Listen to the audio pronunciation 3 times to gain XP
March 24, 2026
俞shù(shu4)
The character 俞 (shù) primarily means 'to consent' or 'to approve.' It is often used in formal contexts to indicate agreement or acknowledgment, and can also serve as a surname. In everyday language, it conveys a sense of affirmation or acceptance.
Strokes9Radical人Frequency#38868DifficultyVery Hard
Cultural Note
In Chinese culture, the concept of consent is significant in formal agreements, such as contracts or marriage, where mutual approval is essential. The character's usage reflects the importance placed on collective agreement and harmony in relationships.
Memory Tip
Imagine a person giving a thumbs up (俞) while nodding their head, signifying approval and consent. The character's left component (亻) suggests a person, while the right part (于) can be visualized as a 'yes' gesture, linking the meaning to agreement.
Meanings of 俞
shù(shu4)
primary
1to consent, to approve; surname
2OK
Exercise 1 of 2
By ear
Play it, then pick what 俞 means.
About 俞
俞Simplified
9Strokes
人Radical
状态词stative word (stat.)Part of Speech
#—Frequency Rank
Podcast: 俞
Podcast: 俞
Listen to Jason & Amy break down this word for you
New here?
AI Study Notes for 俞
Usage Notes
Learners often confuse 俞 with similar-sounding characters and may use it in informal settings where a more casual term is appropriate. It pairs well with words like '同意' (tóngyì, to agree) and '赞同' (zàntóng, to endorse). Be careful with the tone, as it is pronounced with a falling tone (shù), which is distinct from other tones.
HSK Study Tips
While 俞 is not part of the official HSK vocabulary, it is beneficial for learners at HSK level 5 or higher to recognize it in formal contexts. Focus on its usage in legal or official documents, where consent and approval are often required, to deepen understanding.
Common Mistakes
Learners often mistakenly use 俞 in contexts where '同意' (tóngyì) is more appropriate, such as saying '我俞这个' instead of '我同意这个' (I agree with this). Additionally, confusing the pronunciation with similar characters can lead to misunderstandings.
AI-enhanced 2026-03-24
Pronunciation of 俞
Premium — Locked
AI tone practice
Pro
Drill the tone of 俞 with AI-powered exercises, get instant feedback, and earn XP toward mastery. Interactive tone practice is part of Pro.
Jason looks at what you watch and listen to, the checkpoints you have cleared, our lessons and what you have been exploring, and explains 俞 through them.
Sign in free to make it personal. New accounts start with 300 AI credits.
How to say to consent, to approve; surname in Chinese
“to consent, to approve; surname” in Chinese is俞yú
The character 俞 (shù) primarily means 'to consent' or 'to approve.' It is often used in formal contexts to indicate agreement or acknowledgment, and can also serve as a surname. In everyday language, it conveys a sense of affirmation or acceptance.
When to use 俞
Learners often confuse 俞 with similar-sounding characters and may use it in informal settings where a more casual term is appropriate. It pairs well with words like '同意' (tóngyì, to agree) and '赞同' (zàntóng, to endorse). Be careful with the tone, as it is pronounced with a falling tone (shù), which is distinct from other tones.
What learners get wrong
Learners often mistakenly use 俞 in contexts where '同意' (tóngyì) is more appropriate, such as saying '我俞这个' instead of '我同意这个' (I agree with this). Additionally, confusing the pronunciation with similar characters can lead to misunderstandings.
Write 俞
俞
New here? to save your writing progress and earn XP.
Practice writing 俞 stroke by stroke. Watch the animation to learn the stroke order, then try writing it yourself.
Write correctly 3 times to earn XP
Ask Jason
Have a question about 俞?
Jason answers about this word at your level: example sentences, how it differs from similar words, and a way to remember it.
Sign in free to ask. New accounts start with 300 AI credits.
Word Family of 俞
Words Containing This Character4
俞shùOK
俞正声Yu Zhengsheng (1945-), PRC politician俞正聲
俞天白Yu Tianbai (1937-), novelist
俞文豹Yu Wenbao (lived around 1240), prolific Song dynasty poet
Exercise 1 of 3
Words with 俞
What does 俞正声 mean?
Frequently Asked Questions about 俞
You can use 俞 in phrases like '我俞同意这个计划' (Wǒ shù tóngyì zhège jìhuà), meaning 'I approve of this plan.'
While it can be used informally, it is more commonly found in formal settings, so using '好' (hǎo, good) for casual agreements is preferable.
Yes, 俞 is a recognized surname but not as common as other Chinese surnames, like Wang or Li.
Jason Recommends
Not sure what to learn after 俞?
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.
