钱财
qián cái · HSK 7
money
💰 钱财 = 钱 money + 财 wealth; two coin-words stacked for cash and riches
Both halves carry the 贝 shell radical, the old token for money before coins. 钱 is everyday cash, 财 is accumulated assets, so together they cover money and wealth broadly.
钱 — metal radical 钅 + 戋 (small/shallow)
Originally a name for a spade-shaped bronze tool used as early currency in ancient China. The metal radical 钅 gives the meaning (metal coin), while 戋 supplies the sound and hints at 'small, thin pieces.' Over time the meaning shifted from the spade-coin itself to money in general.