#hsk-3
机会 (jīhuì) — opportunity, chance
机会 (jīhuì) 机会 refers to a favorable moment or circumstance that makes something possible. It is used whenever English would say "opportunity," "chance," or "occasion." Meanings [noun] Opportunity; chance; occasion. Example Sentences 这是一个很好的学习机会。 Zhè shì yīgè hěn hǎo de xuéxí jīhuì. This is a great learning opportunity. 我希望有机会去中国旅游。 Wǒ xīwàng yǒu jīhuì qù Zhōngguó lǚyóu. I hope to have the chance to travel to China. 不要错过这次机会。 Bùyào cuòguò zhè cì...
往往 (wǎngwǎng) — often; frequently; as a rule
往往 (wǎngwǎng) 往往 means "often" or "as a rule," describing a pattern that has been observed to repeat. Unlike 通常 (which states a neutral norm), 往往 draws on experience to note a tendency — it often carries a subtle explanatory or analytical tone. Meanings [adverb] Often; frequently; as a rule; tend to — describes a recurring tendency or pattern observed from experience. Compare 往往 vs 常常 Word Use 往往 Based...
把 (bǎ) — disposal marker
把 (bǎ) 把 is one of the most important grammatical words in Chinese. It moves the object before the verb to emphasize that something is disposed of, affected, or handled in a specific way. Meanings [preposition] Disposal marker: places the object before a verb that indicates a deliberate action with a clear result. [measure word] A handle; a bunch (e.g., 一把刀 yī bǎ dāo — one knife). Example Sentences 请把窗户打开。...
错误 (cuòwù) — mistake / error
错误 (cuòwù) 错误 refers to a mistake, error, or fault — something done incorrectly. As a noun it names the error itself; as an adjective it describes something as wrong or mistaken. It is slightly more formal than 错 alone and is common in written and spoken Chinese. Meanings [noun] Mistake; error; fault; incorrect action. [adjective] Wrong; incorrect; mistaken. Example Sentences 我犯了一个很严重的错误。 Wǒ fàn le yīgè hěn yánzhòng de cuòwù....
学期 (xuéqī) — school term; semester
学期 (xuéqī) 学期 refers to a term or semester, one of the divisions of the school or academic year. Meanings [noun] school term; semester; academic term Example Sentences 这学期你选了哪些课？ Zhè xuéqī nǐ xuǎn le nǎxiē kè? Which courses did you choose this semester? 下学期我想多参加课外活动。 Xià xuéqī wǒ xiǎng duō cānjia kèwài huódòng. Next semester I want to participate in more extracurricular activities. 这学期我们要学很多新内容。 Zhè xuéqī wǒmen yào xué hěn duō...
周末 (zhōumò) — weekend
周末 (zhōumò) 周末 means weekend, referring to Saturday and Sunday. 周 means week and 末 means end, so 周末 is literally the end of the week. It is used just like "weekend" in English and appears in common expressions about free time and plans. Meanings [noun] Weekend (Saturday and Sunday). Example Sentences 这个周末你有什么计划？ Zhège zhōumò nǐ yǒu shénme jìhuà? What plans do you have this weekend? 我喜欢周末去爬山。 Wǒ xǐhuān zhōumò...
旅行 (lǚxíng) — to travel; trip; journey
旅行 (lǚxíng) 旅行 refers to the act of traveling for leisure or exploration, as well as the journey itself. Meanings [verb] to travel — to journey from one place to another, typically for pleasure or exploration [noun] trip; journey — a journey undertaken for leisure or exploration Example Sentences 我喜欢旅行，尤其是去海边。 Wǒ xǐhuān lǚxíng, yóuqí shì qù hǎibiān. I love to travel, especially to the seaside. 这次旅行让我开阔了眼界。 Zhè cì lǚxíng ràng...
打印 (dǎyìn) — to print
打印 (dǎyìn) 打印 means to print, referring to printing documents or images on a printer. 打 is a versatile verb used in many compounds and here means to strike or operate. 印 means to print or stamp. Together they describe the action of a printer pressing ink onto paper. Meanings [verb] To print (using a printer); to make a printed copy. Example Sentences 请帮我打印这份文件。 Qǐng bāng wǒ dǎyìn zhè fèn...
导游 (dǎoyóu) — tour guide
导游 (dǎoyóu) 导游 means tour guide. It refers to a person whose job is to lead tourists and explain sites of interest. It can also function as a verb meaning to guide tourists, though the noun use is far more common at this level. Meanings [noun] Tour guide; a person who leads and informs tourists. Example Sentences 我们的导游说话很有趣。 Wǒmen de dǎoyóu shuōhuà hěn yǒuqù. Our tour guide is very interesting...
公园 (gōngyuán) — park / public garden
公园 (gōngyuán) A public outdoor area, often with green spaces, paths, and seating, where people go to exercise, relax, or enjoy nature. Meanings [noun] Park, public garden, recreational outdoor space. Example Sentences 我们周末去公园散步吧。 Wǒmen zhōumò qù gōngyuán sànbù ba. Let's go for a walk in the park this weekend. 这个公园里有很多花和树。 Zhège gōngyuán lǐ yǒu hěn duō huā hé shù. This park has many flowers and trees. 老人们每天早上在公园锻炼。 Lǎorénmen měitiān zǎoshang...
习惯 (xíguàn) — habit; to be used to
习惯 (xíguàn) 习惯 can function as a noun meaning "habit" or as a verb meaning "to be used to / accustomed to" something. Meanings [noun] habit; custom; routine [verb] to be used to; to be accustomed to Example Sentences 他有每天早起的习惯。 Tā yǒu měitiān zǎo qǐ de xíguàn. He has the habit of getting up early every day. 我已经习惯了在这里生活。 Wǒ yǐjīng xíguàn le zài zhèlǐ shēnghuó. I am already used to...
方便 (fāngbiàn) — convenient
方便 (fāngbiàn) 方便 means convenient or to be convenient. It describes something that is easy, practical, and saves time or effort. It can also function as a verb meaning to make things convenient or to accommodate. In colloquial Chinese it can also be a polite way to say "to use the toilet." Meanings [adjective] Convenient; easy to use or access; practical. [verb] To be convenient (for someone); to be suitable....
药 (yào) — medicine
药 (yào) 药 means medicine or medication. It refers to any substance taken to treat illness or pain, including both Western pharmaceuticals and traditional Chinese remedies. Meanings [noun] Medicine; medication; drug; remedy. Example Sentences 医生给我开了一些药。 Yīshēng gěi wǒ kāi le yīxiē yào. The doctor prescribed some medicine for me. 你吃药了吗？ Nǐ chī yào le ma? Did you take your medicine? 这种药要饭后服用。 Zhè zhǒng yào yào fàn hòu fúyòng. This medicine...
自己 (zìjǐ) — oneself; self
自己 (zìjǐ) 自己 is a reflexive pronoun meaning "oneself," used to refer back to the subject of the sentence. Meanings [pron] oneself; self; by oneself; one's own Example Sentences 你要相信自己，你一定能做到。 Nǐ yào xiāngxìn zìjǐ, nǐ yīdìng néng zuò dào. You must believe in yourself; you can definitely do it. 这件事你要自己决定，不要依赖别人。 Zhè jiàn shì nǐ yào zìjǐ juédìng, bùyào yīlài biérén. You should decide this matter yourself and not rely on...
奇怪 (qíguài) — strange
奇怪 (qíguài) 奇怪 describes something that is strange, odd, or unexpected — outside of normal behavior, appearance, or events. It can also express puzzlement at something unusual. Meanings [adjective] Strange; odd; weird; unusual. Example Sentences 这件事很奇怪，我想不明白。 Zhè jiàn shì hěn qíguài, wǒ xiǎng bu míngbái. This thing is very strange; I can't figure it out. 他今天的行为很奇怪。 Tā jīntiān de xíngwéi hěn qíguài. His behavior today is very strange. 奇怪，钥匙怎么不见了？ Qíguài,...
参加 (cānjiā) — to participate
参加 (cānjiā) 参加 means to take part in an organized activity, event, or group. It is used for competitions, meetings, classes, clubs, and social events. Meanings [verb] To participate in; to take part in; to attend. [verb] To join (an organization or group). Example Sentences 他参加了这次比赛。 Tā cānjiā le zhècì bǐsài. He participated in this competition. 你会参加明天的会议吗？ Nǐ huì cānjiā míngtiān de huìyì ma? Will you attend tomorrow's meeting? 她参加了学校的合唱团。...
换 (huàn) — to exchange
换 (huàn) 换 means to swap, exchange, or replace. It involves a transaction or substitution where one thing takes the place of another — changing money, clothes, seats, or even jobs. Meanings [verb] To change; to exchange; to replace; to swap. Example Sentences 我想换一件衣服。 Wǒ xiǎng huàn yī jiàn yīfu. I want to change my clothes. 能帮我换一下座位吗？ Néng bāng wǒ huàn yīxià zuòwèi ma? Can you help me switch seats?...
帮忙 (bāng máng) — to help
帮忙 (bāng máng) 帮忙 means to help or to lend a hand. It is a verb-object compound where 帮 means to assist and 忙 means busyness or affairs. Because it is a verb-object compound, the object of the help can be inserted between the two characters: 帮他忙 (help him), not 帮忙他. Meanings [verb] To help; to give a hand; to assist with tasks. Example Sentences 你能帮我忙吗？ Nǐ néng bāng wǒ...
词典 (cídiǎn) — dictionary
词典 (cídiǎn) 词典 is the standard word for a dictionary, particularly one organized around words and their definitions. It differs slightly from 字典 (zìdiǎn), which focuses on individual characters. In everyday speech 词典 and 字典 are often used interchangeably. Meanings [noun] Dictionary; lexicon (a reference book of words and meanings). Example Sentences 我不认识这个词，去查一下词典。 Wǒ bù rènshi zhège cí, qù chá yīxià cídiǎn. I don't know this word; let me look...
困难 (kùnnan) — difficulty / difficult
困难 (kùnnan) 困难 means difficulty or difficult. As a noun it refers to a hardship, obstacle, or problem. As an adjective it describes something as hard or challenging. Note the pronunciation: the second syllable is neutral tone (kùnnan), not kùnnán. Meanings [noun] Difficulty; hardship; obstacle; problem. [adjective] Difficult; hard; challenging. Example Sentences 学中文有困难吗？ Xué Zhōngwén yǒu kùnnan ma? Are there any difficulties in learning Chinese? 遇到困难不要放弃。 Yùdào kùnnan bú yào...
其他 (qítā) — other / the rest / else
其他 (qítā) Used to refer to things or people that are in addition to or different from what has already been mentioned. Meanings [pronoun/adjective] Other, the rest, else (referring to remaining items or people). Example Sentences 除了汉语，她还会说其他几种语言。 Chúle hànyǔ, tā hái huì shuō qítā jǐ zhǒng yǔyán. Besides Chinese, she can also speak several other languages. 其他问题我们下次再讨论。 Qítā wèntí wǒmen xià cì zài tǎolùn. We will discuss the other issues...
倒 (dào) — on the contrary; but actually; unexpectedly
倒 (dào) 倒 (in the neutral or falling tone, dào, distinct from 倒 dǎo "to fall/pour") is a concessive or contrastive adverb. It signals that what actually happens is the reverse of, or contrary to, what was expected. It can carry a tone of mild surprise, irony, or gentle pushback. Meanings [adverb] On the contrary; but actually; unexpectedly — contrasts reality with expectation, often with a slight air of irony...
流行 (liúxíng) — popular; fashionable; in vogue
流行 (liúxíng) 流行 describes something that is widely spread among people, whether a trend, style, or disease. Meanings [adj/verb] popular; fashionable; in vogue; to spread widely Example Sentences 这首歌现在非常流行。 Zhè shǒu gē xiànzài fēicháng liúxíng. This song is very popular right now. 短视频在年轻人中越来越流行。 Duǎn shìpín zài niánqīngrén zhōng yuèláiyuè liúxíng. Short videos are becoming more and more popular among young people. 这种颜色今年很流行。 Zhè zhǒng yánsè jīnnián hěn liúxíng. This color...
才 (cái) — only then; not until; just barely
才 (cái) 才 is a restrictive adverb with several closely related uses: it can mark that something happens later than expected ("not until"), stress a small or barely sufficient amount ("only/just"), or imply that a condition must first be met before a result follows. It always precedes the verb. Meanings [adverb] Only then; not until — the action happens later or with more difficulty than expected. [adverb] Just; only; merely...
关于 (guānyú) — about
关于 (guānyú) 关于 means about or concerning — it introduces the topic that a statement, book, discussion, or question is focused on. It often appears at the start of a sentence. Meanings [preposition] About; concerning; regarding; on the subject of. Example Sentences 我有一个关于这件事的问题。 Wǒ yǒu yīgè guānyú zhè jiàn shì de wèntí. I have a question about this matter. 这本书是关于中国历史的。 Zhè běn shū shì guānyú Zhōngguó lìshǐ de. This book...
感冒 (gǎnmào) — to have a cold
感冒 (gǎnmào) 感冒 means to have a cold or the common cold. It is used as both a verb (to catch a cold) and a noun (a cold). It is one of the most common health-related words in everyday Chinese and often appears alongside 发烧 (to have a fever) and 头疼 (headache). Meanings [verb] To have a cold; to catch a cold. [noun] A cold; the common cold. Example Sentences...
感激 (gǎnjī) — to be grateful
感激 (gǎnjī) 感激 expresses a deep sense of gratitude, stronger and more formal than simply saying thank you. Meanings [verb] to be grateful; to feel gratitude; to appreciate deeply Example Sentences 我非常感激您对我的帮助。 Wǒ fēicháng gǎnjī nín duì wǒ de bāngzhù. I am deeply grateful for your help. 她感激地看着老师，说不出话来。 Tā gǎnjī de kànzhe lǎoshī, shuō bù chū huà lái. She looked at the teacher with gratitude, unable to say a word....
骄傲 (jiāoào) — proud / arrogant
骄傲 (jiāoào) 骄傲 carries two contrasting meanings depending on context. Used with 为 (on behalf of someone), it expresses the positive feeling of being proud of another person's achievement. Used without that structure, it most often describes a person as arrogant or conceited. Tone and context determine which sense is intended. Meanings [adjective] Proud (positive) — feeling pride in someone or something. [adjective] Arrogant; conceited; self-important (negative) — thinking too...
建立 (jiànlì) — to establish; to build; to set up
建立 (jiànlì) 建立 means to create or found something that did not previously exist, such as a system, relationship, or organization. Meanings [verb] to establish; to build; to set up; to found; to create Example Sentences 两国之间建立了良好的外交关系。 Liǎng guó zhījiān jiànlì le liánghǎo de wàijiāo guānxi. The two countries established good diplomatic relations. 他努力建立自己的事业。 Tā nǔlì jiànlì zìjǐ de shìyè. He worked hard to build his own career. 我们应该建立一个诚实的沟通方式。 Wǒmen...
而且 (érqiě) — moreover
而且 (érqiě) 而且 adds a further point to what was just said, often strengthening or extending the previous statement. It is commonly paired with 不但 (búdàn — not only) to form the "not only... but also..." pattern. Meanings [conjunction] Moreover; furthermore; in addition; and also; what's more. Example Sentences 他聪明，而且很努力。 Tā cōngming, érqiě hěn nǔlì. He is smart and also very hardworking. 这本书不但好看，而且有用。 Zhè běn shū búdàn hǎokàn, érqiě yǒuyòng....
爬 (pá) — to climb
爬 (pá) 爬 means to climb or to crawl. It describes the action of moving upward using hands and feet, or moving on all fours along a surface. Meanings [verb] To climb; to scale (a mountain, wall, tree). [verb] To crawl; to move on hands and knees. Example Sentences 他们爬到了山顶。 Tāmen pá dào le shāndǐng. They climbed to the top of the mountain. 小孩子在地上爬来爬去。 Xiǎo háizi zài dìshang pá lái...
原因 (yuányīn) — reason
原因 (yuányīn) 原因 means the reason or cause behind an event or situation. It asks or states "why" something happened. Meanings [noun] Reason; cause; explanation. Example Sentences 你知道他迟到的原因吗？ Nǐ zhīdào tā chídào de yuányīn ma? Do you know the reason he was late? 找出问题的原因是解决问题的第一步。 Zhǎochū wèntí de yuányīn shì jiějué wèntí de dìyī bù. Finding the reason for a problem is the first step to solving it. 她失败的原因是没有认真准备。 Tā shībài...
证明 (zhèngmíng) — to prove / proof
证明 (zhèngmíng) 证明 functions as both a verb and a noun. As a verb it means to prove or demonstrate that something is true. As a noun it refers to a certificate, letter of proof, or other official document that verifies a fact. Meanings [verb] To prove; to demonstrate; to show evidence that something is true. [noun] Proof; certificate; verification document. Example Sentences 你能证明你当时在家吗？ Nǐ néng zhèngmíng nǐ dāngshí zài...
动作 (dòngzuò) — action; movement
动作 (dòngzuò) 动作 refers to a physical action or body movement, used in contexts from daily life to sports and performance. Meanings [noun] action; movement; motion; gesture Example Sentences 她的舞蹈动作非常优美。 Tā de wǔdǎo dòngzuò fēicháng yōuměi. Her dance movements are extremely graceful. 请跟我做这个动作。 Qǐng gēn wǒ zuò zhège dòngzuò. Please follow me and do this movement. 他的动作很快，比赛结束前就完成了任务。 Tā de dòngzuò hěn kuài, bǐsài jiéshù qián jiù wánchéng le rènwù. His...
了解 (liǎojiě) — to understand
了解 (liǎojiě) 了解 means to understand something in depth, gained through investigation, experience, or close contact. It implies a richer knowledge than simply 知道 (zhīdào — to know a fact). Meanings [verb] To understand well; to know in detail; to be acquainted with. [verb] To find out; to learn about through inquiry. Example Sentences 我不太了解这个情况。 Wǒ bú tài liǎojiě zhège qíngkuàng. I don't know this situation very well. 你了解中国文化吗？ Nǐ...
信封 (xìnfēng) — envelope
信封 (xìnfēng) A paper container used for mailing letters, folded and sealed to enclose written correspondence. Meanings [noun] Envelope, a paper casing for sending letters. Example Sentences 请把信放进信封里，再寄出去。 Qǐng bǎ xìn fàng jìn xìnfēng lǐ, zài jì chūqù. Please put the letter into the envelope, then mail it. 桌上有几个空的信封。 Zhuō shàng yǒu jǐ gè kōng de xìnfēng. There are a few empty envelopes on the table. 他在信封上写了收件人的地址。 Tā zài xìnfēng...
认真 (rènzhēn) — serious / earnest
认真 (rènzhēn) 认真 means serious, earnest, or conscientious. It describes an attitude of careful dedication and thoroughness rather than a somber or grave mood. To 认真 do something means to do it with full attention and effort. Meanings [adjective] Serious; earnest; conscientious; diligent; careful. [adverb] Seriously; earnestly (used as a manner adverb before verbs). Example Sentences 他学习非常认真。 Tā xuéxí fēicháng rènzhēn. He studies very seriously. 做事要认真，不能马虎。 Zuò shì yào rènzhēn,...
反正 (fǎnzhèng) — anyway / regardless
反正 (fǎnzhèng) 反正 means anyway, regardless, or in any case. It acknowledges a prior situation but then asserts that the outcome or attitude remains the same no matter what. It often signals a speaker's firm stance or resignation. Meanings [adverb] Anyway; regardless; in any case; no matter what. Example Sentences 反正我不去，你别劝我了。 Fǎnzhèng wǒ bù qù, nǐ bié quàn wǒ le. Anyway, I'm not going. Stop trying to persuade me. 不管怎么说，反正你要来。...
中间 (zhōngjiān) — middle; between; among
中间 (zhōngjiān) 中间 describes the position in the center of a space or the interval between two points in time, people, or things. Meanings [noun] the middle; the center point of a space or object [noun] between; in the interval separating two things or people [noun] among; within a group Example Sentences 书在桌子中间。 Shū zài zhuōzi zhōngjiān. The book is in the middle of the table. 他坐在两个朋友中间。 Tā zuò zài...
描写 (miáoxiě) — to describe / depict
描写 (miáoxiě) 描写 means to describe or depict something in detail, especially through language or writing. It is commonly used when talking about literary descriptions or vivid portrayals of people, scenery, and feelings. Meanings [verb] To describe; to depict; to portray something in detail through words. [noun] Description; depiction (as a noun, referring to the act or style of depicting). Example Sentences 这篇文章描写了美丽的春天。 Zhè piān wénzhāng miáoxiě le měilì de...
照顾 (zhàogù) — to take care of
照顾 (zhàogù) 照顾 means to take care of or look after someone, attending to their daily needs or wellbeing. It is used for looking after children, the elderly, patients, or anyone who needs assistance. Meanings [verb] To take care of; to look after; to attend to; to care for. Example Sentences 妈妈每天照顾生病的爸爸。 Māma měitiān zhàogù shēngbìng de bàba. Mom takes care of sick dad every day. 谢谢你照顾我的孩子。 Xièxiè nǐ zhàogù...
十分 (shífēn) — very; extremely; fully; completely
十分 (shífēn) 十分 is an adverb used as an intensifier, meaning "very," "extremely," or "fully," placed before adjectives and some verbs to indicate a high degree. Meanings [adverb] very; extremely; fully; completely (used to intensify adjectives and verbs, indicating a high or full degree) Usage Note 十分 is placed directly before the adjective or verb it modifies. It is interchangeable with 非常 in most cases but often sounds more formal...
交通 (jiāotōng) — traffic; transportation
交通 (jiāotōng) 交通 refers both to the flow of traffic on roads and to a city's broader transportation system or infrastructure. Meanings [noun] traffic; transportation — the movement of vehicles on roads, or the system of public transport in an area Example Sentences 这里的交通很方便。 Zhèlǐ de jiāotōng hěn fāngbiàn. The transportation here is very convenient. 早高峰时交通非常拥挤。 Zǎo gāofēng shí jiāotōng fēicháng yōngjǐ. Traffic is very congested during the morning rush...
讨论 (tǎolùn) — to discuss
讨论 (tǎolùn) 讨论 means to discuss or talk something over with one or more people, usually to reach an understanding, make a decision, or explore different views. Meanings [verb] To discuss; to talk over; to debate. [noun] A discussion; a debate. Example Sentences 我们来讨论一下这个问题。 Wǒmen lái tǎolùn yīxià zhège wèntí. Let's discuss this problem. 经过讨论，大家达成了一致意见。 Jīngguò tǎolùn, dàjiā dáchéng le yīzhì yìjiàn. After the discussion, everyone reached a consensus. 老师请同学们分组讨论。...
传统 (chuántǒng) — tradition; traditional
传统 (chuántǒng) 传统 refers to customs, values, and practices handed down from earlier generations, and describes things that are rooted in such heritage. Meanings [noun] tradition; heritage; custom passed down through generations [adj] traditional; conventional Example Sentences 春节是中国最重要的传统节日。 Chūnjié shì Zhōngguó zuì zhòngyào de chuántǒng jiérì. Spring Festival is the most important traditional holiday in China. 他很尊重家族的传统。 Tā hěn zūnzhòng jiāzú de chuántǒng. He has great respect for his family's...
科学 (kēxué) — science
科学 (kēxué) 科学 means science as a noun and scientific as an adjective. It encompasses both the natural sciences and the general idea of rational, evidence-based thinking. Meanings [noun] Science; the natural sciences. [adjective] Scientific; rational; evidence-based. Example Sentences 科学对人类的发展很重要。 Kēxué duì rénlèi de fāzhǎn hěn zhòngyào. Science is very important for human development. 这种方法不太科学。 Zhè zhǒng fāngfǎ bú tài kēxué. This method is not very scientific. 她从小就对科学很感兴趣。 Tā cóng...
害怕 (hàipà) — to be afraid
害怕 (hàipà) 害怕 means to be afraid or to fear. It expresses a feeling of fear or fright in response to something dangerous, threatening, or unknown. It is used with 对 to say what one is afraid of, or directly before the feared thing. Meanings [verb] To be afraid; to fear; to be scared. Example Sentences 我害怕黑暗。 Wǒ hàipà hēi'àn. I am afraid of the dark. 她不害怕困难。 Tā bù hàipà...
可能 (kěnéng) — possible / maybe
可能 (kěnéng) 可能 works both as an adjective meaning possible and as an adverb meaning maybe or possibly. When used as an adjective it follows 是 or describes a noun. When used as an adverb it precedes a verb or verb phrase to express uncertainty. Meanings [adjective] Possible; that can happen. [adverb] Maybe; possibly; perhaps. [noun] Possibility; chance. Example Sentences 他可能今天不来了。 Tā kěnéng jīntiān bù lái le. He possibly will...
蔬菜 (shūcài) — vegetables
蔬菜 (shūcài) 蔬菜 specifically means vegetables as a food category. While 菜 is the everyday broad word for dishes or produce, 蔬菜 is the more precise and formal term that means vegetables specifically, not dishes in general. Meanings [noun] Vegetables; edible plants; greens and produce. Example Sentences 多吃蔬菜对身体很好。 Duō chī shūcài duì shēntǐ hěn hǎo. Eating more vegetables is very good for your health. 我们家每顿饭都要有蔬菜。 Wǒmen jiā měi dùn fàn...
信息 (xìnxī) — information
信息 (xìnxī) 信息 means information in a broad sense — data, news, messages, or any content that carries knowledge or updates. It is used widely in technology, media, and everyday communication. Meanings [noun] Information; news; data; message. Example Sentences 我在网上查到了很多有用的信息。 Wǒ zài wǎngshàng chádào le hěn duō yǒuyòng de xìnxī. I found a lot of useful information online. 请把这个信息告诉所有同学。 Qǐng bǎ zhège xìnxī gàosù suǒyǒu tóngxué. Please share this information...
几乎 (jīhū) — almost
几乎 (jīhū) 几乎 means almost or nearly — very close to a state or quantity but just short of it. It can describe closeness to either a positive or negative condition. Meanings [adverb] Almost; nearly; hardly; virtually. Example Sentences 他几乎每天都来这里。 Tā jīhū měitiān dōu lái zhèlǐ. He comes here almost every day. 我几乎忘了这件事。 Wǒ jīhū wàng le zhè jiàn shì. I almost forgot about this matter. 班里几乎所有人都去了。 Bān lǐ jīhū...
冷静 (lěngjìng) — calm; cool-headed; composed
冷静 (lěngjìng) 冷静 describes the ability to stay calm, rational, and composed, especially under pressure or in an emotional situation. Meanings [adj] calm; cool-headed; composed; collected; not easily flustered Example Sentences 遇到紧急情况，要保持冷静。 Yù dào jǐnjí qíngkuàng, yào bǎochí lěngjìng. In an emergency, you must stay calm. 她很冷静地分析了整个问题。 Tā hěn lěngjìng de fēnxī le zhěnggè wèntí. She calmly analyzed the entire problem. 生气的时候最好先冷静一下，再说话。 Shēngqì de shíhou zuìhǎo xiān lěngjìng yīxià, zài...
热情 (rèqíng) — warm; enthusiastic; passion
热情 (rèqíng) 热情 describes both the quality of warmth and enthusiasm shown toward people, and a passionate feeling toward an activity or goal. Meanings [adj] warm; enthusiastic; welcoming [noun] passion; enthusiasm; warmth Example Sentences 这里的人们对游客非常热情。 Zhèlǐ de rénmen duì yóukè fēicháng rèqíng. The people here are very warm and welcoming to visitors. 她对音乐充满热情，每天都练习。 Tā duì yīnyuè chōngmǎn rèqíng, měitiān dōu liànxí. She is filled with passion for music and practices...
用途 (yòngtú) — use; purpose; application
用途 (yòngtú) 用途 refers to the practical use or purpose of an object, material, or technology, often implying a range of possible applications. Meanings [noun] use; purpose; the function or intended application of something [noun] application; a specific way in which something can be used Example Sentences 这种材料的用途非常广泛。 Zhè zhǒng cáiliào de yòngtú fēicháng guǎngfàn. This material has a very wide range of uses. 请说明这台设备的用途。 Qǐng shuōmíng zhè tái shèbèi...
质量 (zhìliàng) — quality
质量 (zhìliàng) 质量 refers to the quality or standard of a product, work, or effort. High 质量 means something is well-made or excellent; low 质量 means it is poor or substandard. Meanings [noun] Quality; standard. [noun] (Physics) Mass. Example Sentences 这个产品的质量非常好。 Zhège chǎnpǐn de zhìliàng fēicháng hǎo. The quality of this product is excellent. 我们要提高工作质量。 Wǒmen yào tígāo gōngzuò zhìliàng. We need to improve work quality. 别只看价格，要注意质量。 Bié zhǐ kàn...
按时 (ànshí) — on time
按时 (ànshí) 按时 means on time or punctually, in accordance with the scheduled or agreed time. 按 means according to or in line with, and 时 means time. It emphasizes doing something exactly when it is supposed to be done. A related adverb is 准时 (zhǔnshí), which also means on time. Both are used in similar contexts, but 按时 slightly emphasizes following a set schedule, while 准时 emphasizes punctuality in...
年级 (niánjí) — grade / year level
年级 (niánjí) 年级 means grade or year level at school. It refers to the stage of study in school, equivalent to Grade 1, Grade 2, etc. It is used with ordinal numbers and the measure 年级 itself: 一年级 (first grade), 三年级 (third grade). Meanings [noun] Grade; year level (in school); school year. Example Sentences 你现在是几年级？ Nǐ xiànzài shì jǐ niánjí? What grade are you in now? 我是初中三年级的学生。 Wǒ shì chūzhōng...
小时 (xiǎoshí) — hour
小时 (xiǎoshí) 小时 means hour, the unit of time equal to 60 minutes. It is the standard word for duration. Do not confuse it with 时候 (shíhou, time/moment) or 时间 (shíjiān, time as a concept). 小时 always refers to a count of hours. Meanings [noun] Hour (a unit of time, 60 minutes). Example Sentences 我每天学习两个小时。 Wǒ měitiān xuéxí liǎng gè xiǎoshí. I study for two hours every day. 从这里到北京要三个小时。 Cóng...
支持 (zhīchí) — to support
支持 (zhīchí) 支持 means to support or back someone or something. It can be emotional support, financial backing, or endorsing an idea or decision. It is used in both personal and formal contexts. In Chinese culture expressing 支持 openly is a warm and important social gesture. Whether cheering for a friend, endorsing a coworker's proposal, or backing a charity, 支持 signals solidarity and encouragement. Meanings [verb] To support; to back;...
大约 (dàyuē) — approximately; about; roughly; around
大约 (dàyuē) 大约 is an adverb meaning "approximately" or "about," used before numbers or time expressions to indicate that the value is an estimate, not a precise measurement. Meanings [adverb] approximately; about; roughly; around (placed before numbers, quantities, or time expressions to indicate an approximation) Usage Note 大约 is placed before the number or quantity it modifies. It can also appear before a verb to express a general estimate of...
礼貌 (lǐmào) — polite; politeness
礼貌 (lǐmào) 礼貌 refers to polite behavior and good manners, or the quality of being courteous and respectful in social interactions. Meanings [adj] polite; courteous; well-mannered [noun] politeness; courtesy; good manners Example Sentences 他说话总是很有礼貌。 Tā shuōhuà zǒngshì hěn yǒu lǐmào. He always speaks very politely. 对老人要有礼貌，这是基本道德。 Duì lǎorén yào yǒu lǐmào, zhè shì jīběn dàodé. Being polite to the elderly is basic morality. 不打招呼就离开是不礼貌的。 Bù dǎ zhāohu jiù líkāi shì...
辛苦 (xīnkǔ) — hard; toilsome; to work hard
辛苦 (xīnkǔ) 辛苦 describes work or effort that is tiring, demanding, or difficult. It is also commonly used as a polite expression to acknowledge and appreciate someone's hard work. Meanings [adjective] hard; toilsome; physically or mentally exhausting [verb] to work hard; to go through hardship and toil Example Sentences 你辛苦了，快来休息一下。 Nǐ xīnkǔ le, kuài lái xiūxi yīxià. You have worked hard; come and rest for a bit. 农民的工作很辛苦，要每天在田里劳动。 Nóngmín de...
