Chinese Character: 尖
1. Character Basics
Radical: 小/xiǎo radical (small)
Stroke Count: 6
Stroke Order:
2. Pronunciation
Pinyin: jiān
Pronunciation Note: Pronounced with a high and level tone (first tone).
3. Meaning
sharp, pointed, tip, peak, pointed end, acute, sharp-pointed, spire
4. Common Words
- 尖锐 (jiānruì) - sharp, pointed, acute - Having a fine point or edge; also used figuratively for sharp criticism
- 尖峰 (jiānfēng) - peak, summit - The highest point of a mountain or a graph
- 尖端 (jiānduān) - tip, point, cutting edge - The pointed end of something; also refers to advanced technology
- 尖叫 (jiānjiào) - scream, shriek - A high-pitched, loud cry
- 尖刻 (jiānkè) - sharp, biting, caustic - Marked by harsh or cutting criticism
- 尖兵 (jiānbīng) - advance guard, vanguard - Soldiers who go ahead of the main force; pioneers in a field
5. Grammar & Usage
1. As an adjective: "尖" is primarily used as an adjective to describe something that has a sharp point, as in "尖针" (sharp needle).
2. As a noun: It can also function as a noun referring to the pointed end of something, as in "笔尖" (pen tip).
3. In compound words: It is often used in compound words to describe pointed objects or sharp qualities, such as "尖锐" (sharp) and "尖端" (tip).
4. Figurative usage: "尖" can be used figuratively to describe sharp or acute qualities, such as "尖刻" (biting) when referring to criticism.
6. Cultural Background
The character "尖" is visually descriptive, combining the radicals "小" (small) and "大" (big) to form the concept of something small on top and big at the bottom, which resembles a pointed shape. This character reflects the pictographic nature of many Chinese characters, where the form often relates to the meaning. In Chinese culture, the concept of "尖" is used in various contexts, from describing physical objects to expressing abstract qualities like sharp wit or keen perception.
7. Example Sentence
这把刀的刀刃很尖。
Pinyin: Zhè bǎ dāo de dāorèn hěn jiān.
Translation: The blade of this knife is very sharp.
8. Memory Tips
The character "尖" is composed of two parts: "小" (small) on top and "大" (big) at the bottom. This visual representation can help you remember the meaning - something that is small at the top and larger at the bottom naturally forms a point. You can think of it as "small on top, big at bottom = pointed shape" to help remember this character.