Meanings of 寇
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About 寇
Podcast: 寇
Podcast: 寇
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AI Study Notes for 寇
匪 (fěi) - use 寇 (kòu) when emphasizing historical invaders or plunderers, whereas 匪 (fěi) typically refers to bandits or robbers in a more modern context.
Be cautious with the tone; using the wrong tone can change the meaning entirely. This character is more formal and might appear in historical texts rather than in casual conversation. Common collocations include '海盗寇' (pirate) or '敌寇' (enemy bandit).
Although not included in HSK levels, understanding 寇 can enhance vocabulary related to conflict and historical narratives. Students should focus on recognizing the character in context, especially in texts discussing historical invasions or conflicts.
Learners often confuse 寇 with other similar-sounding characters, such as 口 (kǒu) meaning mouth. A common mistake is using it in informal contexts where a simpler term would suffice. For example, saying '他是一个寇' (He is a bandit) in casual conversation might sound overly dramatic.
Pronunciation of 寇
Drill the tone of 寇 with AI-powered exercises, get instant feedback, and earn XP toward mastery. Interactive tone practice is part of Pro.
Etymology of 寇
Bandits mugging 攴 a person 元 in his home 宀
Jason Etymology Detective
Case file: 寇
- 1The giveawayBandits mugging 攴 a person 元 in his home 宀
- 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 寇? 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 寇?
Decomposition of 寇
Identify the Components
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How to say bandit, thief; enemy; to invade in Chinese
“bandit, thief; enemy; to invade” in Chinese is寇
The character 寇 (kòu) primarily refers to a bandit or thief, and can also denote an enemy or foe. It is often used in historical contexts or literature to describe invaders or plunderers, reflecting a sense of hostility or aggression.
When to use 寇
Be cautious with the tone; using the wrong tone can change the meaning entirely. This character is more formal and might appear in historical texts rather than in casual conversation. Common collocations include '海盗寇' (pirate) or '敌寇' (enemy bandit).
寇 or something close to it
匪 (fěi) - use 寇 (kòu) when emphasizing historical invaders or plunderers, whereas 匪 (fěi) typically refers to bandits or robbers in a more modern context.
What learners get wrong
Learners often confuse 寇 with other similar-sounding characters, such as 口 (kǒu) meaning mouth. A common mistake is using it in informal contexts where a simpler term would suffice. For example, saying '他是一个寇' (He is a bandit) in casual conversation might sound overly dramatic.
Write 寇
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Practice writing 寇 stroke by stroke. Watch the animation to learn the stroke order, then try writing it yourself.
Grammar Patterns of 寇
寇 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 4 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
这部电影最早在1957年上映，后被翻拍为《七侠荡____志》。
Originally released in 1957, the film was remade as "The Magnificent Seven".
Example Sentences for 寇 (3)
Word Family of 寇
Compound Meaning
What does 寇 mean?
Frequently Asked Questions about 寇
Common phrases include '敌寇' meaning enemy bandit and '海盗寇' for pirate.
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