吉 Character Meaning, Pinyin & Name Usage
Quick facts
Meaning
吉 is a Chinese character used in everyday words and sometimes in personal names. In names, it is often chosen for its positive association and the overall sound it creates with neighboring characters.Usage & Nuance
Name tip: 吉 tends to feel calm. Pair it with a second character that clarifies the theme (virtue / nature / strength) and keeps the full name easy to say.Common words (examples)
Examples: 吉 appears in many compounds. On this page we focus on name usage, so treat the nuance as context‑dependent rather than a single fixed gloss.Vibe tags
Warnings / pitfalls
If you see multiple pronunciations in different sources, rely on context (word vs. name) and your preferred standard.FAQ
Does 吉 have different meanings in different contexts?
In Mandarin, 吉 is read as the standard Mandarin reading for this character. In names, the spoken tone can sound slightly lighter in fast speech.
How do you pronounce 吉 in Mandarin?
Yes—吉 is seen in modern writing and may also appear in given names. How “name-like” it feels depends on the characters you pair it with.
How do I type 吉 on a keyboard or phone?
Many characters carry a core sense plus extended meanings in compounds. In names, people often choose it for the positive feeling it conveys rather than a dictionary-style definition.
What should I watch out for when using 吉 in a name?
You can type it using pinyin input (enter the pronunciation, then pick 吉 from the candidate list). If you’re unsure, copy/paste the character to avoid mistakes.
Can 吉 appear in both given names and surnames?
In Mainland China, simplified is common; in Taiwan/HK, traditional may be preferred. If your documents use one form consistently, stick with that form.
Should I use simplified or traditional when writing 吉?
Some characters can be used as surnames, but most are used in given names or vocabulary. Context on the page will show how 吉 is typically used.
Is 吉 commonly used in Chinese names?
Watch for look‑alike characters, uncommon forms, or pinyin ambiguities. If this character is rare, pairing it with a clearer second character helps readability.
How can I choose a good name combination with 吉?
A good combo balances meaning + sound. Try pairing 吉 with a character that clarifies the vibe (e.g., nature, virtue, strength), and avoid hard-to-pronounce clusters in English.