回忆 (huíyì) — to recall; memory
回忆 (huíyì) 回忆 means both the act of recalling past events and the memories themselves, often carrying a nostalgic or reflective tone. Meanings [verb] to recall; to recollect; to think back on [noun] memory; recollection; reminiscence Example Sentences 我经常回忆起小时候的事情。 Wǒ jīngcháng huíyì qǐ xiǎoshíhou de shìqing. I often recall things from my childhood. 那段时光是我最美好的回忆。 Nà duàn shíguāng shì wǒ zuì měihǎo de huíyì. That period of time is my most...
理解 (lǐjiě) — to understand; to comprehend; understanding
理解 (lǐjiě) 理解 means to understand or comprehend something at a deeper level, beyond surface recognition, and can also function as a noun meaning understanding or comprehension. Meanings [verb] to understand; to comprehend — to grasp the meaning, logic, or feeling behind something [noun] understanding; comprehension — the state of having grasped something deeply Example Sentences 我不太理解他的意思。 Wǒ bú tài lǐjiě tā de yìsi. I do not quite understand what...
银行 (yínháng) — bank
银行 (yínháng) 银行 is the standard word for a bank — the financial institution where you deposit money, make transfers, take out loans, and exchange currency. 银 means "silver" (a historical reference to silver as currency) and 行 means "business establishment / trade." Together they evoke a silver-dealing establishment. Meanings [noun] Bank; financial institution. Example Sentences 我要去银行取一些钱。 Wǒ yào qù yínháng qǔ yīxiē qián. I need to go to the...
人口 (rénkǒu) — population
人口 (rénkǒu) Refers to the total number of people living in a country, city, or region. Meanings [noun] Population, the total number of inhabitants. [noun] Number of people (in a household or area). Example Sentences 中国的人口超过十四亿。 Zhōngguó de rénkǒu chāoguò shísì yì. China's population exceeds 1.4 billion. 这个城市的人口增长很快。 Zhège chéngshì de rénkǒu zēngzhǎng hěn kuài. The population of this city is growing very fast. 农村人口越来越少了。 Nóngcūn rénkǒu yuèláiyuè shǎo le....
经常 (jīngcháng) — often
经常 (jīngcháng) 经常 means often or frequently. It describes actions that happen on a regular, habitual basis. It is placed before the verb it modifies. Meanings [adverb] Often; frequently; regularly; habitually. Example Sentences 我经常去图书馆看书。 Wǒ jīngcháng qù túshūguǎn kàn shū. I often go to the library to read. 他经常帮助同学，大家都很喜欢他。 Tā jīngcháng bāngzhù tóngxué, dàjiā dōu hěn xǐhuān tā. He often helps classmates; everyone likes him very much. 你经常锻炼吗？ Nǐ jīngcháng...
邻居 (línjū) — neighbor
邻居 (línjū) 邻居 refers to a neighbor — someone who lives next door or in close proximity. It is a neutral, everyday word used in both city apartment contexts and traditional neighborhood settings. 邻 relates to proximity and adjacency, while 居 means "to reside / dwell." Meanings [noun] Neighbor; next-door resident; someone living nearby. Example Sentences 我的邻居是一对年轻夫妻。 Wǒ de línjū shì yī duì niánqīng fūqī. My neighbor is a young...
放心 (fàngxīn) — to rest assured; to stop worrying
放心 (fàngxīn) 放心 means to let go of worry and feel at ease about something or someone. Meanings [verb] to rest assured; to stop worrying; to feel relieved Example Sentences 你放心，我会照顾好她的。 Nǐ fàngxīn, wǒ huì zhàogù hǎo tā de. You can rest assured, I will take good care of her. 妈妈说放心吧，一切都会好的。 Māma shuō fàngxīn ba, yīqiē dōu huì hǎo de. Mom said don't worry, everything will be fine. 听到他平安到达，我才放心了。 Tīng...
意义 (yìyì) — meaning; significance
意义 (yìyì) 意义 refers to the deeper significance, value, or purpose behind something, going beyond surface-level meaning (unlike 意思 yìsi, which is more about literal meaning). Meanings [noun] meaning; significance; importance; value Example Sentences 这件事对我有很重要的意义。 Zhè jiàn shì duì wǒ yǒu hěn zhòngyào de yìyì. This matter holds great significance for me. 帮助别人是一件很有意义的事情。 Bāngzhù biérén shì yī jiàn hěn yǒu yìyì de shìqing. Helping others is a very meaningful thing....
电子邮件 (diànzǐ yóujiàn) — email
电子邮件 (diànzǐ yóujiàn) 电子邮件 means email or electronic mail. 电子 means electronic and 邮件 means mail or postal item. It can be shortened informally to 邮件 in context. Meanings [noun] Email; electronic mail. Example Sentences 我给他发了一封电子邮件。 Wǒ gěi tā fā le yī fēng diànzǐ yóujiàn. I sent him an email. 请把文件用电子邮件发给我。 Qǐng bǎ wénjiàn yòng diànzǐ yóujiàn fā gěi wǒ. Please send me the document by email. 我每天早上检查电子邮件。 Wǒ měitiān...
方法 (fāngfǎ) — method
方法 (fāngfǎ) 方法 means a method or approach — a systematic or deliberate way of doing something. It is more structured than 办法 (bànfǎ — way to deal with something), which is more casual and practical. Meanings [noun] Method; way; approach; technique. Example Sentences 你有什么好的学习方法？ Nǐ yǒu shénme hǎo de xuéxí fāngfǎ? Do you have any good study methods? 这种方法效果很好。 Zhè zhǒng fāngfǎ xiàoguǒ hěn hǎo. This method is very...
方面 (fāngmiàn) — aspect; side
方面 (fāngmiàn) 方面 refers to an aspect, side, or dimension of something, used when discussing different angles of a topic. Meanings [noun] aspect; side; dimension; respect; area Example Sentences 在学习方面，他非常努力。 Zài xuéxí fāngmiàn, tā fēicháng nǔlì. In terms of studying, he works very hard. 这个问题涉及很多方面。 Zhège wèntí shèjí hěn duō fāngmiàn. This issue involves many aspects. 我们要从不同方面分析这个问题。 Wǒmen yào cóng bùtóng fāngmiàn fēnxī zhège wèntí. We need to analyze this...
之后 (zhīhòu) — after; afterwards
之后 (zhīhòu) 之后 means "after" or "afterwards." It marks a point in time that comes after a specific event, action, or moment. It follows a noun, verb phrase, or clause that identifies the reference point. Meanings [adverb] After; afterwards; following — indicates that the main action or event takes place after the stated reference point. Compare 之后 vs 以后 Word Usage 之后 Slightly more formal; always requires a preceding reference...
严格 (yángé) — strict
严格 (yángé) 严格 describes a person, rule, or standard that is strict and allows no deviation. It implies high expectations enforced consistently. It can be used for people (a strict teacher), standards (strict requirements), or behavior (strict discipline). Meanings [adjective] Strict; rigorous; demanding; exacting. Example Sentences 我的老师对我们非常严格。 Wǒ de lǎoshī duì wǒmen fēicháng yángé. My teacher is very strict with us. 这里的规定很严格，必须遵守。 Zhèlǐ de guīdìng hěn yángé, bìxū zūnshǒu. The...
平均 (píngjūn) — average; equal; per capita
平均 (píngjūn) 平均 refers to an equal distribution or the mathematical average of a set of values. Meanings [adj/noun/verb] average; equal; per capita; to distribute evenly; the mean Example Sentences 这个班同学的平均年龄是十七岁。 Zhège bān tóngxué de píngjūn niánlíng shì shíqī suì. The average age of students in this class is seventeen. 我每天平均睡七个小时。 Wǒ měitiān píngjūn shuì qī gè xiǎoshí. I sleep an average of seven hours every day. 把这些苹果平均分给大家。 Bǎ zhèxiē...
由于 (yóuyú) — due to; because of; owing to
由于 (yóuyú) 由于 means "due to," "because of," or "owing to." It introduces a cause or reason and is more formal and written than 因为. The result clause is often introduced by 所以, 因此, or 才. Meanings [preposition/conjunction] Due to; because of; owing to; as a result of — introduces the cause of a situation, often in formal or written contexts. Compare 由于 vs 因为 Word Style Notes 由于 Formal...
毛巾 (máojīn) — towel
毛巾 (máojīn) 毛巾 means towel. It refers to the cloth used for drying the body after bathing or washing. 毛 means hair or fuzz (referring to the fluffy terry texture), and 巾 means cloth or kerchief. In Chinese hotels it is standard to find 毛巾 (face or hand towels) and 浴巾 (bath towels) separately in the bathroom. In daily life many Chinese households have dedicated 毛巾 for the face and...
温度 (wēndù) — temperature
温度 (wēndù) 温度 means temperature. It refers to the measurable degree of heat or cold in an object, body, or environment. 温 means warm or temperature, and 度 means degree. Related words include 气温 (air temperature), 体温 (body temperature), and 室温 (room temperature). China uses the Celsius scale, so when someone says 今天三十五度 (35 degrees today), they mean 35 degrees Celsius, which is very hot. Meanings [noun] Temperature; the degree...
大夫 (dàifu) — doctor
大夫 (dàifu) 大夫 means doctor or physician. Importantly, in this medical sense it is pronounced dàifu (not dàfū). It is the common spoken term in Northern China. The more formal and standard Mandarin word for doctor is 医生 (yīshēng), which is used across all regions and in writing. Meanings [noun] Doctor; physician (spoken, especially in Northern China). Example Sentences 大夫说我需要休息几天。 Dàifu shuō wǒ xūyào xiūxi jǐ tiān. The doctor said...
热爱 (rè'ài) — to love deeply
热爱 (rè'ài) 热爱 expresses a deep, passionate love for something, stronger than 喜欢 (xǐhuān) or 爱 (ài) alone. Meanings [verb] to love deeply; to be passionate about something Example Sentences 我热爱音乐，每天都要练习。 Wǒ rè'ài yīnyuè, měitiān dōu yào liànxí. I am passionate about music and practice every day. 他热爱自己的工作，从不感到累。 Tā rè'ài zìjǐ de gōngzuò, cóng bù gǎndào lèi. He deeply loves his work and never feels tired. 她从小热爱绘画，长大后成了画家。 Tā cóng xiǎo...
关心 (guānxīn) — to care about
关心 (guānxīn) 关心 means to care about or show concern for someone. It conveys warmth and personal investment, and is used in both family and social contexts. Meanings [verb] To care about; to show concern for; to be concerned with. Example Sentences 她非常关心她的学生。 Tā fēicháng guānxīn tā de xuésheng. She cares deeply about her students. 谢谢你关心我。 Xièxiè nǐ guānxīn wǒ. Thank you for caring about me. 父母总是关心孩子的健康。 Fùmǔ zǒngshì guānxīn...
保证 (bǎozhèng) — to guarantee / to ensure
保证 (bǎozhèng) To make a firm promise or guarantee that something will happen or that something meets a standard. Meanings [verb] To guarantee, to ensure, to promise. [noun] Guarantee, assurance, warranty. Example Sentences 我保证明天准时到达。 Wǒ bǎozhèng míngtiān zhǔnshí dàodá. I guarantee I will arrive on time tomorrow. 这家公司保证产品质量。 Zhè jiā gōngsī bǎozhèng chǎnpǐn zhìliàng. This company guarantees product quality. 你能保证不再迟到吗？ Nǐ néng bǎozhèng bù zài chídào ma? Can you guarantee...
空调 (kōngtiáo) — air conditioner
空调 (kōngtiáo) 空调 means air conditioner or air conditioning. It is short for 空气调节 (kōngqì tiáojié), meaning air regulation. It refers to the appliance that controls indoor temperature and humidity. Meanings [noun] Air conditioner; air conditioning. Example Sentences 天气太热了，开空调吧。 Tiānqì tài rè le, kāi kōngtiáo ba. It's too hot; let's turn on the air conditioner. 这个房间的空调坏了。 Zhège fángjiān de kōngtiáo huài le. The air conditioner in this room is broken....
增长 (zēngzhǎng) — to grow; to increase; growth
增长 (zēngzhǎng) 增长 describes a rise or increase in something, particularly in measurable quantities such as population, income, or knowledge. Meanings [verb] to grow; to increase — to become greater in number, amount, or degree [noun] growth; increase — the act or result of growing in size, amount, or extent Example Sentences 今年的销售额增长了百分之二十。 Jīnnián de xiāoshòu'é zēngzhǎng le bǎifēnzhī èrshí. Sales revenue grew by twenty percent this year. 人口增长给环境带来了压力。 Rénkǒu...
缺点 (quēdiǎn) — shortcoming
缺点 (quēdiǎn) 缺点 means shortcoming, weakness, or flaw. It refers to a negative quality or deficiency in a person, plan, or thing. Its opposite is 优点 (yōudiǎn), meaning strength or advantage. Meanings [noun] Shortcoming; weakness; flaw; deficiency; disadvantage. Example Sentences 每个人都有缺点。 Měi gè rén dōu yǒu quēdiǎn. Everyone has shortcomings. 这个计划最大的缺点是太贵了。 Zhège jìhuà zuì dà de quēdiǎn shì tài guì le. The biggest flaw in this plan is that it...
租 (zū) — to rent
租 (zū) 租 means to rent as both a verb and noun. It can describe both the act of renting something from someone and the act of leasing something out to someone else, depending on context. Meanings [verb] To rent; to lease; to hire (something from someone). [verb] To rent out; to let (something to someone). [noun] Rent; rental fee. Example Sentences 我想在这里租一间房间。 Wǒ xiǎng zài zhèlǐ zū yī jiān...
每 (měi) — every / each
每 (měi) 每 means every or each. It is placed before a measure word or time expression to indicate that something applies to all members of a group without exception. Common patterns include 每天 (every day), 每次 (every time), and 每个人 (every person). Meanings [determiner] Every; each — applies to all members of a set without exception. Example Sentences 我每天早上跑步。 Wǒ měitiān zǎoshang pǎobù. I go running every morning. 每个人都有自己的优点。...
除非 (chúfēi) — unless; only if; except when
除非 (chúfēi) 除非 is a conjunction meaning "unless" or "only if," used to introduce the one and only condition that would change an outcome or serve as an exception to an otherwise absolute statement. Meanings [conjunction] unless; only if; except when (introduces the single exception or the only condition under which the main clause does not apply, or under which an otherwise impossible outcome becomes possible) Usage Note 除非 introduces...
责任 (zérèn) — responsibility / duty
责任 (zérèn) 责任 refers to a responsibility or duty that a person is expected to fulfill and is accountable for. It carries a moral weight — having 责任 means you own the outcome. The key phrases 负责任 (be responsible) and 有责任 (have a responsibility) are very common. Meanings [noun] Responsibility; duty; obligation. [noun] Accountability; blame (when something goes wrong). Example Sentences 父母有责任照顾好自己的孩子。 Fùmǔ yǒu zérèn zhàogù hǎo zìjǐ de háizi....
加班 (jiābān) — to work overtime; overtime
加班 (jiābān) 加班 refers to working beyond regular working hours, either as a verb (to work overtime) or as a noun (overtime work). Meanings [verb] to work overtime — to continue working past the normal end of the workday [noun] overtime — extra work done beyond the regular schedule Example Sentences 我昨天加班到很晚。 Wǒ zuótiān jiābān dào hěn wǎn. I worked overtime until very late yesterday. 他经常加班，很辛苦。 Tā jīngcháng jiābān, hěn...
复习 (fùxí) — to review
复习 (fùxí) 复习 means to review or revise material that has already been studied. It is the standard word for exam revision and reinforcing previously learned content. Meanings [verb] To review; to revise; to go over again. Example Sentences 考试前你需要认真复习。 Kǎoshì qián nǐ xūyào rènzhēn fùxí. You need to review carefully before the exam. 我每天复习当天学的生词。 Wǒ měitiān fùxí dāngtiān xué de shēngcí. I review the new words I learned that...
才能 (cáinéng) — talent; ability; capability
才能 (cáinéng) 才能 refers to a person's natural talent or developed capability in a particular area. Meanings [noun] talent; ability; capability — the combination of aptitude and skill that enables someone to do something well Example Sentences 她有音乐才能。 Tā yǒu yīnyuè cáinéng. She has musical talent. 他的才能让所有人都感到惊讶。 Tā de cáinéng ràng suǒyǒu rén dōu gǎndào jīngyà. His talent surprised everyone. 每个人都有自己的才能。 Měi gè rén dōu yǒu zìjǐ de cáinéng. Every...
轻松 (qīngsōng) — relaxed / easy
轻松 (qīngsōng) 轻松 describes a state of being relaxed, at ease, or free from burden. It can describe a person's mood (feeling relaxed), an atmosphere (a relaxed setting), or a task (an easy, effortless job). It functions as an adjective and stative verb; 很轻松 (very relaxed / very easy) is especially common. Meanings [adjective] Relaxed; at ease; free from stress or pressure. [adjective] Easy; effortless; not demanding. Example Sentences 周末我喜欢做一些轻松的事情。...
害羞 (hàixiū) — shy; bashful; to be embarrassed
害羞 (hàixiū) 害羞 describes the feeling of self-consciousness, shyness, or embarrassment, particularly in social settings. Meanings [adj/verb] shy; bashful; to feel embarrassed; to be timid in front of others Example Sentences 她第一次上台表演，有点害羞。 Tā dì yī cì shàng tái biǎoyǎn, yǒudiǎn hàixiū. It was her first time performing on stage and she was a little shy. 不要害羞，大胆说出你的想法。 Bùyào hàixiū, dǎdǎn shuō chū nǐ de xiǎngfǎ. Don't be shy; boldly express your...
搬进来 (bān jìnlái) — move in (toward speaker)
搬进来 (bān jìnlái) 搬进来 is a verb with a compound directional complement. 搬 (to move / carry heavy objects) is the base verb; 进来 (come in / enter, toward the speaker) shows that something moves into an enclosed space in the direction of the speaker. Contrast with 搬进去 (move in, away from the speaker). Structure 搬 (move / carry) + 进来 (directional complement: enter toward speaker) = move something in...
工具 (gōngjù) — tool; instrument
工具 (gōngjù) 工具 refers to any physical or abstract tool used to get work done, from a hammer to a language. Meanings [noun] tool; instrument; implement [noun] means; vehicle (for achieving something) Example Sentences 这个工具箱里有很多工具。 Zhège gōngjùxiāng lǐ yǒu hěn duō gōngjù. There are many tools in this toolbox. 语言是人类交流的重要工具。 Yǔyán shì rénlèi jiāoliú de zhòngyào gōngjù. Language is an important tool for human communication. 他用工具把椅子修好了。 Tā yòng gōngjù bǎ...
及时 (jíshí) — timely; in good time; promptly
及时 (jíshí) 及时 describes doing something at the right moment, without letting too much time pass, especially when prompt action is needed. Meanings [adj/adv] timely; in good time; promptly; without delay when the moment calls for it Example Sentences 发现问题后，要及时解决。 Fāxiàn wèntí hòu, yào jíshí jiějué. After discovering a problem, you must resolve it promptly. 幸好他及时赶到，阻止了事故发生。 Xìnghǎo tā jíshí gǎndào, zǔzhǐ le shìgù fāshēng. Fortunately he arrived in time to...
超过 (chāoguò) — to exceed
超过 (chāoguò) 超过 means to exceed or go beyond a certain number, limit, or standard. It is used for quantities, speeds, scores, and any measurable value. Meanings [verb] To exceed; to surpass; to go beyond; to be more than. Example Sentences 今天气温超过了三十五度。 Jīntiān qìwēn chāoguò le sānshíwǔ dù. Today's temperature exceeded 35 degrees. 这次考试她的成绩超过了所有人。 Zhècì kǎoshì tā de chéngjì chāoguò le suǒyǒu rén. Her score this exam surpassed everyone else's....
动词+不/得+结果 — verb + potential complement
动词+不/得+结果 (Verb + Potential Complement) The potential complement inserts 得 (de) or 不 (bù) between a verb and its result complement to express whether the action can or cannot achieve the intended result. 得 signals possibility; 不 signals impossibility. Structure Affirmative: Verb + 得 + Result Complement Negative: Verb + 不 + Result Complement Common result complements: 完 (wán, finish), 到 (dào, reach/attain), 了 (liǎo, manage to), 懂 (dǒng, understand),...
可爱 (kě'ài) — cute; lovely
可爱 (kě'ài) 可爱 describes something or someone that is cute, adorable, or charming in an endearing way. Meanings [adj] cute; adorable; lovely; charming Example Sentences 这只小狗真可爱！ Zhè zhī xiǎogǒu zhēn kě'ài! This little dog is so cute! 她的女儿长得很可爱，人人都喜欢她。 Tā de nǚ'ér zhǎng de hěn kě'ài, rén rén dōu xǐhuān tā. Her daughter is very cute and everyone likes her. 你画的小熊猫看起来很可爱。 Nǐ huà de xiǎo xióngmāo kàn qǐlái hěn kě'ài. The...
情况 (qíngkuàng) — situation
情况 (qíngkuàng) 情况 refers to the circumstances or state of affairs — a situation as it currently stands. It is a very common and flexible word used in news, conversation, and formal writing. Meanings [noun] Situation; condition; circumstances; state of affairs. Example Sentences 请说明一下情况。 Qǐng shuōmíng yīxià qíngkuàng. Please explain the situation. 目前的情况还不清楚。 Mùqián de qíngkuàng hái bù qīngchǔ. The current situation is still unclear. 情况有些复杂，需要时间处理。 Qíngkuàng yǒuxiē fùzá, xūyào...
无论 (wúlùn) — no matter / regardless
无论 (wúlùn) 无论 means no matter or regardless of. It introduces a condition or possibility that does not change the outcome. It must always be followed later in the sentence by 都 or 也 to complete the meaning. The pattern is: 无论 + condition + 都/也 + result. Meanings [conjunction] No matter; regardless of. Always used in the pattern 无论...都/也. Example Sentences 无论多忙，他都会打电话给父母。 Wúlùn duō máng, tā dōu huì dǎ...
意见 (yìjiàn) — opinion
意见 (yìjiàn) 意见 means opinion, view, or feedback. It is what someone thinks about a topic, plan, or situation. It can be a personal viewpoint or a formal objection or suggestion. Meanings [noun] Opinion; view; feedback; objection. Example Sentences 你有什么意见？ Nǐ yǒu shénme yìjiàn? What are your opinions? 大家的意见不一致，还需要讨论。 Dàjiā de yìjiàn bù yīzhì, hái xūyào tǎolùn. Everyone's opinions are not aligned; more discussion is needed. 请提出你的意见和建议。 Qǐng tíchū nǐ...
比较…一点 (bǐjiào...yīdiǎn) — comparatively... a bit
比较…一点 (bǐjiào...yīdiǎn) 比较 (bǐjiào) means "relatively" or "comparatively" and softens an adjective. Adding 一点 (yīdiǎn, a bit) at the end further reduces the strength of the statement, making it more modest or polite. The combination is natural when expressing a mild preference or gentle criticism. Structure Subject + 比较 + Adjective + 一点 一点 may also appear after a comparison: A + 比 + B + Adjective + 一点 (A...
逐渐 (zhújiàn) — gradually; little by little; progressively
逐渐 (zhújiàn) 逐渐 is an adverb describing a process that happens slowly and incrementally over time, without sudden jumps or breaks. Meanings [adverb] gradually; little by little; progressively (placed before a verb or adjective to indicate slow, steady change) Usage Note 逐渐 is placed directly before the verb or adjective it modifies. It emphasizes the gradual nature of a change and often appears with verbs of change such as 变...
变化 (biànhuà) — change; to change
变化 (biànhuà) 变化 refers to a change or transformation, whether in physical conditions, situations, or attitudes. Meanings [noun] change; transformation; variation [verb] to change; to undergo transformation Example Sentences 这个城市发生了很大的变化。 Zhège chéngshì fāshēng le hěn dà de biànhuà. This city has undergone great changes. 天气变化很快，要带好雨伞。 Tiānqì biànhuà hěn kuài, yào dài hǎo yǔsǎn. The weather changes quickly, so take an umbrella with you. 学了一年汉语，她的口语有了明显的变化。 Xué le yī nián Hànyǔ, tā...
中心 (zhōngxīn) — center / core
中心 (zhōngxīn) Refers to the center point of a place or the core focus of a topic or activity. Meanings [noun] Center, the middle point of a space or area. [noun] Core, the main focus or hub of something. Example Sentences 购物中心在城市的中心。 Gòuwù zhōngxīn zài chéngshì de zhōngxīn. The shopping center is in the center of the city. 北京是中国的政治中心。 Běijīng shì Zhōngguó de zhèngzhì zhōngxīn. Beijing is the political center...
互相 (hùxiāng) — mutually
互相 (hùxiāng) 互相 means mutually or to each other — the action described goes in both directions between two or more parties simultaneously. It always modifies a verb. Meanings [adverb] Mutually; each other; one another. Example Sentences 我们应该互相帮助。 Wǒmen yīnggāi hùxiāng bāngzhù. We should help each other. 互相了解可以减少误解。 Hùxiāng liǎojiě kěyǐ jiǎnshǎo wùjiě. Mutual understanding can reduce misunderstandings. 两个好朋友互相支持，共同进步。 Liǎng gè hǎo péngyou hùxiāng zhīchí, gòngtóng jìnbù. Two good friends...
通常 (tōngcháng) — usually; normally; generally
通常 (tōngcháng) 通常 means "usually" or "normally." It describes what is typical, standard, or happens in general under ordinary circumstances. It is interchangeable with 一般 in many contexts but has a slightly more formal or written feel. Meanings [adverb] Usually; normally; generally; as a rule — describes what typically or habitually happens. Compare 通常 vs 往往 Word Use 通常 Neutral statement of what is normal or typical 往往 Implies a...
一直 (yīzhí) — all along
一直 (yīzhí) 一直 means continuously, all along, or straight ahead. For time it means an action has been happening without interruption. For direction it means go straight without turning. Meanings [adverb] All along; continuously; the whole time. [adverb] Straight; in a straight line (direction). Example Sentences 他一直在努力学习。 Tā yīzhí zài nǔlì xuéxí. He has been studying hard all along. 一直走，不要转弯。 Yīzhí zǒu, bú yào zhuǎnwān. Go straight; don't turn. 我一直等你，你怎么才来？...
本来 (běnlái) — originally; in the first place; naturally
本来 (běnlái) 本来 refers to an original situation, a natural expectation, or something that was the case from the beginning, often implying a contrast with the current state. Meanings [adverb] originally; in the first place; naturally — indicating what was true or expected at the outset, often contrasting with what actually happened Example Sentences 他本来打算去北京，但是临时改变了计划。 Tā běnlái dǎsuàn qù Běijīng, dànshì línshí gǎibiàn le jìhuà. He originally planned to go...
原来 (yuánlái) — originally; as it turns out
原来 (yuánlái) 原来 has two main uses: describing the original or former state of something, and expressing a realization or discovery ("so it turns out that..."). Meanings [adverb] originally; formerly (describing a past state) [adverb] as it turns out; so... (expressing a realization) Example Sentences 原来他就是那个有名的作家！ Yuánlái tā jiù shì nàgè yǒumíng de zuòjiā! So he is that famous writer after all! 这里原来是一片森林，现在变成了城市。 Zhèlǐ yuánlái shì yī piàn sēnlín, xiànzài...
菜 (cài) — dish / vegetable
菜 (cài) 菜 is a broad word covering both dishes of food (cooked) and vegetables (raw produce). As a dish it means any course served at a meal. As a vegetable it is the general everyday term. For the specific category of vegetables, 蔬菜 is more precise. Meanings [noun] Dish; course; a prepared food item served at a meal. [noun] Vegetable; greens; produce (general and colloquial). Example Sentences 这道菜真好吃！ Zhè...
至少 (zhìshǎo) — at least; no less than
至少 (zhìshǎo) 至少 means "at least." It sets a minimum — the actual amount, frequency, or degree may be more, but it is guaranteed to be no less than what follows. It can modify numbers, time expressions, and frequency words. Meanings [adverb] At least; no less than; at a minimum — sets a lower bound on quantity, frequency, or degree. Example Sentences 你至少要喝八杯水。 Nǐ zhìshǎo yào hē bā bēi shuǐ....
肚子 (dùzi) — belly / stomach
肚子 (dùzi) 肚子 means belly or stomach in the colloquial sense. It is the everyday spoken word for the abdomen and is used when talking about hunger, fullness, or stomach pain. Meanings [noun] Belly; stomach; abdomen (colloquial, everyday usage). Example Sentences 我的肚子很饿。 Wǒ de dùzi hěn è. My stomach is very hungry. 我肚子疼，可能吃坏东西了。 Wǒ dùzi téng, kěnéng chī huài dōngxi le. My stomach hurts; I may have eaten something bad....
水果 (shuǐguǒ) — fruit
水果 (shuǐguǒ) 水果 means fruit. It refers to the sweet, edible products of plants. 水 means water, and 果 means fruit or result. The combination evokes juicy, water-filled fruit. China produces and consumes a huge variety of fruit, including 苹果 (apple), 香蕉 (banana), 西瓜 (watermelon), 草莓 (strawberry), and 芒果 (mango). Fresh fruit stalls and fruit shops are found on almost every street in Chinese cities. Meanings [noun] Fruit; the sweet...
旅游 (lǚyóu) — to travel; tourism
旅游 (lǚyóu) 旅游 means to travel for pleasure or sightseeing, and also refers to tourism as an activity or industry. Meanings [verb] to travel; to go on a trip; to tour [noun] tourism; travel; a trip Example Sentences 我很喜欢旅游，每年都会去一个新地方。 Wǒ hěn xǐhuān lǚyóu, měi nián dōu huì qù yī gè xīn dìfāng. I love traveling and go to a new place every year. 他们去云南旅游了两个星期。 Tāmen qù Yúnnán lǚyóu le liǎng...
经济 (jīngjì) — economy; economics; financial
经济 (jīngjì) 经济 refers to the economy or the study of economics, and can also function as an adjective meaning economical or affordable. Meanings [noun] economy; economics — the system of production, trade, and consumption of goods and services [adjective] financial; economical — relating to finance, or cost-effective Example Sentences 中国经济发展很快。 Zhōngguó jīngjì fāzhǎn hěn kuài. China's economy is developing very quickly. 他学习经济学。 Tā xuéxí jīngjìxué. He studies economics. 这个方案更经济实惠。...
同事 (tóngshì) — colleague
同事 (tóngshì) 同事 means colleague or coworker, referring to someone who works at the same organization or shares the same workplace. It is the standard, polite word for a professional peer. Meanings [noun] Colleague; coworker. Example Sentences 他是我的同事，我们一起工作。 Tā shì wǒ de tóngshì, wǒmen yīqǐ gōngzuò. He is my colleague; we work together. 同事们帮我完成了任务。 Tóngshìmen bāng wǒ wánchéng le rènwu. My colleagues helped me complete the task. 我和同事的关系很好。 Wǒ hé...
尽管 (jǐnguǎn) — although; despite; even though
尽管 (jǐnguǎn) 尽管 is a conjunction that introduces a concessive clause, acknowledging a fact or obstacle while stating that it does not prevent the outcome in the main clause. Meanings [conjunction] although; despite; even though (used to introduce a concessive condition that does not change the result) Usage Note 尽管 introduces the subordinate (concessive) clause, and the main clause often uses 还是 (háishi, still), 仍然 (réngrán, still), 却 (què, but/yet),...
