
讠 stands beside 延. Compare the sweeping lower part of 延 with 辶.
诞生
Show word reading and meaning
dànshēng
be born; come into existence
诞生 means be born or come into existence, including a new idea or product in context.
Read a sentence
这个新想法是在讨论中诞生的。
Show sentence reading and meaning
zhè ge xīn xiǎng fǎ shì zài tǎo lùn zhōng dàn shēng de。
This new idea emerged during the discussion.
Learn the 8 strokes · write 诞
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 呆 read for stay, and what does 耽误 mean?
Check and learn
Words: 搭配 dāpèi — combine or match things so they work well together; 呆 dāi — stay; remain in a place (informal); 贷款 dàikuǎn — loan; money borrowed under an agreement to repay; 耽误 dānwu — delay; hold up someone's time or progress; 诞生 dànshēng — be born; come into existence. 呆 dāi is stay in this informal use. 耽误 dānwu is delay, 贷款 a loan, 诞生 coming into existence and 搭配 matching things together.
Try a new context
我决定呆在家里修改方案，不想因为匆忙贷款耽误后面的安排。
What has been decided, and is a loan already reported as taken?
Compare your interpretation
The decision is to stay home and revise the plan. Taking out a loan is not reported as completed; the speaker wants to avoid rushed borrowing delaying later arrangements. 呆 identifies staying, not intelligence.
This is a comparison model for self-review, not an automatic mark.
Tomorrow, mix these five words with a previous group. Close all help, recall each word and meaning, explain one shape or reading contrast, and interpret the new context again. Reopen the model after trying. For handwriting, compare a memory attempt with the stroke model and choose one detail to improve.
318. An island, a crop and arrival
Distinguish an arrival time from arrival already achieved.
岛
Learn the shape and a useful word
A bird-like upper frame sits above 山. Keep the lower 山 rather than the dots of 鸟.
岛
Show word reading and meaning
dǎo
island
岛 is an island. The selected word alone does not state its size or whether it is inhabited.
Read a sentence
我们坐船去参观附近的小岛。
Show sentence reading and meaning
wǒ men zuò chuán qù cān guān fù jìn de xiǎo dǎo。
We took a boat to visit a nearby island.
Learn the 7 strokes · write 岛
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.
稻
Learn the shape and a useful word
禾 stands beside 舀, with upper 爫-like strokes over 臼. Compare the lower 臼 with 白.
水稻
Show word reading and meaning
shuǐdào
rice plant; rice grown in flooded fields
水稻 is the rice plant grown in wet fields; 米饭 is cooked rice, a different word.
Read a sentence
这片农田种植水稻。
Show sentence reading and meaning
zhè piàn nóng tián zhòng zhí shuǐ dào。
Rice is grown in these fields.
Learn the 15 strokes · write 稻
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.
德
Learn the shape and a useful word
彳 stands beside a stacked right-hand part with 十, 罒, a horizontal and 心 below. Retain the horizontal above 心.
道德
Show word reading and meaning
dàodé
ethics; principles about right and wrong behavior
道德 concerns ethical principles about behaviour, not every rule in a procedure.
Read a sentence
这门课讨论了科技发展中的道德问题。
Show sentence reading and meaning
zhè mén kè tǎo lùn le kē jì fā zhǎn zhōng de dào dé wèn tí。
This course discusses ethical issues in technological development.
Learn the 15 strokes · write 德
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.
滴
Learn the shape and a useful word
氵 stands beside a capped enclosing frame with 古 inside. Compare the same right side with 摘.
滴
Show word reading and meaning
dī
drop (a measure word for small amounts of liquid)
滴 counts small drops of liquid; the number tells how many drops.
Read a sentence
叶子上有一滴水。
Show sentence reading and meaning
yè zi shàng yǒu yī dī shuǐ。
There is a drop of water on the leaf.
Learn the 14 strokes · write 滴
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.
抵
Learn the shape and a useful word
扌 stands beside 氐. Keep the small lower dot when comparing 氐 with 氏.
抵达
Show word reading and meaning
dǐdá
arrive at; reach a destination (often formal)
抵达 is arrive at a destination, often in a more formal style than 到.
Read a sentence
火车将在下午抵达终点站。
Show sentence reading and meaning
huǒ chē jiāng zài xià wǔ dǐ dá zhōng diǎn zhàn。
The train will reach its final station in the afternoon.
Learn the 8 strokes · write 抵
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 a rice plant, and what does 抵达 describe?
Check and learn
Words: 岛 dǎo — island; 水稻 shuǐdào — rice plant; rice grown in flooded fields; 道德 dàodé — ethics; principles about right and wrong behavior; 滴 dī — drop (a measure word for small amounts of liquid); 抵达 dǐdá — arrive at; reach a destination (often formal). 水稻 is the rice plant; 抵达 is arrival at a destination. 岛 is island, 滴 counts drops and 道德 ethical principles.
Try a new context
船预计明天下午抵达种水稻的小岛。
Has the boat arrived, and what is grown on the island? Use 预计 (yùjì), expected.
Compare your interpretation
No arrival is established yet: it is expected tomorrow afternoon. Rice plants are grown on the island. 预计 and 明天 mark a forecast, not a completed 抵达.
This is a comparison model for self-review, not an automatic mark.
Tomorrow, mix these five words with a previous group. Close all help, recall each word and meaning, explain one shape or reading contrast, and interpret the new context again. Reopen the model after trying. For handwriting, compare a memory attempt with the stroke model and choose 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.