embryo, fetus

JLPT N5 9 strokes

Words with this Kanji

Meaning and Usage

The character primarily refers to the fetus or embryo inside the womb. It is commonly used in medical or biological contexts to talk about prenatal development.

Extended Meaning

Besides its biological meaning, also appears in compound words related to tires (轮胎), where it means 'tire' or 'casing'. This is a completely different usage but shares the same character.

Common Collocations

  • 胎儿 (tāi'ér): fetus, unborn baby
  • 怀 (huáitāi): to be pregnant
  • 轮胎 (lúntāi): tire (car tire)

Usage Notes

When using to refer to pregnancy or fetus, it is often combined with other characters like or 怀. In contrast, when referring to tires, it is always part of compound words like 轮胎. Avoid confusing these meanings by paying attention to context.

Confusions to Avoid

Do not confuse with (back) or (platform), which have different meanings and pronunciations. Also, is not used alone to mean 'pregnancy' but rather as part of compounds.

Example Sentences

The doctor said the fetus is developing normally without any problems.

The tire of this car needs to be replaced because it is severely worn out.

The sow gave birth to ten piglets after being pregnant for three months.