爱好 (àihào) — hobby; interest
爱好 (àihào) 爱好 refers to a personal hobby or interest, something you enjoy doing in your spare time. Meanings [noun] a hobby or interest that someone enjoys [verb] to love; to be fond of something Example Sentences 我的爱好是画画和读书。 Wǒ de àihào shì huà huà hé dú shū. My hobbies are painting and reading. 你有什么爱好？ Nǐ yǒu shénme àihào? What hobbies do you have? 他非常爱好音乐，每天都练习钢琴。 Tā fēicháng àihào yīnyuè, měitiān dōu...
将来 (jiānglái) — future; in the future
将来 (jiānglái) 将来 means "the future" or "in the future." It refers to an unspecified future time that is more distant or open-ended than 以后 (after a specific event). 将来 is often used when talking about life goals, dreams, or general prospects. Meanings [noun] The future — the time ahead, used as a subject or object. [adverb] In the future; someday — placed before the verb to indicate a future...
越来越 (yuè lái yuè) — more and more
越来越 (yuè lái yuè) 越来越 is a fixed pattern meaning "more and more" or "increasingly." It is placed before an adjective or verb and describes a quality that keeps intensifying over time. Meanings [adverb pattern] More and more; increasingly; getting (adjective)-er and (adjective)-er. Example Sentences 他的汉语越来越好了。 Tā de Hànyǔ yuè lái yuè hǎo le. His Chinese is getting better and better. 天气越来越冷了。 Tiānqì yuè lái yuè lěng le. The weather...
继续 (jìxù) — to continue
继续 (jìxù) 继续 means to continue doing something or to carry on without stopping, picking up where one left off. Meanings [verb] to continue; to go on; to carry on; to keep doing Example Sentences 请继续说，我在听。 Qǐng jìxù shuō, wǒ zài tīng. Please continue speaking; I am listening. 休息一下，然后继续工作。 Xiūxi yīxià, ránhòu jìxù gōngzuò. Take a rest, then continue working. 尽管很难，他还是继续努力了。 Jǐnguǎn hěn nán, tā háishi jìxù nǔlì le. Even...
海鲜 (hǎixiān) — seafood
海鲜 (hǎixiān) 海鲜 means seafood. It refers to all edible creatures from the sea, including fish, shrimp, crab, oysters, and squid. 海 means sea or ocean, and 鲜 means fresh or tasty. Together they evoke freshly caught, delicious food from the sea. Meanings [noun] Seafood; edible creatures from the sea or ocean. Example Sentences 这家餐厅的海鲜很新鲜。 Zhè jiā cāntīng de hǎixiān hěn xīnxiān. The seafood at this restaurant is very fresh....
检查 (jiǎnchá) — to check / examine
检查 (jiǎnchá) 检查 means to check, inspect, or examine. It is widely used for medical checkups, reviewing work, security checks, and quality inspection. 检 means to inspect, and 查 means to look into or investigate. Meanings [verb] To check; to examine; to inspect (homework, health, luggage, quality). [noun] An inspection; a checkup; a review. Example Sentences 老师让我们检查作业有没有错误。 Lǎoshī ràng wǒmen jiǎnchá zuòyè yǒu méiyǒu cuòwù. The teacher asked us to...
进行 (jìnxíng) — to carry out; to conduct
进行 (jìnxíng) 进行 is used to indicate that an activity is being carried out or is in progress, typically with more formal or planned actions. Meanings [verb] to carry out; to conduct; to undertake; to be in progress Example Sentences 会议正在进行中。 Huìyì zhèngzài jìnxíng zhōng. The meeting is currently in progress. 研究人员正在进行一项重要实验。 Yánjiū rényuán zhèngzài jìnxíng yī xiàng zhòngyào shíyàn. Researchers are conducting an important experiment. 比赛将在明天下午进行。 Bǐsài jiāng zài...
集中 (jízhōng) — to concentrate; focused
集中 (jízhōng) 集中 means to gather, concentrate, or focus things or attention into one place or point. Meanings [verb] to concentrate; to focus; to centralize [adj] concentrated; focused Example Sentences 上课的时候要集中注意力。 Shàngkè de shíhou yào jízhōng zhùyìlì. You need to concentrate your attention during class. 所有的学生集中在操场上。 Suǒyǒu de xuéshēng jízhōng zài cāochǎng shàng. All the students gathered on the sports field. 他的工作需要高度集中的精神。 Tā de gōngzuò xūyào gāodù jízhōng de jīngshén....
地方 (dìfang) — place; region
地方 (dìfang) 地方 refers to a place, location, or region. It can be physical or abstract, used in both specific and general contexts. Meanings [noun] place; location; region; area Example Sentences 这个地方风景非常美。 Zhège dìfang fēngjǐng fēicháng měi. The scenery of this place is very beautiful. 你来自什么地方？ Nǐ láizì shénme dìfang? Where do you come from? 我找不到那本书放在什么地方了。 Wǒ zhǎo bù dào nà běn shū fàng zài shénme dìfang le. I cannot...
醋 (cù) — vinegar / jealousy
醋 (cù) 醋 is primarily the condiment vinegar, essential in Chinese cooking for its sharp, sour flavor. Colloquially, 吃醋 (eat vinegar) means to feel jealous, especially in a romantic relationship — a vivid metaphor for the sour feeling of envy. Meanings [noun] Vinegar (the condiment). [noun / colloquial] Jealousy (romantic), in the phrase 吃醋. Example Sentences 做饺子的时候可以蘸醋吃。 Zuò jiǎozi de shíhòu kěyǐ zhàn cù chī. When eating dumplings you can...
道理 (dàolǐ) — reason; logic; truth; principle
道理 (dàolǐ) 道理 refers to the sense or logic behind an argument, a moral truth, or a general principle that guides how things should be understood. Meanings [noun] reason; logic; truth; principle — the underlying rationale or moral logic of a statement, belief, or action Example Sentences 你说的很有道理。 Nǐ shuō de hěn yǒu dàolǐ. What you said makes a lot of sense. 这个道理很简单。 Zhège dàolǐ hěn jiǎndān. This principle is...
只要 (zhǐyào) — as long as
只要 (zhǐyào) 只要 states the minimum or sole condition needed for a result to follow. It is paired with 就 (jiù) in the second clause, forming a pattern that says: "as long as X, then Y will follow." Meanings [conjunction] As long as; provided that; if only. Example Sentences 只要努力，就会成功。 Zhǐyào nǔlì, jiù huì chénggōng. As long as you work hard, you will succeed. 只要你来，我就高兴。 Zhǐyào nǐ lái, wǒ jiù...
积极 (jījí) — positive / active
积极 (jījí) 积极 means positive or proactive. It describes an attitude of enthusiasm, initiative, and optimism rather than passivity or negativity. It is commonly used to praise attitude and behavior. Meanings [adjective] Positive; proactive; active; enthusiastic. [adjective] Optimistic; constructive (in attitude). Example Sentences 他对工作非常积极。 Tā duì gōngzuò fēicháng jījí. He is very proactive about his work. 我们要以积极的态度面对困难。 Wǒmen yào yǐ jījí de tàidu miànduì kùnnán. We should face difficulties with...
感谢 (gǎnxiè) — to thank
感谢 (gǎnxiè) 感谢 means to thank someone or feel gratitude. It is more formal and heartfelt than the everyday 谢谢 (xièxiè), and is commonly used in speeches, letters, and sincere expressions of appreciation. Meanings [verb] To thank; to express gratitude toward. [noun] Gratitude; thanks. Example Sentences 我非常感谢你的帮助。 Wǒ fēicháng gǎnxiè nǐ de bāngzhù. I'm very grateful for your help. 感谢大家的支持！ Gǎnxiè dàjiā de zhīchí! Thank you all for your support!...
镜子 (jìngzi) — mirror
镜子 (jìngzi) 镜子 is the everyday word for a mirror. 镜 is the main character meaning "mirror / lens / glass" and zi is a neutral-tone noun suffix. The word can refer to any reflective mirror — bathroom, dressing room, hand mirror — and also appears in compound words related to optical lenses. Meanings [noun] Mirror; a reflective glass surface. Example Sentences 她每天早上照镜子。 Tā měitiān zǎoshang zhào jìngzi. She looks...
筷子 (kuàizi) — chopsticks
筷子 (kuàizi) 筷子 means chopsticks. These are the two thin sticks used for eating in Chinese, Japanese, and Korean cuisine. The measure word for a pair is 双 (shuāng) and for a single stick is 根 (gēn). Meanings [noun] Chopsticks. Example Sentences 你会用筷子吗？ Nǐ huì yòng kuàizi ma? Do you know how to use chopsticks? 请给我一双筷子。 Qǐng gěi wǒ yī shuāng kuàizi. Please give me a pair of chopsticks. 我练习了很久才学会用筷子。...
浪费 (làngfèi) — to waste; wasteful
浪费 (làngfèi) 浪费 means to use resources, time, or money carelessly, using more than is necessary. Meanings [verb/adj] to waste; to squander; wasteful Example Sentences 不要浪费食物，吃多少做多少。 Bùyào làngfèi shíwù, chī duōshao zuò duōshao. Don't waste food; only make as much as you will eat. 浪费时间就是浪费生命。 Làngfèi shíjiān jiùshì làngfèi shēngmìng. Wasting time is wasting your life. 买了不用的东西是一种浪费。 Mǎi le bùyòng de dōngxi shì yī zhǒng làngfèi. Buying things you won't...
累 (lèi) — tired; exhausted
累 (lèi) 累 describes the state of being tired or exhausted, whether from physical activity, mental effort, or a long day. Meanings [adj] tired; exhausted; fatigued; worn out Example Sentences 工作了一整天，我真的很累。 Gōngzuò le yī zhěng tiān, wǒ zhēn de hěn lèi. After working a whole day, I am really tired. 你看起来很累，早点休息吧。 Nǐ kàn qǐlái hěn lèi, zǎodiǎn xiūxi ba. You look very tired; get some rest early. 爬山之后，大家都累坏了。 Páshān zhīhòu,...
把…V完 (bǎ...V wán) — disposal construction with completion
把…V完 (bǎ...V wán) 把…V完 combines the disposal marker 把 with the result complement 完 (wán, to finish) to express that someone completely used up, finished, or disposed of the object. The focus is on the object being fully dealt with. Structure Subject + 把 + Object + Verb + 完 (+ 了) 了 is often added at the end to mark completion as a past event. Example Sentences 他把作业做完了。 Tā...
声音 (shēngyīn) — sound; voice
声音 (shēngyīn) 声音 refers to any kind of sound, including a person's voice, music, or noise from the environment. Meanings [noun] sound; voice; noise Example Sentences 外面的声音太大，我睡不着。 Wàimiàn de shēngyīn tài dà, wǒ shuì bù zháo. The noise outside is too loud and I cannot fall asleep. 她的声音很好听，像在唱歌。 Tā de shēngyīn hěn hǎotīng, xiàng zài chànggē. Her voice is very pleasant, like she is singing. 我听到了一个奇怪的声音。 Wǒ tīngdào le yīgè...
现代 (xiàndài) — modern; contemporary
现代 (xiàndài) 现代 refers to the present age or describes things that belong to current times, in contrast to the traditional or ancient. Meanings [adj/noun] modern; contemporary; the modern era Example Sentences 现代科技改变了我们的生活方式。 Xiàndài kējì gǎibiàn le wǒmen de shēnghuó fāngshì. Modern technology has changed our way of life. 这座城市的建筑非常现代。 Zhè zuò chéngshì de jiànzhú fēicháng xiàndài. The architecture of this city is very modern. 她喜欢现代艺术，不太喜欢古典画。 Tā xǐhuān xiàndài yìshù,...
有趣 (yǒuqù) — interesting / fun
有趣 (yǒuqù) 有趣 means interesting, fun, or amusing. It describes something that captures your attention and makes you want to learn more or engage with it. 有 means to have, and 趣 means interest or charm. A related word is 有意思 (yǒu yìsi), which also means interesting or meaningful. Both are common, but 有趣 leans more toward fun and amusing, while 有意思 leans more toward thought-provoking or meaningful. Meanings [adjective]...
高兴 (gāoxìng) — happy; glad; pleased
高兴 (gāoxìng) 高兴 describes a bright, uplifted mood of gladness or pleasure, often triggered by a positive event. Meanings [adj] happy; glad; pleased; in good spirits Example Sentences 听到你要来，我真的很高兴！ Tīng dào nǐ yào lái, wǒ zhēn de hěn gāoxìng! Hearing that you are coming, I am really happy! 他通过考试了，全家都很高兴。 Tā tōngguò kǎoshì le, quánjiā dōu hěn gāoxìng. He passed the exam and the whole family was pleased. 高兴的时候，她喜欢唱歌。 Gāoxìng de...
必须 (bìxū) — must
必须 (bìxū) 必须 expresses a strong obligation or necessity. It means "must" or "have to," and is stronger than 应该 (yīnggāi — should). The negative form is 不必 (bùbì — don't need to) rather than 不必须. Meanings [modal verb] Must; have to; it is necessary to. Example Sentences 你必须按时交作业。 Nǐ bìxū ànshí jiāo zuòyè. You must hand in your homework on time. 进入这里必须出示证件。 Jìnrù zhèlǐ bìxū chūshì zhèngjiàn. You must...
危险 (wēixiǎn) — dangerous
危险 (wēixiǎn) 危险 means dangerous or risky. As an adjective it describes a person, place, or action that poses a threat. As a noun it refers to danger or risk itself. Meanings [adjective] Dangerous; risky; hazardous. [noun] Danger; risk; peril. Example Sentences 这条路很危险，晚上不要一个人走。 Zhè tiáo lù hěn wēixiǎn, wǎnshang bú yào yīgè rén zǒu. This road is very dangerous; don't walk it alone at night. 游泳时不注意安全很危险。 Yóuyǒng shí bù zhùyì...
题目 (títu) — title / topic / question
题目 (títu) 题目 covers the title of an essay, book, or speech, the topic or subject of a discussion, and an exam or exercise question. It is closely related to 题 (tí) alone, but 题目 is the full form used in most formal and everyday contexts. Meanings [noun] Title; heading (of an essay, article, or work). [noun] Topic; subject (of a speech or discussion). [noun] Question; exercise problem (in a...
认为 (rènwéi) — to think / believe
认为 (rènwéi) 认为 is the standard verb for expressing opinions and beliefs. It introduces a subordinate clause with the speaker's viewpoint, equivalent to "I think that..." or "I believe that..." in English. Meanings [verb] To think; to believe; to consider; to hold the view that. Example Sentences 我认为这个想法很好。 Wǒ rènwéi zhège xiǎngfǎ hěn hǎo. I think this idea is very good. 她认为学好汉语需要努力。 Tā rènwéi xuéhǎo Hànyǔ xūyào nǔlì. She believes...
请假 (qǐngjià) — to ask for leave / take time off
请假 (qǐngjià) 请假 is a verb meaning to formally request time off from work, school, or another obligation. 请 means "to request" and 假 here means "leave / time off" (not "fake"). It is used any time you need to notify a supervisor or teacher that you will be absent. Meanings [verb] To ask for leave; to request time off; to take a day off (with permission). Example Sentences 我明天要请假去看医生。...
接 (jiē) — to pick up / answer / receive
接 (jiē) 接 is a versatile verb with several related meanings: to pick someone up (from a place), to answer a phone call, or to receive something passed to you. All meanings share the core idea of bringing something toward you or making a connection. Meanings [verb] To pick up a person; to go and collect someone. [verb] To answer (a phone call): 接电话. [verb] To receive or catch something...
发展 (fāzhǎn) — development / to develop
发展 (fāzhǎn) 发展 functions as both a noun and a verb. As a noun it means development or growth. As a verb it means to develop, expand, or grow. It is widely used for economic, personal, technological, and social contexts. Meanings [noun] Development; growth; progress. [verb] To develop; to expand; to grow. Example Sentences 中国的经济发展很快。 Zhōngguó de jīngjì fāzhǎn hěn kuài. China's economic development is very fast. 我们需要发展新技术。 Wǒmen xūyào...
翻 (fān) — to turn over; to flip through
翻 (fān) 翻 means to turn something over, flip through pages, or cross over a barrier such as a wall or mountain. Meanings [verb] to turn over; to flip; to browse through; to cross over Example Sentences 他翻了翻书，找到了那一页。 Tā fān le fān shū, zhǎodào le nà yī yè. He flipped through the book and found that page. 请翻到第三十页。 Qǐng fān dào dì sānshí yè. Please turn to page thirty. 孩子把桌上的东西都翻了一遍。...
聪明 (cōngmíng) — intelligent; clever; smart
聪明 (cōngmíng) 聪明 describes someone with a quick, sharp mind who can understand and learn things easily. Meanings [adj] intelligent; clever; smart; bright-minded Example Sentences 这个孩子非常聪明，学什么都很快。 Zhège háizi fēicháng cōngmíng, xué shénme dōu hěn kuài. This child is very smart and learns everything quickly. 聪明的人知道什么时候该说话。 Cōngmíng de rén zhīdào shénme shíhou gāi shuōhuà. A clever person knows when to speak. 她用了一个聪明的办法解决了问题。 Tā yòng le yī gè cōngmíng de bànfǎ jiějué...
主动 (zhǔdòng) — active; take initiative
主动 (zhǔdòng) 主动 describes the quality of acting proactively, on one's own accord, rather than waiting to be told or prompted by others. Meanings [adjective] active; proactive; taking the lead [adverb] on one's own initiative; voluntarily; without being asked Example Sentences 她主动帮我搬家，我很感动。 Tā zhǔdòng bāng wǒ bānjiā, wǒ hěn gǎndòng. She proactively helped me move house, and I was very touched. 学生应该主动问问题。 Xuésheng yīnggāi zhǔdòng wèn wèntí. Students should actively...
输 (shū) — to lose (a competition)
输 (shū) 输 is the opposite of 赢 (yíng), and refers to losing a competition, game, bet, or argument. Meanings [verb] to lose; to be defeated in a competition or game Example Sentences 我们队昨天输了比赛。 Wǒmen duì zuótiān shū le bǐsài. Our team lost the match yesterday. 他下棋从来不愿意输。 Tā xià qí cónglái bù yuànyì shū. He never wants to lose at chess. 输了没关系，重要的是参与。 Shū le méi guānxi, zhòngyào de shì cānyù....
追 (zhuī) — to chase; to pursue
追 (zhuī) 追 means to run after or chase something, and by extension to actively pursue a goal, dream, or romantic interest. Meanings [verb] to chase; to run after someone or something to catch them [verb] to pursue; to seek after a goal, dream, or romantic partner Example Sentences 那只狗在追一只猫。 Nà zhī gǒu zài zhuī yī zhī māo. That dog is chasing a cat. 警察追上了那个小偷。 Jǐngchá zhuī shàng le nà...
经过 (jīngguò) — to pass by / through
经过 (jīngguò) 经过 means to pass by a place or go through a process. As a preposition it introduces the means or process through which a result was achieved. Meanings [verb] To pass by; to pass through (a place or process). [preposition] After; through; as a result of (introducing a process). Example Sentences 我每天上学都要经过那个公园。 Wǒ měitiān shàngxué dōu yào jīngguò nàgè gōngyuán. I pass by that park every day on...
主要 (zhǔyào) — main / primary / major
主要 (zhǔyào) Describes something as the most important, primary, or dominant element in a group or situation. Meanings [adjective] Main, primary, major, principal. [adverb] Mainly, primarily, chiefly. Example Sentences 这本书的主要内容是什么？ Zhè běn shū de zhǔyào nèiróng shì shénme? What is the main content of this book? 她主要负责销售工作。 Tā zhǔyào fùzé xiāoshòu gōngzuò. She is mainly responsible for sales work. 这里的主要交通工具是自行车。 Zhèlǐ de zhǔyào jiāotōng gōngjù shì zìxíngchē. The main mode...
随着 (suízhe) — along with; following; as
随着 (suízhe) 随着 means "along with" or "as (something changes/develops)." It introduces a driving factor or accompanying change, with the main clause describing what happens as a result. It highlights a parallel development between two things. Meanings [preposition] Along with; following; as — introduces a changing condition that is accompanied by a corresponding change in the main clause. Pattern 随着 + [changing factor] + [corresponding result/change] Example Sentences 随着科技的发展，人们的生活越来越方便。 Suízhe...
交 (jiāo) — to hand over / to submit / to make (friends)
交 (jiāo) A verb meaning to hand over something to someone, to submit work, or to form a relationship such as friendship. Meanings [verb] To hand over, to submit, to deliver. [verb] To make (friends), to establish (a relationship). Example Sentences 请把作业交给老师。 Qǐng bǎ zuòyè jiāo gěi lǎoshī. Please hand the homework to the teacher. 他很容易交到朋友。 Tā hěn róngyì jiāo dào péngyǒu. He makes friends very easily. 你的报告明天要交。 Nǐ de...
漂亮 (piàoliang) — pretty; beautiful
漂亮 (piàoliang) 漂亮 describes something or someone that is visually beautiful or attractive. It can also describe an action done impressively well. Meanings [adjective] pretty; beautiful; attractive in appearance [adjective] well done; impressive; excellent (describing an action or result) Example Sentences 她穿了一条漂亮的裙子来参加聚会。 Tā chuān le yī tiáo piàoliang de qúnzi lái cānjiā jùhuì. She wore a pretty dress to the party. 这幅画画得真漂亮。 Zhè fú huà huà de zhēn piàoliang. This...
准时 (zhǔnshí) — on time; punctual
准时 (zhǔnshí) 准时 means doing something exactly at the scheduled or agreed time, neither early nor late. Meanings [adj/adv] on time; punctual; at the scheduled time Example Sentences 请大家明天八点准时到达。 Qǐng dàjiā míngtiān bā diǎn zhǔnshí dàodá. Please everyone arrive on time at eight o'clock tomorrow. 他每天都准时上班，从不迟到。 Tā měitiān dōu zhǔnshí shàngbān, cóng bù chídào. He arrives at work on time every day and is never late. 火车准时出发，一分钟都没有晚。 Huǒchē zhǔnshí chūfā,...
实现 (shíxiàn) — to realize; to achieve
实现 (shíxiàn) 实现 means to turn a dream, plan, or goal into reality through effort. Meanings [verb] to realize; to achieve; to fulfill; to make real Example Sentences 他终于实现了自己的梦想。 Tā zhōngyú shíxiàn le zìjǐ de mèngxiǎng. He finally realized his dream. 只要努力，你一定能实现目标。 Zhǐyào nǔlì, nǐ yīdìng néng shíxiàn mùbiāo. As long as you work hard, you can definitely achieve your goals. 这个计划很难实现。 Zhège jìhuà hěn nán shíxiàn. This plan is...
只有 (zhǐyǒu) — only if / only when
只有 (zhǐyǒu) 只有 means only or only if/when. It sets a single necessary condition. It almost always pairs with 才 in the second clause to mean "only when [condition], then [result]." Without 才, it can mean "there is only" one option or thing. Meanings [conjunction] Only if; only when (used in 只有...才... pattern to express a necessary condition). [adverb phrase] There is only; the only one. Example Sentences 只有努力学习，才能取得好成绩。 Zhǐyǒu...
刚 (gāng) — just / just now / barely
刚 (gāng) An adverb meaning something happened very recently (just now) or something barely meets a condition. Unlike 刚才 (gānɡcái, a time noun for the recent past), 刚 can modify ongoing and future-oriented statements. Meanings [adverb] Just, just now (action very recently completed or still fresh). [adverb] Barely, just enough (meeting a threshold exactly). Example Sentences 我刚到家，还没来得及休息。 Wǒ gāng dào jiā, hái méi láidejí xiūxi. I just got home and...
表达 (biǎodá) — to express
表达 (biǎodá) 表达 means to express or communicate thoughts, feelings, or ideas through words or actions. Meanings [verb] to express; to convey; to communicate (ideas or feelings) Example Sentences 他不善于表达自己的感情。 Tā bù shànyú biǎodá zìjǐ de gǎnqíng. He is not good at expressing his feelings. 请用汉语表达你的想法。 Qǐng yòng Hànyǔ biǎodá nǐ de xiǎngfǎ. Please express your thoughts in Chinese. 她用鲜花表达了对妈妈的感谢。 Tā yòng xiānhuā biǎodá le duì māma de gǎnxiè. She...
厉害 (lìhai) — fierce / impressive
厉害 (lìhai) 厉害 describes something or someone as fierce, formidable, serious, or impressive. In everyday speech it is used both as a warning (this is no joke) and as enthusiastic praise (you are amazing). Context determines tone. Meanings [adjective] Fierce; serious; severe (of illness, pain, or a situation). [adjective] Formidable; impressive; capable (colloquial praise for a person or skill). Example Sentences 他的中文真厉害！ Tā de Zhōngwén zhēn lìhai! His Chinese is...
各 (gè) — each / various
各 (gè) 各 means each, every, or various. It refers to each individual member of a group, stressing that all are included. It is usually followed directly by a noun without a measure word, unlike 每 which uses measure words. Meanings [pronoun] Each; every; various; all (of a group individually). Example Sentences 各国代表都参加了会议。 Gè guó dàibiǎo dōu cānjiā le huìyì. Representatives from each country attended the meeting. 请各位同学注意。 Qǐng gè...
接受 (jiēshòu) — to accept
接受 (jiēshòu) 接受 means to accept or receive something willingly. It implies an active choice to take in a gift, an idea, advice, or a situation. It contrasts with 拒绝 (to refuse), and the two are natural antonyms. 接受 is broader in scope than 收到 (to receive a package) because it covers both physical reception and mental or emotional acceptance of an idea, criticism, or circumstance. Meanings [verb] To accept;...
任务 (rènwù) — task
任务 (rènwù) 任务 refers to a task, mission, or assignment that has been given to someone and must be completed. It carries a sense of duty or responsibility. Meanings [noun] Task; mission; assignment; duty. Example Sentences 他成功地完成了任务。 Tā chénggōng de wánchéng le rènwù. He successfully completed the task. 我有一项重要任务需要完成。 Wǒ yǒu yī xiàng zhòngyào rènwù xūyào wánchéng. I have an important task to complete. 老师给我们布置了一个新任务。 Lǎoshī gěi wǒmen bùzhì le...
办公室 (bàngōngshì) — office
办公室 (bàngōngshì) 办公室 is an office, a place where administrative or professional work is carried out. Meanings [noun] office; a place where people work at desks Example Sentences 他的办公室在三楼。 Tā de bàngōngshì zài sān lóu. His office is on the third floor. 我每天八点到办公室上班。 Wǒ měitiān bā diǎn dào bàngōngshì shàngbān. I arrive at the office every day at eight o'clock. 办公室里有很多同事。 Bàngōngshì lǐ yǒu hěn duō tóngshì. There are many...
过敏 (guòmǐn) — allergy / allergic
过敏 (guòmǐn) 过敏 describes an allergic reaction or the state of being allergic to something. The key pattern is 对...过敏 (to be allergic to...). It can function as a verb (to have an allergy) or a noun (an allergy). It is essential vocabulary for discussing health and medical situations. Meanings [verb] To be allergic; to have an allergic reaction. [noun] Allergy; hypersensitivity. Example Sentences 我对花粉过敏。 Wǒ duì huāfěn guòmǐn. I...
运动 (yùndòng) — exercise / sport / movement
运动 (yùndòng) 运动 covers physical activity broadly: it can mean doing exercise, playing a sport, or engaging in a social or political movement. In everyday speech it most often refers to working out or playing sports. It functions as both a noun and a verb. Meanings [noun / verb] Exercise; physical activity; to work out. [noun] Sport; athletic event. [noun] Movement; campaign (social or political). Example Sentences 我每天早上都去运动。 Wǒ měitiān...
顺序 (shùnxù) — order / sequence
顺序 (shùnxù) 顺序 refers to the order or sequence of things — the arrangement in which steps, people, or events follow each other. It implies a proper or intended flow, often used when giving instructions, describing procedures, or talking about queues and rankings. Meanings [noun] Order; sequence; arrangement; the correct or logical order of steps or items. Example Sentences 请按顺序回答问题。 Qǐng àn shùnxù huídá wèntí. Please answer the questions in...
注意 (zhùyì) — to pay attention
注意 (zhùyì) 注意 means to pay attention or be careful. It is widely used in instructions, warnings, and advice, both as a command and as a statement about directing one's focus. Meanings [verb] To pay attention to; to watch out for; to be careful about. [noun] Attention; notice. Example Sentences 注意安全！ Zhùyì ānquán! Be careful! / Watch out for safety! 请注意听老师说话。 Qǐng zhùyì tīng lǎoshī shuōhuà. Please pay attention and...
广告 (guǎnggào) — advertisement; commercial; ad
广告 (guǎnggào) 广告 refers to any form of advertisement, whether on television, the internet, billboards, or in print. Meanings [noun] advertisement; commercial; ad — a public notice or media spot designed to promote something Example Sentences 这个广告很有意思。 Zhège guǎnggào hěn yǒu yìsi. This advertisement is very interesting. 我在网上看到了一个广告。 Wǒ zài wǎngshàng kàndào le yī gè guǎnggào. I saw an advertisement online. 这家公司花了很多钱做广告。 Zhè jiā gōngsī huā le hěn duō qián...
运气 (yùnqi) — luck
运气 (yùnqi) 运气 refers to luck or fortune, the force that causes things to go well or badly beyond one's control. Meanings [noun] luck; fortune; chance Example Sentences 今天我的运气真好，找到了钱包。 Jīntiān wǒ de yùnqi zhēn hǎo, zhǎodào le qiánbāo. My luck was really good today; I found my wallet. 不要只靠运气，努力才是关键。 Bùyào zhǐ kào yùnqi, nǔlì cái shì guānjiàn. Do not just rely on luck; hard work is the key. 他真倒霉，运气太差了。 Tā...
笨 (bèn) — clumsy; stupid; awkward
笨 (bèn) 笨 describes someone who is slow to understand or physically clumsy, and is the natural opposite of 聪明. Meanings [adj] clumsy; stupid; dull-witted; awkward; not nimble Example Sentences 我觉得我很笨，总是学不好数学。 Wǒ juéde wǒ hěn bèn, zǒng shì xué bù hǎo shùxué. I feel like I am quite dumb; I can never learn math well. 他手很笨，做手工总是做不好。 Tā shǒu hěn bèn, zuò shǒugōng zǒng shì zuò bù hǎo. He has clumsy...
取 (qǔ) — to take / to fetch
取 (qǔ) 取 means to take, fetch, or retrieve something that is available or waiting. It implies going to get something that already belongs to you or has been prepared. It is often paired with objects like money, packages, or documents. Meanings [verb] To take; to fetch; to retrieve; to pick up. [verb] To obtain; to get (in set expressions). Example Sentences 我去银行取钱。 Wǒ qù yínháng qǔ qián. I am...
到处 (dàochù) — everywhere
到处 (dàochù) 到处 means everywhere or all over — no place is excluded. It emphasizes the exhaustive range of a search or the wide distribution of something. Meanings [adverb] Everywhere; all over; in every place. Example Sentences 我到处找，都找不到钥匙。 Wǒ dàochù zhǎo, dōu zhǎo bu dào yàoshi. I looked everywhere but couldn't find the key. 节日期间，到处都是人。 Jiérì qījiān, dàochù dōu shì rén. During the holiday, there are people everywhere. 他去过很多国家，到处旅行。 Tā...
名字 (míngzi) — name
名字 (míngzi) 名字 refers to the name of a person or thing, typically the given name or full name used to identify someone. Meanings [noun] name; given name; first name Example Sentences 你叫什么名字？ Nǐ jiào shénme míngzi? What is your name? 我的名字叫李明，很高兴认识你。 Wǒ de míngzi jiào Lǐ Míng, hěn gāoxìng rènshi nǐ. My name is Li Ming; nice to meet you. 请在这里写上你的名字。 Qǐng zài zhèlǐ xiě shàng nǐ de míngzi....
字 (zì) — character; word; handwriting
字 (zì) 字 refers to a written character or script unit in Chinese, and by extension can mean a word, a letter, or someone's handwriting style. Meanings [noun] a written character (a single Chinese character or letter) [noun] a word or written form of a word [noun] handwriting; one's style of writing Example Sentences 这个字怎么写？ Zhège zì zěnme xiě? How do you write this character? 他的字写得很漂亮。 Tā de zì xiě...
