Chinese Character: 描
1. Character Basics
Radical: \u0022扌\u0022 (shǒu, \u0022hand\u0022)
Stroke Count: 11 strokes
Stroke Order:
2. Pronunciation
Pinyin: miáo (Second tone)
3. Meaning
To trace; to copy; to draw; to describe; to depict; to sketch; to outline
4. Common Words
- \u0022描写\u0022 (miáo xiě) - \u0022To describe; to depict\u0022
- \u0022描绘\u0022 (miáo huì) - \u0022To describe; to depict\u0022
- \u0022扫描\u0022 (sǎo miáo) - \u0022To scan\u0022
- \u0022素描\u0022 (sù miáo) - \u0022Sketch; drawing\u0022
- \u0022描红\u0022 (miáo hóng) - \u0022Tracing over red characters (for learning calligraphy)\u0022
- \u0022描图\u0022 (miáo tú) - \u0022To trace a drawing\u0022
- \u0022描述\u0022 (miáo shù) - \u0022To describe\u0022
- \u0022描边\u0022 (miáo biān) - \u0022To outline; to trace the edge\u0022
5. Grammar & Usage
\u0022描\u0022 is primarily a verb that means \u0022to trace\u0022, \u0022to copy\u0022, or \u0022to draw\u0022. It is often used with objects such as pictures, characters, or outlines. Common structures include: \u0022描 + object\u0022 (e.g., \u0022描图\u0022 - to trace a drawing), \u0022描 + complement\u0022 (e.g., \u0022描得很仔细\u0022 - to trace very carefully), and it can be combined with other verbs to form compound verbs (e.g., \u0022描绘\u0022 - to depict). In modern usage, it is also used in technical contexts like \u0022扫描\u0022 (to scan) where it retains its meaning related to reproducing images or patterns.
6. Cultural Background
In Chinese culture, \u0022描\u0022 has significant importance in traditional calligraphy and painting. The practice of \u0022描红\u0022 (tracing over red characters) is a fundamental method for beginners to learn calligraphy, emphasizing the importance of precision and attention to detail in Chinese art. Additionally, \u0022素描\u0022 (sketching) has become an important part of modern art education in China, blending Western techniques with traditional Chinese aesthetic principles. The character also reflects the Chinese cultural value of careful observation and meticulous craftsmanship.
7. Example Sentence
她仔细地描着图画书上的图案。
She carefully traced the patterns in the picture book.
8. Memory Tips
To remember \u0022描\u0022, note that it consists of the radical \u0022扌\u0022 (hand) on the left and \u0022苗\u0022 (seedling) on the right. Imagine using your hand to carefully trace the outline of a seedling or drawing. This character often involves using your hand to create or copy images, which can help with retention. Also, practice writing the character multiple times, focusing on the correct stroke order to reinforce muscle memory.