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 61 of 65. Start with one five-character group today. Use the words here first; sentence examples may introduce language you have not studied yet.
361. Style, a tongue and an arrow's direction
Distinguish shooting towards a target from hitting it.
尚
Learn the shape and a useful word
Short upper strokes sit above a broad frame containing 口. Compare the enclosed 口 with the outside frame.
时尚
Show word reading and meaning
shíshàng
fashion; fashionable or stylish
时尚 is fashion or fashionable style, rather than high moral conduct 高尚.
Read a sentence
这本杂志介绍了最新的时尚。
Show sentence reading and meaning
zhè běn zá zhì jiè shào le zuì xīn de shí shàng。
This magazine introduces the latest fashions.
Learn the 8 strokes · write 尚
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.
舌
Learn the shape and a useful word
千 sits above 口. Compare the upper 千 with 干 and its different first stroke.
舌头
Show word reading and meaning
shétou
tongue
舌头 is tongue, with neutral tou in this word.
Read a sentence
他吃得太急，不小心咬到了舌头。
Show sentence reading and meaning
tā chī de tài jí， bù xiǎo xīn yǎo dào le shé tou。
He ate too quickly and accidentally bit his tongue.
Learn the 6 strokes · write 舌
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.
射
Learn the shape and a useful word
身 stands beside 寸. Compare the complete left 身 with its form written separately.
射
Show word reading and meaning
shè
to shoot or project out
射 means shoot or project out; context supplies what is projected.
Read a sentence
她把箭射向了目标。
Show sentence reading and meaning
tā bǎ jiàn shè xiàng le mù biāo。
She shot the arrow towards the target.
Learn the 10 strokes · write 射
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.
涉
Learn the shape and a useful word
氵 stands beside 步. Compare the upper 止-like part and lower strokes of 步 with its separate form.
涉及
Show word reading and meaning
shèjí
to involve; to concern or touch on
涉及 means concern or involve a topic; mentioning a topic does not prove it was exhaustively covered.
Read a sentence
这个问题涉及很多人的利益。
Show sentence reading and meaning
zhè ge wèn tí shè jí hěn duō rén de lì yì。
This issue involves many people's interests.
Learn the 10 strokes · write 涉
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.
审
Learn the shape and a useful word
宀 covers 申. Keep the long vertical through the lower edge of 申.
审美
Show word reading and meaning
shěnměi
aesthetic judgement; appreciation of beauty
审美 is aesthetic appreciation/judgement, not a measurement with one automatically correct taste.
Read a sentence
不同的人有不同的审美。
Show sentence reading and meaning
bù tóng de rén yǒu bù tóng de shěn měi。
Different people have different aesthetic tastes.
Learn the 8 strokes · write 审
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 射 specify, and what does 涉及 say about a topic?
Check and learn
Words: 时尚 shíshàng — fashion; fashionable or stylish; 舌头 shétou — tongue; 射 shè — to shoot or project out; 涉及 shèjí — to involve; to concern or touch on; 审美 shěnměi — aesthetic judgement; appreciation of beauty. 射 is shoot/project; 射向 gives a direction, while 射中 gives a hit. 涉及 means concern/involve, 时尚 fashion, 舌头 tongue and 审美 aesthetic judgement.
Try a new context
箭射向了目标，但没有射中。
Was the arrow sent towards the target, and did it hit? Use 目标 (mùbiāo), target.
Compare your interpretation
It was sent towards the target but did not hit. The difference between 向 and 中 matters; a direction of travel is not proof of a successful hit.
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.
362. A nephew, serving soup and a lifespan
Use the food-serving 盛 reading and a precise family relationship.
甥
Learn the shape and a useful word
生 stands beside 男. Compare 田 over 力 in the right-hand part.
外甥
Show word reading and meaning
wàisheng
nephew; one's sister's son
外甥 is the sister's son, with neutral sheng, rather than the brother's son 侄子.
Read a sentence
我的外甥是姐姐的儿子。
Show sentence reading and meaning
wǒ de wài sheng shì jiě jie de ér zi。
My nephew is my older sister's son.
Learn the 12 strokes · write 甥
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.
盛
Learn the shape and a useful word
成 sits above 皿. Compare the lower 皿 with the same part of 益.
