硬筆（yìng bǐ）

Pronunciation: yìng bǐ

Basic Meaning: hard pen

Detailed Explanation: The term "硬筆" refers to the hard-tipped pen used for Chinese calligraphy and handwriting. It is usually made of metal or other hard materials, and it requires more pressure to write compared to a brush pen.

Usage Scenarios: "硬筆" is commonly used in schools and calligraphy classes for teaching and practicing Chinese characters. It is also used in official documents or formal writing.

Story Origin: The use of "硬筆" as a writing tool can be traced back to the Tang Dynasty (618-907 AD). It became popular during the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644 AD) and has been widely used ever since.

Structure of the Idiom: The idiom "硬筆" is a compound word formed by the characters "硬" (hard) and "筆" (pen).

Example Sentences:

1. 我們在課堂上用硬筆書寫漢字。

Wǒmen zài kètáng shàng yòng yìng bǐ shūxiě hànzì.

We use a hard pen to write Chinese characters in the classroom.

2. 老師要求我們用硬筆寫一篇作文。

Lǎoshī yāoqiú wǒmen yòng yìng bǐ xiě yì piān zuòwén.

The teacher asked us to write a composition with a hard pen.

Memory Techniques: To remember the meaning of "硬筆," you can associate it with the image of a hard-tipped pen. You can also practice writing with a hard pen to strengthen your memory of the term.

Extended Learning: To further enhance your understanding of "硬筆," you can explore different calligraphy styles and techniques. You can also learn about the history and development of Chinese writing instruments.

Example Sentences from Different Age Groups:

1. Children: 我用硬筆寫字寫得很認真。

Wǒ yòng yìng bǐ xiězì xiě de hěn rènzhēn.

I write very carefully with a hard pen.

2. Teenagers: 我喜歡用硬筆練習書法。

Wǒ xǐhuān yòng yìng bǐ liànxí shūfǎ.

I enjoy practicing calligraphy with a hard pen.

3. Adults: 我在辦公室常常使用硬筆簽字。

Wǒ zài bàngōngshì chángcháng shǐyòng yìng bǐ qiānzì.

I often use a hard pen to sign documents in the office.