Chinese Character: 盟
1. Character Basics
Radical: 皿 (mǐn) - Dish radical
Stroke Count: 13 strokes
Stroke Order:
2. Pronunciation
Pinyin: méng (Second tone)
3. Meaning
Alliance; union; covenant; oath; to form an alliance
4. Common Words
- 联盟 (liánméng) - Alliance; union; coalition
- 盟友 (méngyǒu) - Ally; confederate
- 盟誓 (méngshì) - Oath; vow; pledge of alliance
- 盟约 (méngyuē) - Alliance treaty; covenant
- 盟主 (méngzhǔ) - Leader of an alliance
- 同盟国 (tóngméngguó) - Allied country; ally
- 加盟 (jiāméng) - To join an alliance; to become a member
- 血盟 (xuèméng) - Blood oath; blood alliance
5. Grammar & Usage
The character "盟" is primarily used as a noun referring to alliances or covenants. It can also function as a verb meaning "to form an alliance" or "to swear an oath." In modern contexts, it is commonly found in formal or political settings, such as international relations. When used in compound words, it typically retains its core meaning related to alliances and agreements.
6. Cultural Background
The concept of "盟" (alliance) has deep roots in Chinese history and culture. In ancient China, forming alliances through formal oaths and ceremonies was crucial for maintaining political stability and military cooperation between states. The character itself depicts the ritual of sharing a blood oath over a vessel (the "皿" radical), symbolizing the sacred nature of these agreements. This cultural emphasis on alliances and mutual commitments continues to influence social and political relationships in Chinese culture today.
7. Example Sentence
两国结成了军事同盟。
Liǎng guó jiéchéng le jūnshì tóngméng.
The two countries formed a military alliance.
8. Memory Tips
The character "盟" is composed of "明" (míng, bright) on top and "皿" (mǐn, dish) at the bottom. You can remember it as "a bright oath made over a dish," which relates to ancient rituals where alliances were sworn over ceremonial vessels containing blood or wine. The dish radical "皿" also suggests the formal nature of these agreements.