n/a

writing patterns, not components

category: simplified

structure: left down surrounded

7stroke count

HSK 1

Breakdown

这 (zhè) is a pronoun that refers to people and things nearby, usually translated as “this.” It consists of 辶 and 文 (wén) “writing.” 辶, derived from 辵 (chuò) “to walk (but stopping occasionally),”is only used as a component. It possibly indicates the things we see nearby as one does not go far if they are stopping every now and then. 文 (wén) is not semantic nor phonetic in this character as it is an arbitrary symbol used for simplification.

Used as a morpheme/word

How to pronounce

First, say “jaw” with unrounded lips, then move the tip of your tongue backward while it is touching the roof. Once you can feel the slope, stop right there, hold still, and say “jaw” again.