Learn a Chinese Character - 目

1. Character Basics

Radical: 目 (eye; itself a radical representing eye or vision-related concepts)

Stroke Count: 5 strokes

Stroke Order:

2. Pronunciation

Pinyin: mù (Fourth tone)

3. Meaning

eye; eyes; vision; sight; look; glance; view; perspective; aim; target; purpose; goal; item; entry; headings; sections; categories;目录; list; index

4. Common Words

• 目光 (mù guāng) - gaze; look; vision; eyesight
• 目标 (mù biāo) - goal; target; aim; objective
• 目的 (mù dì) - purpose; intention; aim; object
• 目录 (mù lù) - catalog; directory; list; index
• 目前 (mù qián) - at present; currently; now; at the moment
• 目击 (mù jī) - witness; see with one's own eyes; observe
• 盲目 (máng mù) - blind; without thought; thoughtless; unthinking
• 引人注目 (yǐn rén zhù mù) - attract attention; be eye-catching; noticeable

5. Grammar & Usage

The character "目" (mù) has multiple grammatical functions in Chinese. It primarily functions as a noun referring to the eye or vision, but also serves as a radical in many characters related to sight. Additionally, it has extended metaphorical uses. Here are the key grammatical patterns:

• Noun Usage: Used directly as a noun to refer to the physical eye or vision.
• Radical Function: As a radical, it forms many Chinese characters related to vision, eyes, or looking.
• Modifier in Compound Words: Often used as a modifier in compound words to indicate something related to vision or eyes.
• Metaphorical Usage: Frequently used metaphorically to refer to purpose, direction, or focus.
• Idiomatic Expressions: Appears in numerous idioms and proverbs related to seeing, observing, or having a clear purpose.

6. Cultural Background

The character "目" (mù) holds rich cultural significance in Chinese tradition. Beyond its literal meaning of "eye," it has symbolic and metaphorical connotations that reflect Chinese philosophical and aesthetic values. The eyes have long been considered the windows to the soul in Chinese culture, carrying deep meaning in art, literature, and everyday life.

In traditional Chinese medicine, the eyes are believed to be connected to the liver and are considered important indicators of a person's overall health.中医诊断 often includes observing the eyes for signs of imbalance or illness. This reflects the holistic approach of Chinese medicine, which views the body as an interconnected system.

In Chinese art, particularly in painting and sculpture, the eyes are often the most detailed and expressive features. The "eyes of the dragon" (龙目) are a common motif symbolizing power and wisdom. Calligraphy also emphasizes the importance of the eyes - the points where strokes begin and end are often compared to the gaze and focus of an artist.

Throughout Chinese literature and philosophy, the eyes are frequently used as metaphors for perception, understanding, and intention. Phrases like "一目了然" (yī mù liǎo rán - to see clearly at a glance) and "目不转睛" (mù bù zhuǎn jīng - to stare intently) reflect how deeply the concept of vision is embedded in the Chinese language and worldview.

7. Example Sentence

8. Memory Tips

The character "目" has 5 strokes and is a pictograph that resembles an eye. Here are some tips to help you remember it:

• Structure Analysis: "目" is a simple, square-shaped character that visually represents an eye with a pupil in the center.
• Sound Association: The pronunciation "mù" sounds similar to "木" (wood), but with a different tone.
• Meaning Connection: Visualize an eye when looking at the character to make an immediate connection between form and meaning.
• Character Components: As a basic character, "目" doesn't have smaller components, but it's important to remember its five-stroke structure: vertical, horizontal, left dot, right dot, horizontal.
• Memory Mnemonic: Imagine the square shape as the eye socket, and the horizontal line in the middle as the eyelid, with the two dots representing the tear ducts at the corners of the eye.