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 55 of 65. Start with one five-character group today. Use the words here first; sentence examples may introduce language you have not studied yet.
325. Coverage, embarrassment and a job role
Read 尴尬 as one whole word and identify the stated cause of embarrassment.
覆
Learn the shape and a useful word
A wide 覀-shaped top sits over 復. Notice 彳 and the lower 夂-like section within 復.
覆盖
Show word reading and meaning
fùgài
cover; extend over a surface or area
覆盖 means cover or extend over a surface or area; context sets the extent.
Read a sentence
冬天，积雪覆盖了山顶。
Show sentence reading and meaning
dōng tiān， jī xuě fù gài le shān dǐng。
Snow covers the mountaintop in winter.
Learn the 18 strokes · write 覆
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.
尬
Learn the shape and a useful word
A long sloping and hooking left part stands beside 介. Compare 尴 and its right-hand 监.
尴尬
Show word reading and meaning
gāngà
awkward; embarrassed in a social situation
尴尬 means socially awkward or embarrassed. 尬 is gà in the selected word.
Read a sentence
我叫错了他的名字，感到很尴尬。
Show sentence reading and meaning
wǒ jiào cuò le tā de míng zi， gǎn dào hěn gān gà。
I called him by the wrong name and felt embarrassed.
Learn the 7 strokes · write 尬
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.
肝
Learn the shape and a useful word
月 stands beside 干. Compare the right-hand 干 with the lower part of 旱.
肝
Show word reading and meaning
gān
liver (the organ)
肝 names the liver organ. It is distinct from 肺, lung.
Read a sentence
这张图标出了肝的位置。
Show sentence reading and meaning
zhè zhāng tú biāo chū le gān de wèi zhì。
This diagram marks the position of the liver.
Learn the 7 strokes · write 肝
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.
尴
Learn the shape and a useful word
The same sloping and hooking left part as 尬 stands beside 监. Compare both complete characters.
尴尬
Show word reading and meaning
gāngà
awkward; embarrassed in a social situation
尴 is gān in 尴尬 gāngà. Read the two characters together when describing an awkward social moment.
Read a sentence
我叫错了他的名字，感到很尴尬。
Show sentence reading and meaning
wǒ jiào cuò le tā de míng zi， gǎn dào hěn gān gà。
I called him by the wrong name and felt embarrassed.
Learn the 13 strokes · write 尴
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.
岗
Learn the shape and a useful word
山 sits above 冈. Compare the lower 冈 with the complete 网 shape.
岗位
Show word reading and meaning
gǎngwèi
job position; a role with specific duties
岗位 is a job position with specific duties. 岗 is gǎng in this word.
Read a sentence
她在新的岗位上学到了很多。
Show sentence reading and meaning
tā zài xīn de gǎng wèi shàng xué dào le hěn duō。
She has learned a lot in her new role.
Learn the 7 strokes · write 岗
Watch the direction and order. Use “Next stroke” to go slowly, then try writing with the model hidden. On paper, copy once, cover the model, write once, and compare.
Open this panel to load the model.
The writing check compares your strokes with this model. A completed trace is practice, rather than proof of independent handwriting. Your strokes stay on this page.
The model's font shape can differ from the reading font. Compare stroke structure and proportions rather than font styling.
Try with the help closed: Recall the five selected words. How are the two characters of 尴尬 read? What is 岗位?
Check and learn
Words: 覆盖 fùgài — cover; extend over a surface or area; 尴尬 gāngà — awkward; embarrassed in a social situation; 肝 gān — liver (the organ); 尴尬 gāngà — awkward; embarrassed in a social situation; 岗位 gǎngwèi — job position; a role with specific duties. 尴尬 is gāngà, socially awkward/embarrassed. 岗位 is a job role; 覆盖 means cover and 肝 names the liver.
Try a new context
刚到新岗位，我把同事的名字叫错了，感到尴尬。
What caused the embarrassment? Use 同事 (tóngshì), colleague.
Compare your interpretation
The speaker used a colleague's name incorrectly after starting the new role. 尴尬 describes that social discomfort; the sentence does not say the colleague did anything wrong.
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.
326. A port, draft and disagreement
Distinguish criticism of an idea from attacking a person.
港
Learn the shape and a useful word
氵 stands beside 巷, with 共 above a turning lower part. Compare 巷 with the extra water-side strokes.
