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 60 of 65. Start with one five-character group today. Use the words here first; sentence examples may introduce language you have not studied yet.
355. Deception, a game piece and starting
Distinguish starting a system from finishing its task.
欺
Learn the shape and a useful word
其 stands beside 欠. Compare the lower spreading strokes of 其 with the narrower right-hand 欠.
欺骗
Show word reading and meaning
qīpiàn
to deceive or trick
欺骗 means deceive; it is more than simply making an unintentional mistake.
Read a sentence
不真实的广告会欺骗消费者。
Show sentence reading and meaning
bù zhēn shí de guǎng gào huì qī piàn xiāo fèi zhě。
Untruthful advertising can deceive consumers.
Learn the 12 strokes · write 欺
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.
棋
Learn the shape and a useful word
木 stands beside 其. Compare the same 其 beside 欠 in 欺.
棋子
Show word reading and meaning
qízǐ
chess or board-game piece
棋子 is qízǐ in the selected entry, a board-game piece; 子 is not neutral here.
Read a sentence
他把一枚棋子放在棋盘上。
Show sentence reading and meaning
tā bǎ yī méi qí zǐ fàng zài qí pán shàng。
He placed a game piece on the board.
Learn the 12 strokes · write 棋
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.
旗
Learn the shape and a useful word
方 and a short sloping/vertical cap stand beside 其. Compare the lower 其 with 棋.
国旗
Show word reading and meaning
guóqí
national flag
国旗 means national flag; the word alone does not specify a particular country.
Read a sentence
学校门口挂着一面国旗。
Show sentence reading and meaning
xué xiào mén kǒu guà zhe yí miàn guó qí。
A national flag hangs at the school entrance.
Learn the 14 strokes · write 旗
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.
启
Learn the shape and a useful word
户 sits above 口. Compare the upper 户 with 尸 and its different top stroke.
启动
Show word reading and meaning
qǐdòng
to start or activate a machine, process or project
启动 means start or activate a process, project or machine, rather than finish it.
Read a sentence
请先启动电脑。
Show sentence reading and meaning
qǐng xiān qǐ dòng diàn nǎo。
Please start the computer first.
Learn the 7 strokes · write 启
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.
恰
Learn the shape and a useful word
忄 stands beside 合. Compare the same 合 with the lower part of 答.
恰当
Show word reading and meaning
qiàdàng
appropriate; suitable for the situation
恰当 means appropriate for the situation; context supplies the purpose or audience.
Read a sentence
这个词用在这里很恰当。
Show sentence reading and meaning
zhè ge cí yòng zài zhè lǐ hěn qià dàng。
This word is appropriate here.
Learn the 9 strokes · write 恰
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 棋子 read, and what does 启动 establish?
Check and learn
Words: 欺骗 qīpiàn — to deceive or trick; 棋子 qízǐ — chess or board-game piece; 国旗 guóqí — national flag; 启动 qǐdòng — to start or activate a machine, process or project; 恰当 qiàdàng — appropriate; suitable for the situation. 棋子 is qízǐ, with full zǐ. 启动 is activation/start, not completion. 欺骗 is deceive, 国旗 national flag and 恰当 appropriate.
Try a new context
电脑已经启动，但文件还没有打开。
What is ready, and which action remains incomplete?
Compare your interpretation
The computer has started; the file has not opened. 启动 reports activation of the computer, not that every later action has finished.
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.
356. Leading, modesty and potential
Distinguish potential from an already demonstrated achievement.
牵
Learn the shape and a useful word
大 and a cap sit above 牛. Compare the lower 牛 with 午.
牵
Show word reading and meaning
qiān
to lead by holding or pulling
牵 means lead by holding or pulling; the sentence identifies what is led.
Read a sentence
她牵着孩子的手过马路。
Show sentence reading and meaning
tā qiān zhe hái zi de shǒu guò mǎ lù。
She held the child's hand as they crossed the road.
Learn the 9 strokes · write 牵
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.
谦
Learn the shape and a useful word
讠 stands beside 兼. Compare the full right-hand 兼 with its separate form.
谦虚
Show word reading and meaning
qiānxū
modest; humble about one's achievements
谦虚 is modesty about achievements, not proof of having no ability.
