[[Characters]] #Characters \ #Abstract-Concepts \ #Quantity # 斗 dòu fight; struggle ## Components [[十 shí]] [[十 (shí)]] [[丶 (zhǔ)]] ## Meaning The character 斗 (dòu) has several meanings depending on the context: 1. In ancient Chinese units of measurement, 斗 (dòu) was a unit of capacity equal to 10 liters. 2. 斗 (dòu) can also refer to a type of Chinese cooking utensil, similar to a ladle or scoop. 3. In martial arts or traditional Chinese culture, 斗 (dòu) can mean to fight or contend. 4. 斗 (dòu) is also used as a component in various Chinese characters, adding to their meaning. For example, in the character 斗争 (dòuzhēng), which means "struggle" or "fight". 5. Additionally, 斗 (dòu) can represent the Chinese zodiac sign for the constellation "Dipper" or "Big Dipper". The meaning of 斗 (dòu) can vary depending on the context in which it is used. ## History The character 斗 (dòu) initially depicted two soldiers in combat, symbolizing struggle. Over time, it evolved to represent competition or comparison, as well as tools for measuring and intense fighting scenes. Its origins include associations with ancient drinking vessels and units of measurement, as well as depictions of warriors grappling in oracle bone script. The term later extended to denote competition and teasing. ## Evolution ### Oracular Script ![[斗 dòu - Ora.svg]] ### Bronze Script ? ### Seal Script ![[斗 dòu - Sello.svg]] ### Clerical Script ![[斗 dòu - Cle.svg]] ### Regular Script ![[斗 (dǒu) - Reg.svg]]