noun HSK 3
Traditional 龍
dragon · imperial
Meaning
A mythical creature that holds supreme importance in Chinese culture, symbolizing power, strength, and good fortune. Unlike Western dragons, Chinese dragons are benevolent and associated with water, weather, and the emperor.
Usage
Commonly appears in cultural contexts, idioms, and as part of names. Used metaphorically to describe excellence or imperial power. The dragon is one of the twelve Chinese zodiac animals and appears extensively in traditional art, architecture, and celebrations.
Examples
- 01中国人常说自己是龙的传人。.Chinese people often say they are descendants of the dragon.
- 02今年是龙年，很多人都想生龙宝宝。, .This year is the Year of the Dragon, and many people want to have dragon babies.
Measure words
- 条一条龙
Common collocations
- 龙的传人descendants of the dragon (Chinese people)
- 望子成龙to hope one's son becomes a dragon (succeeds greatly)
- 龙凤呈祥dragon and phoenix bring prosperity
- 生龙活虎lively as a dragon and tiger (full of vim and vigor)
Origin
The character evolved from oracle bone script depicting a large serpentine creature with a head, body, and tail. It has been a cultural symbol in China for over 4,000 years.