Meanings of 虻
Listen & Choose the Meaning
Choose the correct answer:
About 虻
Podcast: 虻
Podcast: 虻
Listen to Jason & Amy break down this word for you
New here?
AI Study Notes for 虻
This term is generally used in informal contexts, especially in conversations about insects or farming. A common mistake is using 虻 in a metaphorical sense when referring to annoying people; instead, use 令人厌烦 (lìng rén yàn fán) for that context.
Though 虻 is not part of the official HSK vocabulary, it can enrich your vocabulary for discussions about nature. Focus on related insects and their characteristics when learning this word, as it enhances your understanding of related terms.
Learners often confuse 虻 with related characters like 蚊 (wén, mosquito) or 苍蝇 (cāngyíng, fly). Remember, 虻 specifically refers to horseflies, which are larger and more aggressive than mosquitoes.
Pronunciation of 虻
Drill the tone of 虻 with AI-powered exercises, get instant feedback, and earn XP toward mastery. Interactive tone practice is part of Pro.
Etymology of 虻
insect
Jason Etymology Detective
Case file: 虻
- 1The meaning half虫 carries the sense.
- 2The sound half亡 is there for the reading, not the meaning.
- 3The giveawayinsect
- 4On the record aspictophonetic.
Every clue here comes from the character's recorded structure — nothing is guessed.
Want the full history of 虻? 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 虻?
Decomposition of 虻
Identify the Components
Which of these is a component of 虻?
How to say horsefly, gadfly in Chinese
“horsefly, gadfly” in Chinese is虻
The character 虻 (méng) refers to a type of fly, specifically a horsefly or gadfly. These insects are known for their painful bites and are often found in rural or outdoor areas, making the term useful in contexts related to nature or animal husbandry.
When to use 虻
This term is generally used in informal contexts, especially in conversations about insects or farming. A common mistake is using 虻 in a metaphorical sense when referring to annoying people; instead, use 令人厌烦 (lìng rén yàn fán) for that context.
What learners get wrong
Learners often confuse 虻 with related characters like 蚊 (wén, mosquito) or 苍蝇 (cāngyíng, fly). Remember, 虻 specifically refers to horseflies, which are larger and more aggressive than mosquitoes.
Write 虻
New here? to save your writing progress and earn XP.
Practice writing 虻 stroke by stroke. Watch the animation to learn the stroke order, then try writing it yourself.
Word Family of 虻
Compound Meaning
What does 虻 mean?
Frequently Asked Questions about 虻
虻 specifically refers to horseflies or gadflies, which are larger and more aggressive than typical houseflies.
Jason Recommends
Not sure what to learn after 虻?
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.