盛
Show word reading and meaning
chéng
ladle or put food into a container
The selected 盛 is chéng, put/ladle food into a container. Other words use shèng.
Read a sentence
我给你盛一碗汤吧。
Show sentence reading and meaning
wǒ gěi nǐ chéng yī wǎn tāng ba。
Let me serve you a bowl of soup.
Learn the 11 strokes · write 盛
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.
狮
Learn the shape and a useful word
犭 stands beside 师. Compare the same 师 below a bamboo top in 筛.
狮子
Show word reading and meaning
shīzi
lion
狮子 is lion, with neutral zi. It does not mean teacher despite the visible 师.
Read a sentence
纪录片里的狮子正在草原上休息。
Show sentence reading and meaning
jì lù piàn lǐ de shī zi zhèng zài cǎo yuán shàng xiū xi。
The lion in the documentary is resting on the grassland.
Learn the 9 strokes · write 狮
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.
寿
Learn the shape and a useful word
Crossing upper horizontal strokes sit above 寸. Compare the lower 寸 with the one in 寻.
寿命
Show word reading and meaning
shòumìng
lifespan; how long a living thing or product lasts
寿命 is the lifespan of a living thing or product; context identifies which.
Read a sentence
这份资料介绍了不同动物的寿命。
Show sentence reading and meaning
zhè fèn zī liào jiè shào le bù tóng dòng wù de shòu mìng。
This information introduces the lifespans of different animals.
Learn the 7 strokes · write 寿
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.
薯
Learn the shape and a useful word
艹 sits above 署, with 罒 above 者. Keep all three layers visible.
薯片
Show word reading and meaning
shǔpiàn
potato crisps; potato chips
薯片 means potato crisps/chips, not every food made from potato.
Read a sentence
她买了一袋薯片。
Show sentence reading and meaning
tā mǎi le yī dài shǔ piàn。
She bought a bag of potato crisps.
Learn the 16 strokes · write 薯
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 the selected 盛 read, and who is 外甥?
Check and learn
Words: 外甥 wàisheng — nephew; one's sister's son; 盛 chéng — ladle or put food into a container; 狮子 shīzi — lion; 寿命 shòumìng — lifespan; how long a living thing or product lasts; 薯片 shǔpiàn — potato crisps; potato chips. 盛 chéng serves/ladles food into a container. 外甥 is a sister's son, with neutral sheng. 狮子 is lion, 寿命 lifespan and 薯片 potato crisps.
Try a new context
姐姐的儿子来了，我给外甥盛了一碗汤。
Which family relationship is named, and how is the serving verb read?
Compare your interpretation
The visitor is my sister's son, my 外甥. I served him soup, so 盛 is chéng. It is not shèng from other words or merely the name of a bowl.
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.
363. Upright form, an instant and counting ships
Keep a vessel count distinct from a building count and update it over time.
竖
Learn the shape and a useful word
Two narrow left strokes and 又 sit above 立. Compare the lower 立 with 土 in other shapes.
竖
Show word reading and meaning
shù
vertical; to set something upright
竖 is vertical or setting upright, contrasting with 横 héng, horizontal.
Read a sentence
请把这根杆子竖起来。
Show sentence reading and meaning
qǐng bǎ zhè gēn gǎn zi shù qǐ lái。
Please stand this pole upright.
Learn the 9 strokes · write 竖
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.
漱
Learn the shape and a useful word
氵 stands beside 束 and 欠. Compare the middle 束 with its separate form.
洗漱
Show word reading and meaning
xǐshù
to wash up; personal washing and tooth-brushing
洗漱 is personal washing and tooth-brushing, rather than cleaning all objects in a room.
Read a sentence
他早上洗漱后就出门了。
Show sentence reading and meaning
tā zǎo shang xǐ shù hòu jiù chū mén le。
He went out after washing up in the morning.
Learn the 14 strokes · write 漱
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.
衰
Learn the shape and a useful word
A capped upper section contains a boxed middle and long lower clothing-like strokes. Compare the complete outline with 衣.
衰老
Show word reading and meaning
shuāilǎo
to age; ageing and its effects
衰老 is ageing and its effects; it is not a description of every small temporary change.
