surname Lan

JLPT N5 13 strokes

Words with this Kanji

Meaning and Usage

The character (lán) primarily means "blue," specifically a deep or navy blue color. It is also used as a Chinese surname. When used as a color, often appears in everyday contexts such as describing clothing, nature, or objects.

Common Collocations

  • (lán sè): blue color, the most common way to say "blue" in Mandarin.
  • (lán tiān): blue sky, a frequent phrase in descriptions of weather or scenery.
  • (lán yá): Bluetooth, a modern compound word.

Usage Notes

as a surname is less common but appears in formal or personal names. When used as a color, it is often combined with (color) to form . Avoid confusing with other color words like (qīng), which can mean blue or green depending on context.

Register and Tone

is neutral in tone and register, suitable for both formal and informal contexts. It is a basic color term taught early in Chinese learning (HSK 3).

Common Confusion

Do not confuse (lán) with 兰 (lán), which means orchid and is a different character though pronounced the same.

Example Sentences

This piece of clothing is blue and very beautiful.

Mr. Lan is the manager of our company.

The blue sky and white clouds make people feel happy.