Learn a Chinese Character - 怜

1. Character Basics

Radical: 忄 (心, heart radical)

Stroke Count: 8

Stroke Order:

2. Pronunciation

Pinyin: lián (Second tone)

3. Meaning

Pity; sympathize; love; cherish; feel sorry for

4. Common Words

• 可怜 (kě lián) - Poor; pitiful; pathetic
• 怜悯 (lián mǐn) - Pity; compassion
• 怜爱 (lián ài) - Love tenderly; cherish
• 怜惜 (lián xī) - Have pity on; feel sorry for
• 怜恤 (lián xù) - Show compassion for
• 哀怜 (āi lián) - Pity; have compassion for
• 怜香惜玉 (lián xiāng xī yù) - Pity beautiful women
• 同病相怜 (tóng bìng xiāng lián) - Sympathize with each other

5. Grammar & Usage

The character "怜" (lián) is primarily a verb that expresses feelings of pity, sympathy, or love. It is often used in combination with other characters to form words that describe different types of compassionate or affectionate emotions. In classical Chinese, "怜" can also mean "love" or "cherish".

6. Cultural Background

In Chinese culture, the concept of "怜" (pity/compassion) is deeply rooted in Confucian and Buddhist teachings. Confucianism emphasizes benevolence (仁, rén) and compassion for others, while Buddhism teaches compassion (慈悲, cí bēi) as a fundamental virtue. The expression of pity or compassion is considered an important aspect of moral character in Chinese society.

7. Example Sentence

8. Memory Tips

The character "怜" (lián) consists of "忄" (heart radical) and "令" (lìng, command/order). You can think of it as "following your heart" or "your heart commands you" to feel pity or compassion for someone. This connection between the heart and the emotion can help you remember the meaning of the character.