Meanings of 曰
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About 曰
Podcast: 曰
Podcast: 曰
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AI Study Notes for 曰
Learners often confuse 曰 with 说 (shuō), which is more commonly used in modern Mandarin. While 曰 is appropriate for formal contexts, it is rarely used in everyday conversation. Be cautious with tone; it is pronounced with a flat tone (first tone).
As a lesser-known character, it does not appear in the HSK levels but understanding it can enrich comprehension of classical texts. Focus on recognizing its usage in context, especially in literary readings, to enhance your vocabulary.
Learners may incorrectly use 曰 in casual conversations where 说 is more appropriate. For example, saying '我曰...' instead of '我说...' would sound overly formal and awkward.
Pronunciation of 曰
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Jason Explains 曰 to You
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Learning Lab
Knowing 曰 is seven skills, not one.
Its meaning, its character, its pinyin, its tone — hearing it, saying it, writing it. The Learning Lab measures each one from your own practice, on every word you study, so you see what you actually know rather than how much you have done.
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Etymology of 曰
Pictograph of a line, representing speech, coming out of a mouth (口).
Picture of an open 一 mouth 口
Origin
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Decomposition of 曰
Parts
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How to say to speak; to say in Chinese
“to speak; to say” in Chinese is曰
The character 曰 (yuē) means 'to say' or 'to speak.' It is commonly used in literary or formal contexts, often seen in historical texts or classical Chinese. It conveys the action of verbal communication, emphasizing the act of stating something.
When to use 曰
Learners often confuse 曰 with 说 (shuō), which is more commonly used in modern Mandarin. While 曰 is appropriate for formal contexts, it is rarely used in everyday conversation. Be cautious with tone; it is pronounced with a flat tone (first tone).
What learners get wrong
Learners may incorrectly use 曰 in casual conversations where 说 is more appropriate. For example, saying '我曰...' instead of '我说...' would sound overly formal and awkward.
Write 曰
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Practice writing 曰 stroke by stroke. Watch the animation to learn the stroke order, then try writing it yourself.
Grammar Patterns of 曰
曰 carries one core meaning. Below you'll find the patterns that show how it combines with other words, plus example sentences pulled directly from native usage.
Fill the gap
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东鲁孔梅溪则题____>.
Kong Meixi of eastern Lu suggested the title Precious Mirror of Love.
Example Sentences for 曰 (2)
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Rebuild it: “Kong Meixi of eastern Lu suggested the title Precious Mirror of Love.”
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Word Family of 曰
Words with 曰
What does 美其名曰 mean?
Frequently Asked Questions about 曰
Use 曰 in more formal or classical contexts, while 说 is preferred in everyday conversation.
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