鯉 (lǐ) - Carp — a type of freshwater fish, especially & symbol of perseverance and success in Chinese culture.

鯉Tone 3

lǐ ｜ 18 strokes ｜ radical:

俊梁

鯉 · lǐ

Carp — a type of freshwater fish, especially the common carp (Cyprinus carpio);

symbol of perseverance and success in Chinese culture.

Carp — a type of freshwater fish, especiallysymbol of perseverance and success in Chinese culture.

Usage highlights

CarpKoi fishCarp leaping over the dragon gateCarp streamerCarp's beardCarp in troubled waters

Synonyms

Usage & contexts

Examples

  • The koi fish (锦鲤) swam gracefully in the pond.
  • We caught a carp (鲤鱼) in the river.
  • Carp jumping over the dragon gate (鲤鱼跳龙门) is a famous allegory.
  • He keeps carp (养鲤) as a hobby.

Collocations

  • Carp(鲤鱼)
  • Koi fish(锦鲤)
  • Carp leaping over the dragon gate(鲤鱼跳龙门)
  • Carp streamer(鲤鱼旗)
  • Carp-shaped lantern(鲤鱼灯)
  • Carp's beard(鲤鱼须)

Idioms

  • The carp has leaped through the dragon's gate(鲤鱼跳龙门)
  • Like a carp swimming in a jar(瓮中之鲤)
  • The carp's scales glitter like gold(金鳞鲤鱼)

Cultural background

FAQ
  • In Chinese culture, the carp symbolizes perseverance, success, and advancement, derived from the legend of carp transforming into dragons after leaping over the Dragon Gate.
  • Koi fish (锦鲤), a colorful variety of carp, are considered lucky and are popular in ornamental ponds.
  • The carp is associated with the Chinese New Year and other celebrations, often depicted in art and decorations.

FAQ