縟 (rù) - Elaborate, ornate & intricate

縟Tone 4

rù ｜ 16 strokes ｜ radical:

儒三

縟 · rù

Elaborate, ornate;

intricate;

rich decoration;

excessive embellishment.

Elaborate, ornateintricaterich decoration

Usage highlights

Elaborate ritualIntricate decorationExcessive formalityOrnate styleComplicated procedureRich embellishment

Synonyms

  • 繁— complex, numerous
  • 丽— beautiful, ornate
  • 饰— decorate, adorn

Antonyms

  • 简— simple, brief
  • 朴— plain, unadorned
  • 素— plain, simple

Usage & contexts

Examples

  • The ceremony was elaborate and ornate (繁文縟节).
  • The palace was decorated with intricate patterns (縟丽).
  • He avoided excessive formalities (縟礼).

Collocations

  • Elaborate ritual(縟礼)
  • Intricate decoration(縟丽)
  • Excessive formality(繁文縟节)
  • Ornate style(縟饰)
  • Complicated procedure(縟节)
  • Rich embellishment(縟彩)

Idioms

  • Red tape and unnecessary formalities(繁文縟节)
  • Extravagant and wasteful(縟礼烦仪)

Cultural background

FAQ
  • Traditionally associated with Confucian rituals and formal ceremonies.
  • Often carries a negative connotation of excessive complexity in modern usage.
  • Reflects traditional Chinese aesthetic values that balance ornamentation and simplicity.

FAQ