Read a sentence
她成绩很好，但一直很谦虚。
Show sentence reading and meaning
tā chéng jì hěn hǎo， dàn yì zhí hěn qiān xū。
She gets excellent marks but has always been modest.
Learn the 12 strokes · write 谦
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.
潜
Learn the shape and a useful word
氵 stands beside 替. Notice the two upper 夫-like shapes above 日 on the right.
潜力
Show word reading and meaning
qiánlì
potential; an ability or possibility not yet fully developed
潜力 is potential not yet fully developed; it differs from an already achieved result.
Read a sentence
这个年轻演员很有潜力。
Show sentence reading and meaning
zhè ge nián qīng yǎn yuán hěn yǒu qián lì。
This young actor has a lot of potential.
Learn the 15 strokes · write 潜
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.
枪
Learn the shape and a useful word
木 stands beside 仓. Compare 仓 alone with the added 木 side.
枪
Show word reading and meaning
qiāng
gun
枪 names a gun in the selected entry. The word itself does not report its use.
Read a sentence
博物馆里展出了一支古代的枪。
Show sentence reading and meaning
bó wù guǎn lǐ zhǎn chū le yī zhī gǔ dài de qiāng。
An antique gun is on display in the museum.
Learn the 8 strokes · write 枪
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.
腔
Learn the shape and a useful word
月 stands beside 空. Compare 穴 above 工 within the right-hand part.
口腔
Show word reading and meaning
kǒuqiāng
oral cavity; the inside of the mouth
口腔 is the inside of the mouth, rather than the chest 胸.
Read a sentence
这张图展示了口腔的结构。
Show sentence reading and meaning
zhè zhāng tú zhǎn shì le kǒu qiāng de jié gòu。
This diagram shows the structure of the oral cavity.
Learn the 12 strokes · write 腔
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 潜力 describe, and how does 谦虚 relate to achievement?
Check and learn
Words: 牵 qiān — to lead by holding or pulling; 谦虚 qiānxū — modest; humble about one's achievements; 潜力 qiánlì — potential; an ability or possibility not yet fully developed; 枪 qiāng — gun; 口腔 kǒuqiāng — oral cavity; the inside of the mouth. 潜力 is ability not yet fully developed; 谦虚 is modesty and can coexist with achievement. 牵 is lead by holding, 枪 gun and 口腔 inside the mouth.
Try a new context
老师说他有潜力，不是说他已经掌握了全部内容。
Has complete mastery been established? Use 掌握 (zhǎngwò), have a firm grasp of.
Compare your interpretation
No. The teacher sees potential, but explicitly does not claim full command of the material. 潜力 points to possible development, not a completed achievement.
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.
357. Looking, attentive listening and a source channel
Distinguish attentive listening from automatic agreement.
瞧
Learn the shape and a useful word
目 stands beside 焦, with 隹 above 灬. Compare 焦 alone with the added eye side.
瞧
Show word reading and meaning
qiáo
to look; an everyday spoken word
瞧 is an everyday spoken word for look. Looking does not necessarily establish understanding.
Read a sentence
你瞧，花已经开了！
Show sentence reading and meaning
nǐ qiáo， huā yǐ jīng kāi le！
Look, the flowers have already bloomed!
Learn the 17 strokes · write 瞧
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.
倾
Learn the shape and a useful word
亻 stands beside 顷, whose right side is 页. Keep the narrow inner left part of 顷.
倾听
Show word reading and meaning
qīngtīng
to listen attentively
倾听 means listen attentively, rather than simply be within hearing distance.
Read a sentence
请认真倾听对方的意见。
Show sentence reading and meaning
qǐng rèn zhēn qīng tīng duì fāng de yì jiàn。
Please listen carefully to the other person's views.
Learn the 10 strokes · write 倾
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.
屈
Learn the shape and a useful word
尸 covers 出. Compare the two stacked open shapes inside 出.
委屈
Show word reading and meaning
wěiqu
to feel wronged; unfair treatment or grievance
委屈 is wěiqu, with neutral qu, for feeling wronged or unfair treatment.
