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Meanings of all 78 tarot cards: upright, reversed and questions to practise with
Once you've looked up a meaning, go back to the question you asked.
These are general starting points. The same card means something different in a different position. To search by card name or see larger card images, open the interactive card meanings tool.
The 22 Major Arcana
The Fool 愚者

Upright You want to try something new and don't yet know how it will go. You can make a start, but don't forget to check the basics.
Reversed Maybe acting with too little thought, or so afraid of mistakes that you never try. First see which one it is for you.
Something to consider What do I still need to check before this begins?
The Magician 魔術師

Upright You already have some skills and tools. Try turning the idea into something real. Start with what you have instead of waiting for everything to be in place.
Reversed There may be a gap between the idea and the doing. Also watch for someone who talks more than they deliver. Ask for promises in concrete terms.
Something to consider What do I have right now that I can use?
The High Priestess 女祭司

Upright Some information isn't clear yet, so it's a time to observe. Pay attention to how you feel, and leave room to check the facts.
Reversed You may be ignoring your feelings, or mistaking guesses for intuition. Don't rush to conclusions about what you're unsure of.
Something to consider What do I actually know, and what am I guessing?
The Empress 皇后

Upright About care, creating, and a comfortable life. Look at what support a relationship or project needs.
Reversed You may be looking after others too much, or waiting for someone else to arrange things. First check whether your own needs are being cared for.
Something to consider Have I been neglecting my own needs lately?
The Emperor 皇帝

Upright Planning, rules and a clear division of work are needed. Spell out responsibilities and deadlines and things get easier to handle.
Reversed There may be too much control, or too little planning. See which rules help and which only make the work harder.
Something to consider Have we made clear who is responsible for what?
The Hierophant 教皇

Upright You may need to look at established methods, ask a teacher, or learn the rules of a group.
Reversed The usual way may not fit the problem you have now. You can raise questions instead of following along because everyone else does.
Something to consider Why does this rule exist? Does it still apply?
The Lovers 戀人

Upright Often about relationships, shared values and important choices. First say clearly what each of you cares about.
Reversed You may want different things, or you haven't settled on your own choice yet. The differences need to be talked about.
Something to consider Do I really want this, or am I afraid of letting someone down?
The Chariot 戰車

Upright Things are starting to move. You need to choose a direction and balance different needs. Before charging ahead, check how much you can actually steer.
Reversed You may be rushing, or several goals may be pulling against each other. Adjust your pace instead of pushing through on willpower alone.
Something to consider Where do I actually want to go right now?
Strength 力量

Upright Facing a difficulty, patience and steadiness may work better than force. It's also fine to admit you need time.
Reversed You may be tired, low on confidence, or working hard to hold your feelings down. First understand what's going on with you, and stop forcing yourself to hold it together.
Something to consider Besides gritting my teeth, how else could I handle this?
The Hermit 隱士

Upright A time to think on your own, look things up, or ask someone with experience. Fewer distractions for a while may help you think clearly.
Reversed Time alone may be turning into isolation, or you keep searching for answers without acting. See whether you need to talk to someone.
Something to consider Do I need some quiet, or do I need help?
Wheel of Fortune 命運之輪

Upright Circumstances may change, and existing plans may need adjusting. Look at the new situation first, then decide how to respond.
Reversed Plans may not go as hoped, or a similar situation keeps happening. Separate what you can adjust from what's out of your hands for now.
Something to consider The situation has changed. Do my plans need to change too?
Justice 正義

Upright Look at the facts, terms and responsibilities, and judge fairly. Make sure important agreements are clear.
Reversed Information may be incomplete, responsibility unclear, or judgement coloured by bias. Fill in the missing facts first.
Something to consider Have I missed anyone's side of the story?
The Hanged Man 倒吊人

Upright When you can't move for now, try seeing things from another angle. Some waiting is necessary, but know what you're waiting for.
Reversed You may keep putting things off, or give a lot without getting anywhere. Check whether the waiting still has a reason.
Something to consider Am I waiting for the right moment, or do I not know how to start?
Death 死神

Upright A chapter may need to close, and an old way of doing things may no longer fit. This card should never be used to judge life or death.
Reversed You know something needs to change but don't want to let go of what's familiar. Start with the smallest part.
Something to consider What no longer fits, but I keep holding on to?
Temperance 節制

Upright Different approaches need blending, slowly finding the right mix. Adjustments don't have to be perfect in one go.
Reversed Things may be out of balance, or your paces may be too far apart. See which part needs less, and which needs more.
Something to consider Is the way I'm sharing out my time and energy working?
The Devil 惡魔

