Chinese Character: 护
1. Character Basics
Radical: 扌/手 (shǒu) - "Hand" radical
Stroke Count: 7 strokes
Stroke Order:
2. Pronunciation
Pinyin: Hù (Fourth tone)
3. Meaning
Basic Meaning: Protect, guard, defend
Extended Meanings: Care for, look after, shield
Additional Notes: Often used in words related to protection, care, and defense.
4. Common Words
- 保护 (bǎohù): Protect, safeguard
我们需要保护环境。 (Wǒmen xūyào bǎohù huánjìng.)
We need to protect the environment.
- 护士 (hùshi): Nurse
她是一名护士。 (Tā shì yī míng hùshi.)
She is a nurse.
- 爱护 (àihù): Cherish, take good care of
我们应该爱护动物。 (Wǒmen yīnggāi àihù dòngwù.)
We should cherish animals.
- 维护 (wéihù): Maintain, uphold
我们要维护和平。 (Wǒmen yào wéihù hépíng.)
We need to maintain peace.
- 监护 (jiānhù): Supervise, guardianship
父母是孩子的监护人。 (Fùmǔ shì háizi de jiānhùrén.)
Parents are children's guardians.
5. Grammar & Usage
Part of Speech: Verb; noun (in some compound words)
Common Usage: As a verb meaning "to protect" or "to care for"
Common Structures:
- 护 + Noun (e.g., 护林 hùlín - protect forests)
- Adjective + 护 (e.g., 守护 shǒuhù - guard)
Usage Notes: "护" is often used in combination with other characters to form words related to protection and care.
6. Cultural Background
Traditional Values: The concept of protection (护) is deeply rooted in Chinese cultural values, emphasizing care for family, community, and nature.
Healthcare System: In Chinese healthcare, nurses (护士) play a crucial role in patient care.
Environmental Awareness: With growing environmental concerns, terms like "环境保护" (environmental protection) have become increasingly important.
Social Responsibility: Words with "护" reflect the importance of social responsibility and mutual care in Chinese society.
7. Example Sentence
警察保护市民的安全。 (Jǐngchá bǎohù shìmín de ānquán.)
The police protect citizens' safety.
我们应该互相爱护。 (Wǒmen yīnggāi hùxiāng àihù.)
We should cherish each other.
这个组织致力于维护人权。 (Zhège zǔzhī zhìlì yú wéihù rénquán.)
This organization is committed to upholding human rights.
8. Memory Tips
Structure Memory: The character 护 consists of the "hand" radical (扌) on the left and 户 (hù) on the right, symbolizing using hands to protect a household.
Sound Association: "Hù" rhymes with "who" in English, but with a fourth (falling) tone.
Vocabulary Grouping: Learn all words containing "护" together, focusing on the common theme of protection and care.
Stroke Order Practice: Remember the 7-stroke order, starting with the "hand" radical on the left.
Contextual Learning: Use the character in sentences about protection, care, and defense to reinforce its meaning.