楚 (chǔ) - Chu — refers to the ancient state of & also means clear, distinct, neat

楚Tone 3

chǔ ｜ 13 strokes ｜ radical:

橙丁

楚 · chǔ

Chu — refers to the ancient state of Chu during the Zhou dynasty;

also means clear, distinct, neat;

can denote pain, suffering;

used in names of places like Hubei and Hunan (Chu region).

Chu — refers to the ancient state ofalso means clear, distinct, neatcan denote pain, suffering

Usage highlights

Clear and distinctAncient state of ChuPain and sufferingBitter sufferingChu regionChu songs

Synonyms

  • 痛— pain, ache
  • 苦— bitter, suffering
  • 清— clear, distinct

Antonyms

  • 汉— Han (antonym in historical context of Chu-Han rivalry)
  • 模糊— blurry, unclear

Usage & contexts

Examples

  • The ancient state of Chu was powerful (楚国).
  • She felt heartache and sorrow (痛楚).
  • His handwriting is neat and clear (清楚).
  • The pain was unbearable (苦楚).

Collocations

  • Clear and distinct(清楚)
  • Ancient state of Chu(楚国)
  • Pain and suffering(痛楚)
  • Bitter suffering(苦楚)
  • Chu region(楚地)
  • Chu songs(楚歌)

Idioms

  • The Chu-Han Contention(楚汉相争)
  • A clear dividing line(楚河汉界)
  • Surrounded by Chu songs on all sides(四面楚歌)
  • Brilliant and magnificent(衣冠楚楚)

Cultural background

FAQ
  • Chu was a major state during the Zhou dynasty, known for its distinct culture and military power.
  • The term 'Chu' often evokes historical and literary associations, especially from the Chu-Han contention period.
  • In modern usage, 'Chu' can denote clarity or pain, depending on context.

FAQ