Learn a Chinese Character - 拣

1. Character Basics

Radical: 扌/shǒu radical (hand)

Stroke Count: 8

Stroke Order:

2. Pronunciation

Pinyin: jiǎn

Pronunciation Note: Pronounced with a falling-rising tone (third tone).

3. Meaning

select, choose, pick up, sort out, pick and choose

4. Common Words

• 拣选 (jiǎnxuǎn) - select, choose - To carefully choose from a group
• 挑拣 (tiāojiǎn) - pick and choose - To select with care
• 拣拾 (jiǎnshí) - pick up, collect - To pick up scattered items
• 分拣 (fēnjiǎn) - sort - To sort items into categories
• 拣择 (jiǎnzé) - select, pick - To choose something carefully
• 拣好 (jiǎnhǎo) - pick the best - To select the best items

5. Grammar & Usage

1. As a verb: "拣" is primarily used as a transitive verb meaning to select or pick up, as in "拣苹果" (select apples).

2. In compounds: It is often found in compound words that emphasize the act of careful selection.

3. With objects: "拣" usually requires an object, referring to the item being selected or picked up.

4. Common collocations: "拣选" (select), "挑拣" (pick and choose), and "分拣" (sort) are commonly used collocations.

6. Cultural Background

The character "拣" reflects the cultural value placed on careful selection and discernment in Chinese society. Historically, the ability to select the best from available options was highly prized, whether in choosing goods at marketplaces, selecting quality ingredients for cooking, or discerning valuable items. This value continues to be relevant today in various contexts, from consumer choices to academic selections. The character also appears in idiomatic expressions that emphasize careful consideration and thoughtful selection.

7. Example Sentence

8. Memory Tips

The character "拣" is composed of the radical "扌" (shǒu, hand) and the component "柬" (jiǎn). You can remember it by thinking of using your hand (扌) to select items, which relates to the meaning of selecting or picking. The character has 8 strokes, so practice writing it carefully to master the stroke order.