武 (wǔ) - military & martial

武Tone 3

wǔ ｜ 8 strokes ｜ radical: 止

万响

武 · wǔ

military;

martial;

warlike;

related to warfare or military affairs;

valiant;

brave.

militarymartialwarlike

Usage highlights

martial artsmilitary forcemilitary officerweaponmilitary prowessbrave and powerful

Synonyms

  • 勇— brave, courageous
  • 军— military, army
  • 兵— soldier, troops

Antonyms

  • 文— civil, cultural (opposite of martial)
  • 和— peace, harmonious

Usage & contexts

Examples

  • He practices martial arts (武术).
  • The military parade was impressive (武裝游行).
  • She studies military strategy (武略).
  • Ancient warriors were called wushi (武士).

Collocations

  • martial arts(武术)
  • military force(武力)
  • military officer(武官)
  • weapon(武器)
  • military prowess(武艺)
  • brave and powerful(威武)

Idioms

  • To lay down arms and pursue cultural activities(偃武修文)
  • Outstanding in both civil and military affairs(文武双全)
  • To display one's military prowess(耀武扬威)
  • Civil and military officials(文武百官)

Cultural background

FAQ
  • In Chinese philosophy, '武' represents the martial counterpart to '文' (civil/cultural), forming the ideal balance of a complete person.
  • The character originally depicted a person carrying a weapon, symbolizing military might and courage.
  • In naming, '武' often conveys strength, bravery, and martial spirit.

FAQ