Meanings of 复
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About 复
Podcast: 复
Podcast: 复
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AI Study Notes for 复
复 (fù) vs 返回 (fǎnhuí) — use 复 for returning to a previous state or repeating, while 返回 specifically means to return to a place.
Imagine a boomerang, which goes out and then returns back to you. The shape of the character 复 resembles a flowing motion, emphasizing the idea of returning. Think of 'fù' as the sound of a boomerang flying through the air and returning to its owner.
Learners often confuse 复 with similar characters like 返 (fǎn), which also means 'return' but is more specific to physical movement. 复 is more versatile and can be used in various contexts. Be cautious with tone, as mispronouncing 'fù' can change its meaning.
While 复 is not an HSK level character, it connects with other words related to returning or repeating, such as 回 (huí) for 'to return'. Focus on practicing its use in phrases like 复习 (fùxí), meaning 'to review', to understand its practical applications.
In traditional Chinese medicine, 复 is often used when discussing the recovery process of health, reflecting a cultural emphasis on restoration and balance in physical and emotional states.
Learners sometimes use 复 incorrectly with the wrong collocations, such as saying 复信 (fùxìn) instead of 回信 (huíxìn) for 'to reply to a letter'. Remember, 复 is broader in meaning and should be applied in the right context.
Pronunciation of 复
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Etymology of 复
Pictograph of a foot going toward a house, representing the meaning "to return home".
A person 亻 who goes somewhere 夂 every day 日
Character Formation Type
What type of character formation is 复?
Decomposition of 复
Identify the Components
Which of these is a component of 复?
Write 复
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Practice writing 复 stroke by stroke. Watch the animation to learn the stroke order, then try writing it yourself.
Grammar Patterns of 复
复 functions as a verb — the action or state of the sentence. The Chinese order is Subject + Verb + Object (我吃饭). Negate it with 不 (habitual / future) or 没(有) (completed action). Add aspect markers like 了, 过, 着 directly after the verb. It carries 26 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
明天有听写，我该____习生词了。
There is a dictation test tomorrow, I should review vocabulary now.
Common Confusions with 复
Same pronunciation but different meaning.
Spot the Difference
Which character means "to go and return"?
Example Sentences for 复 (10)
Cultural Notes for 复
In Chinese culture, the concept of returning or resuming can be significant in various contexts, such as festivals where families reunite and return to their hometowns. This is reflected in the use of '复' in phrases related to family and homecoming.
In traditional Chinese medicine, 复 is often used when discussing the recovery process of health, reflecting a cultural emphasis on restoration and balance in physical and emotional states.
Word Family of 复
Compound Meaning
What does 腹 mean?
Frequently Asked Questions about 复
Some common phrases that include 复 (fù) are 复习 (fùxí), meaning 'to review,' and 复苏 (fùsū), meaning 'to revive.' These phrases illustrate how the character is used in practical contexts related to learning and recovery.