港口
Show word reading and meaning
gǎngkǒu
port; harbor used by ships
港口 is a port or harbour for ships, not every place beside water.
Read a sentence
这艘船明天抵达港口。
Show sentence reading and meaning
zhè sōu chuán míng tiān dǐ dá gǎng kǒu。
This ship will reach the port tomorrow.
Learn the 12 strokes · write 港
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.
稿
Learn the shape and a useful word
禾 stands beside 高. Compare the full 高 with the same right side of other 木-family shapes.
稿子
Show word reading and meaning
gǎozi
draft; script; a written version being prepared
稿子 is a draft or script, with neutral zi. A draft need not be the final published version.
Read a sentence
演讲前，我又读了一遍稿子。
Show sentence reading and meaning
yǎn jiǎng qián， wǒ yòu dú le yī biàn gǎo zi。
Before the speech, I read through the script once more.
Learn the 15 strokes · write 稿
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.
割
Learn the shape and a useful word
害 stands beside a narrow 刂. Compare the lower 口 within 害 with the separate cutting-side strokes.
割
Show word reading and meaning
gē
cut; cut through or cut off
割 means cut through or cut off; the object is supplied by the sentence.
Read a sentence
工人正在割草。
Show sentence reading and meaning
gōng rén zhèng zài gē cǎo。
The worker is cutting the grass.
Learn the 12 strokes · write 割
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.
攻
Learn the shape and a useful word
工 stands beside 攵. Compare the left-hand 工 with the same left-hand part in 巩.
攻击
Show word reading and meaning
gōngjī
attack; act against a target physically or verbally
攻击 means attack, physically or verbally depending on context. It differs from calm disagreement.
Read a sentence
在讨论中，不应该攻击别人的人格。
Show sentence reading and meaning
zài tǎo lùn zhōng， bù yīng gāi gōng jī bié rén de rén gé。
In a discussion, you should not attack someone's character.
Learn the 7 strokes · write 攻
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.
宫
Learn the shape and a useful word
宀 covers two stacked 口 shapes. Compare 官, whose lower part has a different connected outline.
宫
Show word reading and meaning
gōng
palace (often in 宫殿)
宫 is palace in the selected entry; read the example rather than inferring a modern building type.
Read a sentence
这座宫殿现在是一个博物馆。
Show sentence reading and meaning
zhè zuò gōng diàn xiàn zài shì yí gè bó wù guǎn。
This palace is now a museum.
Learn the 9 strokes · write 宫
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 稿子, and what does 攻击 mean in a discussion?
Check and learn
Words: 港口 gǎngkǒu — port; harbor used by ships; 稿子 gǎozi — draft; script; a written version being prepared; 割 gē — cut; cut through or cut off; 攻击 gōngjī — attack; act against a target physically or verbally; 宫 gōng — palace (often in 宫殿). 稿子 is a draft/script with neutral zi. 攻击 can be a verbal attack; 港口 is port, 割 cutting and 宫 palace.
Try a new context
他对稿子提出了修改意见，没有攻击作者本人。
Was the criticism aimed at revisions to the text or at the author's character? Use 本人 (běnrén), the person themself.
Compare your interpretation
It concerned revisions to the draft. The sentence explicitly denies attacking the author personally. Proposing edits to 稿子 is distinct from 攻击 the person.
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.
327. Consolidation, loneliness and a turn
Distinguish revisiting knowledge from merely encountering it once.
巩
Learn the shape and a useful word
工 stands beside 凡. Keep the small dot in 凡 when comparing with 功 and its 力.
巩固
Show word reading and meaning
gǒnggù
consolidate; make learning or a position more secure
巩固 means consolidate or make learning/a position more secure, rather than merely encounter it once.
Read a sentence
复习可以帮助我们巩固学过的知识。
Show sentence reading and meaning
fù xí kě yǐ bāng zhù wǒ men gǒng gù xué guo de zhī shi。
Review helps us consolidate what we have learned.
Learn the 6 strokes · write 巩
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.
孤
Learn the shape and a useful word
子 stands beside 瓜. Compare the right-hand 瓜 with the simpler 爪 in 抓.
孤独
Show word reading and meaning
gūdú
lonely; feeling without companionship
孤独 means feeling lonely. Being physically alone does not always mean feeling lonely.