以为 (yǐwéi) — to think (incorrectly)
以为 (yǐwéi) 以为 is used when someone believes something that turns out to be wrong or different from reality. It implies a mistaken assumption, unlike 认为 (rènwéi) which is a neutral opinion. Meanings [verb] to think (incorrectly); to mistakenly believe; to assume (wrongly) Example Sentences 我以为你不来了，没想到你来了。 Wǒ yǐwéi nǐ bù lái le, méi xiǎngdào nǐ lái le. I thought you were not coming; I did not expect you to show...
皮肤 (pífū) — skin
皮肤 (pífū) 皮肤 means skin, referring to the outer layer of the human body. It is used in contexts related to appearance, health, and skincare. Meanings [noun] Skin; complexion; the outer surface of the body. Example Sentences 她的皮肤很白很光滑。 Tā de pífū hěn bái hěn guānghuá. Her skin is very fair and smooth. 夏天要注意保护皮肤。 Xiàtiān yào zhùyì bǎohù pífū. In summer you need to pay attention to protecting your skin. 这种面霜对皮肤很好。...
强 (qiáng) — strong / powerful
强 (qiáng) 强 means strong, powerful, or capable. It is used to describe physical strength, ability, national power, or superiority in comparison. It is the opposite of 弱 (ruò, weak). It can also mean to be better than or surpass. Meanings [adjective] Strong; powerful; capable. [adjective] Superior; better than (in comparison). Example Sentences 他的身体很强壮。 Tā de shēntǐ hěn qiángzhuàng. His body is very strong. 她的英语比我强多了。 Tā de Yīngyǔ bǐ wǒ...
后悔 (hòuhuǐ) — to regret; to feel sorry
后悔 (hòuhuǐ) 后悔 means to look back on a decision or action and wish it had been different. Meanings [verb] to regret; to feel sorry about something done in the past Example Sentences 我后悔没有好好学习。 Wǒ hòuhuǐ méiyǒu hǎohǎo xuéxí. I regret not studying hard. 他后悔说了那些话，想去道歉。 Tā hòuhuǐ shuō le nàxiē huà, xiǎng qù dàoqiàn. He regrets saying those words and wants to apologize. 你现在努力，将来就不会后悔。 Nǐ xiànzài nǔlì, jiānglái jiù bù...
请求 (qǐngqiú) — to request; request
请求 (qǐngqiú) 请求 means to make a request or an earnest appeal to someone, and also refers to the request itself. Meanings [verb] to request; to ask for; to appeal to [noun] request; appeal; plea Example Sentences 她请求老师给她更多的时间。 Tā qǐngqiú lǎoshī gěi tā gèng duō de shíjiān. She requested the teacher to give her more time. 我有一个请求，希望你能答应。 Wǒ yǒu yī gè qǐngqiú, xīwàng nǐ néng dāying. I have a request;...
汤 (tāng) — soup
汤 (tāng) 汤 means soup or broth. It refers to any hot liquid dish made by simmering ingredients. Soup is a fundamental part of Chinese meals. The character has the water radical (氵) on the left, reflecting its liquid nature. Meanings [noun] Soup; broth; a hot liquid dish. Example Sentences 妈妈今天做了一锅鸡汤。 Māma jīntiān zuò le yī guō jītāng. Mom made a pot of chicken soup today. 天冷的时候喝汤很暖和。 Tiān lěng de...
印象 (yìnxiàng) — impression
印象 (yìnxiàng) 印象 refers to the impression or mental image left by a person, event, or experience. It is commonly used in phrases about good or bad impressions. Meanings [noun] Impression; the image or feeling left in one's mind. Example Sentences 她给我留下了很好的印象。 Tā gěi wǒ liúxia le hěn hǎo de yìnxiàng. She left a very good impression on me. 我对这个城市的印象很深。 Wǒ duì zhège chéngshì de yìnxiàng hěn shēn. I have...
收 (shōu) — to receive / collect
收 (shōu) 收 means to receive, collect, or put away. It covers receiving mail or payment, collecting items, and tidying things up. It is the basic verb for bringing things in toward yourself or your possession. Note that 收到 (shōu dào) specifically means to have received something as a completed result, while bare 收 describes the ongoing action. The compound 收拾 (shōushi) means to tidy up or pack, which is...
需要 (xūyào) — to need
需要 (xūyào) 需要 expresses necessity or requirement. It can precede a noun (need something) or a verb phrase (need to do something), making it extremely versatile in everyday speech. Meanings [verb] To need; to require. [noun] A need; a requirement; a demand. Example Sentences 我需要你的帮助。 Wǒ xūyào nǐ de bāngzhù. I need your help. 学习中文需要很多时间。 Xuéxí Zhōngwén xūyào hěn duō shíjiān. Learning Chinese requires a lot of time. 你还需要什么吗？ Nǐ...
其中 (qízhōng) — among; in; therein; of which
其中 (qízhōng) 其中 means "among them," "of which," or "therein." It refers back to a group or set just mentioned and introduces information about a part or subset of that group. It is a reference word — its antecedent must be clear from context. Meanings [adverb] Among; in; therein; of which — specifies a part of a previously mentioned whole. Example Sentences 班里有三十个学生，其中五个来自外国。 Bān lǐ yǒu sānshí gè xuésheng, qízhōng...
虽然 (suīrán) — although
虽然 (suīrán) 虽然 introduces a concessive clause: it acknowledges a fact or difficulty, then contrasts it with an unexpected or opposite outcome. It is almost always paired with 但是 (dànshì) or 还是 (háishi) in the second clause. Meanings [conjunction] Although; even though; granted that. Example Sentences 虽然很累，但是我还是坚持下去了。 Suīrán hěn lèi, dànshì wǒ háishi jiānchí xiàqù le. Although I was very tired, I still persisted. 虽然他年轻，但是经验很丰富。 Suīrán tā niánqīng, dànshì jīngyàn...
尤其 (yóuqí) — especially; particularly; in particular
尤其 (yóuqí) 尤其 is an adverb meaning "especially" or "in particular," used to highlight one specific element within a broader set as being more notable, extreme, or deserving of attention than the others. Meanings [adverb] especially; particularly; in particular (used to single out one specific item or aspect from a broader group, emphasizing it as the most notable member) Usage Note 尤其 typically introduces the item being highlighted, which comes...
懒 (lǎn) — lazy; idle
懒 (lǎn) 懒 describes a person who is unwilling to exert effort and avoids work or activity. Meanings [adj] lazy; idle; disinclined to work or make effort Example Sentences 他太懒了，作业总是不做。 Tā tài lǎn le, zuòyè zǒng shì bù zuò. He is too lazy and never does his homework. 今天天气很好，我却懒得出门。 Jīntiān tiānqì hěn hǎo, wǒ què lǎn de chūmén. The weather is nice today but I am too lazy to go...
成绩 (chéngjì) — grades / achievement
成绩 (chéngjì) 成绩 refers to grades, scores, or the concrete results of effort. It is used for academic performance, work outcomes, and any tangible achievement that can be measured. Meanings [noun] Grades; scores; academic performance. [noun] Achievement; results (of work or effort). Example Sentences 他的考试成绩很好。 Tā de kǎoshì chéngjì hěn hǎo. His exam scores are very good. 努力学习，成绩自然会提高。 Nǔlì xuéxí, chéngjì zìrán huì tígāo. Study hard and your grades will...
气候 (qìhòu) — climate
气候 (qìhòu) 气候 means climate. It refers to the long-term weather patterns typical of a region, as opposed to 天气 (tiānqì), which is the weather on any given day. 气 means air or atmosphere, and 候 means season or time period. A useful contrast: 今天天气怎么样 (What is the weather like today?) uses 天气, while 这里的气候很好 (The climate here is very nice) uses 气候. One is a daily snapshot; the other...
普通 (pǔtōng) — ordinary / common
普通 (pǔtōng) 普通 means ordinary, common, or average. It describes something or someone that is not special or exceptional. A key compound is 普通话 (Mandarin Chinese), literally "common speech," the standard spoken language of China. A related word is 一般 (yībān), which also means ordinary or general. Both can often be used interchangeably in sentences like 这很普通 and 这很一般, but 普通话 is the fixed, official name for Mandarin and cannot...
节约 (jiéyuē) — to save; to economize; frugal
节约 (jiéyuē) 节约 means to use money, time, water, or other resources carefully in order not to waste them. Meanings [verb/adj] to save; to economize; frugal; thrifty Example Sentences 我们应该节约用水，保护资源。 Wǒmen yīnggāi jiéyuē yòng shuǐ, bǎohù zīyuán. We should save water and protect resources. 他从小养成了节约的好习惯。 Tā cóng xiǎo yǎngchéng le jiéyuē de hǎo xíguàn. He developed the good habit of being frugal from a young age. 节约时间就是延长了生命。 Jiéyuē shíjiān jiùshì...
简单 (jiǎndān) — simple
简单 (jiǎndān) 简单 means simple, easy, or uncomplicated. It describes things that are not complex or difficult to understand, do, or explain. Meanings [adjective] Simple; easy; uncomplicated; plain. [adjective] Ordinary; plain (of a person's manner or lifestyle). Example Sentences 这道题很简单，你一定能做。 Zhè dào tí hěn jiǎndān, nǐ yīdìng néng zuò. This problem is very simple; you can definitely do it. 他过着很简单的生活。 Tā guòzhe hěn jiǎndān de shēnghuó. He lives a very...
包括 (bāokuò) — to include
包括 (bāokuò) 包括 means to include or to comprise. It is used to list what is contained within a set, group, or scope. It often appears at the start of a list introduced by a general statement. Meanings [verb] To include; to comprise; to consist of. Example Sentences 这个价格包括早餐。 Zhège jiàgé bāokuò zǎocān. This price includes breakfast. 我们班包括三十个学生。 Wǒmen bān bāokuò sānshí gè xuésheng. Our class includes thirty students. 他的工作包括很多内容。...
加油 (jiāyóu) — come on / keep it up / add fuel
加油 (jiāyóu) Literally "add oil/fuel," used as an energetic cheer meaning "come on," "go for it," or "keep it up." Also used literally when refueling a vehicle. Meanings [interjection] Come on! Go for it! Keep it up! (encouragement cheer). [verb] To add fuel, to refuel (a vehicle). Example Sentences 比赛的时候，观众大声喊：加油！ Bǐsài de shíhou, guānzhòng dàshēng hǎn: jiāyóu! During the competition, the audience shouted loudly: Come on! 你要参加考试了，加油！ Nǐ yào cānjiā...
专业 (zhuānyè) — major; specialty; professional
专业 (zhuānyè) 专业 refers to a field of specialization, such as a university major, a professional trade, or the quality of being highly skilled and expert. Meanings [noun] a major or field of study at a university or college [noun] a specialty; a specific professional skill or area of expertise [adjective] professional; specialized; expert-level Example Sentences 你的专业是什么？ Nǐ de zhuānyè shì shénme? What is your major? 他是专业的厨师，做的菜非常好吃。 Tā shì zhuānyè...
信用卡 (xìnyòngkǎ) — credit card
信用卡 (xìnyòngkǎ) A plastic payment card issued by a bank that allows the holder to borrow funds to make purchases, repaid later. Meanings [noun] Credit card, a bank-issued payment card on credit. Example Sentences 我可以用信用卡付款吗？ Wǒ kěyǐ yòng xìnyòngkǎ fùkuǎn ma? Can I pay with a credit card? 他的信用卡被盗用了。 Tā de xìnyòngkǎ bèi dào yòng le. His credit card was fraudulently used. 使用信用卡要注意不要过度消费。 Shǐyòng xìnyòngkǎ yào zhùyì bùyào guòdù xiāofèi....
被 (bèi) — passive marker
被 (bèi) 被 is the standard passive marker in Mandarin. It introduces the agent (the doer) and signals that the subject receives the action, often one with an unpleasant or unwanted result. Meanings [preposition] By (introduces the agent in a passive construction). [verb] To suffer; to be subjected to. Example Sentences 我的自行车被偷了。 Wǒ de zìxíngchē bèi tōu le. My bicycle was stolen. 这个问题被解决了。 Zhège wèntí bèi jiějué le. This problem...
钥匙 (yàoshi) — key
钥匙 (yàoshi) 钥匙 is the everyday word for a key — the physical object used to lock and unlock doors, cars, cabinets, and so on. The second character 匙 (spoon / key) carries a neutral tone in speech; the full word is pronounced yàoshi. It is also used metaphorically for the "key" to solving a problem. Meanings [noun] Key (for a lock); a physical key. [noun] Key (figurative) — the...
比较 (bǐjiào) — relatively / to compare
比较 (bǐjiào) 比较 works both as an adverb meaning "relatively" or "comparatively" and as a verb meaning "to compare." As an adverb it softens or qualifies a description without an explicit comparison partner. Meanings [adverb] Relatively; comparatively; rather; fairly. [verb] To compare; to contrast. Example Sentences 今天天气比较冷。 Jīntiān tiānqì bǐjiào lěng. Today's weather is relatively cold. 我比较喜欢吃中餐。 Wǒ bǐjiào xǐhuān chī Zhōngcān. I rather prefer eating Chinese food. 请比较这两种方法。 Qǐng...
只要…就… (zhǐyào...jiù...) — as long as... then...
只要…就… (zhǐyào...jiù...) 只要…就… expresses a conditional relationship where 只要 introduces the one condition that is sufficient for the result in the 就 clause to follow. It emphasizes that the condition is minimal: this alone is enough. Structure 只要 + [Condition] + 就 + [Result] The subject may appear before 只要 or between 只要 and the condition. Example Sentences 只要每天练习，就能进步。 Zhǐyào měitiān liànxí, jiù néng jìnbù. As long as you practice...
偶尔 (ǒu'ěr) — occasionally / once in a while
偶尔 (ǒu'ěr) An adverb meaning something happens from time to time, but not regularly — infrequently or on rare occasions. Meanings [adverb] Occasionally, once in a while, now and then. [adverb] Seldom, rarely (but not never). Example Sentences 我偶尔去看电影放松一下。 Wǒ ǒu'ěr qù kàn diànyǐng fàngsōng yīxià. I occasionally go to watch movies to relax. 他平时不喝酒，偶尔喝一点儿。 Tā píngshí bù hējiǔ, ǒu'ěr hē yīdiǎnr. He doesn't usually drink, but occasionally has a...
平时 (píngshí) — usually
平时 (píngshí) 平时 refers to ordinary or usual times, as opposed to special occasions or holidays. It means "normally" or "on a typical day," describing habitual behavior during regular periods. Meanings [adverb/noun] Usually; normally; ordinarily; in ordinary times; on a regular day. Example Sentences 平时你几点起床？ Píngshí nǐ jǐ diǎn qǐchuáng? What time do you usually get up? 他平时不喝酒，但是今天喝了一点。 Tā píngshí bù hē jiǔ, dànshì jīntiān hē le yīdiǎn. He doesn't...
感觉 (gǎnjué) — to feel; feeling
感觉 (gǎnjué) 感觉 refers to a sensation, feeling, or perception, and can be used as a verb meaning to feel or sense something. Meanings [verb] to feel; to sense; to perceive [noun] feeling; sensation; sense; impression Example Sentences 我感觉有点儿累。 Wǒ gǎnjué yǒudiǎnr lèi. I feel a little tired. 这首歌给我一种很温暖的感觉。 Zhè shǒu gē gěi wǒ yī zhǒng hěn wēnnuǎn de gǎnjué. This song gives me a very warm feeling. 你感觉这道菜味道怎么样？ Nǐ...
从此 (cóngcǐ) — from this time on; henceforth; since then
从此 (cóngcǐ) 从此 is an adverb marking a turning point in time, meaning "from this point on" or "since then," used to introduce what has been true or what will be true from a specific moment forward. Meanings [adverb] from this time on; henceforth; since then (marks a moment as a new starting point, after which things continue in a new direction) Usage Note 从此 refers to a specific moment...
目的 (mùdì) — purpose
目的 (mùdì) 目的 means purpose, goal, or aim. It refers to the intended result or objective behind an action or plan. Meanings [noun] Purpose; goal; aim; objective; destination. Example Sentences 你来这里的目的是什么？ Nǐ lái zhèlǐ de mùdì shì shénme? What is your purpose in coming here? 我学汉语的目的是为了工作。 Wǒ xué hànyǔ de mùdì shì wèile gōngzuò. My purpose in learning Chinese is for work. 他的目的只有一个，就是赢。 Tā de mùdì zhǐyǒu yīgè, jiùshì yíng....
清楚 (qīngchu) — clear / clearly
清楚 (qīngchu) 清楚 means clear, distinct, or clearly understood. It describes something that is easy to perceive or understand, whether a sound, image, explanation, or situation. It can also mean to be clear about something as a verb. Its opposite is 模糊 (blurry, vague). Meanings [adjective] Clear; distinct; easy to perceive or understand. [verb] To be clear about; to understand clearly. Example Sentences 你说得不清楚，再说一遍。 Nǐ shuō de bù qīngchu, zài...
顾客 (gùkè) — customer / client
顾客 (gùkè) 顾客 refers to a customer or client — a person who buys goods or services from a business. 顾 means "to look after / attend to" and 客 means "guest / visitor." Together they capture the service-oriented mindset: a customer is a guest you attend to. Meanings [noun] Customer; client; patron; shopper. Example Sentences 这家餐厅的顾客很多，总是要排队。 Zhè jiā cāntīng de gùkè hěn duō, zǒngshì yào páiduì. This restaurant has...
回答 (huídá) — to answer
回答 (huídá) 回答 means to answer or reply to a question or inquiry. It is used as both a verb and a noun. As a verb it takes the question or questioner as its object. As a noun it refers to the response itself. Meanings [verb] To answer; to reply; to respond (to a question or inquiry). [noun] An answer; a response; a reply. Example Sentences 请回答我的问题。 Qǐng huídá wǒ...
观点 (guāndiǎn) — viewpoint; standpoint; perspective
观点 (guāndiǎn) 观点 refers to a person's particular position or perspective on an issue. Meanings [noun] viewpoint; standpoint; perspective; point of view Example Sentences 我同意你的观点，这个计划很好。 Wǒ tóngyì nǐ de guāndiǎn, zhège jìhuà hěn hǎo. I agree with your viewpoint; this plan is very good. 每个人对这件事都有不同的观点。 Měi gè rén duì zhè jiàn shì dōu yǒu bùtóng de guāndiǎn. Everyone has a different perspective on this matter. 你能说明一下你的观点吗？ Nǐ néng shuōmíng yīxià...
照 (zhào) — to take a photo / to shine
照 (zhào) 照 is a versatile verb with several core meanings centered on light and reflection. It means to take a photograph, to shine light on something, to reflect, and in compounds to look after. 照片 (photograph) comes from this character. Meanings [verb] To take a photo; to photograph. [verb] To shine on; to illuminate. [verb] To reflect (in a mirror). [verb] To follow or accord with (in compounds like...
以前 (yǐqián) — before / in the past / previously
以前 (yǐqián) A time reference word meaning "before" a stated point in time, or "in the past" when used without a specific reference. Always refers to time earlier than the reference point. Meanings [noun/adverb] Before (a specific time), prior to. [noun/adverb] In the past, previously, formerly. Example Sentences 吃饭以前，要洗手。 Chīfàn yǐqián, yào xǐ shǒu. Before eating, you should wash your hands. 以前，我不喜欢蔬菜。 Yǐqián, wǒ bù xǐhuān shūcài. In the past,...
果然 (guǒrán) — as expected; sure enough; indeed
果然 (guǒrán) 果然 expresses that something happened exactly as predicted or expected. It carries a tone of confirmation or mild vindication — "just as I thought." It always refers to something that has already been verified, not something still uncertain. Meanings [adverb] As expected; sure enough; indeed; just as predicted — confirms that a prior expectation was correct. Example Sentences 他说今天会下雨，果然下起来了。 Tā shuō jīntiān huì xià yǔ, guǒrán xià qǐlái...
发现 (fāxiàn) — to discover
发现 (fāxiàn) 发现 means to discover or find out something that was previously unknown or unnoticed. It can refer to physical findings, realizations, or new knowledge. Meanings [verb] To discover; to find; to notice; to realize. [noun] A discovery; a finding. Example Sentences 我发现了一个好方法。 Wǒ fāxiàn le yīgè hǎo fāngfǎ. I discovered a good method. 他发现钱包不见了。 Tā fāxiàn qiánbāo bú jiàn le. He discovered that his wallet was missing. 科学家发现了一种新物质。...
不管 (bùguǎn) — no matter; regardless of
不管 (bùguǎn) 不管 means "no matter" or "regardless of." It introduces a condition that covers all possibilities, and the second clause — always marked by 都 or 也 — states what holds true under every one of those possibilities. Meanings [conjunction] No matter (what / how / who / whether); regardless of — always paired with 都 or 也 in the result clause. Pattern 不管 + [question word / A...
地图 (dìtú) — map
地图 (dìtú) 地图 is the word for a map — any visual representation of geographic or spatial information used to find locations or navigate. Meanings [noun] Map. Example Sentences 我找不到路，需要看地图。 Wǒ zhǎo bu dào lù, xūyào kàn dìtú. I can't find the way; I need to look at the map. 手机上有地图应用，很方便。 Shǒujī shàng yǒu dìtú yìngyòng, hěn fāngbiàn. There are map apps on the phone; very convenient. 请在地图上指出这个地方。 Qǐng zài...
发 (fā) — to send / emit / issue
发 (fā) 发 is a high-frequency multi-meaning verb. Its core idea is sending out or giving off something, whether that is a message, heat, light, or growth. Note: as fà it means hair, but at HSK 3 the fā reading is primary. Meanings [verb] To send; to dispatch (a message, email, parcel). [verb] To emit; to give off (heat, light, sound). [verb] To issue; to hand out (documents, certificates). Example...
网络 (wǎngluò) — network; internet
网络 (wǎngluò) 网络 refers to any kind of interconnected network, including computer networks and the internet, as well as social or organizational networks. Meanings [noun] network; internet — a system of interconnected elements, especially a computer network or the internet Example Sentences 这里的网络信号很差。 Zhèlǐ de wǎngluò xìnhào hěn chà. The network signal here is very poor. 网络让世界变得更小了。 Wǎngluò ràng shìjiè biàn de gèng xiǎo le. The internet has made the...
毕竟 (bìjìng) — after all; all in all; when all is said and done
毕竟 (bìjìng) 毕竟 means "after all" in the sense of pointing to an essential, underlying, or final truth. It is used to justify, explain, or concede by invoking a fundamental fact that cannot be argued with. It often softens criticism or explains why something is the way it is. Meanings [adverb] After all; all in all; ultimately; when all is said and done — introduces the fundamental reason or unavoidable...
诚实 (chéngshí) — honest / honesty
诚实 (chéngshí) 诚实 describes a person or behavior that is honest and truthful, free from deception. It is mostly used as an adjective to describe character, and can also function as a noun referring to the quality of honesty itself. Meanings [adjective] Honest; truthful; sincere; not deceptive. [noun] Honesty; truthfulness (as a moral quality). Example Sentences 他是一个非常诚实的人。 Tā shì yīgè fēicháng chéngshí de rén. He is a very honest person....
机器 (jīqì) — machine
机器 (jīqì) 机器 means machine or apparatus. It refers to any mechanical or automated device that performs work. 机 relates to a mechanism or device, and 器 means a vessel or tool. Together they describe a tool-like mechanism, i.e. a machine. A key compound is 机器人 (jīqìrén), which means robot, literally "machine person." As automation grows in China, 机器人 and 人工智能 (artificial intelligence) are increasingly common words in everyday conversation....
乘 (chéng) — to ride; to take (transport)
乘 (chéng) 乘 means to ride or travel by a mode of transport such as a bus, train, or plane. Meanings [verb] to ride; to take; to travel by (a vehicle or transport) Example Sentences 我每天乘地铁去上班。 Wǒ měitiān chéng dìtiě qù shàngbān. I take the subway to work every day. 他们乘飞机去北京出差。 Tāmen chéng fēijī qù Běijīng chūchāi. They took a plane to Beijing on a business trip. 乘公共汽车比开车省钱。 Chéng gōnggòng...
数字 (shùzì) — number; digit
数字 (shùzì) 数字 refers to a written numeral or digit, and can also refer to any numerical figure or statistic. Meanings [noun] number; numeral; digit; figure Example Sentences 这个数字太大了，我数不清。 Zhège shùzì tài dà le, wǒ shǔ bù qīng. This number is too large; I cannot count it. 请在这里填写你的手机号码数字。 Qǐng zài zhèlǐ tiánxiě nǐ de shǒujī hàomǎ shùzì. Please write your mobile phone number digits here. 那个公司的销售数字每年都在增长。 Nàgè gōngsī de xiāoshòu...
图书馆 (túshūguǎn) — library
图书馆 (túshūguǎn) 图书馆 is the word for library. The three characters break down as: 图 (picture/image), 书 (book), 馆 (a public building or hall). A library is literally a hall of picture-books and writings. Meanings [noun] Library (a public or institutional building for reading and borrowing books). Example Sentences 我每天去图书馆学习。 Wǒ měitiān qù túshūguǎn xuéxí. I go to the library to study every day. 图书馆里不能大声说话。 Túshūguǎn lǐ bù néng dàshēng...
挂 (guà) — to hang; to put on
挂 (guà) 挂 means to hang an object on something, or to be suspended from a surface, and is also used in phrases about phone calls and registration. Meanings [verb] to hang; to suspend; to put up [verb] to hang up (a phone call) [verb] to register (at a hospital) Example Sentences 她把画挂在墙上了。 Tā bǎ huà guà zài qiáng shàng le. She hung the painting on the wall. 我的外套挂在门后面。 Wǒ...
直接 (zhíjiē) — directly
直接 (zhíjiē) 直接 means directly or in a straightforward manner, with no detours, intermediaries, or delays. It modifies verbs to indicate a no-nonsense, unmediated action. Meanings [adverb] Directly; straight; right away; without an intermediary. [adjective] Direct; straightforward. Example Sentences 有问题请直接问我。 Yǒu wèntí qǐng zhíjiē wèn wǒ. If you have questions, please ask me directly. 我们可以直接坐地铁去。 Wǒmen kěyǐ zhíjiē zuò dìtiě qù. We can go directly by subway. 他说话很直接，从不绕弯子。 Tā shuōhuà...
甚至 (shènzhì) — even
甚至 (shènzhì) 甚至 means even or even to the point of. It introduces an extreme or surprising example that goes beyond what was already said, often to emphasize a degree or severity. Meanings [adverb] Even; as far as; going so far as. [conjunction] Even; used to connect a more extreme statement. Example Sentences 他太忙了，甚至没有时间吃饭。 Tā tài máng le, shènzhì méiyǒu shíjiān chīfàn. He is so busy that he doesn't even...
规定 (guīdìng) — rule
规定 (guīdìng) 规定 refers to a rule, regulation, or stipulation set by an authority. As a verb it means to stipulate or prescribe. It describes something that has been formally decided and must be followed. Meanings [noun] Rule; regulation; stipulation; provision. [verb] To stipulate; to prescribe; to specify. Example Sentences 你必须遵守学校的规定。 Nǐ bìxū zūnshǒu xuéxiào de guīdìng. You must follow the school rules. 规定不允许在这里停车。 Guīdìng bù yǔnxǔ zài zhèlǐ tíngchē....
外国 (wàiguó) — foreign country; abroad
外国 (wàiguó) 外国 refers to any country that is not one's own, and is commonly used as a modifier in compounds related to foreign people, culture, or language. Meanings [noun] foreign country; abroad — a country other than one's own homeland Example Sentences 他在外国工作了五年。 Tā zài wàiguó gōngzuò le wǔ nián. He worked abroad for five years. 她对外国文化很感兴趣。 Tā duì wàiguó wénhuà hěn gǎn xìngqù. She is very interested in...
内容 (nèiróng) — content / substance
内容 (nèiróng) The substance, material, or information that makes up a book, speech, course, or any other medium. Meanings [noun] Content, substance, material (of a text, course, etc.). [noun] Subject matter, what something is about. Example Sentences 这本书的内容很丰富。 Zhè běn shū de nèiróng hěn fēngfù. The content of this book is very rich. 老师讲课的内容很有意思。 Lǎoshī jiǎng kè de nèiróng hěn yǒu yìsi. The content of the teacher's lesson is very...
自然 (zìrán) — nature; natural; of course
自然 (zìrán) 自然 can refer to the natural world, describe something as unforced and natural in manner, or act as an adverb meaning "of course." Meanings [noun] nature; the natural world [adj] natural; unaffected; spontaneous [adv] naturally; of course; as a matter of course Example Sentences 我们要保护大自然。 Wǒmen yào bǎohù dà zìrán. We must protect nature. 她说话的方式很自然，让人感觉很舒服。 Tā shuōhuà de fāngshì hěn zìrán, ràng rén gǎnjué hěn shūfu. The way...
假期 (jiàqī) — vacation / holiday period
假期 (jiàqī) A period of days or weeks free from work or school, such as summer vacation or a national holiday break. While 假日 is a single day, 假期 refers to a span of time. Meanings [noun] Vacation, holiday period, break (a stretch of time off). [noun] Leave period (from work or school). Example Sentences 暑假是我最喜欢的假期。 Shǔjià shì wǒ zuì xǐhuān de jiàqī. Summer vacation is my favorite holiday period....
熟悉 (shúxī) — familiar with
熟悉 (shúxī) 熟悉 means to be familiar with something through repeated contact, practice, or experience. It is the feeling of knowing something well enough that it no longer feels foreign. Meanings [verb] To know well; to be familiar with; to be acquainted with. [adjective] Familiar; well-known (to oneself). Example Sentences 我对这个城市很熟悉。 Wǒ duì zhège chéngshì hěn shúxī. I am very familiar with this city. 他熟悉这里的环境，可以带我们参观。 Tā shúxī zhèlǐ de huánjìng,...
满意 (mǎnyì) — satisfied; pleased
满意 (mǎnyì) 满意 describes a state of satisfaction or contentment, when something meets or exceeds one's expectations. Meanings [adj] satisfied; pleased; content Example Sentences 顾客对我们的服务很满意。 Gùkè duì wǒmen de fúwù hěn mǎnyì. The customer is very satisfied with our service. 我对这次考试的成绩不太满意。 Wǒ duì zhè cì kǎoshì de chéngjì bù tài mǎnyì. I am not very satisfied with my exam results this time. 希望你对这份礼物感到满意。 Xīwàng nǐ duì zhè fèn lǐwù gǎndào...
减少 (jiǎnshǎo) — to reduce / to decrease
减少 (jiǎnshǎo) To cause something to become smaller in number, amount, or degree; or for something to become less on its own. Meanings [verb] To reduce, to decrease, to lessen (transitive). [verb] To decline, to drop, to diminish (intransitive). Example Sentences 我们要减少浪费，保护环境。 Wǒmen yào jiǎnshǎo làngfèi, bǎohù huánjìng. We should reduce waste and protect the environment. 今年公司的成本减少了很多。 Jīnnián gōngsī de chéngběn jiǎnshǎo le hěn duō. This year the company's costs...
在乎 (zàihu) — to care about; to mind; to take to heart
在乎 (zàihu) 在乎 means "to care about" or "to mind." It expresses emotional investment in something — being affected by it, taking it to heart, or being bothered by it. It is most common in negative or interrogative forms: 不在乎 ("not care") and 在乎吗 ("do you care?"). Meanings [verb] To care about; to mind; to take to heart; to be affected by — expresses that something matters emotionally to the...
成功 (chénggōng) — success / to succeed
成功 (chénggōng) 成功 means success or to succeed. As a verb it describes the successful completion of a goal or action. As a noun it refers to the state or result of succeeding. It is one of the most motivating and frequently used words in Chinese culture. Meanings [verb] To succeed; to be successful. [noun] Success; achievement. Example Sentences 他终于成功了！ Tā zhōngyú chénggōng le! He finally succeeded! 成功需要努力和坚持。 Chénggōng xūyào...
