Learn a Chinese Character - 例

1. Character Basics

Radical: 人 (person radical)

Stroke Count: 8

Stroke Order:

2. Pronunciation

Pinyin: lì (Fourth tone)

3. Meaning

Example; instance; case; pattern; model; precedent; rule; regulation; norm; sample; specimen; illustration; exemplar; paradigm; standard; type

4. Common Words

• 例子 (lìzi) - example; case; instance
• 例如 (lìrú) - for example; such as
• 举例 (jǔlì) - to cite an example; to give an instance
• 例外 (lìwài) - exception; to be exceptional
• 照例 (zhàolì) - as usual; according to the rules; customarily
• 条例 (tiáolì) - regulations; rules; ordinances
• 比例 (bǐlì) - proportion; ratio; scale
• 范例 (fànlì) - model; example; paradigm

5. Grammar & Usage

"例" is a noun that refers to examples, instances, patterns, or rules. It is commonly used to introduce examples or to refer to established rules.

Grammar Patterns:

• 例 + 子: 例子 (example), 例子 (case)
• 动 + 例: 举例 (cite an example), 为例 (take as example)
• 例 + 外: 例外 (exception)
• 副 + 例: 照例 (as usual), 按例 (according to the rules)
• 数 + 例: 三例 (three cases), 多例 (multiple instances)
• 例 + 句: 例句 (example sentence)

6. Cultural Background

The character "例" has significant cultural importance in Chinese society, particularly in the context of traditions, rules, and social norms.

In Chinese legal and administrative systems, "例" refers to precedents and regulations that guide decision-making and behavior.

In Chinese education, the use of examples (例子) is a fundamental teaching method, helping learners understand concepts through specific instances.

The concept of "照例" (as usual) reflects the cultural value of following established customs and traditions in daily life and social interactions.

Exceptions to rules (例外) are also recognized, indicating a balance between adhering to norms and acknowledging special circumstances.

7. Example Sentence

8. Memory Tips

The character "例" (lì) consists of two parts:

• The radical "人" (person radical) on the left, indicating that the meaning is related to people or human behavior
• The component "列" on the right, which provides the pronunciation

To remember the character, think of it as "a person (人) following a sequence or pattern (列)," which relates to its meaning of examples or rules.

Practice writing the character following the stroke order to help with memorization.

Associate the character with common words like "例子" (example) and "例如" (for example) to reinforce its meaning.

Listen to and practice the pronunciation "lì" to become familiar with its sound.