Read a sentence
被误解后，她感到很委屈。
Show sentence reading and meaning
bèi wù jiě hòu， tā gǎn dào hěn wěi qu。
She felt wronged after being misunderstood.
Learn the 8 strokes · write 屈
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.
渠
Learn the shape and a useful word
氵 and 巨 sit above 木. Compare the lower 木 with the upper left water strokes.
渠道
Show word reading and meaning
qúdào
channel; a route through which something is provided
渠道 is a route or channel for providing something; it need not be a waterway.
Read a sentence
你通过什么渠道得到这个消息？
Show sentence reading and meaning
nǐ tōng guò shén me qú dào dé dào zhè ge xiāo xi？
Through what channel did you get this news?
Learn the 11 strokes · write 渠
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.
娶
Learn the shape and a useful word
取 sits above 女. Compare 耳 beside 又 in 取 with the added lower 女.
娶
Show word reading and meaning
qǔ
to marry; traditionally used for a man taking a wife
娶 traditionally describes a man marrying a wife. 结婚 is a more general marriage word.
Read a sentence
他去年娶了大学同学。
Show sentence reading and meaning
tā qù nián qǔ le dà xué tóng xué。
He married a university classmate last year.
Learn the 11 strokes · write 娶
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 倾听 mean, and how is 委屈 read?
Check and learn
Words: 瞧 qiáo — to look; an everyday spoken word; 倾听 qīngtīng — to listen attentively; 委屈 wěiqu — to feel wronged; unfair treatment or grievance; 渠道 qúdào — channel; a route through which something is provided; 娶 qǔ — to marry; traditionally used for a man taking a wife. 倾听 is listen attentively; 委屈 is wěiqu with neutral qu. 瞧 is look, 渠道 a channel/route and 娶 a traditional man-marries-wife use.
Try a new context
我认真倾听了他的意见，但最后没有同意。
Was the opinion heard attentively, and was it accepted?
Compare your interpretation
It was heard attentively but not accepted. 倾听 describes the listening behaviour; it does not imply agreement with the view.
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.
358. A circle, a voucher and integration
Distinguish a coupon from payment and a boundary from a number.
圈
Learn the shape and a useful word
囗 encloses 卷. Keep the broad outer enclosure distinct from the inner turning shape.
圈
Show word reading and meaning
quān
circle; a loop or circular boundary
圈 is quān for circle/loop in this entry. Other uses can have a different reading.
Read a sentence
请在正确答案旁边画一个圈。
Show sentence reading and meaning
qǐng zài zhèng què dá àn páng biān huà yí gè quān。
Please draw a circle beside the correct answer.
Learn the 11 strokes · write 圈
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.
券
Learn the shape and a useful word
Two short upper strokes and spreading middle strokes sit above 刀. Compare the lower 刀 with the turning lower shape in 卷.
券
Show word reading and meaning
quàn
ticket, voucher or coupon
券 is quàn for a ticket, voucher or coupon, not juàn.
Read a sentence
请在付款时出示这张优惠券。
Show sentence reading and meaning
qǐng zài fù kuǎn shí chū shì zhè zhāng yōu huì quàn。
Please show this discount voucher when you pay.
Learn the 8 strokes · write 券
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.
壤
Learn the shape and a useful word
土 stands beside 襄. Notice the paired upper 口 shapes and long lower strokes on the right.
土壤
Show word reading and meaning
tǔrǎng
soil
土壤 is soil. It is not every substance that resembles brown powder.
Read a sentence
这种植物适合生长在湿润的土壤里。
Show sentence reading and meaning
zhè zhǒng zhí wù shì hé shēng zhǎng zài shī rùn de tǔ rǎng lǐ。
This plant grows well in moist soil.
Learn the 20 strokes · write 壤
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.
绒
Learn the shape and a useful word
纟 stands beside 戎. Compare the inner short crossing strokes with 戈 alone.
羽绒服
Show word reading and meaning
yǔróngfú
down jacket
羽绒服 is a down jacket; read the complete clothing word rather than translating each character separately.
Read a sentence
天冷时，她穿了一件羽绒服。
Show sentence reading and meaning
tiān lěng shí， tā chuān le yī jiàn yǔ róng fú。
She wore a down jacket when it was cold.