管 (guǎn) — to manage / to bother with
管 (guǎn) 管 means to manage, oversee, or be responsible for. It also means to bother with or concern oneself with, and appears in the important phrase 不管 meaning no matter or regardless. Meanings [verb] To manage; to be in charge of; to oversee. [verb] To concern oneself with; to bother about; to interfere in. [verb] To discipline; to control. Example Sentences 这件事谁来管？ Zhè jiàn shì shuí lái guǎn? Who...
曾经 (céngjīng) — once / at one time
曾经 (céngjīng) 曾经 means once or at one time, always referring to something that happened in the past. It emphasizes that an experience existed at some previous point, often contrasting with the present. It frequently appears with 过 to mark completed past experience. An important usage note: 曾经 always looks backward. You cannot use it for the future or present. If you want to say "I have been to Beijing,"...
部分 (bùfen) — part / portion / section
部分 (bùfen) 部分 refers to a part, portion, or section of a larger whole. It is used to indicate that something applies to only some, not all, of a group or thing. The tone on 分 is neutral (bùfen, not bùfèn) in most standard speech. Meanings [noun] Part; portion; section; segment. [noun] Some (a subset of a group), as in "part of the students." Example Sentences 这只是整个计划的一部分。 Zhè zhǐshì zhěnggè...
差不多 (chàbuduō) — almost; about the same
差不多 (chàbuduō) 差不多 is used to say that two things are about the same, or that something is nearly complete or approximately true. Meanings [adjective] about the same; similar; nearly equal [adverb] almost; nearly; approximately Example Sentences 这两件衣服的价格差不多。 Zhè liǎng jiàn yīfu de jiàgé chàbuduō. The prices of these two pieces of clothing are about the same. 他差不多每天都来这里运动。 Tā chàbuduō měitiān dōu lái zhèlǐ yùndòng. He comes here to exercise...
成熟 (chéngshú) — mature; ripe; to mature
成熟 (chéngshú) 成熟 describes something that has reached full development, whether fruit ripening on a tree or a person's emotional and intellectual growth. Meanings [adj/verb] mature; ripe; fully developed; to ripen; to come of age emotionally Example Sentences 这些苹果已经成熟，可以摘了。 Zhèxiē píngguǒ yǐjīng chéngshú, kěyǐ zhāi le. These apples are ripe and can be picked. 经历了很多事，他变得更成熟了。 Jīnglì le hěn duō shì, tā biàn de gèng chéngshú le. Having gone through a...
宿舍 (sùshè) — dormitory
宿舍 (sùshè) 宿舍 means dormitory, referring to shared living quarters at a school, university, or workplace. It is the standard word for student dorms in Chinese universities, where students commonly share rooms with several roommates. Meanings [noun] Dormitory; student dorm; staff quarters. Example Sentences 我住在学校的宿舍里。 Wǒ zhù zài xuéxiào de sùshè lǐ. I live in the school dormitory. 宿舍晚上十一点关门。 Sùshè wǎnshang shíyī diǎn guānmén. The dormitory closes at 11 pm....
低 (dī) — low / below average
低 (dī) Describes something that is physically low in height, or metaphorically below average in value, quality, or degree. Meanings [adjective] Low, short in height (opposite of 高 gāo). [adjective] Low (in degree, price, temperature, or level). Example Sentences 今天气温很低，要穿厚衣服。 Jīntiān qìwēn hěn dī, yào chuān hòu yīfu. The temperature is very low today; you need to wear thick clothes. 这里的物价比城市低得多。 Zhèlǐ de wùjià bǐ chéngshì dī de duō. Prices...
护照 (hùzhào) — passport
护照 (hùzhào) 护照 means passport. It is the official travel document issued by a government that allows a person to travel internationally. 护 means to protect, and 照 means certificate or document. In Chinese bureaucratic and travel vocabulary, 护照 is one of the most essential words. Without it you cannot cross a border, check into many hotels, or board an international flight. Related documents include 签证 (visa) and 身份证 (national...
问候 (wènhòu) — to greet; to send regards; greetings
问候 (wènhòu) 问候 means to greet someone warmly or to send one's regards, expressing care and goodwill toward another person. Meanings [verb] to greet; to send regards — to express friendly concern or good wishes to someone [noun] greetings; regards — a warm expression of goodwill directed at someone Example Sentences 请代我向你的父母问候。 Qǐng dài wǒ xiàng nǐ de fùmǔ wènhòu. Please send my regards to your parents. 他发来了节日问候。 Tā fā...
紧张 (jǐnzhāng) — nervous
紧张 (jǐnzhāng) 紧张 means nervous or tense in an emotional sense, but also describes a tight, busy, or strained situation — a shortage of time, resources, or a pressured environment. Meanings [adjective] Nervous; anxious; tense (emotional state). [adjective] Tight; strained; pressed (for time, resources, etc.). Example Sentences 考试前我非常紧张。 Kǎoshì qián wǒ fēicháng jǐnzhāng. I am very nervous before exams. 别紧张，你一定能做好。 Bié jǐnzhāng, nǐ yīdìng néng zuò hǎo. Don't be nervous;...
分钟 (fēnzhōng) — minute (duration)
分钟 (fēnzhōng) A measure word for expressing the duration of time in minutes. Contrast with 分 (fēn), which refers to the clock position (e.g., 3:05). Meanings [measure word / noun] Minute(s) of duration (how long something takes). Example Sentences 从这里走到学校只需要十分钟。 Cóng zhèlǐ zǒu dào xuéxiào zhǐ xūyào shí fēnzhōng. It only takes ten minutes to walk from here to school. 请等我五分钟。 Qǐng děng wǒ wǔ fēnzhōng. Please wait five minutes...
向 (xiàng) — toward / facing
向 (xiàng) 向 is a preposition meaning toward or in the direction of. It introduces the target of movement or orientation. It is also used to indicate asking, reporting, or learning from someone. It can precede a person or place. Meanings [preposition] Toward; in the direction of. [preposition] To (a person); from (expressing who an action is directed at). Example Sentences 向左转。 Xiàng zuǒ zhuǎn. Turn left (toward the left)....
突然 (tūrán) — suddenly; all of a sudden
突然 (tūrán) 突然 describes something that happens unexpectedly and without prior warning. Meanings [adv/adj] suddenly; all of a sudden; abrupt; unexpected Example Sentences 他突然站起来，大声说了一句话。 Tā tūrán zhàn qǐlái, dàshēng shuō le yī jù huà. He suddenly stood up and said something loudly. 天气突然变冷了，要多穿衣服。 Tiānqì tūrán biàn lěng le, yào duō chuān yīfu. The weather suddenly got cold, you should wear more clothes. 会议突然被取消了，大家都很意外。 Huìyì tūrán bèi qǔxiāo le, dàjiā dōu...
建议 (jiànyì) — suggestion
建议 (jiànyì) 建议 means to suggest or recommend, and as a noun it refers to the suggestion itself. It is polite and constructive, used for offering ideas or advice to someone who can choose to accept them. Meanings [verb] To suggest; to recommend; to propose. [noun] A suggestion; a recommendation; advice. Example Sentences 我建议你多休息。 Wǒ jiànyì nǐ duō xiūxi. I suggest you rest more. 你有什么建议？ Nǐ yǒu shénme jiànyì? Do...
总结 (zǒngjié) — summary / to summarize
总结 (zǒngjié) 总结 means both a summary and the act of summarizing. As a verb it means to sum up or draw conclusions. As a noun it refers to a summary, wrap-up, or conclusion. It is used in academic, professional, and everyday contexts. Meanings [verb] To summarize; to sum up; to draw a conclusion. [noun] A summary; a conclusion; a wrap-up. Example Sentences 请总结一下今天学的内容。 Qǐng zǒngjié yīxià jīntiān xué de...
雨伞 (yǔsǎn) — umbrella
雨伞 (yǔsǎn) 雨伞 is the standard word for an umbrella used to protect against rain. 雨 means "rain" and 伞 means "umbrella / parasol." The measure word for an umbrella is 把 (bǎ), so one umbrella is 一把雨伞. A sunshade or parasol is 遮阳伞 (zhēyángsǎn). Meanings [noun] Umbrella; rain umbrella. Example Sentences 外面在下雨，别忘了带雨伞。 Wàimiàn zài xià yǔ, bié wàng le dài yǔsǎn. It is raining outside; don't forget to bring...
形象 (xíngxiàng) — image; figure
形象 (xíngxiàng) 形象 refers to the appearance, image, or impression that a person, organization, or character projects to others. Meanings [noun] image; figure; appearance; impression [adjective] vivid; graphic; lifelike Example Sentences 他注意保持自己的公众形象。 Tā zhùyì bǎochí zìjǐ de gōngzhòng xíngxiàng. He pays attention to maintaining his public image. 这个广告损害了公司的形象。 Zhège guǎnggào sǔnhài le gōngsī de xíngxiàng. This advertisement damaged the company's image. 老师用形象的例子解释了这个难懂的概念。 Lǎoshī yòng xíngxiàng de lìzi jiěshì le zhège...
城市 (chéngshì) — city
城市 (chéngshì) 城市 means city or urban area. It refers to any large, populated settlement with developed infrastructure, as opposed to countryside (农村 nóngcūn). Meanings [noun] City; urban area; town (large). Example Sentences 北京是中国最大的城市之一。 Běijīng shì Zhōngguó zuì dà de chéngshì zhī yī. Beijing is one of the largest cities in China. 他从农村来到城市工作。 Tā cóng nóngcūn láidào chéngshì gōngzuò. He came from the countryside to work in the city. 这个城市的交通非常方便。...
语言 (yǔyán) — language
语言 (yǔyán) 语言 refers to language as a system of communication, broader than 语法 (yǔfǎ, grammar) and more formal than 话 (huà, speech/words). Meanings [noun] language; tongue; means of communication Example Sentences 汉语是世界上使用人数最多的语言之一。 Hànyǔ shì shìjiè shàng shǐyòng rénshù zuì duō de yǔyán zhī yī. Chinese is one of the most widely spoken languages in the world. 学习一门外语需要时间和耐心。 Xuéxí yī mén wàiyǔ xūyào shíjiān hé nàixīn. Learning a foreign language...
热闹 (rènao) — lively / bustling
热闹 (rènao) 热闹 means lively, bustling, or full of activity and noise in a cheerful way. It describes a place or event that is busy, noisy, and full of people in a positive, festive sense. 热 means hot or enthusiastic, and 闹 means noisy or to make a commotion. Meanings [adjective] Lively; bustling; full of cheerful noise and activity. [noun] Excitement; lively scene; a bustling spectacle. Example Sentences 春节期间，街上非常热闹。 Chūnjié...
明显 (míngxiǎn) — obvious; evident; clear; marked
明显 (míngxiǎn) 明显 describes something that is easy to notice, clearly visible, or unmistakably apparent. Meanings [adjective] obvious; evident; clear; marked — readily apparent or noticeably distinguishable Example Sentences 他的进步非常明显。 Tā de jìnbù fēicháng míngxiǎn. His progress is very obvious. 这两个方案有明显的区别。 Zhè liǎng gè fāng'àn yǒu míngxiǎn de qūbié. There is a clear difference between these two plans. 她明显不高兴。 Tā míngxiǎn bù gāoxìng. She is obviously unhappy. 质量有了明显的提高。 Zhìliàng yǒu...
赶 (gǎn) — to rush; to catch (transport)
赶 (gǎn) 赶 means to rush to a place or hurry to catch something such as a bus or train before it departs. Meanings [verb] to rush; to hurry; to catch (a bus, train, etc.); to drive away Example Sentences 我要赶火车，得快点儿走。 Wǒ yào gǎn huǒchē, děi kuài diǎnr zǒu. I need to catch the train, so I have to move faster. 她早上起晚了，赶着去上班。 Tā zǎoshang qǐ wǎn le, gǎnzhe qù shàngbān....
好不容易 (hǎo bù róngyì) — finally; with great difficulty; took a lot of effort
好不容易 (hǎo bù róngyì) 好不容易 means "only after great difficulty" or "finally, after a lot of effort." Despite the presence of 不, it is equivalent in meaning to 好容易 — both express that something required tremendous effort. The 好不 is an intensifier pattern (like 好不热闹 = very lively), but idiomatically 好不容易 has become fixed to mean "it was very much not easy." Meanings [adverb] Finally; only after great difficulty; with...
丢 (diū) — to lose; to misplace
丢 (diū) 丢 means to lose something, to misplace it, or to leave something behind unintentionally. Meanings [verb] to lose; to misplace; to leave behind; to drop Example Sentences 我把钱包丢了。 Wǒ bǎ qiánbāo diū le. I lost my wallet. 他在地铁上丢了手机。 Tā zài dìtiě shàng diū le shǒujī. He lost his phone on the subway. 不小心把钥匙丢在家里了。 Bù xiǎoxīn bǎ yàoshi diū zài jiā lǐ le. He accidentally left his keys at...
不但 (búdàn) — not only
不但 (búdàn) 不但 means "not only" and always introduces the first of two additive clauses. It is nearly always paired with 而且 (érqiě — but also) or 还 (hái — also) in the second clause, forming the "not only X, but also Y" pattern. Meanings [conjunction] Not only (used with 而且 or 还 in the second clause). Example Sentences 他不但聪明，而且很努力。 Tā búdàn cōngming, érqiě hěn nǔlì. He is not only...
行李 (xíngli) — luggage
行李 (xíngli) 行李 means luggage or baggage. It refers to the bags and suitcases a traveler brings on a trip. The measure word for a piece of luggage is 件 (jiàn). Meanings [noun] Luggage; baggage; travel bags and suitcases. Example Sentences 请把你的行李放在架子上。 Qǐng bǎ nǐ de xíngli fàng zài jiàzi shang. Please put your luggage on the shelf. 我的行李太重了，超重了。 Wǒ de xíngli tài zhòng le, chāozhòng le. My luggage is...
从不 (cóng bù) — never; not ever
从不 (cóng bù) 从不 means "never" in the sense of a consistent habit or character trait — something that has never been done at any time and is simply not part of one's routine or nature. It negates habitual or repeated action, whereas 没有 negates a single completed event. Meanings [adverb] Never; not ever — expresses that something has never happened habitually or as a matter of principle. Pattern Subject...
耳朵 (ěrduo) — ears
耳朵 (ěrduo) 耳朵 means ears. It refers to the organs of hearing on the sides of the head. Note that 朵 is pronounced in the neutral tone (duo) in this compound. Meanings [noun] Ear; ears (the organs of hearing). Example Sentences 他的耳朵很灵，什么声音都能听到。 Tā de ěrduo hěn líng, shénme shēngyīn dōu néng tīngdào. His ears are very sharp; he can hear any sound. 我的耳朵有点儿疼。 Wǒ de ěrduo yǒudiǎnr téng. My ear...
满足 (mǎnzú) — to satisfy / be satisfied
满足 (mǎnzú) 满足 means to satisfy or to be satisfied. As a verb it means to meet or fulfill a need, demand, or requirement. As an adjective it describes the feeling of contentment. 满 means full, and 足 means foot/sufficient. Together they convey being fully content. Meanings [verb] To satisfy; to fulfill; to meet a need or requirement. [adjective] Satisfied; content; feeling that enough has been provided. Example Sentences 这份工作满足了我对薪水的要求。...
哭 (kū) — to cry
哭 (kū) 哭 means to cry or weep, expressing sadness, pain, or strong emotion through tears and often sound. Meanings [verb] to cry; to weep; to shed tears from emotion or pain Example Sentences 她看完那部电影就哭了。 Tā kàn wán nà bù diànyǐng jiù kū le. She cried after finishing that movie. 小孩子摔倒了，开始大声哭。 Xiǎo háizi shuāi dǎo le, kāishǐ dàshēng kū. The little child fell down and started crying loudly. 别哭了，一切都会好的。 Bié...
分别 (fēnbié) — separately / respectively / to part
分别 (fēnbié) As an adverb: separately or respectively (each in their own way). As a verb: to part from someone, to say goodbye. Meanings [adverb] Separately, respectively, individually. [verb] To part (from someone), to separate, to say goodbye. Example Sentences 这两道题，请分别回答。 Zhè liǎng dào tí, qǐng fēnbié huídá. Please answer these two questions separately. 他们在机场分别了，都流了眼泪。 Tāmen zài jīchǎng fēnbié le, dōu liú le yǎnlèi. They parted at the airport and...
条件 (tiáojiàn) — condition / requirement
条件 (tiáojiàn) 条件 means condition, requirement, or terms. It refers to the circumstances or prerequisites necessary for something to happen, or the terms of an agreement. It can also refer to one's personal circumstances or qualifications. A common phrase is 生活条件 (living conditions), which describes the quality of someone's daily life. Another is 条件好 (good conditions/circumstances), often used to describe a person with a good background or favorable situation. Meanings...
文章 (wénzhāng) — article; essay
文章 (wénzhāng) 文章 refers to a piece of written work, such as a newspaper article, essay, or composition. Meanings [noun] article; essay; composition; written piece Example Sentences 他写了一篇关于环境保护的文章。 Tā xiě le yī piān guānyú huánjìng bǎohù de wénzhāng. He wrote an article about environmental protection. 这篇文章写得很好，逻辑清晰。 Zhè piān wénzhāng xiě de hěn hǎo, luójí qīngxī. This article is very well written and logically clear. 老师要求我们每周写一篇文章。 Lǎoshī yāoqiú wǒmen měi zhōu...
结果 (jiéguǒ) — result
结果 (jiéguǒ) 结果 refers to the final result or outcome of an action or process. It can also function as a conjunction meaning "as a result" to link cause and outcome in narrative. Meanings [noun] Result; outcome; conclusion. [conjunction] As a result; consequently; in the end. Example Sentences 考试结果出来了吗？ Kǎoshì jiéguǒ chūlái le ma? Have the exam results come out? 他努力学习，结果考了满分。 Tā nǔlì xuéxí, jiéguǒ kǎo le mǎnfēn. He studied...
盐 (yán) — salt
盐 (yán) 盐 means salt. It refers to the common mineral used in cooking and food seasoning, as well as in broader chemical contexts meaning salts. Meanings [noun] Salt; table salt; sodium chloride. Example Sentences 这道菜放的盐太多了。 Zhè dào cài fàng de yán tài duō le. This dish has too much salt in it. 做汤的时候要加一点儿盐。 Zuò tāng de shíhou yào jiā yīdiǎnr yán. When making soup you need to add a...
互联网 (hùliánwǎng) — internet; the web
互联网 (hùliánwǎng) 互联网 is the standard Chinese term for the internet, emphasizing its nature as an interconnected global network. Meanings [noun] internet; the web — the worldwide network connecting computers and people across the globe Example Sentences 我每天都用互联网工作。 Wǒ měi tiān dōu yòng hùliánwǎng gōngzuò. I use the internet every day for work. 互联网改变了我们的生活。 Hùliánwǎng gǎibiàn le wǒmen de shēnghuó. The internet has changed our lives. 没有互联网，我什么都做不了。 Méiyǒu hùliánwǎng, wǒ...
拒绝 (jùjué) — to refuse / reject
拒绝 (jùjué) 拒绝 means to refuse, reject, or decline. It expresses a firm unwillingness to accept or do something. It is more direct and stronger than 不要 (do not want), often used for formal refusals or deliberate rejection. Its natural antonym is 接受 (to accept). Together, 接受 and 拒绝 cover the two fundamental responses to any offer, request, or proposal. Meanings [verb] To refuse; to reject; to decline a request,...
态度 (tàidu) — attitude
态度 (tàidu) 态度 refers to attitude — the way someone approaches, behaves toward, or feels about a person, task, or situation. It includes both emotional stance and behavioral manner. Meanings [noun] Attitude; manner; approach; stance. Example Sentences 他学习的态度非常认真。 Tā xuéxí de tàidu fēicháng rènzhēn. His attitude toward studying is very serious. 服务员的态度很好，我很满意。 Fúwùyuán de tàidu hěn hǎo, wǒ hěn mǎnyì. The waiter's manner is very good; I am very satisfied....
问题 (wèntí) — question / problem
问题 (wèntí) 问题 is one of the most versatile and frequent nouns in Chinese. It covers both a question (something you ask) and a problem (something that needs fixing). Context makes the meaning clear. 没问题 (no problem) is an extremely common expression of agreement or reassurance. Meanings [noun] Question; something asked in order to find an answer. [noun] Problem; issue; something that has gone wrong or needs solving. Example Sentences...
体育馆 (tǐyùguǎn) — gymnasium / sports hall
体育馆 (tǐyùguǎn) An indoor sports facility or gymnasium used for exercise, competitions, or recreational physical activities. Meanings [noun] Gymnasium, sports hall, indoor arena. [noun] Stadium (large indoor venue for sports events). Example Sentences 我每天放学后去体育馆锻炼。 Wǒ měitiān fàngxué hòu qù tǐyùguǎn duànliàn. I go to the gymnasium to exercise every day after school. 学校的体育馆可以打篮球和羽毛球。 Xuéxiào de tǐyùguǎn kěyǐ dǎ lánqiú hé yǔmáoqiú. The school gymnasium can be used to play basketball...
主人 (zhǔrén) — host / owner / master
主人 (zhǔrén) Refers to the host of a gathering, the owner of a property, or a master in a relationship of authority. Meanings [noun] Host (of a party, household, or event). [noun] Owner, master (of a property or animal). Example Sentences 主人热情地欢迎了客人。 Zhǔrén rèqíng de huānyíng le kèrén. The host warmly welcomed the guests. 这只狗的主人是我的邻居。 Zhè zhī gǒu de zhǔrén shì wǒ de línjū. The owner of this dog is...
其实 (qíshí) — actually; in fact; as a matter of fact
其实 (qíshí) 其实 means "actually" or "in fact." It introduces the real truth of a situation, often gently correcting a mistaken belief, assumption, or appearance. The speaker signals: what you think is not quite right — here is what is truly the case. Meanings [adverb] Actually; in fact; as a matter of fact; in reality — reveals a truth that contrasts with appearance or assumption. Example Sentences 他看起来很严肃，其实很幽默。 Tā kàn...
出现 (chūxiàn) — to appear / to emerge / to occur
出现 (chūxiàn) To come into existence or view; used when something appears, emerges, or occurs where it was not before. Meanings [verb] To appear, to come into view, to show up. [verb] To occur, to arise, to emerge (of a problem or situation). Example Sentences 天空中出现了一道彩虹。 Tiānkōng zhōng chūxiàn le yī dào cǎihóng. A rainbow appeared in the sky. 最近出现了一种新病毒。 Zuìjìn chūxiàn le yī zhǒng xīn bìngdú. A new virus...
跳 (tiào) — to jump; to leap
跳 (tiào) 跳 describes the action of jumping or leaping, and extends to dancing and skipping. Meanings [verb] to jump; to leap; to spring [verb] to dance (as in 跳舞) Example Sentences 那只猫跳上了桌子。 Nà zhī māo tiào shàng le zhuōzi. That cat jumped onto the table. 孩子们在草地上跳来跳去。 Háizimen zài cǎodì shàng tiào lái tiào qù. The children were jumping around on the grass. 她每天早上都跳绳锻炼。 Tā měitiān zǎoshang dōu tiào shéng...
要求 (yāoqiú) — to require / requirement
要求 (yāoqiú) 要求 works as both a verb meaning to require or demand and a noun meaning a requirement or demand. It implies a specific expectation or condition that must be met. Meanings [verb] To require; to demand; to request; to ask (with expectation of compliance). [noun] Requirement; demand; request; condition. Example Sentences 老师要求我们每天写日记。 Lǎoshī yāoqiú wǒmen měitiān xiě rìjì. The teacher requires us to write a diary every day....
格外 (géwài) — especially; particularly; unusually
格外 (géwài) 格外 is an adverb meaning "especially," "particularly," or "unusually," used when something stands out as noticeably beyond the ordinary or expected level. Meanings [adverb] especially; particularly; unusually (indicates a quality is markedly beyond what is normal or expected in the current context) Usage Note 格外 is placed before an adjective or verb and implies a comparison with a baseline. It emphasizes that in this particular situation, the quality...
深 (shēn) — deep / dark
深 (shēn) 深 means deep. It has both a physical sense (a deep lake or well) and an abstract sense (a profound idea or deep feeling). It also describes dark shades of color, such as 深色 (dark color) and 深蓝 (dark blue). Its opposite is 浅 (shallow or light-colored). Meanings [adjective] Deep; extending far down or inward (physical measurement). [adjective] Profound; strong; intense (abstract meaning). [adjective] Dark (color shade). Example...
打折 (dǎzhé) — to give a discount
打折 (dǎzhé) 打折 means to give a discount or sell at a reduced price. 折 refers to a fraction of the original price, so 八折 means 80% of the price, which is a 20% discount. It is commonly used in shopping contexts. Meanings [verb] To give a discount; to sell at a reduced price. [verb] To fall short of a standard (figurative, less common). Example Sentences 这家店今天所有商品打八折。 Zhè jiā diàn...
此外 (cǐwài) — besides; in addition; furthermore
此外 (cǐwài) 此外 means "besides this" or "in addition to this." It links two sentences by signaling that a new, supplementary point is being added. It typically opens a new sentence or clause rather than connecting two parts within one clause. Meanings [conjunction] Besides; in addition; furthermore; apart from this — used to add a point that supplements what was just said. Example Sentences 我会说中文，此外，我还会说日语。 Wǒ huì shuō Zhōngwén, cǐwài,...
往 (wǎng) — toward / in the direction of
往 (wǎng) 往 is a preposition meaning toward or in the direction of. It indicates the direction in which movement or action proceeds. It often precedes directional words like 前 (forward), 后 (backward), 左 (left), 右 (right), and 上 (up). Compare with 向 (xiàng), which is very similar but slightly more formal. Meanings [preposition] Toward; in the direction of; going to. Example Sentences 往前走一百米就到了。 Wǎng qián zǒu yībǎi mǐ jiù...
跑回去 (pǎo huíqu) — run back
跑回去 (pǎo huíqu) 跑回去 is a verb with a compound directional complement. 跑 (to run) is the base verb; 回去 (go back, away from the speaker) is the directional complement indicating a return movement directed away from the current location. Compare 跑回来 (run back here, toward the speaker). Structure 跑 (run) + 回去 (directional complement: go back away from speaker) = run back (away). Other base verbs with 回去: 走回去...
判断 (pànduàn) — to judge / to determine / judgment
判断 (pànduàn) To assess a situation and arrive at a conclusion; also used as a noun for the act or result of judging. Meanings [verb] To judge, to determine, to assess. [noun] Judgment, assessment, conclusion. Example Sentences 你怎么判断他说的是真的？ Nǐ zěnme pànduàn tā shuō de shì zhēn de? How do you determine that what he said is true? 根据天气情况，我判断明天会下雨。 Gēnjù tiānqì qíngkuàng, wǒ pànduàn míngtiān huì xià yǔ. Based on the...
明白 (míngbai) — to understand / clear
明白 (míngbai) 明白 means to understand or to be clear about something. As a verb it means to grasp the meaning or truth of something. As an adjective it describes something clear and easy to understand. It is more colloquial than 理解 (to comprehend). Meanings [verb] To understand; to get it; to be clear about something. [adjective] Clear; obvious; easy to understand. Example Sentences 你明白我的意思吗？ Nǐ míngbai wǒ de yìsi...
教育 (jiàoyù) — education
教育 (jiàoyù) 教育 refers to the process of education, including teaching, learning, and the cultivation of knowledge and character. Meanings [noun] education; schooling; upbringing [verb] to educate; to teach; to instruct Example Sentences 教育是国家发展的基础。 Jiàoyù shì guójiā fāzhǎn de jīchǔ. Education is the foundation of a country's development. 他的父母非常重视孩子的教育。 Tā de fùmǔ fēicháng zhòngshì háizi de jiàoyù. His parents attach great importance to their child's education. 这所学校的教育质量很高。 Zhè suǒ xuéxiào...
伤心 (shāngxīn) — sad; heartbroken
伤心 (shāngxīn) 伤心 expresses deep sadness or emotional pain, literally "an injured heart." Meanings [adj/verb] sad; heartbroken; to feel grieved or emotionally hurt Example Sentences 她听到这个消息后非常伤心。 Tā tīng dào zhège xiāoxi hòu fēicháng shāngxīn. She was very sad when she heard the news. 不要伤心，事情总会好转的。 Bùyào shāngxīn, shìqing zǒng huì hǎozhuǎn de. Don't be sad, things will always get better. 他为失去那份工作而伤心了很久。 Tā wèi shīqù nà fèn gōngzuò ér shāngxīn le hěn...
确实 (quèshí) — indeed; really; truly; genuinely
确实 (quèshí) 确实 is an adverb used to confirm or affirm that something is genuinely true, often in response to a question or doubt. It conveys a sense of "I can confirm this is really the case." Meanings [adverb] indeed; really; truly; genuinely (used to affirm a fact or admit a truth, often conceding a point) Usage Note 确实 typically comes before a verb or adjective. It is frequently used...
否则 (fǒuzé) — otherwise
否则 (fǒuzé) 否则 means otherwise or or else — it states the negative consequence that will follow if the condition or instruction in the first clause is not fulfilled. Meanings [conjunction] Otherwise; or else; if not. Example Sentences 快点，否则就迟到了。 Kuài diǎn, fǒuzé jiù chídào le. Hurry up, otherwise you'll be late. 你必须认真复习，否则考试会不及格。 Nǐ bìxū rènzhēn fùxí, fǒuzé kǎoshì huì bù jígé. You must review carefully, otherwise you'll fail the exam....
比赛 (bǐsài) — competition
比赛 (bǐsài) 比赛 is the standard word for a competition, match, or contest. It is used for sports, academic contests, and any formal competitive event. It can also function as a verb meaning "to compete." Meanings [noun] Competition; match; contest; race. [verb] To compete; to have a match. Example Sentences 他参加了学校的演讲比赛。 Tā cānjiā le xuéxiào de yǎnjiǎng bǐsài. He participated in the school speech competition. 今天下午有一场足球比赛。 Jīntiān xiàwǔ yǒu yī...
机场 (jīchǎng) — airport
机场 (jīchǎng) 机场 is the standard word for airport, the facility where passengers board and depart from aircraft. Meanings [noun] airport — a place with runways and terminals for the departure and arrival of aircraft and passengers Example Sentences 我们明天早上六点去机场。 Wǒmen míngtiān zǎoshang liù diǎn qù jīchǎng. We are going to the airport tomorrow at six in the morning. 机场离市中心很远。 Jīchǎng lí shì zhōngxīn hěn yuǎn. The airport is far...
脸 (liǎn) — face
脸 (liǎn) 脸 means face, both literally (the front of the head) and figuratively (social face or dignity in the Chinese cultural sense). It is the most common word for face in everyday spoken Chinese. Meanings [noun] Face (the front of the head with eyes, nose, mouth). [noun] Face; dignity; social reputation (figurative). Example Sentences 她的脸红了。 Tā de liǎn hóng le. Her face turned red. 你脸上有一点儿东西。 Nǐ liǎn shang yǒu...
自行车 (zìxíngchē) — bicycle
自行车 (zìxíngchē) 自行车 means bicycle or bike. The word is literally self-moving vehicle, a perfectly descriptive name for a human-powered two-wheeler. Meanings [noun] Bicycle; bike. Example Sentences 我每天骑自行车上班。 Wǒ měitiān qí zìxíngchē shàngbān. I ride my bicycle to work every day. 这辆自行车是我上学用的。 Zhè liàng zìxíngchē shì wǒ shàngxué yòng de. This bicycle is the one I use for school. 骑自行车对健康很有好处。 Qí zìxíngchē duì jiànkāng hěn yǒu hǎochù. Riding a bicycle...