Upright You may be held by a habit, a desire or a relationship. First admit what you get from it, and what it costs you.
Reversed You may be starting to see the limits and want to break the habit, or only avoiding it for now. Check whether anything has really changed.
Something to consider Why can't I let this go?
The Tower 高塔

Upright Something you believed in or relied on has been shaken. First establish what actually happened and what needs dealing with now.
Reversed You may have noticed the problem long ago and kept putting it off, or you may be adjusting slowly. Read it with the other cards.
Something to consider Which problem has actually been dragging on for a long time?
The Star 星星

Upright After a rough patch, a little hope returns. Give yourself time to recover, then try what you want to do.
Reversed You may have lost confidence for now, or hopes and reality may not match. Find one small sign of progress you can confirm.
Something to consider Has anything lately made me feel it's worth another try?
The Moon 月亮

Upright Information is unclear, and feelings and guesses may be mixed up. Observe and check before you decide anything.
Reversed Some doubts may be clearing, or you may still be going round in circles of worry. Check which ones have evidence behind them.
Something to consider Is this something I know for sure, or something I'm worried about?
The Sun 太陽

Upright Often about clarity, happiness and things moving forward. Enjoy the results, and note down what went well.
Reversed Progress may feel too slow, or you did it but aren't satisfied. See whether your expectations are too high.
Something to consider What is actually better than it used to be?
Judgement 審判

Upright A time to look back at past choices and decide what to do next. A new decision can build on what you've learned.
Reversed You may keep blaming yourself, or keep avoiding a decision. First say clearly why.
Something to consider If I could choose again, what would I change?
The World 世界

Upright A chapter is complete. Gather what you've achieved and confirm what comes next. Give yourself time to celebrate and rest.
Reversed Maybe only the wrapping up is left, or it's done but doesn't feel finished. Check what still needs to be handed over or said.
Something to consider What would it take for this to be truly finished?
Wands
Ace of Wands 權杖一

Upright A new idea or something you want to start. Try a small version first and see whether you really want to keep going.
Reversed You may lack energy, or have an idea but no way to start. First check whether you're too tired or not interested enough.
Something to consider Which idea do I most want to try first?
Two of Wands 權杖二

Upright You're weighing the next plan or different options. Gather information first and assess what you have to work with.
Reversed You may have planned for ages without daring to choose, or be rushing off without thinking it through. List your concerns.
Something to consider What information am I still missing to decide?
Three of Wands 權杖三

Upright You've taken the first steps. Now watch for responses and results, and see whether you need others to work with you.
Reversed Progress may be delayed, or the response you hoped for hasn't come. Check the arrangements before writing off the whole plan.
Something to consider What am I waiting for? Is there an agreed deadline?
Four of Wands 權杖四

Upright Perhaps a stage worth celebrating, or time with people you know well. Notice the everyday routines that help you feel settled.
Reversed A stable arrangement may need adjusting, or you may have different ideas about home. Find time to talk it through.
Something to consider What kind of company or surroundings help me relax?
Five of Wands 權杖五

Upright People see things differently, and there may be competition or friction. Agree on what you're trying to solve. You don't need to fight over every word.
Reversed You may be avoiding conflict, or things look calm while the problem remains. Think about which differences need to be said out loud.
Something to consider Are we discussing the issue, or trying to win?
Six of Wands 權杖六

Upright Your efforts are recognised, or there's a visible result. Accept the praise, and remember the people who worked with you.
Reversed You may not get the recognition you hoped for, or care too much about what others think. Look back at what you actually achieved.
Something to consider Apart from other people's praise, how do I judge whether I did well?
Seven of Wands 權杖七

Upright You need to explain where you stand and face other opinions. Respond to what matters most. You don't have to take on everything.
Reversed You may be too tired to keep arguing, or unsure of your position. Rest first and think it through again.
Something to consider What is worth continuing to fight for?
Eight of Wands 權杖八

Upright News and progress may come fast and need a quick response. Check the details, then keep up.
Reversed Often about delays, rescheduling or communication not getting through. When you hear nothing, check on progress instead of guessing.
Something to consider Who can I ask directly about progress?
Nine of Wands 權杖九

Upright After a hard stretch you may have become cautious or guarded. Protect yourself, but also see whether this situation is different.
Reversed You may be exhausted, or your guard may be keeping people away. Ask yourself whether you need rest or support.
Something to consider How much energy do I have left? Who could help?
Ten of Wands 權杖十

