红

• Pinyin: hóng
• Hanzi breakdown: 红 = 纟(silk radical) + 工 (work, phonetic component)

Meaning

Red. The color red, symbolizing luck, happiness, and celebration in Chinese culture.

Red is the most culturally significant color in China. It represents good fortune, joy, and prosperity. Used in weddings, festivals, and New Year celebrations. Also appears in compounds like 红包 (red envelope with money).

Examples

1. 她穿了一件红裙子。 She wore a red dress.
2. 过年的时候到处都是红的。 During the New Year, red is everywhere.
3. 这朵花是红的，很好看。 This flower is red — it's very pretty.

Usage Guide

Context: colors, celebrations, descriptions

Tone: positive, festive

Do Say

• 红灯的时候不能走。(You can't go when the light is red.)
• 新年要穿红衣服。(You should wear red clothes for New Year.)

Don't Say

• 不要在葬礼上穿红衣服 (Don't wear red to a funeral — red symbolizes celebration and joy, not mourning)

Origin & History

Ancient character. Originally composed of 糸 (silk) and 工 (work/phonetic), referring to the red dye used on silk fabrics.

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal