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洗礼 — pronunciations, definitions, and tags
HanziPinyinEnglishTags
洗礼xǐlǐbaptism (lit. or fig.)HSK 7, unknown, rank #8507, Hard, formal, religious, cultural studies, religion
xǐlǐ(xi3li3) T3
  1. 1baptism (lit. or fig.)
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March 24, 2026
洗礼(洗禮)xǐlǐ(xi3li3)

洗礼 (xǐlǐ) refers to the act of baptism, which is a Christian rite of initiation involving the use of water. It can also be used metaphorically to indicate a significant transformation or initiation into a new phase of life, often used in contexts such as 'a baptism of fire' for someone experiencing a challenging introduction to a new situation.

Frequency#8507DifficultyHard
Cultural Note

In Christianity, baptism is a significant ritual that symbolizes purification and admission into the faith. In China, while Christianity is a minority religion, the concept of 洗礼 resonates with the idea of starting anew, which is appreciated in various cultural contexts.

Memory Tip

Think of 洗 (xǐ), which means 'to wash,' and 礼 (lǐ), which means 'ritual' or 'ceremony.' Imagine someone washing away their old self in a ceremonial water baptism, marking a fresh start, while the '礼' signifies the solemnity of the occasion.

Meanings of 洗礼

xǐlǐ(xi3li3)
1baptism (lit. or fig.)
Exercise 1 of 3

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About 洗礼

洗礼Simplified
洗禮Traditional
Strokes
Radical
名词míngcínoun (n.)Part of Speech
#—Frequency Rank
HSK 3.0L7AdvancedCEFRC2

Podcast: 洗礼

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Podcast: 洗礼

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AI Study Notes for 洗礼

Memory Mnemonic

Think of 洗 (xǐ), which means 'to wash,' and 礼 (lǐ), which means 'ritual' or 'ceremony.' Imagine someone washing away their old self in a ceremonial water baptism, marking a fresh start, while the '礼' signifies the solemnity of the occasion.

Usage Notes

This term is mostly used in religious contexts, but it can also appear in figurative language. Be mindful of the tone; using the wrong tone may change the meaning. For example, use it in formal discussions about religion or personal transformations.

HSK Study Tips

While 洗礼 is not commonly found in the HSK vocabulary list, it can be connected to HSK Level 4 topics involving personal experiences and significant life events. Students should focus on understanding both the literal and figurative uses of the term.

Cultural Note

In Christianity, baptism is a significant ritual that symbolizes purification and admission into the faith. In China, while Christianity is a minority religion, the concept of 洗礼 resonates with the idea of starting anew, which is appreciated in various cultural contexts.

Common Mistakes

Learners often confuse 洗礼 with 洗手 (xǐ shǒu), which means 'to wash hands.' Remember, 洗礼 is specifically about baptism or significant rites. A common mistake is saying '我想要洗手' (I want to take a baptism), which should be '我想要洗礼' (I want to undergo a baptism).

AI-enhanced 2026-03-24

Pronunciation of 洗礼

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Component Characters

to wash
HSK 29 strokes
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gift
HSK 55 strokes
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Write 洗礼

Practice writing 洗礼 stroke by stroke. Watch the animation to learn the stroke order, then try writing it yourself.

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Common Confusions with 洗礼

洗礼vs

Similar in sound and shape but different meanings.

洗礼vs

Similar in sound and shape but different meanings.

Exercise 1 of 1

Spot the Difference

Which character means "baptism (lit. or fig.)"?

or

Cultural Notes for 洗礼

💡Did you know?

在基督教中,洗礼象征着信仰的开始和灵魂的重生。通过洗礼,信徒被认为洗净了过去的罪恶,迎来了新的开始。

🏮Cultural insight

In Christianity, baptism is a significant ritual that symbolizes purification and admission into the faith. In China, while Christianity is a minority religion, the concept of 洗礼 resonates with the idea of starting anew, which is appreciated in various cultural contexts.

🌏Cross-cultural Insight

In Western cultures, baptism is often a public ceremony with family and community involvement, while in some Chinese contexts, it may be less emphasized and more personal.

Frequently Asked Questions about 洗礼

In Chinese culture, 洗礼 (xǐlǐ) not only has religious significance but also symbolizes new beginnings and personal transformation. It can be used metaphorically to describe any life-changing event, such as starting a new job or moving to a new city.