Read a sentence
这本书介绍了植物的衰老过程。
Show sentence reading and meaning
zhè běn shū jiè shào le zhí wù de shuāi lǎo guò chéng。
This book describes the ageing process in plants.
Learn the 10 strokes · write 衰
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.
瞬
Learn the shape and a useful word
目 stands beside 舜, with capped upper strokes and crossing lower strokes. Compare the complete right-hand model.
瞬间
Show word reading and meaning
shùnjiān
instant; a very brief moment
瞬间 is an instant, a very brief moment, without an exact fixed number of seconds.
Read a sentence
门打开的瞬间，我看见了她。
Show sentence reading and meaning
mén dǎ kāi de shùn jiān， wǒ kàn jiàn le tā。
I saw her the instant the door opened.
Learn the 17 strokes · write 瞬
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.
艘
Learn the shape and a useful word
舟 stands beside 叟. Compare the lower 又 within the right-hand part.
艘
Show word reading and meaning
sōu
measure word for boats and ships
艘 counts boats or ships, rather than every kind of vehicle.
Read a sentence
港口停着三艘轮船。
Show sentence reading and meaning
gǎng kǒu tíng zhe sān sōu lún chuán。
Three ships are moored in the port.
Learn the 15 strokes · write 艘
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 艘 count, and how does 竖 contrast with 横?
Check and learn
Words: 竖 shù — vertical; to set something upright; 洗漱 xǐshù — to wash up; personal washing and tooth-brushing; 衰老 shuāilǎo — to age; ageing and its effects; 瞬间 shùnjiān — instant; a very brief moment; 艘 sōu — measure word for boats and ships. 艘 counts boats/ships; 栋 counts buildings. 竖 shù is vertical/upright, 横 héng horizontal. 洗漱 is washing up, 衰老 ageing and 瞬间 an instant.
Try a new context
原来有三艘船，两艘已经离开，现在只剩一艘。
How many vessels were there initially and how many remain? Use 只剩 (zhǐ shèng), only remain.
Compare your interpretation
There were three and one remains after two left. 艘 counts the ships; the time words 原来 and 现在 prevent treating all three as still present.
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.
364. A tower, reassurance and exploration
Distinguish exploring a method from already finding the final answer.
塔
Learn the shape and a useful word
土 stands beside 艹 over 合. Compare the same right-hand part in 搭.
塔
Show word reading and meaning
tǎ
tower; pagoda
塔 is a tower or pagoda. It does not identify every tall building as the same type.
Read a sentence
公园里有一座古老的塔。
Show sentence reading and meaning
gōng yuán lǐ yǒu yī zuò gǔ lǎo de tǎ。
There is an ancient tower in the park.
Learn the 12 strokes · write 塔
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.
踏
Learn the shape and a useful word
足 stands beside 水 over 日. Compare the lower 日 with the open lower strokes of 水.
踏实
Show word reading and meaning
tāshi
steady and conscientious; feeling reassured
踏实 is tāshi in this selected word, with neutral shi; 踏 can be tà in other uses.
Read a sentence
把准备工作做好，我心里就踏实了。
Show sentence reading and meaning
bǎ zhǔn bèi gōng zuò zuò hǎo， wǒ xīn lǐ jiù tā shi le。
Once the preparations are done properly, I feel reassured.
Learn the 15 strokes · write 踏
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.
汰
Learn the shape and a useful word
氵 stands beside 太. Keep the small dot inside 太 when comparing with 大.
淘汰
Show word reading and meaning
táotài
to eliminate from a competition or phase out
淘汰 means eliminate or phase out. It does not mean choose something for inclusion.
Read a sentence
旧设备正在逐步被淘汰。
Show sentence reading and meaning
jiù shè bèi zhèng zài zhú bù bèi táo tài。
The old equipment is gradually being phased out.
Learn the 7 strokes · write 汰
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.
坛
Learn the shape and a useful word
土 stands beside 云. Compare the right-hand 云 with 去 and its different upper part.
论坛
Show word reading and meaning
lùntán
forum; a venue for discussion
论坛 is a forum for discussion; it need not be a physical circular building.
Read a sentence
我在论坛上提出了一个问题。
Show sentence reading and meaning
wǒ zài lùn tán shàng tí chū le yí gè wèn tí。
I posted a question on the forum.
Learn the 7 strokes · write 坛
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.