Upright You're carrying too many responsibilities and it's getting hard. List the tasks and see which can be shared.
Reversed You may be putting some of the load down, or be so busy you can barely cope. Deal with the most urgent thing first.
Something to consider Which responsibilities don't all have to fall on me?
Page of Wands 權杖侍者

Upright Curious about something new and wanting to explore or learn. Ask and try first. You don't have to prove results yet.
Reversed Enthusiasm may fade fast, or fear of doing badly keeps you from starting. Make the first attempt smaller.
Something to consider What would I like to try just to see, without needing it to succeed?
Knight of Wands 權杖騎士

Upright Eager to act, change or set off. Passion helps, but check the timing and what comes after.
Reversed Perhaps too impulsive, easily distracted, or progress suddenly stalls. Finish one thing in hand first.
Something to consider Have I thought about how to keep this going once it starts?
Queen of Wands 權杖王后

Upright Confident about what you want to do and happy to share it. Speak up. You don't need to wait to be invited.
Reversed You may care too much about comparisons, or be busy meeting other people's expectations. Check whether you still enjoy what you're doing.
Something to consider Do I really want to do this, or do I want to be seen?
King of Wands 權杖國王

Upright A good time to set direction and lead others. Besides a clear goal, listen to the people doing the actual work.
Reversed Demands may be too high or too rushed, or there's lots of talk about direction without a plan. Make goals and responsibilities concrete.
Something to consider Do people know how to meet what I'm asking of them?
Cups
Ace of Cups 聖杯一

Upright A relationship may be beginning, a new feeling arising, or you want to show how you feel. Notice what you really feel.
Reversed There may be words you can't get out, or feelings that are too full. Give yourself time to understand them before you declare anything.
Something to consider What do I want to say but haven't said yet?
Two of Cups 聖杯二

Upright Often about mutual admiration and a relationship where both respond. Notice whether both of you get to speak and be heard.
Reversed Expectations may differ, communication may be lopsided, or a misunderstanding hasn't been cleared up. Ask what the other person means.
Something to consider Do we want the same things from this relationship?
Three of Cups 聖杯三

Upright Sharing or celebrating with friends and companions. It can also mean support from familiar people when you need help.
Reversed Gatherings or group life may be tiring, or someone may feel left out. Notice how you feel.
Something to consider Who am I most at ease with?
Four of Cups 聖杯四

Upright Not very interested in the choices in front of you. You may need rest or time to think again. Don't push yourself to say yes.
Reversed You may be opening up to new options, or saying yes only from fear of missing out. Check whether you really want it.
Something to consider Do I dislike this option, or have I had no energy for anything lately?
Five of Cups 聖杯五

Upright Sad or disappointed, with your attention stuck on what was lost. Slowly look at what support you still have, but there's no rush to bounce back.
Reversed You may be starting to accept it, or still feel it was unfair. Give yourself time. You don't need to pretend you're fine.
Something to consider Which part of this hurts the most?
Six of Cups 聖杯六

Upright Remembering people, experiences or familiar things from before. Memories can guide you, but check whether things are different now.
Reversed You may lean on the past too much, or be leaving a familiar arrangement. Tell apart missing something and wanting it now.
Something to consider Is it that person I want to go back to, or how it felt back then?
Seven of Cups 聖杯七

Upright Lots of daydreams and options, and the details still need checking. Pick a few that could really happen.
Reversed You may be starting to rule out unrealistic options, or rushing to pick one at random. Check your reasons first.
Something to consider Which are only daydreams, and which could I start now?
Eight of Cups 聖杯八

Upright What you put yourself into no longer satisfies you, and you may want to leave or find something else. Think clearly about why you're leaving.
Reversed You may want to go but can't bear to, or keep looking back after leaving. See what staying and leaving each mean to you.
Something to consider If I stay, what am I still hoping for?
Nine of Cups 聖杯九

Upright Content with something, or finally able to enjoy your life. You can admit you made it.
Reversed You may have got what you wanted and feel less happy than expected. Perhaps it's time to check your expectations again.
Something to consider Is this really what I want?
Ten of Cups 聖杯十

Upright Often about feeling secure in a relationship and the contentment of a shared life. Look at how you support each other and arrange daily life.
Reversed You may picture family or partnership differently, and there may be things left unsaid under the surface. Make time to listen to each other.
Something to consider When we say "doing well", do we mean the same thing?
Page of Cups 聖杯侍者

Upright A new feeling, a creative idea, or something you want to tell someone. Try saying it in simple words.
Reversed You may not know how to handle your feelings, or expect the other person to guess. Say how you feel before blaming anyone.
Something to consider Can I say plainly what I need?
Knight of Cups 聖杯騎士

