Listen to the audio pronunciation 3 times to gain XP
March 24, 2026
陶瓷táocí(tao2ci2)
陶瓷 (táo cí) refers to pottery and porcelain, which are both types of ceramic materials made by shaping and then firing a non-metallic mineral, such as clay. Commonly used in both functional and decorative objects, ceramics are integral to Chinese culture, especially in the context of fine arts and traditional crafts.
Frequency#13191DifficultyHard
Cultural Note
Ceramics hold a significant place in Chinese history, with ancient dynasties like the Tang and Ming being renowned for their exquisite porcelain. The famous blue and white porcelain is a notable symbol of Chinese craftsmanship.
Memory Tip
Imagine a 'tao' (陶) shaped like a teapot, crafted from shiny porcelain (瓷) that reflects light beautifully. The 'tao' can remind you of 'tasty' teas served in fine ceramics, helping you link the sound to the meaning.
Meanings of 陶瓷
táocí(tao2ci2)
1pottery and porcelain
2ceramics
Exercise 1 of 2
Listen & Choose the Meaning
Choose the correct answer:
About 陶瓷
陶瓷Simplified
—Strokes
—Radical
名词míngcínoun (n.)Part of Speech
#13191Frequency Rank
HSK 2.0L6HSK 3.0L7AdvancedCEFRC2
Podcast: 陶瓷
Podcast: 陶瓷
Listen to Jason & Amy break down this word for you
New here?
AI Study Notes for 陶瓷
Quick Contrast
瓷器 (cíqì) refers specifically to porcelain items, while 陶瓷 (táocí) encompasses both pottery and porcelain.
Memory Mnemonic
Imagine a 'tao' (陶) shaped like a teapot, crafted from shiny porcelain (瓷) that reflects light beautifully. The 'tao' can remind you of 'tasty' teas served in fine ceramics, helping you link the sound to the meaning.
Usage Notes
Be cautious not to confuse 陶瓷 with other types of materials like 玻璃 (glass) or 金属 (metal). 陶瓷 is more commonly used in formal contexts, such as art or product descriptions. It often appears in phrases like '陶瓷制品' (ceramic products) or '陶瓷艺术' (ceramic art).
HSK Study Tips
As an HSK Level 6 word, 陶瓷 connects with other advanced vocabulary related to art and materials. Focus on usage in contexts involving art, craftsmanship, and cultural heritage to deepen understanding.
Cultural Note
Ceramics hold a significant place in Chinese history, with ancient dynasties like the Tang and Ming being renowned for their exquisite porcelain. The famous blue and white porcelain is a notable symbol of Chinese craftsmanship.
Common Mistakes
Learners often misuse 陶瓷 when referring to other materials, saying '陶瓷杯子' (ceramic cup) when they mean '玻璃杯子' (glass cup). Always remember that 陶瓷 specifically denotes ceramics, whereas other materials have their own terms.
AI-enhanced 2026-03-24
Pronunciation of 陶瓷
Premium — Locked
AI tone practice
Pro
Drill the tone of 陶瓷 with AI-powered exercises, get instant feedback, and earn XP toward mastery. Interactive tone practice is part of Pro.
New here? to save your writing progress and earn XP.
Practice writing 陶瓷 stroke by stroke. Watch the animation to learn the stroke order, then try writing it yourself.
Write correctly 3 times to earn XP
Grammar Patterns of 陶瓷
陶瓷 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 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.
Exercise 1 of 3
Complete the Sentence
普通的____元件分别是钛酸钡和锆钛酸铅.
Common ceramic elements are barium titanate and lead zirconate - titanate.
Products wanted: Caps, ceramic mugs, beach umbrellas and shoe buckles.
Cultural Notes for 陶瓷
🏮Cultural insight
Ceramics hold a significant place in Chinese history, with ancient dynasties like the Tang and Ming being renowned for their exquisite porcelain. The famous blue and white porcelain is a notable symbol of Chinese craftsmanship.
Frequently Asked Questions about 陶瓷
陶 refers to pottery, which is generally more porous and less refined than 瓷, which means porcelain, known for its high-quality, smooth finish.
Yes, 陶瓷 is a broad term that encompasses both pottery and porcelain, but context may dictate the specific type.
No, 陶瓷 is used for both functional items, like dishes and tiles, and decorative items, including sculptures and vases.