探
Learn the shape and a useful word
扌 stands beside a cap and two spreading strokes above 木. Compare the lower 木 with the hand side.
探索
Show word reading and meaning
tànsuǒ
to explore or investigate something not fully understood
探索 means explore something not fully understood. Exploration does not establish a final answer immediately.
Read a sentence
这个研究团队正在探索新的方法。
Show sentence reading and meaning
zhè ge yán jiū tuán duì zhèng zài tàn suǒ xīn de fāng fǎ。
This research team is exploring new methods.
Learn the 11 strokes · write 探
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 踏实 read, and what does 探索 mean?
Check and learn
Words: 塔 tǎ — tower; pagoda; 踏实 tāshi — steady and conscientious; feeling reassured; 淘汰 táotài — to eliminate from a competition or phase out; 论坛 lùntán — forum; a venue for discussion; 探索 tànsuǒ — to explore or investigate something not fully understood. 踏实 is tāshi with neutral shi. 探索 is investigation of something not fully understood. 塔 is tower, 论坛 forum and 淘汰 elimination/phasing out.
Try a new context
团队正在探索新方法，还没有确定最终方案。
Has the final approach been selected? Use 最终方案 (zuìzhōng fāng’àn), final approach.
Compare your interpretation
No. Exploration is ongoing, and the final approach is not settled. 正在探索 must not be treated as completed discovery or a confirmed final decision.
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.
365. A substance, heat and phasing out
Distinguish an ongoing removal process from completed replacement.
碳
Learn the shape and a useful word
石 stands beside 炭, with 山, 厂 and 火-like lower strokes on the right.
二氧化碳
Show word reading and meaning
èryǎnghuàtàn
carbon dioxide (CO₂)
二氧化碳 is carbon dioxide, a complete substance name; it is not oxygen alone.
Read a sentence
学生用模型表示二氧化碳的分子结构。
Show sentence reading and meaning
xué shēng yòng mó xíng biǎo shì èr yǎng huà tàn de fēn zǐ jié gòu。
The students used a model to represent the molecular structure of carbon dioxide.
Learn the 14 strokes · write 碳
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.
烫
Learn the shape and a useful word
汤 sits above 火. Compare 氵 and the turning right-hand strokes within the upper 汤.
烫
Show word reading and meaning
tàng
hot enough to burn; to scald
烫 means hot enough to burn or scald; it is stronger than merely warm.
Read a sentence
这杯茶很烫，先放一会儿。
Show sentence reading and meaning
zhè bēi chá hěn tàng， xiān fàng yí huìr。
This tea is very hot; leave it for a while first.
Learn the 10 strokes · write 烫
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.
掏
Learn the shape and a useful word
扌 stands beside 勹 enclosing 缶. Compare 淘 and its 氵 side.
掏
Show word reading and meaning
tāo
to reach in and take something out
掏 means reach in and take something out, not put an object into the space.
Read a sentence
她从口袋里掏出一张纸。
Show sentence reading and meaning
tā cóng kǒu dai lǐ tāo chū yī zhāng zhǐ。
She took a piece of paper out of her pocket.
Learn the 11 strokes · write 掏
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.
逃
Learn the shape and a useful word
辶 wraps 兆. Compare the same 兆 beside 足 in 跳.
逃跑
Show word reading and meaning
táopǎo
to run away or flee
逃跑 means flee or run away. The sentence must say whether escape succeeded.
Read a sentence
故事里的小动物从笼子里逃跑了。
Show sentence reading and meaning
gù shi lǐ de xiǎo dòng wù cóng lóng zi lǐ táo pǎo le。
The small animal in the story escaped from its cage.
Learn the 9 strokes · write 逃
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.
淘
Learn the shape and a useful word
氵 stands beside 勹 enclosing 缶. Compare the same right side beside 扌 in 掏.
淘汰
Show word reading and meaning
táotài
to eliminate from a competition or phase out
淘汰 is the same selected elimination word used for 汰. Read both characters together.
Read a sentence
旧设备正在逐步被淘汰。
Show sentence reading and meaning
jiù shè bèi zhèng zài zhú bù bèi táo tài。
The old equipment is gradually being phased out.
