Learn a Chinese Character - 谋

1. Character Basics

Radical: 讠 (speech radical, simplified form of 言, representing words, speech, or language-related concepts)

Stroke Count: 11 strokes

Stroke Order:

2. Pronunciation

Pinyin: móu (Second tone)

3. Meaning

Meanings of 谋 (móu): plan; scheme; plot; strategize; seek; strive for; consult; discuss; deliberate; think over; consider; plan for; scheme for; plot against; make plans; have plans; design; intend; purpose; aim

4. Common Words

• 计划 (jì huà) - Plan; plan for; scheme
• 谋求 (móu qiú) - Seek; strive for; pursue
• 谋划 (móu huà) - Plan; scheme; plot
• 计谋 (jì móu) - Stratagem; scheme; plan
• 谋杀 (móu shā) - Murder; plot to kill
• 阴谋 (yīn móu) - Conspiracy; plot; scheme
• 参谋 (cān móu) - Staff officer; advisor; consult
• 深谋远虑 (shēn móu yuǎn lǜ) - Think deeply and plan ahead; foresight

5. Grammar & Usage

The character 谋 (móu) is primarily used as a verb meaning "to plan" or "to scheme" in Chinese. It can also function as a noun referring to a "plan" or "scheme" itself.

• Verb Usage: Expressing the action of planning, scheming, or seeking something.
• Noun Usage: Referring to a plan, scheme, or strategy.
• Compound Words: Forming compound words related to planning, scheming, or seeking.
• Idiomatic Expressions: Used in idioms and set phrases that convey the concept of planning or strategizing.
• Collocations: Often combined with other characters to form words with specific meanings related to different types of planning or schemes.

6. Cultural Background

In Chinese culture, 谋 (móu) has significant importance in the realms of strategy, politics, and philosophy. It is closely associated with the concept of strategic planning and wise decision-making.

The Chinese classic "The Art of War" (孙子兵法 Sūnzǐ Bīngfǎ) by Sun Tzu places great emphasis on the importance of 谋 (planning and strategy) in military affairs. It teaches that victory comes from careful planning and understanding both oneself and the enemy.

In traditional Chinese political thought, 谋 (móu) is valued as an essential quality for leaders and advisors. The ability to plan ahead, consider different perspectives, and make wise decisions is seen as crucial for effective governance.

谋 (móu) also appears frequently in Chinese literature and proverbs, often highlighting the importance of foresight and careful planning. For example, the idiom "深谋远虑" (shēn móu yuǎn lǜ) means "to think deeply and plan ahead," emphasizing the value of long-term strategic thinking.

7. Example Sentence

8. Memory Tips

The character 谋 (móu) has 11 strokes and consists of 讠 (speech radical) on the left and 某 (mǒu, certain) on the right.

• Structure Analysis: The character 谋 (móu) combines 讠 (speech) and 某 (certain). One interpretation is that it represents speaking about certain plans or strategies.
• Sound Association: The pronunciation "móu" (second tone) sounds similar to the English word "mow", which is an action that requires planning and strategy.
• Meaning Connection: Visualize someone making plans or strategies - a general planning a battle, a businessperson planning a project, or someone making careful decisions.
• Character Components: Remember that 谋 (móu) contains 讠 (speech) on the left, which connects to the idea of discussing or consulting about plans, and 某 (certain) on the right.
• Memory Rhyme: "谋字十一画，言旁加某它，计划和谋划，深思又熟虑。" (Móu zì shí yī huà, yán páng jiā mǒu tā, jì huà hé móu huà, shēn sī yòu shú lǜ.) This rhyme helps remember the structure, stroke count, and meaning of the character.