Learn a Chinese Character - 妹

1. Character Basics

Radical: 女 (nǚ) - Female radical

Stroke Count: 8 strokes

Stroke Order:

2. Pronunciation

Pinyin: mèi (Fourth tone)

3. Meaning

Younger sister; sister; girl; lass

4. Common Words

• 妹妹 (mèimei) - Younger sister
• 姐妹 (jiěmèi) - Elder and younger sisters; sisters
• 表妹 (biǎomèi) - Cousin (female, younger than oneself)
• 堂妹 (tángmèi) - Paternal cousin (female, younger)
• 师妹 (shīmèi) - Junior female schoolmate
• 小妹 (xiǎomèi) - Little sister; youngest sister
• 女妹 (nǚmèi) - Female cousin
• 师妹 (shīmèi) - Junior female apprentice

5. Grammar & Usage

The character "妹" is most commonly used as a noun referring to a younger sister. When doubled as "妹妹" (mèimei), it specifically means "younger sister." It can also be combined with other characters to form terms for various types of female relatives or acquaintances, such as "姐妹" (jiěmèi) meaning "sisters" and "表妹" (biǎomèi) meaning "cousin (female, younger)."

6. Cultural Background

In traditional Chinese culture, the concept of family is highly valued, and sibling relationships are considered important. The character "妹" specifically refers to a younger sister, reflecting the cultural emphasis on age hierarchy within the family. In Chinese naming conventions, "妹" is sometimes used as a component in girls' names, signifying qualities like tenderness and affection.

7. Example Sentence

8. Memory Tips

The character "妹" consists of the female radical "女" on the left and "未" on the right. You can remember it as "a female who hasn't fully grown up yet" (referring to a younger sister). The pronunciation "mèi" rhymes with the English word "may," but with a falling tone.