How to Write 针 (zhēn) — Meaning “Needle”

Imagine a metal needle (钅) that is so thin it looks like the number ten (十). Or picture a needle with a cross-shaped tip (十) used for sewing. This visual of metal plus a cross helps recall the character 针 for needle.

钅 is just the metal radical, not a complete character. 钆 (gá) is a rare character meaning a type of metal (gadolinium), while 针 means needle. Visually, 钆 has a right side resembling 乚 (a hook), whereas 针 has 十 on the right. Their meanings and pronunciations are completely different.

针 appears in medical contexts like 打针 (to get an injection) and in everyday items like 指南针 (compass). It also means 'needle' in sewing. Culturally, 针 can imply something sharp or precise; the phrase "一针见血" (to hit the nail on the head) uses 针 to mean a single needle draws blood – a metaphor for speaking directly to the point.

Common words containing 针 include: 打针 (dǎ zhēn) — to give or receive an injection; 针头 (zhēn tóu) — Needle tip / Syringe needle; 指南针 (zhǐ nán zhēn) — compass.