貔 (pí) - A mythical beast resembling a white tiger or & often used in classical texts to refer to

貔Tone 2

pí ｜ 17 strokes ｜ radical:

柠七

貔 · pí

A mythical beast resembling a white tiger or leopard, symbolizing valor and martial prowess;

often used in classical texts to refer to brave warriors.

A mythical beast resembling a white tiger oroften used in classical texts to refer to

Usage highlights

Mythical beastBrave warriorsFierce troopsAuspicious beastWhite leopard

Synonyms

  • 貔貅— Mythical beast (often used interchangeably)
  • 虎— Tiger (symbolizes bravery and strength)
  • 豹— Leopard (similar in appearance and symbolism)

Antonyms

  • 羊— Sheep (symbolizes meekness and docility)
  • 兔— Rabbit (symbolizes timidity and gentleness)

Usage & contexts

Examples

  • The army was described as mighty as the mythical beast (貔貅).
  • Ancient texts praised the general as a fierce warrior (貔虎).
  • In traditional art, the beast is depicted as powerful and auspicious (貔).

Collocations

  • Mythical beast(貔貅)
  • Brave warriors(貔虎)
  • Fierce troops(貔貅之师)
  • Auspicious beast(瑞兽貔貅)
  • White leopard(白貔)

Idioms

  • Like a mighty beast and fierce tiger(如貔如虎)
  • Brave as the mythical beast(勇如貔貅)
  • Mighty troops like the beast(貔貅之师)

Cultural background

FAQ
  • In Chinese mythology, the beast is often associated with bravery and military strength.
  • It is sometimes conflated with the Pixiu, a mythical creature believed to attract wealth and ward off evil.
  • Historically used in literature to symbolize formidable warriors or troops.

FAQ