Read a sentence
刚搬到新城市时，他有点孤独。
Show sentence reading and meaning
gāng bān dào xīn chéng shì shí， tā yǒu diǎn gū dú。
He felt a little lonely when he first moved to the new city.
Learn the 8 strokes · write 孤
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.
股
Learn the shape and a useful word
月 stands beside 殳. Compare the same right-hand 殳 in 投.
股票
Show word reading and meaning
gǔpiào
stock; shares in a company
股票 means shares in a company. It differs from wages earned by work or money borrowed as a loan.
Read a sentence
这节课介绍了股票的基本概念。
Show sentence reading and meaning
zhè jié kè jiè shào le gǔ piào de jī běn gài niàn。
This lesson introduces the basic concept of company shares.
Learn the 8 strokes · write 股
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.
骨
Learn the shape and a useful word
A boxed upper framework sits above 月. Compare the lower 月 with the same part of 胃.
骨头
Show word reading and meaning
gǔtou
bone
骨头 is bone, with 骨 read gǔ and neutral tou in this selected word.
Read a sentence
这张图清楚地显示了手部的骨头。
Show sentence reading and meaning
zhè zhāng tú qīng chu de xiǎn shì le shǒu bù de gǔ tou。
This diagram clearly shows the bones of the hand.
Learn the 9 strokes · write 骨
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.
拐
Learn the shape and a useful word
扌 stands beside 另, with 口 above 力. Compare the lower 力 with the lower part of 男.
拐弯
Show word reading and meaning
guǎiwān
turn a corner; change direction around a bend
拐弯 means turn a corner or change direction round a bend; it does not specify left or right by itself.
Read a sentence
这辆车准备在路口拐弯。
Show sentence reading and meaning
zhè liàng chē zhǔn bèi zài lù kǒu guǎi wān。
This vehicle is about to turn at the intersection.
Learn the 8 strokes · write 拐
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 巩固 add to learning, and how is 骨头 read?
Check and learn
Words: 巩固 gǒnggù — consolidate; make learning or a position more secure; 孤独 gūdú — lonely; feeling without companionship; 股票 gǔpiào — stock; shares in a company; 骨头 gǔtou — bone; 拐弯 guǎiwān — turn a corner; change direction around a bend. 巩固 is consolidation. 骨头 is gǔtou, with neutral tou. 孤独 is feeling lonely, 股票 shares in a company and 拐弯 turning round a bend.
Try a new context
他复习学过的词来巩固记忆，不是第一次看到这些词。
Are the words entirely new, and what is the purpose of the review?
Compare your interpretation
No. He has studied them before and reviews them to strengthen memory. 巩固 concerns making existing learning more secure, rather than first exposure.
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.
328. An official, consistency and returning
Distinguish an intention to return something from completed return.
官
Learn the shape and a useful word
宀 covers a narrow upright part with two connected box-like sections. Compare the lower outline with 宫.
法官
Show word reading and meaning
fǎguān
judge in a court
法官 is a judge in a court, not a general label for every official.
Read a sentence
小说里的法官认真听取了双方的意见。
Show sentence reading and meaning
xiǎo shuō lǐ de fǎ guān rèn zhēn tīng qǔ le shuāng fāng de yì jiàn。
The judge in the novel carefully heard both sides' views.
Learn the 8 strokes · write 官
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.
贯
Learn the shape and a useful word
A crossed upper box-like shape stands above 贝. Keep the lower 贝 when comparing with 母-like outlines.
一贯
Show word reading and meaning
yíguàn
consistent; the same over time
一贯 means consistent over time. 一 is yí in the selected word yíguàn.
Read a sentence
她一贯认真对待学习。
Show sentence reading and meaning
tā yí guàn rèn zhēn duì dài xué xí。
She has always taken her studies seriously.
Learn the 8 strokes · write 贯
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.
罐
Learn the shape and a useful word
缶 stands beside 艹, two 口 shapes and 隹 on the right. Keep both upper boxes.
罐
Show word reading and meaning
guàn
can; jar or container
罐 is a can or jar/container. The noun in context identifies its contents, not the character alone.
Read a sentence
这罐茶叶是朋友送的。
Show sentence reading and meaning
zhè guàn chá yè shì péng you sòng de。
This tin of tea was a gift from a friend.
Learn the 23 strokes · write 罐
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.
