Chinese Character: 吉
1. Character Basics
Radical: 士/士 radical
Stroke Count: 6
Stroke Order:
2. Pronunciation
Pinyin: jí
3. Meaning
auspicious, lucky, propitious
4. Common Words
- 吉祥 (jí xiáng) - auspicious, lucky
- 吉利 (jí lì) - propitious, favorable
- 吉凶 (jí xiōng) - good or bad luck, fortune or misfortune
- 吉日 (jí rì) - auspicious day
- 吉他 (jí tā) - guitar (loanword)
- 吉星高照 (jí xīng gāo zhào) - lucky star shining brightly (idiom)
5. Grammar & Usage
"吉" is most commonly used as an adjective meaning "auspicious" or "lucky". It is often combined with other characters to form words related to good fortune.
Common usage patterns:
- 吉祥物 (jí xiáng wù) - mascot, lucky charm
- 吉庆 (jí qìng) - happy, auspicious (often used for celebrations)
- 吉利话 (jí lì huà) - auspicious words, good wishes
- 逢凶化吉 (féng xiōng huà jí) - to turn bad luck into good luck (idiom)
It can also be used in noun compounds to indicate something related to good fortune or positivity.
6. Cultural Background
The character "吉" has deep cultural significance in Chinese tradition. It originally depicted a weapon (spear) and a mouth, possibly symbolizing the announcement of victory or good news. Over time, it came to represent good fortune and auspiciousness.
In Chinese culture, "吉" is central to many traditions and celebrations. It is commonly seen during festivals like Chinese New Year, weddings, and other important events. The color red combined with the character "吉" is believed to bring good luck and ward off evil spirits.
Common cultural expressions include hanging couplets with "吉" during Chinese New Year and using the character in decorations for weddings and other joyous occasions.
7. Example Sentence
祝你吉祥如意！
Pronunciation: Zhù nǐ jí xiáng rú yì!
Translation: Wishing you good luck and happiness!
8. Memory Tips
Remember "吉" by breaking it down into its components:
- Top part: "士" (shì) - scholar, gentleman
- Bottom part: a combination of horizontal and vertical strokes
- Imagine the character as a happy face or a symbol of good fortune
You can also associate it with the concept of good luck (吉祥 - jí xiáng) and think of celebratory occasions where this character is often displayed, like Chinese New Year decorations or wedding banners.
The simple, balanced structure of the character itself conveys a sense of harmony and positivity, which aligns with its meaning.