安排 (ānpái) — to arrange; arrangement
安排 (ānpái) 安排 means to arrange or schedule something, and can also refer to an arrangement or plan itself. Meanings [verb] to arrange; to organize; to schedule [noun] an arrangement; a plan; a schedule Example Sentences 老师安排我们明天去参观博物馆。 Lǎoshī ānpái wǒmen míngtiān qù cānguān bówùguǎn. The teacher arranged for us to visit the museum tomorrow. 你今天有什么安排？ Nǐ jīntiān yǒu shénme ānpái? What are your plans for today? 他们把婚礼安排得非常周到。 Tāmen bǎ hūnlǐ...
关键 (guānjiàn) — key; crucial; pivotal; the crux
关键 (guānjiàn) 关键 refers to the most critical factor or turning point in a situation, and can also serve as an adjective meaning crucial or decisive. Meanings [noun] the key; the crux — the most important or decisive element [adjective] key; crucial; pivotal — critically important Example Sentences 关键是要坚持下去。 Guānjiàn shì yào jiānchí xiàqù. The key is to keep persisting. 这是一个关键时刻。 Zhè shì yī gè guānjiàn shíkè. This is a...
安全 (ānquán) — safe / safety
安全 (ānquán) 安全 means safe or safety. As an adjective it describes a person, place, or situation as free from danger. As a noun it refers to the concept of safety or security. It is a high-frequency word in everyday life and public announcements. Meanings [adjective] Safe; secure; free from danger. [noun] Safety; security. Example Sentences 过马路要注意安全。 Guò mǎlù yào zhùyì ānquán. Pay attention to safety when crossing the road....
规律 (guīlǜ) — rule; pattern; regularity
规律 (guīlǜ) 规律 refers to a regular pattern, natural law, or systematic rule that governs how things work or happen. Meanings [noun] rule; law; regularity (in nature or life) [noun] pattern; routine; regular order Example Sentences 生活要有规律，不能总是熬夜。 Shēnghuó yào yǒu guīlǜ, bù néng zǒngshì áoyè. Life should have regularity; you cannot always stay up late. 他发现了自然界的一个重要规律。 Tā fāxiànle zìránjiè de yī gè zhòngyào guīlǜ. He discovered an important law of...
动词+得+adj — verb + degree complement
动词+得+adj (Verb + Degree Complement) The degree complement uses 得 (de) after a verb to introduce an adjective or descriptive phrase that evaluates the manner or degree of the action. It answers the question "how well?" or "to what extent?" Structure Verb + 得 + Adjective/Descriptive Phrase If the verb takes an object, the verb must be repeated: Verb + Object + Verb + 得 + Adjective . Example Sentences...
包子 (bāozi) — steamed bun
包子 (bāozi) 包子 is a steamed bun with a filling, one of the most common breakfast foods in China. The filling can be pork, vegetables, or sweet bean paste. Meanings [noun] Steamed stuffed bun (a classic Chinese breakfast item). Example Sentences 早上我吃了两个包子。 Zǎoshang wǒ chī le liǎng gè bāozi. I ate two steamed buns in the morning. 这家店的包子很好吃。 Zhè jiā diàn de bāozi hěn hǎochī. The steamed buns from this...
分 (fēn) — minute / point / fraction
分 (fēn) A versatile word: a unit of time equal to one minute, a scoring unit (point), or a fraction of one-tenth of a basic unit. Meanings [noun / measure word] Minute (unit of time, 1/60 of an hour). [noun] Point, score (in an exam or competition). [noun] Fraction, one-tenth unit (of yuan, etc.). Example Sentences 现在是三点四十五分。 Xiànzài shì sān diǎn sìshíwǔ fēn. It is now 3:45 (three forty-five). 他考试得了九十五分。...
除了 (chúle) — except / besides / in addition to
除了 (chúle) 除了 is a preposition with two contrasting functions. With 以外/之外 and a negative, it means "except" (excluding something from a group). With 以外/之外 and 还/也, it means "besides / in addition to" (adding something extra). Recognizing which pattern is used is key to understanding the meaning. Meanings [preposition] Except; apart from; excluding (paired with negatives like 不/没). [preposition] Besides; in addition to; other than (paired with 还 or...
不好意思 (bù hǎo yìsi) — embarrassed; sorry to trouble you
不好意思 (bù hǎo yìsi) 不好意思 literally means "not good feeling/meaning" and expresses embarrassment, shyness, or a polite apology for causing inconvenience. It covers the gap between a full apology (对不起) and simple awkwardness. Meanings [adjective] Embarrassed; shy; feeling awkward in a social situation. [expression] Sorry to trouble you; excuse me (polite phrase before making a request or after a minor imposition). Example Sentences 不好意思，我来晚了。 Bù hǎo yìsi, wǒ lái wǎn...
照片 (zhàopiàn) — photo
照片 (zhàopiàn) 照片 means photograph or photo. It refers to any picture taken by a camera, whether printed or digital. Meanings [noun] Photograph; photo; picture. Example Sentences 这张照片拍得很好看。 Zhè zhāng zhàopiàn pāi de hěn hǎokàn. This photo turned out really nice. 我想看你小时候的照片。 Wǒ xiǎng kàn nǐ xiǎo shíhou de zhàopiàn. I want to see your childhood photos. 她把照片发给了我。 Tā bǎ zhàopiàn fā gěi le wǒ. She sent the photo to...
放弃 (fàngqì) — to give up
放弃 (fàngqì) 放弃 means to give up or abandon a goal, plan, idea, or right. Meanings [verb] to give up; to abandon; to relinquish; to quit Example Sentences 他放弃了这次去国外学习的机会。 Tā fàngqì le zhè cì qù guówài xuéxí de jīhuì. He gave up the opportunity to study abroad this time. 不管有多难，都不能放弃。 Bùguǎn yǒu duō nán, dōu bù néng fàngqì. No matter how difficult it is, you must not give up. 她放弃了原来的工作，开始了自己的事业。...
警察 (jǐngchá) — police
警察 (jǐngchá) 警察 means police or police officer. It refers both to individual law enforcement officers and to the police as an institution. The measure word for one officer is 名 (míng) or 个 (gè). Meanings [noun] Police officer; policeman; policewoman. [noun] The police (as an institution or force). Example Sentences 快叫警察！ Kuài jiào jǐngchá! Call the police quickly! 那位警察帮助了迷路的孩子。 Nà wèi jǐngchá bāngzhù le mílù de háizi. That police...
不但…而且… (bùdàn...érqiě...) — not only... but also...
不但…而且… (bùdàn...érqiě...) 不但…而且… is a correlative conjunction pattern used to link two clauses where the second adds to or escalates the first. The subject can appear before 不但 (shared subject) or in each clause separately (different subjects). Structure [Subject] + 不但 + [Clause 1] + 而且 + [Clause 2] When the subject is shared, it goes before 不但. When the two clauses have different subjects, each clause carries its own...
班 (bān) — class / shift
班 (bān) 班 primarily means a class of students or a work shift. It is also used as a measure word for scheduled transport departures and as part of compound words related to work schedules. Meanings [noun] Class; classroom group of students. [noun] Work shift; duty period. [measure word] Scheduled trip or service (for buses, planes, trains). Example Sentences 我们班一共有三十个学生。 Wǒmen bān yīgòng yǒu sānshí gè xuésheng. Our class has...
饺子 (jiǎozi) — dumpling
饺子 (jiǎozi) 饺子 are traditional Chinese dumplings made of thin dough wrappers filled with minced meat and vegetables. They are folded and then boiled, steamed, or pan-fried. Eating dumplings is a central tradition during Chinese New Year and family gatherings. The measure word is 个 (gè) or 只 (zhī). Meanings [noun] Dumpling; jiaozi (a stuffed dough wrapper, usually boiled or pan-fried). Example Sentences 我最喜欢吃妈妈包的饺子。 Wǒ zuì xǐhuān chī māma bāo...
眼睛 (yǎnjing) — eyes
眼睛 (yǎnjing) 眼睛 means eyes. It refers to the organs of vision on the face. Note that 睛 is pronounced in the neutral tone (jing, not jīng) in this compound. Meanings [noun] Eyes; the organs of sight. Example Sentences 她的眼睛很大很漂亮。 Tā de yǎnjing hěn dà hěn piàoliang. Her eyes are very big and beautiful. 我的眼睛有点儿不舒服。 Wǒ de yǎnjing yǒudiǎnr bù shūfu. My eyes feel a little uncomfortable. 请闭上眼睛，放松一下。 Qǐng bìshang...
发烧 (fā shāo) — to have a fever
发烧 (fā shāo) 发烧 literally combines 发 (to emit) and 烧 (to burn), describing the body emitting burning heat, that is, having a fever. It is a common verb-object compound used when someone's temperature is elevated. Meanings [verb] To have a fever; to run a temperature. Example Sentences 孩子发烧了，要去看医生。 Háizi fā shāo le, yào qù kàn yīshēng. The child has a fever and needs to see a doctor. 我昨天发烧，今天好多了。 Wǒ...
演员 (yǎnyuán) — actor / performer
演员 (yǎnyuán) 演员 means actor, actress, or performer. It refers to anyone who performs on stage, in films, or on television. 演 means to perform or act, and 员 means a member or person in a role. It is gender-neutral in Chinese. Meanings [noun] Actor; actress; performer; a person who performs in plays, films, or shows. Example Sentences 她是一位非常有名的演员。 Tā shì yī wèi fēicháng yǒumíng de yǎnyuán. She is a...
提高 (tígāo) — to improve
提高 (tígāo) 提高 means to raise or improve something, particularly a skill level, quality, standard, or performance. It implies deliberate upward movement. Meanings [verb] To improve; to raise; to enhance; to elevate. Example Sentences 我想提高我的汉语水平。 Wǒ xiǎng tígāo wǒ de Hànyǔ shuǐpíng. I want to improve my Chinese level. 多练习可以提高你的口语。 Duō liànxí kěyǐ tígāo nǐ de kǒuyǔ. More practice can improve your spoken Chinese. 工厂努力提高产品质量。 Gōngchǎng nǔlì tígāo chǎnpǐn zhìliàng....
表示 (biǎoshì) — to express / to indicate
表示 (biǎoshì) 表示 means to express or indicate. It is used when conveying emotions, opinions, or meanings, whether through words, gestures, or symbols. It is more formal and deliberate than simply 说 (to say). Meanings [verb] To express; to show; to convey (feelings, attitudes, opinions). [verb] To indicate; to mean; to represent; to signify. Example Sentences 他向我表示了感谢。 Tā xiàng wǒ biǎoshì le gǎnxiè. He expressed his thanks to me. 她点头表示同意。...
环境 (huánjìng) — environment
环境 (huánjìng) 环境 refers to the surrounding environment or conditions — physical surroundings, natural ecology, or the social/working context in which someone lives or operates. Meanings [noun] Environment; surroundings; setting; conditions. Example Sentences 我们应该保护环境。 Wǒmen yīnggāi bǎohù huánjìng. We should protect the environment. 这里的学习环境很好。 Zhèlǐ de xuéxí huánjìng hěn hǎo. The study environment here is very good. 城市环境越来越好了。 Chéngshì huánjìng yuè lái yuè hǎo le. The urban environment is getting...
单位 (dānwèi) — work unit; organization
单位 (dānwèi) 单位 commonly refers to one's work unit or employer organization in China, and can also mean a unit of measurement. Meanings [noun] work unit; organization; employer [noun] unit (of measurement) Example Sentences 他的单位在市中心。 Tā de dānwèi zài shì zhōngxīn. His workplace is in the city center. 你在哪个单位工作？ Nǐ zài nǎge dānwèi gōngzuò? Which organization do you work for? 这道数学题要注意单位的换算。 Zhè dào shùxué tí yào zhùyì dānwèi de huànsuàn....
参考 (cānkǎo) — to refer to; reference
参考 (cānkǎo) 参考 means to consult or refer to something for information or guidance, and can also be used as a noun meaning reference material. Meanings [verb] to refer to; to consult; to take as reference [noun] reference; consultation Example Sentences 写论文时要参考很多资料。 Xiě lùnwén shí yào cānkǎo hěn duō zīliào. When writing a paper, you need to refer to many sources. 这只是供参考，不一定完全正确。 Zhè zhǐshì gōng cānkǎo, bù yīdìng wánquán zhèngquè....
应该 (yīnggāi) — should; ought to
应该 (yīnggāi) 应该 is a modal verb expressing what one ought to do, what is expected, or what is proper under the circumstances. Meanings [modal verb] should; ought to; be supposed to Example Sentences 你应该多喝水，这对身体好。 Nǐ yīnggāi duō hē shuǐ, zhè duì shēntǐ hǎo. You should drink more water; it is good for your health. 学生应该按时完成作业。 Xuésheng yīnggāi ànshí wánchéng zuòyè. Students should complete their homework on time. 这件事你应该告诉老师。 Zhè...
提 (tí) — to mention; to raise
提 (tí) 提 is a versatile verb meaning to raise, lift, or bring up something, whether physically or in conversation. Meanings [verb] to mention; to bring up (a topic) [verb] to carry (something) by hand; to lift Example Sentences 他提到了一个很有趣的问题。 Tā tídào le yīgè hěn yǒuqù de wèntí. He brought up a very interesting question. 会议上，经理提出了新的计划。 Huìyì shàng, jīnglǐ tíchū le xīn de jìhuà. At the meeting, the manager raised...
报名 (bàomíng) — to register / sign up
报名 (bàomíng) 报名 means to register or sign up for something, such as a class, exam, competition, or event. 报 means to report or submit, and 名 means name. Together they describe the act of submitting your name to join something. In China, 报名 is used constantly in school, work, and daily life. Students 报名 for HSK exams, athletes 报名 for competitions, and professionals 报名 for training courses. You can...
被…V了 (bèi...V le) — passive voice construction
被…V了 (bèi...V le) 被…V了 is the standard way to form a passive sentence in Mandarin. 被 introduces the agent (who performed the action), the verb follows, and 了 marks the action as completed. The construction often implies an unwanted or unexpected outcome for the subject. Structure Subject + 被 + (Agent) + Verb + 了 The agent after 被 is optional. When the agent is unknown or unimportant, it may...
理由 (lǐyóu) — reason
理由 (lǐyóu) 理由 means reason, grounds, or justification. It refers to the logical basis or motive behind an action, decision, or argument. Meanings [noun] Reason; grounds; justification; basis. Example Sentences 你有什么理由迟到？ Nǐ yǒu shénme lǐyóu chídào? What reason do you have for being late? 他给了我一个很好的理由。 Tā gěi le wǒ yīgè hěn hǎo de lǐyóu. He gave me a very good reason. 我没有理由拒绝他的邀请。 Wǒ méiyǒu lǐyóu jùjué tā de yāoqǐng. I...
不必 (bùbì) — no need to; need not
不必 (bùbì) 不必 is an adverb meaning "no need to" or "it is not necessary to." It tells someone that an action is not required, relieving them of an obligation or effort. Meanings [adverb] no need to; need not; it is unnecessary to (placed before a verb to indicate the action is not required) Usage Note 不必 is similar to 不用 but tends to sound slightly more formal or literary....
经验 (jīngyàn) — experience
经验 (jīngyàn) 经验 refers to practical experience gained by doing or living through something. It differs from 经历 (jīnglì — life experience / personal history) in that 经验 emphasizes the lessons and knowledge gained. Meanings [noun] Experience; practical knowledge; know-how. Example Sentences 他有丰富的工作经验。 Tā yǒu fēngfù de gōngzuò jīngyàn. He has rich work experience. 这次失败让我积累了很多经验。 Zhècì shībài ràng wǒ jīlěi le hěn duō jīngyàn. This failure helped me accumulate a...
材料 (cáiliào) — material; data
材料 (cáiliào) 材料 can refer to physical materials used to make something, or written materials such as data, documents, or reference information. Meanings [noun] material; ingredient; substance used to make something [noun] data; written materials; documents; information Example Sentences 这道菜需要很多材料。 Zhè dào cài xūyào hěn duō cáiliào. This dish requires many ingredients. 请把相关材料发给我。 Qǐng bǎ xiāngguān cáiliào fā gěi wǒ. Please send me the relevant materials. 建造这栋楼用了很多高质量的材料。 Jiànzào zhè dòng...
对于 (duìyú) — regarding / as for
对于 (duìyú) 对于 is a formal preposition meaning regarding, as for, or with respect to. It introduces a topic that the rest of the sentence comments on. It is more formal than 对 and is common in written Chinese and speeches. The topic introduced by 对于 is the frame for the whole statement. Meanings [preposition] Regarding; as for; with respect to; concerning. Example Sentences 对于这个问题，我有不同的看法。 Duìyú zhège wèntí, wǒ yǒu...
能力 (nénglì) — ability
能力 (nénglì) 能力 means ability, capability, or capacity. It refers to the power or skill to do something, whether innate or developed through practice. Meanings [noun] Ability; capability; capacity; competence; skill. Example Sentences 他有很强的学习能力。 Tā yǒu hěn qiáng de xuéxí nénglì. He has very strong learning ability. 这份工作需要很高的能力。 Zhè fèn gōngzuò xūyào hěn gāo de nénglì. This job requires a high level of ability. 她的语言能力非常突出。 Tā de yǔyán nénglì fēicháng...
大方 (dàfang) — generous; natural and poised
大方 (dàfang) 大方 has two related senses: being generous with money or resources, and behaving in a natural, composed, and graceful manner without shyness. Meanings [adj] generous; open-handed with money or gifts [adj] natural and poised; graceful; composed; not awkward or shy Example Sentences 他非常大方，总是请朋友吃饭。 Tā fēicháng dàfang, zǒng shì qǐng péngyou chīfàn. He is very generous and always treats his friends to meals. 她站在台上举止大方，一点都不紧张。 Tā zhàn zài tái shàng...
重要 (zhòngyào) — important
重要 (zhòngyào) 重要 is one of the most common adjectives in Chinese, meaning "important" or "significant." It describes anything that carries weight or consequence — a task, a person, a date, a decision. It can modify a noun (重要的事 — an important thing) or follow a verb (很重要 — very important). Meanings [adjective] Important; significant; essential; of great consequence. Example Sentences 健康是最重要的事情。 Jiànkāng shì zuì zhòngyào de shìqíng. Health is...
按照 (ànzhào) — according to
按照 (ànzhào) 按照 means in accordance with or following a specific rule, plan, order, or standard. It describes compliance or conformity with an established guideline. Meanings [preposition] According to; in accordance with; following; as per. Example Sentences 请按照老师的要求完成作业。 Qǐng ànzhào lǎoshī de yāoqiú wánchéng zuòyè. Please complete the homework according to the teacher's requirements. 按照规定，上课不能用手机。 Ànzhào guīdìng, shàngkè bù néng yòng shǒujī. According to the rules, phones cannot be used...
相信 (xiāngxìn) — to believe
相信 (xiāngxìn) 相信 means to believe or to trust. It expresses confidence in the truth of a statement or faith in a person or outcome. Meanings [verb] To believe; to trust; to have faith in. Example Sentences 我相信你说的话。 Wǒ xiāngxìn nǐ shuō de huà. I believe what you said. 你相信他能做到吗？ Nǐ xiāngxìn tā néng zuò dào ma? Do you believe he can do it? 我相信努力一定会有回报。 Wǒ xiāngxìn nǔlì yīdìng huì...
意思 (yìsi) — meaning; idea
意思 (yìsi) 意思 is an extremely common word used to ask about or explain what something means, or what someone intends. Meanings [noun] meaning; sense (of a word or expression) [noun] idea; intention; what someone means [adjective] interesting (有意思 yǒu yìsi) Example Sentences 这个词是什么意思？ Zhège cí shì shénme yìsi? What is the meaning of this word? 你的意思是说我错了吗？ Nǐ de yìsi shì shuō wǒ cuò le ma? Do you mean to...
标准 (biāozhǔn) — standard / criterion
标准 (biāozhǔn) 标准 means standard, criterion, or norm. As a noun it refers to a benchmark or rule used for evaluation. As an adjective it means standardized or proper. 标准答案 is a model answer, and 标准普通话 refers to standard Mandarin pronunciation. Meanings [noun] Standard; criterion; norm; benchmark. [adjective] Standard; standardized; conforming to a norm. Example Sentences 她的普通话发音非常标准。 Tā de Pǔtōnghuà fāyīn fēicháng biāozhǔn. Her Mandarin pronunciation is very standard. 这道题没有标准答案。...
口语 (kǒuyǔ) — spoken language
口语 (kǒuyǔ) 口语 refers specifically to spoken language or colloquial speech, as distinguished from written language (书面语). Meanings [noun] spoken language; oral language; colloquial speech [noun] speaking ability; oral proficiency Example Sentences 她的中文口语非常流利。 Tā de Zhōngwén kǒuyǔ fēicháng liúlì. Her spoken Chinese is very fluent. 我需要多练习口语，不只是写字。 Wǒ xūyào duō liànxí kǒuyǔ, bù zhǐshì xiě zì. I need to practice speaking more, not just writing. 这个词在口语中很常用。 Zhège cí zài kǒuyǔ zhōng...
词语 (cíyǔ) — word; phrase; expression
词语 (cíyǔ) 词语 refers to individual words or set phrases in the Chinese language, often used in the context of vocabulary study. Meanings [noun] word; phrase; expression — a unit of vocabulary, including single words and fixed multi-character expressions Example Sentences 这个词语很难记。 Zhège cíyǔ hěn nán jì. This word is hard to remember. 请用这个词语造一个句子。 Qǐng yòng zhège cíyǔ zào yī gè jùzi. Please make a sentence using this word. 学习新词语需要多练习。...
正确 (zhèngquè) — correct
正确 (zhèngquè) 正确 means correct or accurate in the sense of conforming to fact, logic, or established standards. It is more precise than 对 (duì), which also means "correct" but is used more informally. Meanings [adjective] Correct; right; accurate; proper. Example Sentences 你的答案是正确的。 Nǐ de dá'àn shì zhèngquè de. Your answer is correct. 请用正确的方法做这道题。 Qǐng yòng zhèngquè de fāngfǎ zuò zhè dào tí. Please use the correct method to solve...
勤奋 (qínfèn) — diligent; hardworking; industrious
勤奋 (qínfèn) 勤奋 describes the quality of being consistently hardworking, putting in regular and dedicated effort over time. Meanings [adj] diligent; hardworking; industrious; assiduous Example Sentences 她非常勤奋，每天学习十个小时。 Tā fēicháng qínfèn, měitiān xuéxí shí gè xiǎoshí. She is very diligent and studies ten hours every day. 勤奋的人即使不聪明，也会成功。 Qínfèn de rén jíshǐ bù cōngmíng, yě huì chénggōng. Even if a hardworking person is not smart, they will succeed. 他用勤奋弥补了天赋上的不足。 Tā yòng qínfèn...
水平 (shuǐpíng) — level; standard; proficiency
水平 (shuǐpíng) 水平 refers to the level or standard of skill, quality, or ability that someone or something has reached. Meanings [noun] level; standard; proficiency — the degree of skill, ability, or quality achieved in a particular area Example Sentences 他的中文水平很高。 Tā de Zhōngwén shuǐpíng hěn gāo. His Chinese proficiency is very high. 我需要提高自己的英语水平。 Wǒ xūyào tígāo zìjǐ de Yīngyǔ shuǐpíng. I need to improve my English level. 这家餐厅的烹饪水平非常专业。 Zhè...
换乘 (huànchéng) — to transfer (transit)
换乘 (huànchéng) 换乘 means to transfer or change from one mode of transport to another during a journey, such as switching subway lines, buses, or trains. 换 means to change or switch, and 乘 means to ride or board a vehicle. Meanings [verb] To transfer; to change vehicles, lines, or modes of transportation mid-journey. Example Sentences 在这里换乘二号线。 Zài zhèlǐ huànchéng èr hào xiàn. Transfer to Line 2 here. 我需要在北京换乘火车。 Wǒ...
完成 (wánchéng) — to complete
完成 (wánchéng) 完成 means to complete or accomplish something fully. It emphasizes that a task or goal has been carried through to its finish, not merely started or partially done. Meanings [verb] To complete; to finish; to accomplish. [verb] To fulfill (a duty, mission, or requirement). Example Sentences 我已经完成了作业。 Wǒ yǐjīng wánchéng le zuòyè. I have already finished my homework. 他成功地完成了这项任务。 Tā chénggōng de wánchéng le zhè xiàng rènwù. He...
飞机场 (fēijīchǎng) — airport
飞机场 (fēijīchǎng) 飞机场 is the full form for "airport." It is also commonly shortened to 机场 (jīchǎng) in everyday speech. 飞机 means "airplane" and 场 means "field / ground." Together they describe a field where airplanes operate. Both forms are correct and widely used. Meanings [noun] Airport; airfield; the facility for aircraft departure and arrival. Example Sentences 我明天早上要去飞机场接朋友。 Wǒ míngtiān zǎoshang yào qù fēijīchǎng jiē péngyǒu. I need to go...
因此 (yīncǐ) — therefore
因此 (yīncǐ) 因此 means therefore or as a result. It introduces the logical consequence of a stated cause, and is slightly more formal than 所以 (suǒyǐ). It can begin a sentence on its own. Meanings [conjunction] Therefore; as a result; for this reason; consequently. Example Sentences 他非常努力，因此成绩很好。 Tā fēicháng nǔlì, yīncǐ chéngjì hěn hǎo. He worked very hard; therefore his grades are very good. 外面下雨了，因此我们取消了活动。 Wàimiàn xià yǔ le, yīncǐ...
自信 (zìxìn) — confident; self-confidence
自信 (zìxìn) 自信 describes the belief and trust one has in one's own abilities, qualities, and judgment. Meanings [adj/noun] confident; self-confidence; belief in oneself Example Sentences 她说话的时候很自信，让人印象深刻。 Tā shuōhuà de shíhou hěn zìxìn, ràng rén yìnxiàng shēnkè. She speaks with great confidence, which leaves a deep impression. 自信是成功的第一步。 Zìxìn shì chénggōng de dì yī bù. Self-confidence is the first step to success. 经过多次练习，他越来越自信了。 Jīngguò duō cì liànxí, tā yuèláiyuè zìxìn...
不过 (búguò) — however
不过 (búguò) 不过 means however or but, used to introduce a mild contrast or qualification. It is softer and more conversational than 但是 (dànshì), making it ideal for gentle corrections or adding a caveat. Meanings [conjunction] However; but; only (introducing a mild contrast or qualification). [adverb] Only; merely; nothing more than. Example Sentences 这道菜很好吃，不过有点辣。 Zhè dào cài hěn hǎochī, búguò yǒu diǎn là. This dish is very tasty; however, it's...
获得 (huòdé) — to obtain; to gain
获得 (huòdé) 获得 means to obtain, gain, or acquire something, often through effort, competition, or a process. Meanings [verb] to obtain; to acquire; to get [verb] to achieve; to win; to earn Example Sentences 他在比赛中获得了第一名。 Tā zài bǐsài zhōng huòdéle dì yī míng. He won first place in the competition. 通过努力，她获得了奖学金。 Tōngguò nǔlì, tā huòdéle jiǎngxuéjīn. Through hard work, she obtained a scholarship. 这部电影获得了很多奖项。 Zhè bù diànyǐng huòdéle hěn duō...
任何 (rènhé) — any; whatever; whichever
任何 (rènhé) 任何 is a universal quantifier used before nouns to mean "any," "whatever," or "whichever," indicating that no member of a set is excluded. Meanings [pronoun / adjective] any; whatever; whichever (used before a noun to indicate "no matter which one" or "every possible one," often in negative or conditional sentences) Usage Note 任何 must be followed by a noun (or noun phrase). It is most commonly used in:...
共同 (gòngtóng) — common; shared; together; jointly
共同 (gòngtóng) 共同 describes something that is held in common by multiple parties, or an action that is carried out together or jointly. Meanings [adjective] common; shared — belonging to or affecting all parties [adverb] together; jointly — doing something as a collective Example Sentences 我们有共同的爱好。 Wǒmen yǒu gòngtóng de àihào. We share common hobbies. 这是我们共同的责任。 Zhè shì wǒmen gòngtóng de zérèn. This is our shared responsibility. 大家共同努力，一定能成功。 Dàjiā gòngtóng...
项目 (xiàngmù) — project / item
项目 (xiàngmù) 项目 refers to a project or task that is organized and planned, as well as to an individual item or entry in a list. In work and school contexts it most often means a project (research project, work project, sports event). In administrative contexts it refers to a line item or category. Meanings [noun] Project; program; planned undertaking. [noun] Item; entry (in a list, form, or schedule). Example...
保护 (bǎohù) — to protect / to safeguard
保护 (bǎohù) To keep someone or something safe from harm, damage, or loss; also used as a noun meaning "protection." Meanings [verb] To protect, to safeguard, to defend. [noun] Protection, preservation. Example Sentences 我们要保护环境。 Wǒmen yào bǎohù huánjìng. We must protect the environment. 父母总是努力保护自己的孩子。 Fùmǔ zǒng shì nǔlì bǎohù zìjǐ de háizi. Parents always work hard to protect their children. 这种动物需要特别的保护。 Zhè zhǒng dòngwù xūyào tèbié de bǎohù. This kind...
文化 (wénhuà) — culture
文化 (wénhuà) 文化 refers to culture in a broad sense — the shared customs, traditions, arts, values, and knowledge of a people or civilization. It is also used for educational level in some contexts. Meanings [noun] Culture; civilization; cultural heritage. [noun] Education level; cultural background. Example Sentences 我对中国文化很感兴趣。 Wǒ duì Zhōngguó wénhuà hěn gǎn xìngqù. I am very interested in Chinese culture. 学语言的同时也要了解文化。 Xué yǔyán de tóngshí yě yào liǎojiě...
感情 (gǎnqíng) — emotion; feeling
感情 (gǎnqíng) 感情 refers to emotions, feelings, or the emotional bonds between people such as love, friendship, or affection. Meanings [noun] emotion; feeling; affection; sentiment; emotional bond Example Sentences 他们之间的感情很深厚。 Tāmen zhī jiān de gǎnqíng hěn shēnhòu. The emotional bond between them is very deep. 不要让感情影响你做决定。 Bùyào ràng gǎnqíng yǐngxiǎng nǐ zuò juédìng. Do not let emotions affect your decision making. 多年的共事让我们建立了深厚的感情。 Duō nián de gòngshì ràng wǒmen jiànlì le...
杂志 (zázhì) — magazine
杂志 (zázhì) 杂志 means magazine or periodical. 杂 means miscellaneous or varied, and 志 means record or publication. A magazine is a varied collection of articles and records published regularly. Chinese magazines cover every topic from science (科学杂志) to fashion (时尚杂志) to travel. Reading a Chinese magazine is a great way to build vocabulary because the articles are shorter than books but richer in everyday vocabulary than textbooks. Meanings [noun]...
选择 (xuǎnzé) — to choose
选择 (xuǎnzé) 选择 means to choose or select from available options. It functions as both a verb and a noun, covering everyday decisions and formal selections alike. Meanings [verb] To choose; to select; to pick. [noun] A choice; a selection; an option. Example Sentences 你选择哪个答案？ Nǐ xuǎnzé nǎge dá'àn? Which answer do you choose? 这是你自己的选择。 Zhè shì nǐ zìjǐ de xuǎnzé. This is your own choice. 我选择留在这里工作。 Wǒ xuǎnzé liú...
年轻 (niánqīng) — young
年轻 (niánqīng) 年轻 describes someone who is young in age, or something that feels youthful and full of energy. Meanings [adj] young; youthful Example Sentences 她看起来比实际年龄年轻很多。 Tā kàn qǐlái bǐ shíjì niánlíng niánqīng hěn duō. She looks much younger than her actual age. 年轻的时候要多学习，多积累经验。 Niánqīng de shíhou yào duō xuéxí, duō jīlěi jīngyàn. When you are young, you should study more and accumulate more experience. 这家公司的员工都很年轻，充满活力。 Zhè jiā gōngsī de...
