Learning a new language can be an exciting journey of discovering new sounds, meanings, and cultural nuances. Among the foundational blocks of any language, words for colors and shapes are crucial for everyday communication. In this article, we’ll explore the rich variety of words used to describe colors and shapes in Chinese.

红色 (hóng sè) – Red
One of the most significant colors in Chinese culture, red symbolizes good fortune and joy. It is commonly seen during festivals and weddings.
那朵花是红色的。

蓝色 (lán sè) – Blue
Blue is often associated with healing, trust, and long-lasting qualities.
我买了一辆蓝色的自行车。

绿色 (lǜ sè) – Green
Green represents balance, nature, and freshness in Chinese culture. It’s also the color of healthy, leafy vegetables.
这个公园里有很多绿色的树。

黄色 (huáng sè) – Yellow
Historically, yellow holds royal connotations in China as it was the emperor’s color. Now, it represents happiness and prosperity.
太阳是黄色的。

黑色 (hēi sè) – Black
Black is often a symbol of stability and strength, as well as sophistication in fashion.
他穿了一件黑色的夹克。

白色 (bái sè) – White
While in the Western culture white is a color of purity and weddings, in Chinese culture, it’s traditionally associated with mourning.
我的书桌是白色的。

粉色 (fěn sè) – Pink
Pink is a color associated with romance and charm, often seen in flowers and clothing.
小女孩喜欢粉色的裙子。

橙色 (chéng sè) – Orange
The vibrant orange is linked with energy, warmth, and change.
秋天的树叶变成了橙色。

紫色 (zǐ sè) – Purple
Purple is traditionally linked with nobility and spirituality.
我姐姐喜欢紫色的花。

圆形 (yuán xíng) – Circle
The circle is a shape of harmony and unity in Chinese philosophy.
月亮是圆形的。

方形 (fāng xíng) – Square
Squares signify balance, stability, and honesty.
那块巧克力是方形的。

三角形 (sān jiǎo xíng) – Triangle
Triangles are dynamic and can suggest movement or direction.
警告牌常常是三角形的。

矩形 (jǔ xíng) – Rectangle
Rectangles, being longer squares, share their symbolism of stability but also suggest practicality.
我的手机是矩形的。

椭圆形 (tuǒ yuán xíng) – Oval
An oval can represent rebirth and renewal, resembling somewhat the shape of an egg.
镜子是椭圆形的。

星形 (xīng xíng) – Star-shaped
Stars are symbols of guidance and the pursuit of dreams.
小朋友画了一个星形。

You now have a palette of colors and an array of shapes to spruce up your Chinese vocabulary. Understanding these words not only helps in daily communication but can also give insights into Chinese culture and thought. Happy learning, and don’t forget to look around you for instances of these words in real life to reinforce your language skills!