Learn the 11 strokes · write 淘
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. Compare 掏, 逃跑 and 淘汰. Which complete word names carbon dioxide?
Check and learn
Words: 二氧化碳 èryǎnghuàtàn — carbon dioxide (CO₂); 烫 tàng — hot enough to burn; to scald; 掏 tāo — to reach in and take something out; 逃跑 táopǎo — to run away or flee; 淘汰 táotài — to eliminate from a competition or phase out. 掏 tāo reaches in to take out; 逃跑 táopǎo flees; 淘汰 táotài eliminates/phases out. 二氧化碳 is carbon dioxide and 烫 means scalding hot.
Try a new context
旧机器正在被淘汰，新机器还没买来。
Has the new machine already arrived? Use 旧机器 (jiù jīqì), old machine.
Compare your interpretation
No. The old machine is being phased out, while the new one has not yet been bought and brought in. 淘汰 does not itself establish completed replacement.
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.
366. An added row, farmland and secrecy
Distinguish secret preparation from stealing.
添
Learn the shape and a useful word
氵 stands beside 天 over short lower strokes and a dot. Compare the top 天 with 大.
添加
Show word reading and meaning
tiānjiā
to add or insert something into a mixture or system
添加 means add something; it does not necessarily replace what was already present.
Read a sentence
请在表格中添加一行。
Show sentence reading and meaning
qǐng zài biǎo gé zhōng tiān jiā yī xíng。
Please add a row to the table.
Learn the 11 strokes · write 添
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.
田
Learn the shape and a useful word
An outer enclosure contains a horizontal and vertical cross. Compare the enclosure with 由 and its projecting vertical.
农田
Show word reading and meaning
nóngtián
farmland; cultivated fields
农田 is cultivated farmland, not every open patch of ground.
Read a sentence
这片农田种的是水稻。
Show sentence reading and meaning
zhè piàn nóng tián zhòng de shì shuǐ dào。
Rice is grown in these fields.
Learn the 5 strokes · write 田
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.
铜
Learn the shape and a useful word
钅 stands beside 同. Compare the same 同 below a bamboo top in 筒.
铜
Show word reading and meaning
tóng
copper
铜 is copper. A compound such as 铜牌 can have a conventional medal meaning that needs the whole word.
Read a sentence
这根电线里面是铜。
Show sentence reading and meaning
zhè gēn diàn xiàn lǐ miàn shì tóng。
The inside of this electrical wire is copper.
Learn the 11 strokes · write 铜
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.
筒
Learn the shape and a useful word
A bamboo top sits above 同. Compare 铜 and its metal side.
话筒
Show word reading and meaning
huàtǒng
microphone
话筒 is a microphone. The whole object's name differs from a literal bamboo tube.
Read a sentence
演讲开始前，她试了试话筒。
Show sentence reading and meaning
yǎn jiǎng kāi shǐ qián， tā shì le shì huà tǒng。
She tested the microphone before starting the speech.
Learn the 12 strokes · write 筒
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.
偷
Learn the shape and a useful word
亻 stands beside 俞. Compare 喻 and its 口 side.
偷偷
Show word reading and meaning
tōutōu
secretly; without others noticing
偷偷 means secretly, without others noticing; the action need not be stealing.
Read a sentence
小猫偷偷跑进了厨房。
Show sentence reading and meaning
xiǎo māo tōu tōu pǎo jìn le chú fáng。
The kitten slipped into the kitchen without anyone noticing.
Learn the 11 strokes · write 偷
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 偷偷 describe, and what does 添加 do?
Check and learn
Words: 添加 tiānjiā — to add or insert something into a mixture or system; 农田 nóngtián — farmland; cultivated fields; 铜 tóng — copper; 话筒 huàtǒng — microphone; 偷偷 tōutōu — secretly; without others noticing. 偷偷 is acting secretly, not necessarily stealing. 添加 adds, 农田 is farmland, 铜 copper and 话筒 microphone.
Try a new context
她偷偷准备了礼物，想在生日时给朋友一个惊喜。
Is theft reported, and why was the preparation secret? Use 惊喜 (jīngxǐ), pleasant surprise.
Compare your interpretation
No theft is reported. The gift was prepared secretly to surprise a friend on their birthday. 偷偷 concerns visibility of the action, not automatically taking someone else's property.
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.