归
Learn the shape and a useful word
Two narrow left strokes stand beside 彐. Compare with the extra left-side strokes in other characters.
归还
Show word reading and meaning
guīhuán
return something to its owner or original place
归还 means return something to its owner or original place; 还 is huán here.
Read a sentence
请按时归还图书馆的书。
Show sentence reading and meaning
qǐng àn shí guī huán tú shū guǎn de shū。
Please return the library books on time.
Learn the 5 strokes · write 归
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.
龟
Learn the shape and a useful word
An upper cap sits above a 田-like box and a lower turning hook. Compare the complete outline with 兔.
乌龟
Show word reading and meaning
wūguī
turtle; a common term for a shelled reptile
龟 is guī in 乌龟. The whole animal word differs from the homophonous return word 归.
Read a sentence
池塘边有一只乌龟。
Show sentence reading and meaning
chí táng biān yǒu yī zhī wū guī。
There is a turtle beside the pond.
Learn the 7 strokes · write 龟
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 还 read in 归还, and what does 一贯 describe?
Check and learn
Words: 法官 fǎguān — judge in a court; 一贯 yíguàn — consistent; the same over time; 罐 guàn — can; jar or container; 归还 guīhuán — return something to its owner or original place; 乌龟 wūguī — turtle; a common term for a shelled reptile. 归还 uses huán for return. 一贯 describes consistency over time. 法官 is judge, 罐 a container and 乌龟 a turtle with 龟 guī.
Try a new context
她一贯按时归还借来的书，但这次只说了明天会还。
Has this particular return already happened? Use 借来 (jièlái), borrow.
Compare your interpretation
No. Her usual habit is timely return, but this instance is only promised for tomorrow. 一贯 describes a pattern; it does not turn a future 归还 into a completed event.
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.
329. A track, posture and rarity
Distinguish rare from impossible and kneeling from crouching.
轨
Learn the shape and a useful word
车 stands beside 九. Compare the right-hand 九 with 丸 and its extra dot.
轨道
Show word reading and meaning
guǐdào
track; a fixed path such as a rail line or orbit
轨道 is a track or fixed path, such as rails or an orbit; context selects the type.
Read a sentence
火车沿着轨道向前行驶。
Show sentence reading and meaning
huǒ chē yán zhe guǐ dào xiàng qián xíng shǐ。
The train travels forward along the track.
Learn the 6 strokes · write 轨
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.
跪
Learn the shape and a useful word
足 stands beside 危. Compare 脆, whose left side is 月.
跪
Show word reading and meaning
guì
kneel; lower yourself onto your knees
跪 means kneel on the knees. 蹲 instead means squat or crouch.
Read a sentence
故事里，他跪在地上请求原谅。
Show sentence reading and meaning
gù shi lǐ， tā guì zài dì shàng qǐng qiú yuán liàng。
In the story, he knelt on the ground and asked for forgiveness.
Learn the 13 strokes · write 跪
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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棍
Learn the shape and a useful word
木 stands beside 昆, with 日 above 比. Compare the lower 比 with 北.
棍
Show word reading and meaning
gùn
stick; rod
棍 is gùn, stick or rod. The word alone does not state its material.
Read a sentence
他用一根棍把球从桌子底下拨了出来。
Show sentence reading and meaning
tā yòng yī gēn gùn bǎ qiú cóng zhuō zi dǐ xia bō le chū lái。
He used a stick to push the ball out from under the table.
Learn the 12 strokes · write 棍
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.
涵
Learn the shape and a useful word
氵 stands beside 函. Keep the outer open-topped lower frame around its inner strokes.
内涵
Show word reading and meaning
nèihán
underlying meaning; substantive depth
内涵 is underlying meaning or substantive depth, rather than only outer appearance.
Read a sentence
这首诗的内涵很丰富。
Show sentence reading and meaning
zhè shǒu shī de nèi hán hěn fēng fù。
This poem has rich layers of meaning.
Learn the 11 strokes · write 涵
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.
罕
Learn the shape and a useful word
A cap and two spreading strokes sit above 干. Compare the lower 干 with the one under 日 in 旱.
罕见
Show word reading and meaning
hǎnjiàn
rare; seldom seen
罕见 means rare or seldom seen; it does not mean impossible.
Read a sentence
这种花在这里很罕见。
Show sentence reading and meaning
zhè zhǒng huā zài zhè lǐ hěn hǎn jiàn。
This kind of flower is rarely seen here.