Learn the 9 strokes · write 绒
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.
融
Learn the shape and a useful word
鬲 stands beside 虫. Keep the lower frame within the tall left section.
融合
Show word reading and meaning
rónghé
to blend or integrate different elements
融合 means blend or integrate elements, not merely place them side by side.
Read a sentence
这道菜融合了两种地方风味。
Show sentence reading and meaning
zhè dào cài róng hé le liǎng zhǒng dì fāng fēng wèi。
This dish blends two regional styles of cooking.
Learn the 16 strokes · write 融
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 圈 and 券 read in their selected entries?
Check and learn
Words: 圈 quān — circle; a loop or circular boundary; 券 quàn — ticket, voucher or coupon; 土壤 tǔrǎng — soil; 羽绒服 yǔróngfú — down jacket; 融合 rónghé — to blend or integrate different elements. 圈 quān is a circle/loop; 券 quàn a voucher/ticket. 土壤 is soil, 羽绒服 a down jacket and 融合 integration/blending.
Try a new context
我带了优惠券，但还没有付款。
Does possession of the voucher prove the purchase is paid? Use 付款 (fùkuǎn), pay.
Compare your interpretation
No. The voucher is available, but payment has not happened. 券 is not itself evidence of a completed transaction.
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.
359. Softness, sprinkling and stuffing
Keep 撒 sǎ and 塞 sāi distinct and avoid enlarging a small quantity.
柔
Learn the shape and a useful word
矛 sits above 木. Compare the upper 矛 with 予 and its different strokes.
柔软
Show word reading and meaning
róuruǎn
soft; flexible and not hard to the touch
柔软 is soft/flexible to the touch in this word; 温柔 describes manner in another word.
Read a sentence
这条围巾摸起来很柔软。
Show sentence reading and meaning
zhè tiáo wéi jīn mō qǐ lái hěn róu ruǎn。
This scarf feels soft to the touch.
Learn the 9 strokes · write 柔
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.
撒
Learn the shape and a useful word
扌 stands beside 散. Compare the right-hand 攵 within 散 with the hand side on the left.
撒
Show word reading and meaning
sǎ
to sprinkle or scatter
The selected 撒 is sǎ, sprinkle/scatter. Other words can use sā.
Read a sentence
她在汤里撒了一点盐。
Show sentence reading and meaning
tā zài tāng lǐ sǎ le yì diǎn yán。
She sprinkled a little salt into the soup.
Learn the 15 strokes · write 撒
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.
塞
Learn the shape and a useful word
宀 covers a dense crossed middle, two spreading strokes and 土 below. Compare the complete model with 寒.
塞
Show word reading and meaning
sāi
to stuff or push into a space
The selected 塞 is sāi, stuff into a space. The same character has other readings in other words.
Read a sentence
他把书塞进了包里。
Show sentence reading and meaning
tā bǎ shū sāi jìn le bāo lǐ。
He stuffed the book into his bag.
Learn the 13 strokes · write 塞
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.
嗓
Learn the shape and a useful word
口 stands beside 桑, with three 又-like upper shapes above 木.
嗓子
Show word reading and meaning
sǎngzi
throat; one's voice in everyday speech
嗓子 is throat or voice in everyday speech, with neutral zi.
Read a sentence
我今天嗓子有点哑。
Show sentence reading and meaning
wǒ jīn tiān sǎng zi yǒu diǎn yǎ。
My voice is a little hoarse today.
Learn the 13 strokes · write 嗓
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.
丧
Learn the shape and a useful word
十 and two short side strokes sit above long lower turning/sloping strokes. Compare the lower outline with 衣.
丧失
Show word reading and meaning
sàngshī
to lose something important, such as ability or confidence
丧 is sàng in 丧失, lose something important. It does not specify what is lost without context.
Read a sentence
一次失败不应该让你丧失信心。
Show sentence reading and meaning
yī cì shī bài bù yīng gāi ràng nǐ sàng shī xìn xīn。
One failure should not make you lose confidence.
Learn the 8 strokes · write 丧
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. Read the selected 撒 and 塞. What does 嗓子 name?
