How to Write 躏 (lìn) — Meaning “to trample; to oppress”

Imagine a heavy foot (足) stepping down hard on a delicate plant called 蔺 (lìn), crushing it completely. This visual of ruthless trampling helps you recall both the shape and the meaning of 躏.

Write the left radical 足 first (7 strokes), then the right part 蔺 (14 strokes) — pay attention to the nested components inside 蔺: the grass radical on top, a door-like frame, and a inner section. A common mistake is making the left radical too wide; keep it narrow so the complex right side has enough space.

While all three have the foot radical, 蹬 (dēng) means to pedal or step forcefully for climbing (like pedaling a bicycle), and 蹭 (cèng) means to rub lightly or move slowly. In contrast, 躏 specifically conveys violent trampling or oppression, as in the common word 蹂躏 (róulìn).

躏 rarely stands alone; it appears mainly in the compound 蹂躏 (róulìn), meaning to trample, ravage, or oppress. This word is used in serious contexts like war, destruction, or severe mistreatment, and carries a strong negative tone. It is not part of everyday speech but appears in literature, news reports, and historical accounts.

Common words containing 躏 include: 蹂躏 (róu lìn) — To trample on; to ravage; to devastate; 践躏 (jiàn lìn) — To trample; to ravage.; 躏藉 (lìn jí) — to trample; to devastate.