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安

Character guide

Chinese Tattoo 安: Meaning, Strokes & Design

安 is a clean, open character for peace, safety and calm. Its small stroke count makes it readable, but the surrounding phrase still matters.

Pinyin ānStrokes 6Meaning peaceful, safe, quietTraditional 安

What does 安 mean?

安 (ān) means peaceful, safe, quiet or at ease. Common words include 平安 (safe and sound), 安全 (safety) and 安静 (quiet). The character itself is broad, and the full phrase determines whether it reads as safety, calm or reassurance.

Is 安 suitable for a tattoo?

Yes. With 6 strokes, it is open and holds detail at smaller sizes. It is a practical choice for a wrist, forearm, calf or smaller design, provided the line quality is clean and the placement is not overcrowded.

Design notes

ScriptRegular script keeps the roof and lower components balanced.
ScaleIts simple structure gives you flexibility, but avoid distorting the proportions.
MeaningPeace and safety are not guaranteed by wearing the character.

Common mistakes

  • Using 安 when the intended word is 平安 or 安全.
  • Making the design too decorative to verify.
  • Assuming the character specifies physical safety in every context.

Related characters

Bamboo 竹Dragon 龙Courage 勇Harmony 和Love 爱Wisdom 智Virtue 德Blessing 福Goodness 善Trust 信The Way 道Benevolence 仁Home 家Stillness 静Joy 喜How we verify

安 versus 平安 and 安全

安 means peaceful, calm, safe or at ease. 平安 is a common blessing for safety and well-being, while 安全 more directly means safety or security. 安静 means quiet. The single character is broad, so the surrounding phrase determines whether it points to safety, stillness or emotional calm.

Pronunciation and use

安 is pronounced ān. It is written the same in simplified and traditional Chinese. In a name or design, it can be paired with a second character to narrow the meaning, but the pairing should be checked for tone and natural usage.

What it does not guarantee

The character does not provide physical protection or guarantee a peaceful life. It expresses a value or a wish. A design should not be marketed as a safety charm or as a substitute for care and precautions.