Learn the 7 strokes · write 罕
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 罕见 and 跪 mean?
Check and learn
Words: 轨道 guǐdào — track; a fixed path such as a rail line or orbit; 跪 guì — kneel; lower yourself onto your knees; 棍 gùn — stick; rod; 内涵 nèihán — underlying meaning; substantive depth; 罕见 hǎnjiàn — rare; seldom seen. 罕见 means seldom seen, not impossible. 跪 is kneeling; 蹲 is crouching. 轨道 is a track/path, 棍 a stick and 内涵 underlying meaning.
Try a new context
这种花在这里很罕见，但有人去年见过。
Does the sentence say nobody has ever seen it here?
Compare your interpretation
No. It is rare here, and someone saw it last year. 罕见 permits occasional sightings; it must not be expanded into 从未见过, never seen.
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.
330. Drought, resource use and pride
Distinguish total absence from a small amount and identify a resource.
旱
Learn the shape and a useful word
日 sits above 干. Compare 早, whose lower part is 十.
干旱
Show word reading and meaning
gānhàn
drought; a prolonged lack of rain
干旱 means drought or a prolonged lack of rain; 干 is gān in this word.
Read a sentence
这个地区因为干旱缺少水源。
Show sentence reading and meaning
zhè ge dì qū yīn wèi gān hàn quē shǎo shuǐ yuán。
This region lacks water sources because of drought.
Learn the 7 strokes · write 旱
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.
毫
Learn the shape and a useful word
A cap, 口 and another cap sit above 毛. Compare 豪 and its lower 豕.
毫无
Show word reading and meaning
háo wú
have absolutely no; completely lack
毫无 means have absolutely no or completely lack the stated thing; it needs that object or quality.
Read a sentence
这两件事毫无关系。
Show sentence reading and meaning
zhè liǎng jiàn shì háo wú guān xì。
These two things have no connection at all.
Learn the 11 strokes · write 毫
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.
豪
Learn the shape and a useful word
A cap and 口 sit above a covered 豕-like lower part. Compare the lower strokes with 毛 in 毫.
自豪
Show word reading and meaning
zìháo
proud; feeling pride in someone or something
自豪 means proud of someone or something. It is distinct from 毫无 despite the similar shapes.
Read a sentence
她为自己的进步感到自豪。
Show sentence reading and meaning
tā wèi zì jǐ de jìn bù gǎn dào zì háo。
She feels proud of her progress.
Learn the 14 strokes · write 豪
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.
耗
Learn the shape and a useful word
耒 stands beside 毛. Compare the left 耒 with 木 and its extra upper strokes.
消耗
Show word reading and meaning
xiāohào
to use up; consumption of a resource
消耗 means use up a resource. The sentence identifies whether it is time, energy or something else.
Read a sentence
这个设备消耗的电量很少。
Show sentence reading and meaning
zhè ge shè bèi xiāo hào de diàn liàng hěn shǎo。
This device uses very little electricity.
Learn the 10 strokes · write 耗
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.
核
Learn the shape and a useful word
木 stands beside 亥. Compare the same right side of 孩, which has 子 on the left.
核心
Show word reading and meaning
héxīn
core; the central or most important part
核心 is the central or most important part. 核 is hé in this selected word.
Read a sentence
我们先讨论这个问题的核心。
Show sentence reading and meaning
wǒ men xiān tǎo lùn zhè ge wèn tí de hé xīn。
Let's first discuss the core of this issue.
Learn the 10 strokes · write 核
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 strength of 毫无, and what does 消耗 identify?
Check and learn
Words: 干旱 gānhàn — drought; a prolonged lack of rain; 毫无 háo wú — have absolutely no; completely lack; 自豪 zìháo — proud; feeling pride in someone or something; 消耗 xiāohào — to use up; consumption of a resource; 核心 héxīn — core; the central or most important part. 毫无 is completely lacking the stated thing. 消耗 is using up a resource. 干旱 is drought, 自豪 pride and 核心 the central part.
Try a new context
干旱时，我们减少用水，但不是毫无消耗。
Has water consumption been reduced to zero, or only reduced?
Compare your interpretation
It has been reduced, not eliminated. 不是毫无消耗 explicitly says some use remains. 毫无 would be a total absence, stronger than merely less consumption.
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.