Meanings of 蛀
Listen & Choose the Meaning
Choose the correct answer:
About 蛀
Podcast: 蛀
Podcast: 蛀
Listen to Jason & Amy break down this word for you
New here?
AI Study Notes for 蛀
蛀 (zhù) vs 侵 (qīn) — use 蛀 specifically for pests boring into materials, while 侵 refers more broadly to invasion or encroachment.
This term is typically used in both formal and informal contexts when discussing pests. Common mistakes include confusing it with similar-sounding words. Remember that this word is often used in a negative context, so be mindful of its implications.
Although 蛀 is not included in the HSK vocabulary lists, it can be connected with other HSK words related to insects and damage, such as 虫 (chóng) for 'bug.' Focus on its usage in context to enhance your understanding of pest-related vocabulary.
Learners often confuse 蛀 with other similar characters like 蛰 (zhé), which means to sting or to be stung. Remember that 蛀 specifically refers to boring or eating into, particularly by insects.
Pronunciation of 蛀
Drill the tone of 蛀 with AI-powered exercises, get instant feedback, and earn XP toward mastery. Interactive tone practice is part of Pro.
Etymology of 蛀
Phonosemantic compound. 虫 represents the meaning and 主 represents the sound.
insect
Jason Etymology Detective
Case file: 蛀
Phonosemantic compound. 虫 represents the meaning and 主 represents the sound.
- 1The meaning half虫 carries the sense.
- 2The sound half主 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 蛀? 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 蛀?
Decomposition of 蛀
Identify the Components
Which of these is a component of 蛀?
How to say termite, bookworm; to bore, to eat into in Chinese
“termite, bookworm; to bore, to eat into” in Chinese is蛀
The character 蛀 (zhù) primarily refers to a type of pest, specifically a termite or bookworm, which is known for boring into wood or paper. It can also be used as a verb meaning 'to bore' or 'to eat into,' often in the context of insects damaging materials.
When to use 蛀
This term is typically used in both formal and informal contexts when discussing pests. Common mistakes include confusing it with similar-sounding words. Remember that this word is often used in a negative context, so be mindful of its implications.
蛀 or something close to it
蛀 (zhù) vs 侵 (qīn) — use 蛀 specifically for pests boring into materials, while 侵 refers more broadly to invasion or encroachment.
What learners get wrong
Learners often confuse 蛀 with other similar characters like 蛰 (zhé), which means to sting or to be stung. Remember that 蛀 specifically refers to boring or eating into, particularly by insects.
Write 蛀
New here? to save your writing progress and earn XP.
Practice writing 蛀 stroke by stroke. Watch the animation to learn the stroke order, then try writing it yourself.
Grammar Patterns of 蛀
蛀 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 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
牙斑如果不清除就会导致牙齿____蚀和牙龈疾病。
When not removed, plaque causes tooth decay and gum disease.
Example Sentences for 蛀 (4)
Word Family of 蛀
Compound Meaning
What does 蛀 mean?
Frequently Asked Questions about 蛀
Some synonyms include 虫蛀 (chóng zhù), which emphasizes the action of pests boring into materials.
Jason Recommends
Not sure what to learn after 蛀?
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.