Learn a Chinese Character - 径

1. Character Basics

Radical: 彳/chì (step radical)

Stroke Count: 8

Stroke Order:

2. Pronunciation

Pinyin: jìng (fourth tone)

3. Meaning

path, trail, diameter

4. Common Words

• 小径 (xiǎo jìng) - small path, trail
• 路径 (lù jìng) - path, route, way
• 直径 (zhí jìng) - diameter
• 捷径 (jié jìng) - shortcut
• 径自 (jìng zì) - alone, by oneself
• 行径 (xíng jìng) - act, behavior, conduct

5. Grammar & Usage

Part of Speech: Mainly used as a noun

Usage Patterns:

• 作为名词: 小径 (small path); 路径 (route)
• 与其他字组合: 直径 (diameter); 捷径 (shortcut)
• 副词用法: 径自 (alone, by oneself)
• 成语用法: 行不由径 (xíng bù yóu jìng) - to follow the straight and narrow path

Note: "径" is commonly used in contexts related to paths, routes, and direct ways to reach a destination.

6. Cultural Background

Philosophical Significance: In Chinese philosophy, particularly in Confucianism, the concept of "径" (path) often metaphorically represents the right way of living or behaving. The saying "行不由径" (xíng bù yóu jìng) emphasizes following the straight and narrow path of morality.

Literary Tradition: Paths and trails have been common themes in Chinese poetry and literature, symbolizing journeys, life paths, and personal growth.

Artistic Expression: In traditional Chinese painting, especially landscape painting, paths winding through mountains and forests are often depicted to guide the viewer's eye and create a sense of depth.

Modern Usage: Today, "径" is widely used in everyday language to refer to physical paths as well as metaphorical paths, such as career paths or problem-solving approaches.

7. Example Sentence

8. Memory Tips

Character Breakdown: The character "径" consists of 彳 (chì, step) on the left and 巠 (jīng) on the right. Together, they can be thought of as "steps along a path" or "walking along a route".

Mnemonic Device: Imagine the left part 彳 as two feet walking along a path (represented by 巠).

Word Association: Connect "径" with the common word "小径" (xiǎo jìng - small path) to help remember its meaning and pronunciation.

Sound-Alike Memory: The pronunciation "jìng" is similar to "静" (jìng, quiet), and a path (径) in nature is often a quiet place, which can help with memorization.