5 Questions
Match the following terms with their definition:
Radical = Sub-component of a character in Chinese writing Streamlining = Process of simplifying strokes in Chinese character writing Cursive forms = Popular handwritten forms of characters in Chinese writing Variant characters = Different characters with identical pronunciation and meaning in Chinese writing
Match the following with their role in character simplification:
Reduction in total number of strokes = Simplification method involving fewer strokes in Chinese character writing Apparent streamlining = Process of choosing specific strokes and their placement for simplification in Chinese character writing Graphic simplifications = Simplifications based on popular cursive forms in Chinese character writing Phonetic simplifications = Simplifications based on sound representation in Chinese character writing
Match the following with their role in character standardization:
Standardized character = The simplest form chosen among variants with identical pronunciation and meaning in Chinese writing Identical pronunciation and meaning = Criteria for reducing variant characters to a single standardized character in Chinese writing Left untouched by simplification = Characters that remain unchanged after the simplification process in Chinese writing Traditional forms = Original, non-simplified characters in Chinese writing
Match the following terms with their role in character transformation:
Sub-component called a radical = Part of a character involved in the simplification process in Chinese writing Simplified variant = Result of simplifying a character through radical or stroke reduction in Chinese writing Large swaths of the character set altered = Impact of systematic radical simplification on numerous characters in Chinese writing Identical between the traditional = Characters that remain unchanged after the simplification process in Chinese writing
Match the following terms with their role in character evolution:
Popular cursive forms = Influence on graphic or phonetic simplifications of traditional characters in Chinese writing Reduction to a single standardized character = Outcome for variant characters with identical pronunciation and meaning during standardization process in Chinese writing Left untouched by simplification = Characters that remain unchanged after the simplification process in Chinese writing Cursive forms that embody graphic or phonetic simplifications = Influence on popular handwritten forms impacting traditional characters' evolution in Chinese writing
Study Notes
Simplified Chinese Characters
- Simplified characters are one of the two standardized character sets used to write contemporary Chinese languages, along with traditional characters.
- Their development in the 20th century was part of an initiative by the People's Republic of China to promote literacy.
- The Chinese government has encouraged their use in ordinary circumstances on the mainland since the 1950s.
- Simplified characters are the official forms used in mainland China, Malaysia, and Singapore.
Names and Variants
- Simplified characters are officially referred to as 简化字 (Jiǎnhuàzì) in Chinese.
- They are also colloquially referred to as 简体字 (jiǎntǐzì), which broadly refers to all character variants featuring simplifications of character form or structure.
- The official name tends to refer to the specific, systematic set published by the Chinese government.
Characteristics
- The government-published set includes not only simplifications of individual characters but also a substantial reduction in the total number of characters through the merger of formerly distinct forms.
Test your knowledge of simplified Chinese characters and their development. Learn about the standardized character sets widely used in contemporary Chinese languages.
Make Your Own Quizzes and Flashcards
Convert your notes into interactive study material.
Get started for free
