Level 3 · Unit 12 Classifiers & Measure Words

How to Write 座 (zuò)

Meaning: "Seat / Classifier for buildings/mountains"
Step-by-Step Stroke Order Diagram
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Detailed Mastery Guide for 座

The character 座 (Traditional: 座) is a fundamental part of the Chinese language, representing "Seat / Classifier for buildings/mountains". In our Level 3 curriculum, we focus on the 10-step stroke sequence to ensure your handwriting is both fast and accurate.

Writing & Recognition

Proper stroke order is essential for character recognition and legibility. By following the animation above, you can see how the character is built from top to bottom and left to right. This character is often categorized under Classifiers & Measure Words, making it a versatile addition to your vocabulary.

Key Vocabulary

座位 zuòwèi zo6 wai6
seat
星座 xīngzuò sing1 zo6
constellation

Radical Breakdown

Breaking it down: The character 座 is built on the radical 广 (guǎng, 53). Understanding radicals like this is a proven technique for accelerating vocabulary acquisition.

Etymology & Origins

A phono-semantic compound: the radical 广 represents a shelter or building, and the component 坐 (to sit) provides the sound and meaning of a place to sit.

Example Sentence

Simplified: 请您对号入座。

Qǐng nín duì hào rù zuò.

Traditional: 請您對號入座。

cing2 nei5 deoi3 hou6 jap6 zo6.

"Please take your assigned seat."

Dialect Pronunciation

In Mandarin, this character is pronounced as zuò. If you are learning Cantonese, the pronunciation is zo6. Use the audio buttons to hear the subtle tonal differences between the two major Chinese dialects.

Practice & Retention

To move this character from short-term to long-term memory, we recommend using our free practice sheet generator. Writing the character 10-15 times while following the correct sequence is a proven method for mastery.

Quick Self-Check

What is the meaning of '座'?

A) Seat
B) Water
C) Mountain
D) Sky

Other Characters in Level 3 Unit 12

Hope this tool helps your Chinese learning journey!

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