Check and learn
Words: 柔软 róuruǎn — soft; flexible and not hard to the touch; 撒 sǎ — to sprinkle or scatter; 塞 sāi — to stuff or push into a space; 嗓子 sǎngzi — throat; one's voice in everyday speech; 丧失 sàngshī — to lose something important, such as ability or confidence. 撒 sǎ sprinkles; 塞 sāi stuffs into a space. 嗓子 is throat/voice, 柔软 soft/flexible and 丧失 losing something important.
Try a new context
她只撒了一点盐，并没有把整袋盐倒进去。
How much salt was added? Use 整袋 (zhěng dài), the whole bag.
Compare your interpretation
Only a little salt was sprinkled in. The sentence explicitly denies adding the whole bag. 撒了一点 cannot be expanded into a much larger quantity.
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.
360. Braking, a shark and a filter
Distinguish applying a brake from a complete stop.
杀
Learn the shape and a useful word
Two sloping strokes cross above a 木-like lower section. Compare the lower part with the separate 木.
杀
Show word reading and meaning
shā
to kill
杀 means kill. The example supplies the object rather than the character alone.
Read a sentence
故事里的英雄杀死了怪兽。
Show sentence reading and meaning
gù shi lǐ de yīng xióng shā sǐ le guài shòu。
The hero in the story killed the monster.
Learn the 6 strokes · write 杀
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.
刹
Learn the shape and a useful word
杀 stands beside 刂. Compare 杀 alone with the added narrow cutting-side strokes.
刹车
Show word reading and meaning
shāchē
to brake; a vehicle's brake
刹 is shā in 刹车, brake. It is not a single fixed reading for every word using 刹.
Read a sentence
司机及时刹车，停在了路口前。
Show sentence reading and meaning
sī jī jí shí shā chē， tíng zài le lù kǒu qián。
The driver braked in time and stopped before the junction.
Learn the 8 strokes · write 刹
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.
鲨
Learn the shape and a useful word
沙 sits above 鱼. Compare the upper 氵 beside 少 with the lower fish shape.
鲨鱼
Show word reading and meaning
shāyú
shark
鲨鱼 is shark, a different whole animal word from the generic 鱼.
Read a sentence
这部纪录片介绍了鲨鱼的生活。
Show sentence reading and meaning
zhè bù jì lù piàn jiè shào le shā yú de shēng huó。
This documentary introduces the lives of sharks.
Learn the 15 strokes · write 鲨
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.
筛
Learn the shape and a useful word
A bamboo top sits above 师. Compare the lower 师 with its separate form.
筛选
Show word reading and meaning
shāixuǎn
to screen or filter according to criteria
筛选 means screen or filter by criteria; context must identify those criteria.
Read a sentence
老师筛选了适合初学者的文章。
Show sentence reading and meaning
lǎo shī shāi xuǎn le shì hé chū xué zhě de wén zhāng。
The teacher selected articles suitable for beginners.
Learn the 12 strokes · write 筛
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.
闪
Learn the shape and a useful word
门 encloses 人. Compare 闲, whose enclosure contains 木.
闪电
Show word reading and meaning
shǎndiàn
lightning
闪电 is lightning. 打雷 names thunder, a different phenomenon.
Read a sentence
窗外出现了一道闪电。
Show sentence reading and meaning
chuāng wài chū xiàn le yí dào shǎn diàn。
A flash of lightning appeared outside the window.
Learn the 5 strokes · write 闪
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 刹 read in 刹车, and what does 筛选 require?
Check and learn
Words: 杀 shā — to kill; 刹车 shāchē — to brake; a vehicle's brake; 鲨鱼 shāyú — shark; 筛选 shāixuǎn — to screen or filter according to criteria; 闪电 shǎndiàn — lightning. 刹车 is shāchē; 筛选 filters/selects by criteria. 杀 means kill, 鲨鱼 shark and 闪电 lightning.
Try a new context
司机已经踩了刹车，车还没有完全停住。
Has the brake been applied, and is the vehicle fully stopped? Use 踩 (cǎi), press with the foot.
Compare your interpretation
The brake has been applied, but the vehicle is not yet fully stopped. 刹车 is the braking action; 完全停住 would be the completed stop, explicitly still pending.
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.