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March 24, 2026
钩子(鉤子)gōuzi(gou1zi5)
钩子 (gōuzi) refers to a hook, typically used for hanging or catching something. It can also imply a metaphorical 'hook' in conversations, such as an engaging idea or concept that captures someone's interest. Common contexts include fishing, construction, and even literature.
Frequency#11978DifficultyHard
Cultural Note
In Chinese culture, hooks are not just practical tools; they also symbolize the idea of connection and capturing opportunities, reflecting the importance of seizing chances in life.
Memory Tip
Imagine a fisherman casting his line, using a shiny hook (钩子) to catch fish. The character 钩 (gōu) resembles a hook itself, while the '子' (zi) can remind you of a small child (like a small hook) that needs to be carefully handled.
Meanings of 钩子
gōuzi(gou1zi5)
1hook
Exercise 1 of 2
Listen & Choose the Meaning
Choose the correct answer:
About 钩子
钩子Simplified
鉤子Traditional
—Strokes
—Radical
名词míngcínoun (n.)Part of Speech
#11978Frequency Rank
HSK 2.0L6HSK 3.0L7AdvancedCEFRC2
Podcast: 钩子
Podcast: 钩子
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AI Study Notes for 钩子
Memory Mnemonic
Imagine a fisherman casting his line, using a shiny hook (钩子) to catch fish. The character 钩 (gōu) resembles a hook itself, while the '子' (zi) can remind you of a small child (like a small hook) that needs to be carefully handled.
Usage Notes
Learners often confuse 钩子 with other similar nouns. Remember, 钩子 specifically means 'hook' and is informal in tone. It is commonly paired with verbs like '挂' (to hang) or '钓' (to fish), which can help avoid misunderstandings.
HSK Study Tips
As an HSK 6 word, 钩子 connects well with other nouns describing tools or instruments. Students should focus on using it in compound phrases, such as 钩子钓鱼 (using a hook for fishing), to deepen their vocabulary.
Cultural Note
In Chinese culture, hooks are not just practical tools; they also symbolize the idea of connection and capturing opportunities, reflecting the importance of seizing chances in life.
Common Mistakes
A common mistake is using 钩子 to refer to a hook in a more abstract sense without context, leading to confusion. For example, saying '这是我的钩子' (This is my hook) without clarifying its function can mislead listeners.
AI-enhanced 2026-03-24
Pronunciation of 钩子
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Grammar Patterns of 钩子
钩子 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). The example sentences below show it in action, with practice buttons (Listen, Practice Writing, Practice Speaking) on every line.
Exercise 1 of 4
Complete the Sentence
门边有个____可以挂衣服。
There's a peg near the door to hang your coat on.
Example Sentences for 钩子 (3)
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1
门边有个钩子可以挂衣服。
mén biān yǒu gè gōu zǐ kě yǐ guà yī fú。
There's a peg near the door to hang your coat on.
2
我想买挂在钩子上的火腿.
wǒ xiǎng mǎi guà zài gōu zǐ shàng de huǒ tuǐ.
I want to buy the hams hanging on the hooks.
3
他甩出去的钩子没挂住石头, 又落回到地面.
tā shuǎi chū qù de gōu zǐ méi guà zhù shí tóu, , yòu luò huí dào dì.
The hook which he had thrown did not catch on the rocks, and dropped back to the ground.
Cultural Notes for 钩子
🏮Cultural insight
In Chinese culture, hooks are not just practical tools; they also symbolize the idea of connection and capturing opportunities, reflecting the importance of seizing chances in life.
Frequently Asked Questions about 钩子
钩子 (gōuzi) refers specifically to a physical hook, while 勾 (gōu) can refer to the action of hooking or can mean to draw something.
Yes, 钩子 can be used metaphorically to describe something that captures attention, similar to how a hook draws in fish.
Yes, it's commonly used in contexts involving fishing, hanging items, or even in idiomatic expressions.
