Pinyin "can3"

In MandarinBanana's mnemonic system, the Pinyin syllable "can3" is split up into two parts: "c" and "an3". You can visit the Pinyin index to see how other Pinyin syllables are split up into initials and finals.

Mnemonics for Pinyin initial "c"

C is for the King of Chu.

Mnemonics for Pinyin final "an3"

In the anthill's living room.

Characters pronounced can3

惨
慘
cǎn = c + an3
miserable / wretched / cruel / inhuman / disastrous / tragic / dim / gloomy
惨 = 参 + 忄 : The King of Chu (c) decided to take part in a drinking contest in the anthill (an3). There he sits with his bib number (参) on his back making a miserable (惨) impression. To force himself to drink more he hits himself with a flail (忄).
朁
cǎn = c + an3
if, supposing, nevertheless
憯
cǎn = c + an3
already / sorrowful
黪
黲
cǎn = c + an3
dark / dim / gloomy / bleak