Upright Wanting to get closer to someone you like or chase an ideal, and willing to show how you feel. Check whether the actions keep up with the feelings.
Reversed The promises may be lovely while the follow-through falls short. Don't only listen to what's said. Watch what both of you actually do.
Something to consider Is this hope backed by real action?
Queen of Cups 聖杯王后

Upright Attentive to your own feelings and other people's, and good at listening. You can understand someone without taking on all their emotions.
Reversed You may be too affected by other people's moods, or always put your needs last. Keep some time for yourself.
Something to consider Which feelings are mine, and which belong to someone else?
King of Cups 聖杯國王

Upright Patient with emotions, understanding feelings before responding. You can also state your limits clearly.
Reversed You may hide your feelings, or use them to sway others. See whether you can speak openly and calmly.
Something to consider Am I sharing a feeling, or asking others to do things my way?
Swords
Ace of Swords 寶劍一

Upright Your thinking is getting clearer. A good time to state the problem or make a judgement. Still check the evidence on what matters.
Reversed Information may be incomplete, things may be poorly expressed, or you may be rushing to conclusions. Ask the question again from the start.
Something to consider Which fact do I still need to check?
Two of Swords 寶劍二

Upright Torn between two choices, and there may be information you'd rather not face. First see why it's so hard to choose.
Reversed A problem you've avoided may need dealing with, or too much information is making it harder to decide. Pick out the conditions that matter most.
Something to consider What outcome do I least want to face?
Three of Swords 寶劍三

Upright You may be hurt or disappointed by something said or by an outcome. Admit that it hurts. You don't need to rush to find meaning in it.
Reversed You may be starting to heal, or haven't yet said what hurt you. Talk about it slowly. You don't have to force yourself to forgive.
Something to consider Do I need to talk it out, rest, or have someone with me?
Four of Swords 寶劍四

Upright You need to pause, rest or cut down on distractions. Give yourself time to recover before planning what's next.
Reversed You may be getting ready to start again, or be tired but refusing to stop. Look at your actual energy, mental and physical.
Something to consider Have I actually rested?
Five of Swords 寶劍五

Upright An argument may leave both sides feeling bad. Even if you win, ask whether you've lost the relationship you wanted to keep.
Reversed You may want to make peace or step out of the argument, or still keep replaying who won. Decide what you hope the conversation achieves.
Something to consider If this argument goes on, what will it solve?
Six of Swords 寶劍六

Upright Moving away from a difficult situation, or slowly adjusting to a new arrangement. Change may take time and help.
Reversed Something may be left unfinished, or old problems are coming along with you. Check what still needs dealing with.
Something to consider After a change of scene, which problems will still be there?
Seven of Swords 寶劍七

Upright Handling things may take strategy, and check whether the information is complete. This card alone can't prove someone is lying.
Reversed You may need to come clean, or a problem you've dodged can't be avoided any longer. Ask about what needs confirming.
Something to consider What have I never said directly?
Eight of Swords 寶劍八

Upright You feel you have few options and can't move. Separate real limits from worries you haven't checked.
Reversed You may be starting to see other ways, or still need help. Try one small change first.
Something to consider Which limit could I check again?
Nine of Swords 寶劍九

Upright Repeated worry and trouble relaxing. Separate what has happened from what you imagine. This card can't tell you anything about health.
Reversed You may be ready to share your worries, or the pressure has eased a little, or you may still be keeping it in. Read it with what's going on and the other cards.
Something to consider Who could I talk to about what's been worrying me?
Ten of Swords 寶劍十

Upright You may be going through disappointment or an ending, or feel you can't hold on any longer. Take care of what you need right now and don't add more weight.
Reversed You may be slowly recovering, or still unable to accept the ending. Give yourself time to work out what comes next.
Something to consider What needs dealing with first?
Page of Swords 寶劍侍者

Upright Wanting to know more, ask questions, or get to the bottom of something. Be curious, and check where the news came from.
Reversed You may be quick to argue back, news may have been passed on wrongly, or you asked a lot without checking. Verify before you repeat it.
Something to consider Where did this news come from?
Knight of Swords 寶劍騎士

Upright Wanting to solve the problem fast, speaking and acting quickly. First check that you've understood correctly.
Reversed You may be charging ahead, speaking too bluntly, or changing direction again and again. Slow down and pin down the facts and the goal.
Something to consider Am I rushing to answer before I've finished listening?
Queen of Swords 寶劍王后

Upright Able to sort things out clearly and state boundaries. Speak directly, and check that the other person has understood.
Reversed Past experience may have made you too guarded, or the way you speak keeps people at a distance. You can be clear without assuming bad intent.
Something to consider How can I state my boundary clearly without hurting anyone?
King of Swords 寶劍國王

