Meanings of 犊
Listen & Choose the Meaning
Choose the correct answer:
About 犊
Podcast: 犊
Podcast: 犊
Listen to Jason & Amy break down this word for you
New here?
AI Study Notes for 犊
Common mistakes include confusing 犊 with similar characters like 小 (xiǎo, small) or 牦 (máo, yak). This term is typically used in more formal or literary contexts when discussing livestock or sacrificial practices. Be mindful of using the correct tone, as mispronunciation can lead to misunderstandings.
Although 犊 is not part of the HSK vocabulary list, it connects to HSK Level 3 and 4 words related to animals and agriculture. Focus on the radicals and components of the character to expand your understanding of related terms in animal husbandry.
Learners often confuse 犊 with other animal-related characters. For example, using 犊 to refer to a puppy instead of a calf is incorrect; use 小狗 (xiǎo gǒu) for puppy.
Pronunciation of 犊
Drill the tone of 犊 with AI-powered exercises, get instant feedback, and earn XP toward mastery. Interactive tone practice is part of Pro.
Etymology of 犊
To sacrifice 卖 a calf 牛
Jason Etymology Detective
Case file: 犊
- 1The giveawayTo sacrifice 卖 a calf 牛
- 2On the record asideographic — someone drew an idea rather than an object.
Every clue here comes from the character's recorded structure — nothing is guessed.
Want the full history of 犊? Jason searches the paleographic record, weighs the competing accounts and judges the popular story.
Charged once for this character — everyone reads it afterwards.Character Formation Type
What type of character formation is 犊?
Decomposition of 犊
Identify the Components
Which of these is a component of 犊?
How to say calf; sacrificial lamb in Chinese
“calf; sacrificial lamb” in Chinese is犊
The character 犊 (dú) primarily refers to a 'calf,' specifically the young of certain animals like cattle. It can also denote a 'sacrificial lamb' or 'victim,' reflecting its usage in cultural or religious contexts where young animals are offered as sacrifices.
When to use 犊
Common mistakes include confusing 犊 with similar characters like 小 (xiǎo, small) or 牦 (máo, yak). This term is typically used in more formal or literary contexts when discussing livestock or sacrificial practices. Be mindful of using the correct tone, as mispronunciation can lead to misunderstandings.
What learners get wrong
Learners often confuse 犊 with other animal-related characters. For example, using 犊 to refer to a puppy instead of a calf is incorrect; use 小狗 (xiǎo gǒu) for puppy.
Write 犊
New here? to save your writing progress and earn XP.
Practice writing 犊 stroke by stroke. Watch the animation to learn the stroke order, then try writing it yourself.
Grammar Patterns of 犊
犊 functions as a noun — it names a person, place, thing, or concept. Place it as a subject before the verb (主+谓) or as an object after the verb (谓+宾). Most Chinese nouns require a measure word between the number and the noun (e.g. 一个/三本). It carries 2 related meanings, each with its own usage notes below. The example sentences below show it in action, with practice buttons (Listen, Practice Writing, Practice Speaking) on every line.
Complete the Sentence
他的母牛每年产____时，他都给自家留上一两头。
When his cows calve each year he keeps one or two calves for his family.
Example Sentences for 犊 (2)
Word Family of 犊
Compound Meaning
What does 犊 mean?
Frequently Asked Questions about 犊
It is pronounced as 'dú' with a rising tone.
Jason Recommends
Not sure what to learn after 犊?
Jason picks three words from your level and explains why each one is worth your time next. It takes a free account so he knows what you already know.