嘴 (zuǐ) — mouth
嘴 (zuǐ) 嘴 means mouth. It refers to the physical mouth including the lips, and appears in many idiomatic expressions about speaking, eating, and character. It is one of the body part words that also has figurative uses in everyday speech. Meanings [noun] Mouth; lips. [noun] Mouth as in beak, spout, or any opening shaped like a mouth. Example Sentences 他嘴里含着糖。 Tā zuǐ lǐ hán zhe táng. He has candy...
安静 (ānjìng) — quiet; peaceful
安静 (ānjìng) 安静 describes an environment or person that is quiet, calm, and free from noise or disturbance. Meanings [adjective] quiet; peaceful; calm; still Example Sentences 图书馆里很安静，大家都在认真读书。 Túshūguǎn lǐ hěn ānjìng, dàjiā dōu zài rènzhēn dú shū. The library is very quiet; everyone is reading seriously. 请安静，考试开始了。 Qǐng ānjìng, kǎoshì kāishǐ le. Please be quiet; the exam has started. 她喜欢住在安静的地方。 Tā xǐhuān zhù zài ānjìng de dìfang. She likes to...
感动 (gǎndòng) — moved / touched
感动 (gǎndòng) 感动 describes being emotionally moved or touched — a feeling of being stirred deeply by something kind, beautiful, or heroic. It is a positive emotional response. Meanings [verb] To move emotionally; to touch deeply; to be moved by. [adjective] Moved; touched (emotionally). Example Sentences 他的故事让我非常感动。 Tā de gùshi ràng wǒ fēicháng gǎndòng. His story moved me deeply. 看到这一幕，她感动地哭了。 Kàndào zhè yī mù, tā gǎndòng de kū le. Seeing...
看清楚 (kàn qīngchǔ) — see clearly / read carefully
看清楚 (kàn qīngchǔ) 看清楚 is a verb-complement structure. 看 (to look / see) is the base verb and 清楚 (clear) is the result complement, showing that looking achieves a clear understanding or perception. It is used for visual clarity — reading something carefully, seeing something distinctly, or making sure you noticed correctly. Structure 看 (look / see) + 清楚 (result complement: clear) = look with the result of seeing clearly....
做完 (zuòwán) — to finish doing / to complete
做完 (zuòwán) A verb-result compound where 做 (to do) + 完 (finished/complete) indicates that an action has been completed from start to finish. Meanings [verb + complement] To finish doing something, to complete a task. Example Sentences 我做完作业才能出去玩。 Wǒ zuòwán zuòyè cái néng chūqù wán. Only after I finish my homework can I go out to play. 他已经做完了所有的工作。 Tā yǐjīng zuòwán le suǒyǒu de gōngzuò. He has already finished all...
顺利 (shùnlì) — smooth / successful
顺利 (shùnlì) 顺利 describes a process or event that goes smoothly and without unexpected obstacles. It is a positive assessment meaning everything went as planned. Meanings [adjective] Smooth; successful; without a hitch; going well. Example Sentences 旅行很顺利，没有任何问题。 Lǚxíng hěn shùnlì, méiyǒu rènhé wèntí. The trip went very smoothly; there were no problems at all. 希望你的考试顺利！ Xīwàng nǐ de kǎoshì shùnlì! I hope your exam goes smoothly! 一切进行得非常顺利。 Yīqiè jìnxíng de...
各种 (gèzhǒng) — all kinds of; various types of
各种 (gèzhǒng) 各种 is used before a noun to indicate that many different kinds or types of something are involved. Meanings [adjective] all kinds of; various types of — used to indicate diverse or multiple categories of something Example Sentences 超市里有各种水果。 Chāoshì lǐ yǒu gèzhǒng shuǐguǒ. The supermarket has all kinds of fruit. 他有各种各样的爱好。 Tā yǒu gèzhǒng gèyàng de àihào. He has all sorts of hobbies. 我们遇到了各种困难。 Wǒmen yùdào le...
程度 (chéngdù) — degree; level; extent
程度 (chéngdù) 程度 refers to the degree, level, or extent to which something occurs or exists. Meanings [noun] degree; level; extent; measure Example Sentences 他的汉语水平已经达到了很高的程度。 Tā de Hànyǔ shuǐpíng yǐjīng dádào le hěn gāo de chéngdù. His Chinese has already reached a very high level. 这件事的严重程度超出了我们的预期。 Zhè jiàn shì de yánzhòng chéngdù chāochū le wǒmen de yùqī. The severity of this matter exceeded our expectations. 你了解这个问题到什么程度？ Nǐ liǎojiě zhège wèntí...
决定 (juédìng) — to decide
决定 (juédìng) 决定 means to decide or make a decision. It can function as both a verb and a noun, covering personal choices and formal resolutions. Meanings [verb] To decide; to determine; to resolve. [noun] A decision; a resolution. Example Sentences 我决定去北京工作。 Wǒ juédìng qù Běijīng gōngzuò. I decided to go to Beijing to work. 你有没有做决定？ Nǐ yǒu méiyǒu zuò juédìng? Have you made a decision? 老师决定推迟考试。 Lǎoshī juédìng tuīchí...
体验 (tǐyàn) — to experience firsthand; hands-on experience
体验 (tǐyàn) 体验 means to personally experience something, emphasizing a direct, hands-on quality rather than just knowing about it. Meanings [verb/noun] to experience firsthand; hands-on experience; personal encounter Example Sentences 这次旅行让我体验了不同的文化。 Zhè cì lǚxíng ràng wǒ tǐyàn le bùtóng de wénhuà. This trip allowed me to experience different cultures firsthand. 你应该亲自体验一下，才能真正理解。 Nǐ yīnggāi qīnzì tǐyàn yīxià, cái néng zhēnzhèng lǐjiě. You should experience it yourself before you can truly understand....
价格 (jiàgé) — price / cost
价格 (jiàgé) Refers to the monetary amount asked or paid for a product or service. Meanings [noun] Price, cost, the value expressed in money. [noun] Rate, charge (for a service). Example Sentences 这件衣服的价格太高了。 Zhè jiàn yīfu de jiàgé tài gāo le. The price of this piece of clothing is too high. 请问，这个产品的价格是多少？ Qǐngwèn, zhège chǎnpǐn de jiàgé shì duōshǎo? Excuse me, what is the price of this product? 最近物价格上涨了很多。 Zuìjìn...
不得不 (bùdébù) — have no choice but to; must; cannot but
不得不 (bùdébù) 不得不 is an adverbial expression meaning "have no choice but to" or "cannot help but," used when circumstances force someone to do something against their preference. Meanings [adverb / expression] have no choice but to; must; cannot but (indicates that the subject is compelled by circumstances to perform an action, implying reluctance or lack of alternatives) Usage Note 不得不 is placed before a verb and emphasizes that the...
批评 (pīpíng) — to criticize
批评 (pīpíng) 批评 means to criticize or point out faults. It is used by someone in authority (teacher, parent, leader) or in constructive feedback contexts. It implies an identification of what is wrong, not simply a negative opinion. Meanings [verb] To criticize; to point out faults; to reprimand. [noun] Criticism. Example Sentences 老师批评他上课不认真。 Lǎoshī pīpíng tā shàng kè bù rènzhēn. The teacher criticized him for not paying attention in class....
越来越… (yuè lái yuè...) — more and more...
越来越… (yuè lái yuè...) 越来越 is placed before an adjective or verb to describe something that is continuously increasing in degree. It always refers to a process unfolding over time, not a static comparison. Structure Subject + 越来越 + Adjective/Verb (+ 了) 了 at the end often marks the change as already noticeable. Example Sentences 他的中文越来越流利了。 Tā de Zhōngwén yuè lái yuè liúlì le. His Chinese is getting more and...
故事 (gùshi) — story
故事 (gùshi) 故事 refers to a story or tale, whether fictional or true, short or long, told aloud or written down. Meanings [noun] story; tale; narrative [noun] plot (of a book or film) Example Sentences 爷爷每晚给我讲故事。 Yéye měi wǎn gěi wǒ jiǎng gùshi. Grandpa tells me a story every night. 这个故事很有趣，我很喜欢。 Zhège gùshi hěn yǒuqù, wǒ hěn xǐhuān. This story is very interesting; I like it a lot. 她把自己的故事写成了一本书。 Tā...
通过 (tōngguò) — through / pass
通过 (tōngguò) 通过 means to pass (a test, law, or checkpoint) or to achieve something through a certain means or method. As a preposition it means "by means of" or "through." Meanings [verb] To pass (an exam, vote, law, or inspection). [preposition] Through; by means of; via. Example Sentences 他通过了HSK三级考试。 Tā tōngguò le HSK sān jí kǎoshì. He passed the HSK Level 3 exam. 通过努力学习，她终于成功了。 Tōngguò nǔlì xuéxí, tā zhōngyú...
根据 (gēnjù) — based on
根据 (gēnjù) 根据 introduces the source, evidence, or basis for a statement or action. It means "based on" or "according to," and is used to justify conclusions, rules, or decisions. Meanings [preposition] Based on; according to; in light of. [noun] Basis; grounds; evidence. Example Sentences 根据天气预报，明天会下雨。 Gēnjù tiānqì yùbào, míngtiān huì xià yǔ. According to the weather forecast, it will rain tomorrow. 根据规定，不能在这里停车。 Gēnjù guīdìng, bù néng zài zhèlǐ tíngchē....
有名 (yǒumíng) — famous; well-known; celebrated
有名 (yǒumíng) 有名 describes someone or something that is widely known and recognized. Meanings [adj] famous; well-known; celebrated; renowned Example Sentences 这家餐厅的北京烤鸭非常有名。 Zhè jiā cāntīng de Běijīng kǎoyā fēicháng yǒumíng. This restaurant's Peking duck is very famous. 她是一位有名的钢琴家。 Tā shì yī wèi yǒumíng de gāngqínjia. She is a famous pianist. 那座山在全国都很有名。 Nà zuò shān zài quánguó dōu hěn yǒumíng. That mountain is well-known throughout the country. 他因为发明了这个产品而变得有名。 Tā yīnwèi fāmíng...
开心 (kāixīn) — happy; delighted
开心 (kāixīn) 开心 describes a feeling of happiness and delight, often in a warm, personal context. Meanings [adj] happy; delighted; in a cheerful mood Example Sentences 今天过得很开心，谢谢你们！ Jīntiān guò de hěn kāixīn, xièxiè nǐmen! Today was really fun, thank you all! 看到孩子们笑，我就开心了。 Kàn dào háizimen xiào, wǒ jiù kāixīn le. Seeing the children smile makes me happy. 希望你每天都开心快乐。 Xīwàng nǐ měitiān dōu kāixīn kuàilè. I hope you are happy and...
努力 (nǔlì) — to work hard / effort / diligent
努力 (nǔlì) To exert great effort toward a goal; also used as an adjective to describe a hard-working person and as a noun meaning "effort." Meanings [verb] To work hard, to make an effort, to strive. [adjective] Hard-working, diligent, industrious. [noun] Effort, hard work. Example Sentences 他很努力，每天都学习到很晚。 Tā hěn nǔlì, měitiān dōu xuéxí dào hěn wǎn. He is very hard-working and studies until very late every day. 只要努力，就一定能成功。 Zhǐyào nǔlì,...
从来 (cónglái) — never / always (with negation)
从来 (cónglái) An adverb always used with a negative word (不 or 没有) to express that something has never happened or has consistently not been the case. Meanings [adverb] Never (used with 不 for habits: 从来不). [adverb] Never/not once (used with 没有 for past events: 从来没有). Example Sentences 他从来不吃辣的食物。 Tā cónglái bù chī là de shíwù. He never eats spicy food. 我从来没有去过非洲。 Wǒ cónglái méiyǒu qùguò Fēizhōu. I have never...
搬 (bān) — to move (objects or residence)
搬 (bān) 搬 means to move something from one place to another, usually by carrying it. It is used both for moving objects and for moving house or residence. 搬家 (to move house) is one of the most common compounds. Meanings [verb] To move an object by carrying it from one place to another. [verb] To move house; to relocate one's residence. Example Sentences 帮我搬一下这张桌子。 Bāng wǒ bān yīxià zhè...
作用 (zuòyòng) — function; role; effect
作用 (zuòyòng) 作用 refers to the function or role that something plays, or the effect and impact it has on something else. Meanings [noun] function; role; the purpose something serves [noun] effect; impact; the result produced by an action or substance Example Sentences 这种药对发烧有很好的作用。 Zhè zhǒng yào duì fāshāo yǒu hěn hǎo de zuòyòng. This medicine has a very good effect on fever. 老师在学生的成长中起了很大的作用。 Lǎoshī zài xuésheng de chéngzhǎng zhōng...
大概 (dàgài) — approximately
大概 (dàgài) 大概 means approximately, roughly, or probably. It signals that the speaker is estimating rather than giving a precise figure, and can also express probability about a future event. Meanings [adverb] Approximately; roughly; about; around. [adverb] Probably; most likely. Example Sentences 我大概明天下午到。 Wǒ dàgài míngtiān xiàwǔ dào. I'll probably arrive tomorrow afternoon. 这里大概有两百个人。 Zhèlǐ dàgài yǒu liǎngbǎi gè rén. There are approximately two hundred people here. 他大概是生病了，所以没来。 Tā dàgài...
即使 (jíshǐ) — even if; even though
即使 (jíshǐ) 即使 introduces a concessive condition — "even if" or "even though." It presents an extreme or hypothetical scenario and states that even under that scenario, the conclusion in the second clause (marked by 也) still stands. The condition may be real or imaginary. Meanings [conjunction] Even if; even though — presents an extreme condition (real or hypothetical) that does not change the outcome, always paired with 也 in...
之前 (zhīqián) — before; prior to
之前 (zhīqián) 之前 means "before" or "prior to." It marks a point in time earlier than a specified event or action. Like 之后, it follows the reference point (a noun, verb phrase, or clause) that anchors the timeline. Meanings [adverb] Before; prior to; previously — indicates that the action took place earlier than the stated reference point. Compare 之前 vs 以前 Word Usage 之前 Requires a preceding reference point; slightly...
一定 (yīdìng) — certainly / a certain
一定 (yīdìng) Used as an adverb meaning "certainly/definitely," or as an adjective meaning "a certain (amount/degree)." Meanings [adverb] Certainly, definitely, surely. [adjective] A certain, a fixed, a particular (amount or degree). Example Sentences 你一定要好好学习。 Nǐ yīdìng yào hǎohǎo xuéxí. You must study hard (for certain). 这件事一定很重要。 Zhè jiàn shì yīdìng hěn zhòngyào. This matter is certainly very important. 学好中文需要一定的时间。 Xué hǎo zhōngwén xūyào yīdìng de shíjiān. Learning Chinese well requires...
另 (lìng) — another / other
另 (lìng) 另 means another or other, pointing to a separate, different item from what has already been mentioned. It is often followed by a measure word or noun. Compare with 另外 (furthermore), which can also connect sentences. Meanings [pronoun/adjective] Another; other; a different (one); separate. Example Sentences 这个不好，我要另一个。 Zhège bù hǎo, wǒ yào lìng yī gè. This one is not good; I want another one. 我们另找一个地方谈吧。 Wǒmen lìng zhǎo...
放下 (fàngxia) — to put down / let go
放下 (fàngxia) 放下 means to put down or set something down. It is also used figuratively to mean letting go of a burden, worry, or grudge. 放 means to release or place, and 下 indicates a downward direction. Meanings [verb] To put down; to set down (physically place something on a surface). [verb] To let go of; to stop holding onto (a feeling, worry, or attachment). Example Sentences 请把手机放下，认真听课。 Qǐng...
增加 (zēngjiā) — to increase
增加 (zēngjiā) 增加 means to increase or add to something. It describes a quantity, level, or amount becoming larger, whether gradually or deliberately. Meanings [verb] To increase; to add; to grow; to raise (a quantity). Example Sentences 这个城市的人口不断增加。 Zhège chéngshì de rénkǒu búduàn zēngjiā. The population of this city keeps increasing. 他增加了每天的练习时间。 Tā zēngjiā le měitiān de liànxí shíjiān. He increased his daily practice time. 公司决定增加工资。 Gōngsī juédìng zēngjiā gōngzī....
耐心 (nàixīn) — patient; patience
耐心 (nàixīn) 耐心 describes the ability to remain calm and composed while waiting or dealing with something slow or difficult. Meanings [adj/noun] patient; patience; the ability to endure delay or difficulty without losing composure Example Sentences 老师很耐心地给我们解释每一道题。 Lǎoshī hěn nàixīn de gěi wǒmen jiěshì měi yī dào tí. The teacher patiently explained every question to us. 做这份工作需要很大的耐心。 Zuò zhè fèn gōngzuò xūyào hěn dà de nàixīn. This job requires a...
相反 (xiāngfǎn) — opposite; contrary; on the contrary
相反 (xiāngfǎn) 相反 means "opposite" or "contrary." As an adjective it describes two things that are diametrically opposed. As an adverb (often 相反地 or as a sentence connector), it introduces a statement that is the reverse of what was just said — similar to English "on the contrary." Meanings [adjective] Opposite; contrary; reverse — describes two things that point in opposite directions. [adverb] On the contrary; instead — introduces a...
表演 (biǎoyǎn) — to perform / performance
表演 (biǎoyǎn) 表演 functions as both a verb meaning to perform and a noun meaning a performance or show. It covers all types of artistic performance including music, dance, acting, and acrobatics. Meanings [verb] To perform; to put on a show; to act. [noun] Performance; show; act; demonstration. Example Sentences 孩子们在舞台上表演了一首歌。 Háizimen zài wǔtái shang biǎoyǎn le yī shǒu gē. The children performed a song on stage. 今晚的表演非常精彩。 Jīn wǎn...
以后 (yǐhòu) — after / in the future / from now on
以后 (yǐhòu) A time reference word meaning "after" a specific point in time, or "in the future / from now on" when used without a reference. Always refers to time later than the reference point. Meanings [noun/adverb] After (a specific time), following. [noun/adverb] In the future, from now on, later. Example Sentences 下课以后，我们去喝咖啡吧。 Xià kè yǐhòu, wǒmen qù hē kāfēi ba. After class, let's go drink coffee. 以后我想住在海边。 Yǐhòu wǒ...
等 (děng) — to wait / etc.
等 (děng) 等 has two distinct but equally common uses. As a verb it means to wait for someone or something. As a sentence-final particle after a list of items it means and so on or et cetera. Meanings [verb] To wait; to wait for. [particle] Et cetera; and so on; and the like (after a list of examples). Example Sentences 请在这里等我。 Qǐng zài zhèlǐ děng wǒ. Please wait for...
适合 (shìhé) — to suit; suitable; appropriate
适合 (shìhé) 适合 describes the quality of fitting or being suited to a particular person, purpose, or situation, implying a good match between two things. Meanings [verb] to suit; to be appropriate for; to fit well [adjective] suitable; appropriate; fitting Example Sentences 这件衣服很适合你。 Zhè jiàn yīfu hěn shìhé nǐ. This piece of clothing suits you very well. 这个工作适合喜欢和人交流的人。 Zhège gōngzuò shìhé xǐhuan hé rén jiāoliú de rén. This job is...
方向 (fāngxiàng) — direction
方向 (fāngxiàng) 方向 means direction, referring to the way something points, moves, or the course one takes in life or work. Meanings [noun] direction; orientation; course Example Sentences 你知道车站在哪个方向吗？ Nǐ zhīdào chēzhàn zài nǎge fāngxiàng ma? Do you know which direction the station is in? 我在这个城市总是搞不清楚方向。 Wǒ zài zhège chéngshì zǒngshì gǎo bù qīngchǔ fāngxiàng. I can never get my sense of direction straight in this city. 他找到了自己未来的发展方向。 Tā zhǎodào...
进步 (jìnbù) — to make progress; progress; improvement
进步 (jìnbù) 进步 means to move forward and improve, whether in skill, knowledge, or character. Meanings [verb/noun] to make progress; to improve; progress; advancement; improvement Example Sentences 你的中文进步很快，继续加油！ Nǐ de Zhōngwén jìnbù hěn kuài, jìxù jiāyóu! Your Chinese is improving very quickly, keep it up! 每天练习一点，就会慢慢进步。 Měitiān liànxí yīdiǎn, jiù huì mànmàn jìnbù. Practice a little every day and you will gradually improve. 这是他这学期最大的进步。 Zhè shì tā zhè xuéqī zuìdà...
产品 (chǎnpǐn) — product / goods
产品 (chǎnpǐn) Refers to items that have been manufactured or produced, either physical goods or the output of a creative process. Meanings [noun] Product, manufactured goods. [noun] Output, result of a production process. Example Sentences 这家公司的产品质量很好。 Zhè jiā gōngsī de chǎnpǐn zhìliàng hěn hǎo. The quality of this company's products is very good. 他们正在开发一款新产品。 Tāmen zhèngzài kāifā yī kuǎn xīn chǎnpǐn. They are developing a new product. 这个产品很受消费者欢迎。 Zhège chǎnpǐn...
为了 (wèile) — in order to / for the sake of
为了 (wèile) A preposition that introduces a purpose or goal, equivalent to "in order to" or "for the sake of." Meanings [preposition] In order to, for the purpose of. [preposition] For the sake of (someone or something). Example Sentences 为了健康，他每天跑步。 Wèile jiànkāng, tā měitiān pǎobù. In order to stay healthy, he runs every day. 她为了孩子放弃了工作。 Tā wèile háizi fàngqì le gōngzuò. She gave up her job for the sake of...
失望 (shīwàng) — disappointed; to lose hope
失望 (shīwàng) 失望 describes the feeling when reality falls short of expectations, literally "to lose one's hope." Meanings [adj/verb] disappointed; to lose hope; to feel let down Example Sentences 他没有通过考试，父母很失望。 Tā méiyǒu tōngguò kǎoshì, fùmǔ hěn shīwàng. He did not pass the exam and his parents were very disappointed. 别让我失望，我相信你能做到。 Bié ràng wǒ shīwàng, wǒ xiāngxìn nǐ néng zuò dào. Don't disappoint me, I believe you can do it. 我对那部电影感到有点失望。...
鼻子 (bízi) — nose
鼻子 (bízi) 鼻子 is the everyday word for nose — the organ used for breathing and smelling. 鼻 is the main character and zi is a neutral-tone noun suffix commonly added to body part words in Chinese. 鼻 alone can appear in compound words and formal writing. Meanings [noun] Nose; the facial organ of smell and breathing. Example Sentences 他的鼻子很高，像外国人。 Tā de bízi hěn gāo, xiàng wàiguórén. He has a...
农村 (nóngcūn) — countryside / rural area
农村 (nóngcūn) The rural area or countryside, as opposed to the city (城市 chéngshì), where farming and agriculture are the main activities. Meanings [noun] Countryside, rural area, village area. [noun] The rural regions of a country (as a societal concept). Example Sentences 他出生在农村，后来搬到了城市。 Tā chūshēng zài nóngcūn, hòulái bāndào le chéngshì. He was born in the countryside and later moved to the city. 农村的空气比城市新鲜。 Nóngcūn de kōngqì bǐ chéngshì xīnxiān....
号码 (hàomǎ) — number (phone/room)
号码 (hàomǎ) 号码 refers to an identifying number such as a phone number, room number, or ticket number. Meanings [noun] number; numeral used for identification (phone, room, seat, etc.) Example Sentences 你能把你的电话号码告诉我吗？ Nǐ néng bǎ nǐ de diànhuà hàomǎ gàosù wǒ ma? Can you tell me your phone number? 我的房间号码是三零六。 Wǒ de fángjiān hàomǎ shì sān líng liù. My room number is 306. 他忘了自己的银行卡号码。 Tā wàng le zìjǐ de yínhángkǎ...
兴趣 (xìngqù) — interest
兴趣 (xìngqù) 兴趣 describes the interest or enthusiasm one feels toward an activity, subject, or person. Meanings [noun] interest; hobby; enthusiasm for something Example Sentences 他对历史很有兴趣。 Tā duì lìshǐ hěn yǒu xìngqù. He has great interest in history. 你有什么兴趣爱好？ Nǐ yǒu shénme xìngqù àihào? What interests and hobbies do you have? 孩子们对这个游戏产生了浓厚的兴趣。 Háizimen duì zhège yóuxì chǎnshēng le nónghòu de xìngqù. The children developed a strong interest in this game....
准备 (zhǔnbèi) — to prepare
准备 (zhǔnbèi) 准备 means to prepare or get ready. It is used before a noun (prepare something) or before a verb phrase (prepare to do something / plan to do something). Meanings [verb] To prepare; to get ready; to make preparations. [verb] To plan to; to intend to (followed by a verb). Example Sentences 我在准备考试。 Wǒ zài zhǔnbèi kǎoshì. I am preparing for the exam. 你准备好了吗？ Nǐ zhǔnbèi hǎo le...
消极 (xiāojí) — negative / passive
消极 (xiāojí) 消极 means negative or passive in attitude or behavior. It describes a pessimistic, unmotivated, or defeatist mindset. Its direct antonym is 积极 (jījí), which means positive or enthusiastic. 消 means to diminish or fade, and 极 means extreme or pole. Meanings [adjective] Negative; passive; pessimistic; lacking motivation or initiative. Example Sentences 他对工作的态度很消极。 Tā duì gōngzuò de tàidu hěn xiāojí. His attitude toward work is very negative. 遇到困难要积极面对，不要消极。 Yù...
解决 (jiějué) — to solve
解决 (jiějué) 解决 means to resolve a problem or difficulty completely. The action implies bringing a situation to a satisfactory conclusion, not just addressing it temporarily. Meanings [verb] To solve; to resolve; to settle; to deal with (a problem). Example Sentences 我们一起来解决这个问题。 Wǒmen yīqǐ lái jiějué zhège wèntí. Let's solve this problem together. 这个问题很快就解决了。 Zhège wèntí hěn kuài jiù jiějué le. This problem was resolved very quickly. 他想了很多办法来解决困难。 Tā xiǎng...
表现 (biǎoxiàn) — to show; performance
表现 (biǎoxiàn) 表现 refers to how someone behaves or performs, and can also mean to display or show something. Meanings [verb] to show; to display; to demonstrate [noun] performance; behavior; showing Example Sentences 这个学生在课堂上表现得很好。 Zhège xuéshēng zài kètáng shàng biǎoxiàn de hěn hǎo. This student performs very well in class. 她的表现让老师非常满意。 Tā de biǎoxiàn ràng lǎoshī fēicháng mǎnyì. Her performance made the teacher very satisfied. 他想通过努力工作来表现自己的能力。 Tā xiǎng tōngguò nǔlì...
短信 (duǎnxìn) — text message
短信 (duǎnxìn) 短信 means text message or SMS. 短 means short and 信 means message or letter. Together they describe the brief electronic messages sent between mobile phones. Meanings [noun] Text message; SMS; short message. Example Sentences 我给他发了一条短信。 Wǒ gěi tā fā le yī tiáo duǎnxìn. I sent him a text message. 他还没有回我的短信。 Tā hái méiyǒu huí wǒ de duǎnxìn. He hasn't replied to my text message yet. 你看到我发的短信了吗？ Nǐ...
复杂 (fùzá) — complicated
复杂 (fùzá) 复杂 describes something that is complex or complicated, involving many interwoven parts, factors, or relationships that make it hard to understand or deal with. Meanings [adjective] Complex; complicated; intricate. Example Sentences 这个问题很复杂，需要时间解决。 Zhège wèntí hěn fùzá, xūyào shíjiān jiějué. This problem is very complicated and requires time to solve. 情况比我想象的更复杂。 Qíngkuàng bǐ wǒ xiǎngxiàng de gèng fùzá. The situation is more complicated than I imagined. 汉字的书写规则比较复杂。 Hànzì de...
考虑 (kǎolǜ) — to consider
考虑 (kǎolǜ) 考虑 means to consider or think something over carefully. It implies deliberate reflection before making a decision, rather than a quick reaction. Meanings [verb] To consider; to think over; to take into account; to deliberate. Example Sentences 我需要考虑一下这个问题。 Wǒ xūyào kǎolǜ yīxià zhège wèntí. I need to think this problem over for a moment. 他考虑了很久才做出决定。 Tā kǎolǜ le hěn jiǔ cái zuòchū juédìng. He deliberated for a long...
说清楚 (shuō qīngchǔ) — say clearly / explain clearly
说清楚 (shuō qīngchǔ) 说清楚 is a verb-complement structure. 说 (to speak / say) is the base verb and 清楚 (clear / clearly) is the result complement, showing that the act of speaking achieves clarity. The negative form 说不清楚 means "can't explain clearly." 没说清楚 means "didn't explain clearly." Structure 说 (speak) + 清楚 (result complement: clear) = speak with the result of being clear. Other complements that can follow 说: 说完...
成为 (chéngwéi) — to become; to turn into
成为 (chéngwéi) 成为 means to become or to turn into, describing a transformation from one state, role, or identity to another. Meanings [verb] to become; to turn into (used when a subject transitions into a new identity, role, or state) Example Sentences 她努力学习，终于成为了一名医生。 Tā nǔlì xuéxí, zhōngyú chéngwéile yī míng yīshēng. She studied hard and finally became a doctor. 这座小镇成为了著名的旅游城市。 Zhè zuò xiǎozhèn chéngwéile zhùmíng de lǚyóu chéngshì. This small...
原则 (yuánzé) — principle
原则 (yuánzé) 原则 refers to a fundamental principle, rule, or standard that guides one's behavior or decisions. Meanings [noun] principle; fundamental rule; standard Example Sentences 诚实是他做人的基本原则。 Chéngshí shì tā zuòrén de jīběn yuánzé. Honesty is his basic principle in life. 我们做事必须遵守一定的原则。 Wǒmen zuòshì bìxū zūnshǒu yīdìng de yuánzé. We must follow certain principles in what we do. 这个问题在原则上没有问题。 Zhège wèntí zài yuánzé shàng méiyǒu wèntí. In principle, there is no...
可惜 (kěxī) — it's a pity; unfortunately
可惜 (kěxī) 可惜 expresses regret that something unfortunate has happened or that something good was missed, equivalent to "it's a pity" or "unfortunately." Meanings [adj] unfortunate; regrettable; it's a pity [adv] unfortunately; regrettably Example Sentences 真可惜，你没能来参加我们的聚会。 Zhēn kěxī, nǐ méi néng lái cānjiā wǒmen de jùhuì. What a pity you couldn't come to our gathering. 可惜天气不好，我们不能去爬山。 Kěxī tiānqì bù hǎo, wǒmen bù néng qù páshān. Unfortunately the weather is bad,...
脖子 (bózi) — neck
脖子 (bózi) 脖子 means neck. It refers to the part of the body that connects the head to the shoulders. The second syllable 子 is a neutral-tone suffix commonly added to body part words. Meanings [noun] Neck; the connecting part between head and shoulders. Example Sentences 他的脖子有点儿疼。 Tā de bózi yǒudiǎnr téng. His neck hurts a little. 她围着一条漂亮的围巾在脖子上。 Tā wéizhe yī tiáo piàoliang de wéijīn zài bózi shang. She has...
具体 (jùtǐ) — specific / concrete / detailed
具体 (jùtǐ) Describes something that is specific, concrete, and detailed rather than vague or abstract. Meanings [adjective] Specific, concrete, definite (not vague). [adjective] Detailed, particular, precise. Example Sentences 请说得具体一点儿。 Qǐng shuō de jùtǐ yīdiǎnr. Please be a bit more specific. 你有什么具体的计划吗？ Nǐ yǒu shénme jùtǐ de jìhuà ma? Do you have any specific plans? 老师给了我们具体的学习建议。 Lǎoshī gěi le wǒmen jùtǐ de xuéxí jiànyì. The teacher gave us specific study advice....
修 (xiū) — to repair / to fix / to trim
修 (xiū) To repair something that is broken or damaged, or to trim and adjust something to improve it. Meanings [verb] To repair, to fix, to mend. [verb] To trim, to build, to maintain (a road, building, etc.). Example Sentences 我的自行车坏了，需要修一下。 Wǒ de zìxíngchē huài le, xūyào xiū yīxià. My bicycle is broken and needs to be fixed. 师傅正在修这条路。 Shīfu zhèngzài xiū zhè tiáo lù. The worker is currently repairing...
