马 — meaning in English: horse

mǎ · Learn this word with quizzes, examples and more on Maspeak.

Guess the translation for horse

马

mǎ

供应商

gōngyìng shāng

仪器

yíqì

撤离

chèlí

电影院

diànyǐngyuàn

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neutral very common

Usage

Native speakers use the word 马 (mǎ) in various contexts, such as discussing sports, especially horse racing, or talking about traditional Chinese culture where horses were vital for transport and agriculture. You'll hear this word in conversations about pets, as some people keep horses for leisure activities.

Synonyms & nuances

A close synonym is 骏马 (jùn mǎ), which specifically refers to a fine or noble horse. While 马 (mǎ) can refer to any horse, 骏马 (jùn mǎ) emphasizes the quality and prestige of the animal, making it more suitable in formal or poetic contexts.

Culture

The character 马 (mǎ) has been used for thousands of years, with its origins tracing back to ancient Chinese oracle bones. Horses have immense cultural significance in China, symbolizing strength and endurance, and they play a vital role in Chinese mythology, with the famous legend of the Eight Immortals often featuring horse motifs.

FAQ

Q.How do you pronounce 马 in Mandarin?

马 is pronounced as 'mǎ', with a falling-rising tone. It's important to get the tone right, as it changes the meaning of the word.

Q.What are common phrases that include 马?

Some common phrases are 马上 (mǎ shàng), meaning 'immediately', and 马路 (mǎ lù), which means 'road'. These phrases highlight the horse's association with speed and travel.

Q.Are there any common mistakes when using 马?

A common mistake is confusing 马 (mǎ) with 吗 (ma), which is a question particle. Ensure you use the correct tone and context to avoid confusion!

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