Chinese Character: 龙
1. Character Basics
Radical: 龙 (lóng, dragon radical)
Stroke Count: 5
Stroke Order:
2. Pronunciation
Pinyin: lóng (Second tone)
3. Meaning
Dragon; imperial; outstanding person
4. Common Words
- 龙头 (lóngtóu) - faucet; tap; leading enterprise
- 龙灯 (lóngdēng) - dragon lantern (used in traditional festivals)
- 龙年 (lóngnián) - Year of the Dragon (in Chinese zodiac)
- 龙王 (lóngwáng) - Dragon King (mythological figure)
- 龙袍 (lóngpáo) - imperial dragon robe
- 龙凤 (lóngfèng) - dragon and phoenix (symbolizing good fortune)
- 龙争虎斗 (lóngzhēnghǔdòu) - dragon contending and tiger fighting (idiom meaning fierce struggle)
- 龙马精神 (lóngmǎjīngshén) - dragon horse spirit (idiom meaning vigorous spirit)
5. Grammar & Usage
"龙" is primarily used as a noun to refer to the mythical dragon or things associated with dragons. It is also used in idioms and expressions to denote power, excellence, or good fortune.
6. Cultural Background
In Chinese culture, the dragon (龙) is a symbol of power, strength, and good luck. It is revered as a divine creature that controls water, rain, and storms. The dragon is also closely associated with the imperial family in Chinese history, representing authority and nobility. Today, the Chinese people often refer to themselves as "the descendants of the dragon" (龙的传人), signifying their cultural identity.
7. Example Sentence
Chinese: 明年是龙年，很多人计划要孩子。
Pinyin: Míngnián shì lóngnián, hěnduō rén jìhuà yào háizi.
English: Next year is the Year of the Dragon, and many people are planning to have children.
8. Memory Tips
The character 龙 has a distinctive shape that resembles the mythical creature it represents. Imagine the first stroke as the dragon's head, and the following strokes forming its body and tail. You can also associate it with the Chinese zodiac sign and its cultural significance to help remember it.