蒹 (jiān) - Reed — specifically refers to Miscanthus reeds, a

蒹Tone 1

jiān ｜ 13 strokes ｜ radical:

嘉健

蒹 · jiān

Reed — specifically refers to Miscanthus reeds, a type of tall grass growing in wetlands, often mentioned in classical Chinese poetry.

Reed — specifically refers to Miscanthus reeds, a

Usage highlights

Reeds and lotusReeds in the windReeds by the waterReeds in autumnReeds in poetryReeds and dew

Synonyms

  • 芦苇— common reed (more general term)
  • 芦荻— reeds and rushes

Usage & contexts

Examples

  • The reeds sway in the autumn wind (蒹葭在秋风中摇曳).
  • Ancient poems often mention reeds (蒹葭) to evoke longing.
  • Reeds grow along the riverbank (蒹葭生长在河岸).
  • The reeds and lotus leaves create a beautiful scene (蒹葭与荷叶构成美景).

Collocations

  • Reeds and lotus(蒹葭与荷)
  • Reeds in the wind(风中蒹葭)
  • Reeds by the water(水边蒹葭)
  • Reeds in autumn(秋日蒹葭)
  • Reeds in poetry(诗中的蒹葭)
  • Reeds and dew(蒹葭与露)

Idioms

  • The reeds are luxuriant(蒹葭苍苍)
  • The reeds and dew are white(蒹葭萋萋，白露未晞)
  • Longing for someone far away(蒹葭之思)

Cultural background

FAQ
  • Prominently featured in the Classic of Poetry (《诗经》) as a symbol of longing and unattainable beauty.
  • Often used in classical literature to represent autumn, melancholy, and unrequited love.
  • Associated with wetland landscapes and natural scenery in traditional Chinese painting.

FAQ