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膏 has 2 dictionary pronunciations. The examples show how each reading behaves in real words.
ointment; paste
to moisten; to grease; to apply (cream, ointment)
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toothpaste
to be anointed
herbal plaster applied to a wound
ointment
lit. fat and blood
medicinal concoction in paste form
semi-solid fat-based substance
ointment
to simmer to a paste
lip balm
rich favor
to annoint
Notice where 膏 sits in each complete thought.
Where can I find toothpaste?
Source: Tatoeba #392232 · CC BY 2.0 FRYou can't put toothpaste back in the tube.
Source: Tatoeba #2271194 · CC BY 2.0 FRMost toothpastes contain fluoride.
Source: Tatoeba #4456358 · CC BY 2.0 FRTom forgot to buy toothpaste.
Source: Tatoeba #9049746 · CC BY 2.0 FRPlease buy a tube of toothpaste.
Source: Tatoeba #9049747 · CC BY 2.0 FRPlease buy a tube of toothpaste.
Source: Tatoeba #884631 · CC BY 2.0 FRDefinitions and traditional forms are compiled from Make Me a Hanzi, HSK curriculum data, and CC-CEDICT. Sourced example sentences link to Tatoeba; editorial examples are labeled separately. Review data sources and licenses.