purple

JLPT N5 12 strokes

Words with this Kanji

Meaning and Usage

The character (zǐ) primarily means "purple," referring to the color. It is commonly used to describe objects, clothing, or abstract concepts associated with the color purple.

Cultural Significance

In Chinese culture, (purple) often symbolizes nobility, spirituality, and mystery. It is a color historically linked to emperors and high status.

Common Collocations

  • (purple dress): a common phrase describing clothing.
  • (purple flowers): used in nature descriptions.
  • 光芒 (purple light/radiance): often used metaphorically or in poetic contexts.

Usage Notes

is a straightforward color adjective and is often combined with (color) to form , emphasizing the color itself. It is less commonly used alone as a noun without . Avoid confusing with similar color words like (blue) or (red).

Summary

Use when referring to the purple color in various contexts, especially when highlighting elegance or mystery. It is a formal and widely recognized color term in Mandarin.

Example Sentences

She wore a beautiful purple dress.

Purple often symbolizes nobility and mystery in Chinese culture.

The main color tone of this painting is purple, very attractive.