Meanings of 毛
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About 毛
Podcast: 毛
Podcast: 毛
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AI Study Notes for 毛
毛 (máo, hair/feather) vs 发 (fà, hair) — use 毛 for texture or material context; use 发 for hair on the head.
Imagine a fluffy sheep (毛, máo) with soft wool covering its body. The word '毛' looks like the sheep's fur, and the 'm' sound in 'máo' can remind you of 'matted' wool. Picture yourself petting the sheep and feeling its soft 毛!
Common mistakes include confusing '毛' with similar-sounding characters or using it incorrectly as a verb. It is informal when referring to hair or feathers and can be used in both everyday and formal contexts when discussing currency. Remember that '毛' as a currency unit is specific to Chinese monetary terms.
As an HSK Level 4 word, '毛' connects with other vocabulary related to physical characteristics and materials, such as '皮' (pí, skin) and '绒' (róng, fluff). Students should practice using '毛' in different contexts, particularly in relation to clothing and currency.
'毛' is also a common surname in China, notably associated with historical figures like Mao Zedong. This character embodies not just physical traits but also cultural identity, linking personal names to broader historical narratives.
Learners often mistakenly use '毛' in contexts where specific technical terms are required, such as using it to describe food items when '生' (shēng) might be more appropriate. For example, saying '毛肉' instead of '生肉' (raw meat) is incorrect.
Pronunciation of 毛
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Etymology of 毛
Pictograph of a feather.
Character Formation Type
What type of character formation is 毛?
Decomposition of 毛
Identify the Components
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Write 毛
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Practice writing 毛 stroke by stroke. Watch the animation to learn the stroke order, then try writing it yourself.
Grammar Patterns of 毛
毛 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 19 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
九块三____。
9.30 yuan.
Common Confusions with 毛
Same pronunciation but different characters and meanings.
Spot the Difference
Which character means "hair"?
Example Sentences for 毛 (10)
Cultural Notes for 毛
The character 毛 is often associated with warmth and comfort due to its connection to wool and feathers. In Chinese culture, warm clothing is essential during the cold winter months.
'毛' is also a common surname in China, notably associated with historical figures like Mao Zedong. This character embodies not just physical traits but also cultural identity, linking personal names to broader historical narratives.
Word Family of 毛
Compound Meaning
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Frequently Asked Questions about 毛
Common phrases using 毛 (máo) include '毛衣' (máo yī), which means 'sweater', and '毛发' (máo fà), meaning 'hair'. These phrases are useful for everyday conversations, especially when discussing clothing or personal grooming.