Upright A time to judge by data and principles, and explain the reasons for a decision. Keep in mind how rules affect real people.
Reversed You may be too dogmatic, only accept your own view, or use logic to overpower others. Listen to the other opinions once more.
Something to consider Has my judgement missed anything important?
Pentacles
Ace of Pentacles 錢幣一

Upright An opportunity you could actually start on, such as a job, a course or a change in how you live. Understand the terms before you commit.
Reversed The opportunity may be delayed, the conditions not there, or you're not ready yet. With money involved, do your research. A card draw is not enough.
Something to consider Are the terms and costs of this opportunity clear?
Two of Pentacles 錢幣二

Upright Juggling several things at once, adjusting time and spending. See whether you can still keep up with the current arrangement.
Reversed There may be too much going on, and things are starting to slip. Prioritise and cut unnecessary work.
Something to consider What can wait?
Three of Pentacles 錢幣三

Upright Teamwork, division of labour and expert advice are needed. Make clear who does what, and agree how the result will be checked.
Reversed Working together may not be going smoothly, roles may be unclear, or standards may differ. Go over the needs and responsibilities again.
Something to consider Do we agree on what "finished" means?
Four of Pentacles 錢幣四

Upright Wanting to hold on to the money, arrangements or relationships you have. Stability has its place, but check whether you're too afraid of change.
Reversed You may be becoming willing to let go, or spending and plans may be slipping out of control. Check the actual situation first.
Something to consider Am I keeping what I need, or afraid to let go of anything?
Five of Pentacles 錢幣五

Upright You may feel short of resources, or face a difficulty without knowing who to ask for help. Look for support you can actually use.
Reversed Things may be gradually improving, or you're starting to accept help. Still check that your everyday needs are being met.
Something to consider What help could I ask for right now?
Six of Pentacles 錢幣六

Upright Often about giving, receiving and sharing resources. Say whether it's help, a loan or an exchange, so expectations don't differ.
Reversed What each side gives may be unequal, or help may come with unspoken conditions. Check that you understand each other.
Something to consider Does this help come with conditions I don't know about?
Seven of Pentacles 錢幣七

Upright After working at something for a while, it's time to check results against costs. You can wait, but know how long you plan to wait.
Reversed You may be impatient, or the effort and results may be far apart. Use real records to decide whether to change your approach.
Something to consider If I keep going, what standard will I judge it by?
Eight of Pentacles 錢幣八

Upright Practice, patience and attention to detail are needed. Keep at it, and check that your method is working.
Reversed You may just be busy going round in circles, or quality is slipping because your mind is elsewhere. See which step needs adjusting.
Something to consider Is the time I'm putting in actually helping me improve?
Nine of Pentacles 錢幣九

Upright Through your own effort you've gained some stability and room to choose. Enjoy the results and take care of daily life.
Reversed Things may look good from outside while you're under pressure, or you find it hard to relax and enjoy it. See whether your arrangements suit you.
Something to consider Do I have time to enjoy the life I've worked for?
Ten of Pentacles 錢幣十

Upright Often about family, long-term plans and shared resources. Spelling out each person's expectations and responsibilities helps keep relationships healthy.
Reversed There may be disagreements over money, housework or long-term plans. These need working out from the real situation. A card draw is not enough.
Something to consider Does everyone agree to this long-term arrangement?
Page of Pentacles 錢幣侍者

Upright A good time to learn a practical skill or start a small, workable plan. Get the basics down first.
Reversed You may keep preparing without starting, or lack steady practice. Make today's part smaller.
Something to consider Which small piece can I practise today?
Knight of Pentacles 錢幣騎士

Upright Doing things step by step, valuing commitment and steady progress. Slow is fine, as long as the method suits.
Reversed You may be too attached to the old way, or stalled by fear of mistakes. See whether you can try one small change.
Something to consider Am I making steady progress, or just repeating myself?
Queen of Pentacles 錢幣王后

Upright Caring about daily life, home and practical needs. You can support yourself and the people around you with concrete arrangements.
Reversed You may be busy looking after others while neglecting yourself. Check your sleep, meals and time first.
Something to consider Is there room for me in my daily routine?
King of Pentacles 錢幣國王

Upright Good at planning and using resources, valuing long-term stability. Arrangements still need checking regularly to see if they still fit.
Reversed You may focus too much on gains and losses, cling to the old way, or measure everything in money. Listen to other needs first.
Something to consider Besides income, what else do I want to keep?