Chinese Character: 俭
1. Character Basics
Radical: 亻/rén radical (person)
Stroke Count: 9
Stroke Order:
2. Pronunciation
Pinyin: jiǎn
Pronunciation Note: Pronounced with a falling-rising tone (third tone).
3. Meaning
thrifty, frugal, economical, to save, to be sparing
4. Common Words
- 节俭 (jiéjiǎn) - thrifty, economical - Being careful with money and resources
- 俭朴 (jiǎnpǔ) - simple and frugal - Living in a simple and economical way
- 俭省 (jiǎnshěng) - economical, thrifty - To save money and resources
- 勤俭 (qínjiǎn) - diligent and thrifty - Working hard and being economical
- 省吃俭用 (shěngchī-jiǎnyòng) - save on food and expenses - To be very economical in daily life
- 俭约 (jiǎnyuē) - frugal, economical - Being sparing and not wasteful
5. Grammar & Usage
1. As an adjective: "俭" is primarily used as an adjective to describe people who are frugal or economical, as in "节俭的人" (thrifty person).
2. In compounds: It is often found in compound words that emphasize the value of frugality, such as "勤俭" (diligent and thrifty).
3. In set phrases: "俭" appears in many set phrases that encourage economical behavior, such as "省吃俭用" (save on food and expenses).
4. In formal contexts: It is also used in more formal or literary contexts to discuss virtues and moral values.
6. Cultural Background
The character "俭" holds significant cultural importance in Chinese society as one of the traditional virtues. From ancient times, Chinese philosophy, particularly Confucianism, has emphasized the value of frugality and moderation. This virtue was not only seen as a personal quality but also as essential for good governance and social harmony. Many proverbs and teachings promote the idea that "frugality leads to prosperity" (俭以养德). Even today, the value of being thrifty continues to be taught and practiced in Chinese culture, reflecting a deep respect for resources and sustainable living.
7. Example Sentence
我们应该养成勤俭节约的好习惯。
Pinyin: Wǒmen yīnggāi yǎngchéng qínjiǎnjīngyuē de hǎo xíguàn.
Translation: We should develop the good habit of being diligent and thrifty.
8. Memory Tips
The character "俭" is composed of the radical "亻" (rén, person) and the component "佥" (qiān). You can remember it by thinking of a person (亻) who has the quality of being thrifty or economical, which relates to the meaning of frugality. The character has 9 strokes, so practice writing it carefully to master the stroke order.