礁 (jiāo) - Reef — a ridge of jagged rock, coral,

礁Tone 1

jiāo ｜ 17 strokes ｜ radical:

健傑

礁 · jiāo

Reef — a ridge of jagged rock, coral, or sand at or near the surface of the water.

Reef — a ridge of jagged rock, coral,

Usage highlights

Coral reefSubmerged reefBarrier reefAtollReef islandReef formation

Synonyms

Antonyms

Usage & contexts

Examples

  • The shipwreck lies on a coral reef (珊瑚礁).
  • The atoll is a ring-shaped reef (环礁).
  • The boat was damaged after hitting a submerged reef (暗礁).
  • A barrier reef protects the lagoon (堡礁).

Collocations

  • Coral reef(珊瑚礁)
  • Submerged reef(暗礁)
  • Barrier reef(堡礁)
  • Atoll(环礁)
  • Reef island(礁岛)
  • Reef formation(礁石)

Idioms

  • Treading on thin ice and touching a reef(如履薄冰，如触暗礁)
  • A reef blocking the way(礁石挡道)
  • Hidden reefs and dangerous shoals(暗礁险滩)

Cultural background

FAQ
  • Reefs are significant in Chinese maritime culture, often representing hidden dangers or natural barriers.
  • The character 礁 is frequently used in geographical names for islands and underwater features, especially in the South China Sea.
  • In literature, reefs symbolize obstacles or unforeseen challenges in one's path.

FAQ