同意 (tóngyì) — to agree
同意 (tóngyì) 同意 means to agree, consent, or approve. It expresses alignment with an opinion, plan, or request. It is the direct opposite of 反对 (to oppose). It can follow a subject directly and takes an object that is the thing agreed to. Meanings [verb] To agree; to consent; to approve. Example Sentences 我同意你的看法。 Wǒ tóngyì nǐ de kànfǎ. I agree with your view. 父母同意了他的计划。 Fùmǔ tóngyì le tā de...
糖 (táng) — sugar / candy
糖 (táng) 糖 means both sugar as an ingredient and candy or sweets as a treat. Context determines which is meant, though both meanings share the same character. Meanings [noun] Sugar (the ingredient; granulated, white, brown). [noun] Candy; sweets; a piece of sweet confectionery. Example Sentences 这个蛋糕放了太多糖。 Zhège dàngāo fàng le tài duō táng. This cake has too much sugar in it. 小孩子都喜欢吃糖。 Xiǎo háizi dōu xǐhuan chī táng. Children...
来自 (láizì) — to come from; to be from
来自 (láizì) 来自 is used to express where a person or thing originates from, whether a place, a source, or a background. Meanings [verb] to come from; to be from — indicating the origin, source, or place of provenance of a person or thing Example Sentences 他来自北京。 Tā láizì Běijīng. He comes from Beijing. 这个想法来自一本书。 Zhège xiǎngfǎ láizì yī běn shū. This idea comes from a book. 班里有很多来自不同国家的学生。 Bān lǐ...
举 (jǔ) — to lift / to raise / to cite
举 (jǔ) A verb meaning to lift, raise, or hold up something, and also to give or cite an example. Meanings [verb] To lift, to raise, to hold up. [verb] To give (an example), to cite, to name. Example Sentences 请举手回答问题。 Qǐng jǔ shǒu huídá wèntí. Please raise your hand to answer the question. 老师举了一个很好的例子。 Lǎoshī jǔ le yīgè hěn hǎo de lìzi. The teacher gave a very good example....
计划 (jìhuà) — plan
计划 (jìhuà) 计划 refers to a more formal or structured plan, often written out or thought through in advance. As a verb it means to plan. It is more systematic than 打算 (dǎsuàn), which describes personal intentions. Meanings [noun] Plan; program; schedule. [verb] To plan; to schedule. Example Sentences 我们制定了一个旅游计划。 Wǒmen zhìdìng le yīgè lǚyóu jìhuà. We drew up a travel plan. 这个项目的计划已经完成了。 Zhège xiàngmù de jìhuà yǐjīng wánchéng le....
允许 (yǔnxǔ) — to allow
允许 (yǔnxǔ) 允许 means to allow or grant permission. It is used by someone in authority (a teacher, parent, rule, or law) giving or withholding consent for an action. Meanings [verb] To allow; to permit; to give consent. Example Sentences 这里不允许吸烟。 Zhèlǐ bù yǔnxǔ xīyān. Smoking is not allowed here. 老师允许我们带词典进考场。 Lǎoshī yǔnxǔ wǒmen dài cídiǎn jìn kǎochǎng. The teacher allowed us to bring dictionaries into the exam room. 时间允许的话，我们再讨论一下。...
推 (tuī) — to push
推 (tuī) 推 means to push. It is the physical act of pushing something or someone away from you. It also appears in extended meanings such as to promote, to recommend, or to postpone. The opposite physical action is 拉 (to pull). Remembering this pair is easy: 推 pushes away, 拉 pulls toward you. Many doors in China are labeled 推 (push) or 拉 (pull), so learning both is immediately...
有意思 (yǒu yìsi) — interesting; fun
有意思 (yǒu yìsi) 有意思 describes something that is interesting, fun, amusing, or thought-provoking enough to hold one's attention. Meanings [adjective] interesting; engaging; worth paying attention to [adjective] fun; amusing; entertaining Example Sentences 这本书非常有意思，我一口气读完了。 Zhè běn shū fēicháng yǒu yìsi, wǒ yī kǒu qì dú wán le. This book is extremely interesting; I read it all in one go. 今天的课很有意思，老师讲了很多故事。 Jīntiān de kè hěn yǒu yìsi, lǎoshī jiǎng le hěn duō...
借 (jiè) — to borrow / to lend
借 (jiè) A verb that means both "to borrow" (from someone) and "to lend" (to someone), depending on context. Direction is indicated by the surrounding words. Meanings [verb] To borrow (take temporarily from someone). [verb] To lend (give temporarily to someone). Example Sentences 我可以借一下你的笔吗？ Wǒ kěyǐ jiè yīxià nǐ de bǐ ma? May I borrow your pen for a moment? 他向图书馆借了几本书。 Tā xiàng túshūguǎn jiè le jǐ běn shū. He...
打算 (dǎsuàn) — to plan
打算 (dǎsuàn) 打算 expresses a personal plan or intention. It is followed directly by a verb phrase stating what you intend to do, and it describes plans that are not yet finalized. Meanings [verb] To plan; to intend; to have in mind to do. [noun] A plan; an intention. Example Sentences 你打算去哪儿度假？ Nǐ dǎsuàn qù nǎr dùjià? Where do you plan to go on vacation? 我打算明年去中国留学。 Wǒ dǎsuàn míngnián qù...
面包 (miànbāo) — bread
面包 (miànbāo) 面包 is the word for bread — the baked product made from flour and eaten widely in Western-style breakfasts, cafes, and bakeries across China. 面 means "flour / noodles" and 包 means "bundle / wrapped thing." The measure word for a loaf is 条 (tiáo) and for a slice or individual roll it is 片 (piàn) or 个 (gè). Meanings [noun] Bread; any baked flour-based bread product. Example...
反而 (fǎn'ér) — on the contrary; instead; unexpectedly
反而 (fǎn'ér) 反而 is an adverb that introduces a result contradicting what was expected, intended, or previously described, meaning "on the contrary," "instead," or "unexpectedly." Meanings [adverb] on the contrary; instead; unexpectedly (used when the actual result is the opposite of, or differs significantly from, the expected or desired outcome) Usage Note 反而 is placed before the verb or adjective in the clause describing the unexpected result. It typically follows...
干净 (gānjìng) — clean; neat
干净 (gānjìng) 干净 describes something that is free from dirt, stains, or clutter, and can apply to both physical objects and abstract things like speech or actions. Meanings [adj] clean; free from dirt or impurities [adj] neat; tidy; uncluttered Example Sentences 这个房间非常干净。 Zhège fángjiān fēicháng gānjìng. This room is very clean. 她每天都把桌子擦干净。 Tā měitiān dōu bǎ zhuōzi cā gānjìng. She wipes the table clean every day. 请把手洗干净再吃饭。 Qǐng bǎ shǒu...
得到 (dédào) — to get; to obtain; to receive
得到 (dédào) 得到 is a resultative verb meaning "to get" or "to obtain." The 到 suffix indicates successful completion — the getting actually happened. It is used for obtaining tangible objects, intangible rewards, information, and abstract things like support or recognition. Meanings [verb] To get; to obtain; to receive; to achieve — successfully acquire something concrete or abstract. Example Sentences 他终于得到了他梦寐以求的工作。 Tā zhōngyú dédào le tā mèngmèiyǐqiú de gōngzuò. He...
楼 (lóu) — building; floor (storey)
楼 (lóu) 楼 refers to a multi-storey building, and also to individual floors or storeys within a building. Meanings [noun] building (multi-storey); storey; floor [noun] upstairs Example Sentences 我住在五楼。 Wǒ zhù zài wǔ lóu. I live on the fifth floor. 这栋楼一共有二十层。 Zhè dòng lóu yīgòng yǒu èrshí céng. This building has twenty floors in total. 图书馆在教学楼的三楼。 Túshūguǎn zài jiàoxuélóu de sān lóu. The library is on the third floor of...
护士 (hùshi) — nurse
护士 (hùshi) 护士 means nurse. It refers to a medical professional who cares for patients in a hospital or clinic. 护 means to protect or care for, and 士 refers to a skilled person or professional. Nurses in Chinese hospitals are an essential part of the healthcare team. They monitor patients, administer medicine, take temperature readings, and provide daily care. The profession is respected, and in Chinese culture a 护士...
特点 (tèdiǎn) — characteristic; feature
特点 (tèdiǎn) 特点 refers to the distinctive qualities or features that set something or someone apart from others. Meanings [noun] characteristic; feature; distinctive quality; trait Example Sentences 这种水果的特点是又甜又多汁。 Zhè zhǒng shuǐguǒ de tèdiǎn shì yòu tián yòu duō zhī. The characteristic of this fruit is that it is both sweet and juicy. 每个地方都有自己的文化特点。 Měi gè dìfāng dōu yǒu zìjǐ de wénhuà tèdiǎn. Every place has its own cultural characteristics. 你能介绍一下这个产品的特点吗？...
油 (yóu) — oil
油 (yóu) 油 means oil. It covers cooking oil used in the kitchen, fuel for vehicles, and any oily or greasy substance. It has the water radical (氵) on the left because oil is a liquid. 加油 (to add oil) is also a very common cheer meaning "Go!" or "Keep it up!" Meanings [noun] Oil; cooking oil, fuel, or any greasy liquid substance. [adjective] Oily; greasy. Example Sentences 炒菜的时候要先放油。 Chǎocài...
幸福 (xìngfú) — happiness; happy; blessed
幸福 (xìngfú) 幸福 expresses a deep, lasting sense of well-being and contentment, going beyond momentary happiness to describe a fulfilled life. Meanings [noun/adj] happiness; a happy and blessed state; deep contentment; feeling fortunate and fulfilled Example Sentences 和家人在一起，我感到很幸福。 Hé jiārén zài yīqǐ, wǒ gǎndào hěn xìngfú. Being together with family, I feel very happy and blessed. 幸福不是靠钱买来的。 Xìngfú bù shì kào qián mǎi lái de. Happiness cannot be bought with...
影响 (yǐngxiǎng) — to influence
影响 (yǐngxiǎng) 影响 means to influence or affect. It describes one thing having an effect on another, positively or negatively. As a noun it refers to the influence or impact itself. Meanings [verb] To influence; to affect; to impact. [noun] An influence; an effect; an impact. Example Sentences 天气影响了我们的计划。 Tiānqì yǐngxiǎng le wǒmen de jìhuà. The weather affected our plans. 他对我有很大的影响。 Tā duì wǒ yǒu hěn dà de yǐngxiǎng. He...
树 (shù) — tree
树 (shù) 树 means tree. It is one of the most basic nature words in Chinese. It also appears in compounds related to planting or establishing something, reflecting the idea that a tree is planted and grows over time. Meanings [noun] Tree; a tall woody plant. [verb] To plant; to establish; to set up (in formal or written use). Example Sentences 公园里有很多大树。 Gōngyuán lǐ yǒu hěn duō dà shù. There...
出发 (chūfā) — to set off
出发 (chūfā) 出发 means to set off or depart from a location, usually the beginning of a trip or journey. It focuses on the moment of departure. Meanings [verb] To set off; to depart; to start (a journey). Example Sentences 我们明天早上八点出发。 Wǒmen míngtiān zǎoshang bā diǎn chūfā. We set off at eight o'clock tomorrow morning. 大家都准备好了，可以出发了。 Dàjiā dōu zhǔnbèi hǎo le, kěyǐ chūfā le. Everyone is ready; we can set...
研究 (yánjiū) — to research; research
研究 (yánjiū) 研究 means to study something in depth or systematically, and also functions as a noun meaning "research." Meanings [verb] to research; to study; to investigate [noun] research; study; investigation Example Sentences 他正在研究中国古代历史。 Tā zhèngzài yánjiū Zhōngguó gǔdài lìshǐ. He is currently researching ancient Chinese history. 这个研究成果对医学很有帮助。 Zhège yánjiū chéngguǒ duì yīxué hěn yǒu bāngzhù. This research result is very helpful for medicine. 我们需要认真研究这个问题。 Wǒmen xūyào rènzhēn yánjiū zhège...
介绍 (jièshào) — to introduce / introduction
介绍 (jièshào) To introduce a person to others or to present information about something; also used as a noun meaning "introduction." Meanings [verb] To introduce (a person or topic). [noun] Introduction, presentation, description. Example Sentences 请介绍一下你自己。 Qǐng jièshào yīxià nǐ zìjǐ. Please introduce yourself. 他向大家介绍了这个新项目。 Tā xiàng dàjiā jièshào le zhège xīn xiàngmù. He introduced the new project to everyone. 这本书的介绍很有趣。 Zhè běn shū de jièshào hěn yǒuqù. The introduction...
解释 (jiěshì) — to explain
解释 (jiěshì) 解释 means to explain or interpret. It is used when clarifying something complex, giving reasons for behavior, or providing a translation of meaning. It also functions as a noun meaning an explanation. Meanings [verb] To explain; to clarify; to interpret; to give reasons. [noun] Explanation; interpretation; clarification. Example Sentences 请你解释一下这句话的意思。 Qǐng nǐ jiěshì yīxià zhè jù huà de yìsi. Please explain the meaning of this sentence briefly. 他解释了为什么迟到了。...
拿出去 (ná chūqu) — take out (away)
拿出去 (ná chūqu) 拿出去 is a verb with a compound directional complement. 拿 (to take / hold) is the base verb; 出去 (go out / exit, away from the speaker) shows that the object moves from inside to outside and away from the current location. Compare 拿出来 (take out here, toward the speaker). Structure 拿 (take / hold) + 出去 (directional complement: out and away) = take something out (away...
客人 (kèrén) — guest
客人 (kèrén) 客人 means guest or visitor. It refers to anyone who comes to your home as an invited visitor or a customer arriving at a business. Chinese culture places great importance on hospitality toward 客人. Meanings [noun] Guest; visitor; customer. Example Sentences 我们家今天有客人来。 Wǒmen jiā jīntiān yǒu kèrén lái. We have guests coming to our home today. 要好好招待客人。 Yào hǎohǎo zhāodài kèrén. We should take good care of our...
邮局 (yóujú) — post office
邮局 (yóujú) 邮局 is the post office, the place where you send letters, mail packages, and access postal services. 邮 relates to mail and postal matters, while 局 refers to a bureau or office. The word is used for both the institution and the physical building. Meanings [noun] Post office; postal office. Example Sentences 我需要去邮局寄一封信。 Wǒ xūyào qù yóujú jì yī fēng xìn. I need to go to the post...
语法 (yǔfǎ) — grammar
语法 (yǔfǎ) 语法 refers to the system of grammar rules that govern how words are arranged and used in a language. Meanings [noun] grammar; the rules of a language Example Sentences 学中文的语法对外国人来说比较难。 Xué Zhōngwén de yǔfǎ duì wàiguórén lái shuō bǐjiào nán. Learning Chinese grammar is relatively difficult for foreigners. 你的语法很好，说话很自然。 Nǐ de yǔfǎ hěn hǎo, shuōhuà hěn zìrán. Your grammar is very good and your speech sounds very natural....
差 (chā / chà) — difference / poor
差 (chā / chà) 差 has two important readings at this level. As chā it is a noun meaning difference or gap (as in 差距, gap, or 差别, difference). As chà it is an adjective meaning poor quality, not good enough, or lacking. Context and collocations determine which reading to use. Meanings [noun, chā] Difference; gap; discrepancy. [adjective, chà] Poor; bad; not up to standard; lacking. Example Sentences 两个数之间的差是多少？ Liǎng...
结婚 (jiéhūn) — to marry; to get married
结婚 (jiéhūn) 结婚 means to get married and describes the act of two people formally becoming a married couple. Meanings [verb] to marry; to get married — to formally enter into the institution of marriage Example Sentences 他们去年结婚了。 Tāmen qùnián jiéhūn le. They got married last year. 你打算什么时候结婚？ Nǐ dǎsuàn shénme shíhou jiéhūn? When do you plan to get married? 结婚是人生中的大事。 Jiéhūn shì rénshēng zhōng de dàshì. Getting married is...
承认 (chéngrèn) — to admit; to acknowledge
承认 (chéngrèn) 承认 means to admit or acknowledge something, whether a fact, a mistake, or another person's status. Meanings [verb] to admit; to acknowledge; to recognize; to confess Example Sentences 他终于承认了自己的错误。 Tā zhōngyú chéngrèn le zìjǐ de cuòwù. He finally admitted his mistake. 你要勇敢地承认问题才能解决它。 Nǐ yào yǒnggǎn de chéngrèn wèntí cái néng jiějué tā. You must bravely acknowledge the problem before you can solve it. 这个国家正式承认了他们的政府。 Zhège guójiā zhèngshì chéngrèn...
记住 (jì zhù) — to remember / memorize
记住 (jì zhù) 记住 is a verb meaning to remember or memorize something firmly. The complement 住 indicates that the result of the action 记 (to record/remember) is secured — the information is fixed in memory and will not slip away. Meanings [verb] To remember; to keep in mind; to memorize successfully. [verb] To make sure to remember; to bear in mind (often used as an instruction). Example Sentences 你一定要记住这个单词。...
锻炼 (duànliàn) — to exercise; to train
锻炼 (duànliàn) 锻炼 means to exercise or train, whether for physical fitness or to develop a skill or quality. Meanings [verb] to exercise; to work out; to train; to toughen Example Sentences 他每天早上去公园锻炼身体。 Tā měitiān zǎoshang qù gōngyuán duànliàn shēntǐ. He goes to the park to exercise every morning. 锻炼对身体健康非常重要。 Duànliàn duì shēntǐ jiànkāng fēicháng zhòngyào. Exercise is very important for physical health. 这次实习让我锻炼了很多能力。 Zhè cì shíxí ràng wǒ duànliàn...
联系 (liánxì) — to contact / connection
联系 (liánxì) 联系 means both to contact someone (verb) and a connection or link between things (noun). It is one of the most versatile words for describing communication and relationships. Meanings [verb] To contact; to get in touch with; to reach out to. [noun] Connection; link; relationship; contact. Example Sentences 请你联系我们的客服部门。 Qǐng nǐ liánxì wǒmen de kèfú bùmén. Please contact our customer service department. 我们保持联系吧。 Wǒmen bǎochí liánxì ba. Let's...
鼓励 (gǔlì) — to encourage; encouragement
鼓励 (gǔlì) 鼓励 means to give someone the confidence and motivation to do something or to keep trying. Meanings [verb/noun] to encourage; to inspire; encouragement; moral support Example Sentences 老师一直鼓励我们努力学习。 Lǎoshī yīzhí gǔlì wǒmen nǔlì xuéxí. The teacher has always encouraged us to study hard. 他的话给了我很大的鼓励。 Tā de huà gěi le wǒ hěndà de gǔlì. His words gave me great encouragement. 在困难时，朋友的鼓励非常重要。 Zài kùnnán shí, péngyou de gǔlì fēicháng zhòngyào....
是…的 (shì...de) — emphasis construction
是…的 (shì...de) 是…的 is an emphasis construction used when the action itself is already known or assumed, and the speaker wants to highlight a specific detail about it: when it happened, where, how, or by whom. 是 can often be omitted in speech, but 的 at the end is required. Structure Subject + 是 + [Emphasized Element] + Verb (+ Object) + 的 The emphasized element (time, place, manner, agent)...
送 (sòng) — to give / send / see off
送 (sòng) 送 covers three related actions: giving something as a gift, delivering or sending something, and accompanying someone to the door or to their destination. Meanings [verb] To give as a gift; to present. [verb] To deliver; to send. [verb] To see someone off; to accompany to the door or station. Example Sentences 我送你一本书作为礼物。 Wǒ sòng nǐ yī běn shū zuòwéi lǐwù. I'll give you a book as a...
认识 (rènshi) — to know (a person), to recognize
认识 (rènshi) 认识 expresses familiarity with a person or the ability to recognize something. It differs from 知道 (zhīdào), which means "to know a fact." 认识 implies direct personal acquaintance or perceptual recognition. Meanings [verb] To know (a person); to be acquainted with. [verb] To recognize; to identify (a character, face, or object). Example Sentences 你认识那个人吗？ Nǐ rènshi nàge rén ma? Do you know that person? 我们是在大学认识的。 Wǒmen shì zài...
另外 (lìngwài) — in addition
另外 (lìngwài) 另外 means in addition or besides — it introduces a supplementary point or an additional item that is separate from what was just mentioned. It can also mean "another" or "other" as a determiner. Meanings [adverb] In addition; besides; furthermore; also. [adjective] Another; other; separate. Example Sentences 另外，我还想说一件事。 Lìngwài, wǒ hái xiǎng shuō yī jiàn shì. In addition, I'd also like to say one more thing. 这件衣服太贵，我找另外一件。 Zhè...
消息 (xiāoxi) — news; information
消息 (xiāoxi) 消息 refers to a piece of news or information, often about something that has just happened or been learned. Meanings [noun] news; information; message; word (about something) Example Sentences 你听说了吗？有个好消息！ Nǐ tīngshuō le ma? Yǒu gè hǎo xiāoxi! Did you hear? There is good news! 这条消息传得很快，大家都知道了。 Zhè tiáo xiāoxi chuán de hěn kuài, dàjiā dōu zhīdào le. This piece of news spread very quickly and everyone knows now....
既然 (jìrán) — since
既然 (jìrán) 既然 means "since" or "now that" — it accepts an established fact or situation as a premise, then draws a logical or practical conclusion. It is paired with 就 (jiù) or 那就 (nà jiù) in the second clause. Meanings [conjunction] Since; now that; given that; seeing that (accepting a fact as a premise). Example Sentences 既然来了，就多待几天吧。 Jìrán lái le, jiù duō dāi jǐ tiān ba. Since you're already...
听懂 (tīngdǒng) — to understand by hearing
听懂 (tīngdǒng) 听懂 is a resultative verb compound: 听 (to listen/hear) plus the result complement 懂 (to understand). It means to successfully understand what one hears. The negative 听不懂 means "cannot understand" what is said. Meanings [verb] To understand by hearing; to catch and comprehend what is said. Example Sentences 你听懂我说的话了吗？ Nǐ tīngdǒng wǒ shuō de huà le ma? Did you understand what I said? 他说话太快，我听不懂。 Tā shuōhuà tài kuài,...
活动 (huódòng) — activity; event
活动 (huódòng) 活动 refers to an organized activity or event, and as a verb it means to move around or exercise. Meanings [noun] activity; event; exercise [verb] to move about; to exercise; to do physical activity Example Sentences 学校今天下午有一个活动。 Xuéxiào jīntiān xiàwǔ yǒu yī gè huódòng. The school has an event this afternoon. 多做户外活动对身体有好处。 Duō zuò hùwài huódòng duì shēntǐ yǒu hǎochù. Doing more outdoor activities is good for your...
留 (liú) — to stay / to leave behind
留 (liú) 留 has two closely related core meanings: to stay or remain in a place, and to leave something behind or keep something. Context determines which sense is intended. Meanings [verb] To stay; to remain; to linger. [verb] To leave behind; to keep; to retain. [verb] To leave (a message, note, or trace). Example Sentences 请留下来吃饭吧。 Qǐng liú xialai chīfàn ba. Please stay and have dinner. 她给我留了一张纸条。 Tā gěi...
反对 (fǎnduì) — to oppose
反对 (fǎnduì) 反对 means to oppose, object to, or be against something. It is the direct opposite of 同意 (to agree). It is used for disagreement with plans, ideas, decisions, or opinions. Meanings [verb] To oppose; to object to; to be against. Example Sentences 我反对这个计划。 Wǒ fǎnduì zhège jìhuà. I oppose this plan. 她的父母反对她出国留学。 Tā de fùmǔ fǎnduì tā chū guó liúxué. Her parents oppose her studying abroad. 你有没有人反对？ Nǐ...
觉得 (juéde) — to feel; to think
觉得 (juéde) 觉得 expresses a subjective feeling, opinion, or impression about something, equivalent to "feel that" or "think that" in English. Meanings [verb] to feel (that); to think (that); to find something to be a certain way Example Sentences 我觉得这道题太难了。 Wǒ juéde zhè dào tí tài nán le. I think this question is too difficult. 你觉得这家餐厅怎么样？ Nǐ juéde zhè jiā cāntīng zěnmeyàng? What do you think of this restaurant? 她觉得有点累，想休息一下。...
更加 (gèngjiā) — even more; still more; all the more
更加 (gèngjiā) 更加 is an adverb meaning "even more" or "all the more," used when a quality increases beyond a level that has already been established or mentioned. Meanings [adverb] even more; still more; all the more (used to indicate that a degree becomes higher or stronger than a previously mentioned or implied level) Usage Note 更加 is placed before an adjective or verb. It requires a context or contrast...
特别 (tèbié) — special / especially
特别 (tèbié) 特别 functions as both an adjective meaning special or particular, and an adverb meaning especially or particularly. It emphasizes something that stands out from the ordinary. Meanings [adjective] Special; particular; unusual; extraordinary. [adverb] Especially; particularly; very much. Example Sentences 今天的晚会非常特别。 Jīntiān de wǎnhuì fēicháng tèbié. Tonight's party is very special. 她特别喜欢吃辣的食物。 Tā tèbié xǐhuan chī là de shíwù. She especially likes eating spicy food. 这件事有什么特别的地方吗？ Zhè jiàn shì...
胳膊 (gēbo) — arm
胳膊 (gēbo) 胳膊 means arm. It refers to the full arm from shoulder to wrist. Note the pronunciation: in everyday speech 胳膊 is often pronounced gēbo with a neutral tone on the second syllable. Meanings [noun] Arm (from shoulder to wrist). Example Sentences 他的胳膊受伤了。 Tā de gēbo shòushāng le. His arm is injured. 请举起你的胳膊。 Qǐng jǔqǐ nǐ de gēbo. Please raise your arm. 她挽着他的胳膊走进了餐厅。 Tā wǎnzhe tā de gēbo zǒu...
假日 (jiàrì) — holiday / day off
假日 (jiàrì) A day that is designated as a holiday or a day free from work or school, either officially or personally. Meanings [noun] Holiday, day off, non-working day. [noun] Public holiday, festival day. Example Sentences 今天是假日，商店关门了。 Jīntiān shì jiàrì, shāngdiàn guānmén le. Today is a holiday; the stores are closed. 假日里我喜欢去爬山。 Jiàrì lǐ wǒ xǐhuān qù pá shān. On holidays, I like to go hiking. 春节是中国最重要的假日。 Chūnjié shì Zhōngguó...
优点 (yōudiǎn) — advantage / strong point / merit
优点 (yōudiǎn) Refers to a positive quality, strength, or merit of a person or object, as opposed to 缺点 (quēdiǎn, shortcoming). Meanings [noun] Advantage, strong point, merit. [noun] Virtue, positive quality (of a person). Example Sentences 这种方法的优点是简单易学。 Zhè zhǒng fāngfǎ de yōudiǎn shì jiǎndān yì xué. The advantage of this method is that it is simple and easy to learn. 她的优点是认真负责。 Tā de yōudiǎn shì rènzhēn fùzé. Her strong point...
期待 (qīdài) — to look forward to; to expect
期待 (qīdài) 期待 expresses the feeling of eagerly waiting and hoping for something to happen. Meanings [verb/noun] to look forward to; to expect with hope; eager anticipation Example Sentences 我非常期待这次旅行。 Wǒ fēicháng qīdài zhè cì lǚxíng. I am really looking forward to this trip. 大家都在期待他的新专辑。 Dàjiā dōu zài qīdài tā de xīn zhuānjí. Everyone is looking forward to his new album. 我期待着和你再次见面。 Wǒ qīdài zhe hé nǐ zàicì jiànmiàn. I...
事故 (shìgù) — accident / incident
事故 (shìgù) Refers to an unintended, harmful incident, most commonly a traffic accident or workplace accident. Meanings [noun] Accident, incident (usually involving injury or damage). [noun] Mishap, unforeseen harmful event. Example Sentences 路上发生了一起交通事故。 Lù shàng fāshēng le yī qǐ jiāotōng shìgù. A traffic accident occurred on the road. 工厂里发生了安全事故。 Gōngchǎng lǐ fāshēng le ānquán shìgù. A safety accident occurred in the factory. 为了防止事故，我们要小心驾驶。 Wèile fángzhǐ shìgù, wǒmen yào xiǎoxīn jiàshǐ....
操场 (cāochǎng) — playground / sports ground
操场 (cāochǎng) 操场 refers to a playground, sports field, or schoolyard, typically an open outdoor area where students exercise, play sports, or do morning exercises. 操 relates to exercise or drill, and 场 means a field or open space. In Chinese schools, the 操场 is central to student life. Morning exercises (早操) are held there each day, and it is where students spend their breaks running, playing basketball, or doing...
担心 (dānxīn) — to worry; worried
担心 (dānxīn) 担心 means to worry or feel anxious about someone or something. Meanings [verb] to worry; to be concerned about [adjective] worried; anxious Example Sentences 妈妈总是担心我的健康。 Māma zǒngshì dānxīn wǒ de jiànkāng. My mom always worries about my health. 不用担心，一切都会好起来的。 Búyòng dānxīn, yīqiē dōu huì hǎo qǐlái de. Don't worry; everything will be fine. 他担心考试会不及格。 Tā dānxīn kǎoshì huì bù jígé. He is worried that he will fail the...
经历 (jīnglì) — experience; to experience
经历 (jīnglì) 经历 refers to lived experience or the act of going through something personally, emphasizing the process rather than just the knowledge gained. Meanings [noun] experience; personal history; what one has been through [verb] to experience; to go through; to live through Example Sentences 他有丰富的工作经历。 Tā yǒu fēngfù de gōngzuò jīnglì. He has rich work experience. 这次旅行是我一生中最难忘的经历。 Zhè cì lǚxíng shì wǒ yīshēng zhōng zuì nánwàng de jīnglì. This...
难过 (nánguò) — sad; unhappy; to feel bad
难过 (nánguò) 难过 expresses the feeling of sadness, distress, or emotional discomfort, and can also describe physical discomfort. Meanings [adj] sad; unhappy; to feel bad; distressed Example Sentences 他离开的时候，我感到很难过。 Tā líkāi de shíhou, wǒ gǎndào hěn nánguò. When he left, I felt very sad. 看到别人受苦，她心里难过极了。 Kàn dào biérén shòukǔ, tā xīnlǐ nánguò jí le. Seeing others suffer, she felt extremely sad inside. 不要难过，每件事都会过去的。 Bùyào nánguò, měi jiàn shì dōu huì...
仔细 (zǐxì) — careful; meticulous; attentive
仔细 (zǐxì) 仔细 describes paying close and careful attention to something so as not to make mistakes or miss details. Meanings [adj/adv] careful; meticulous; attentive; thorough Example Sentences 做题之前要仔细阅读题目。 Zuò tí zhīqián yào zǐxì yuèdú tímù. Read the questions carefully before answering them. 他仔细地检查了每一个细节。 Tā zǐxì de jiǎnchá le měi yī gè xìjié. He carefully examined every detail. 请仔细听，我只说一遍。 Qǐng zǐxì tīng, wǒ zhǐ shuō yī biàn. Please listen carefully;...
通知 (tōngzhī) — to notify
通知 (tōngzhī) 通知 means to inform or notify someone about something, especially an official or important matter. As a noun it refers to a notice, announcement, or circular. Meanings [verb] To notify; to inform; to let know. [noun] A notice; an announcement; a notification. Example Sentences 老师通知我们明天考试。 Lǎoshī tōngzhī wǒmen míngtiān kǎoshì. The teacher notified us that there is an exam tomorrow. 请把这个通知发给所有人。 Qǐng bǎ zhège tōngzhī fāgěi suǒyǒu rén....
完全 (wánquán) — completely; entirely; total; perfect
完全 (wánquán) 完全 is used to indicate that something is total, absolute, or without exception, functioning most often as an adverb. Meanings [adverb] completely; entirely — to an absolute or total degree, leaving nothing out [adjective] total; perfect; complete — having all necessary parts or qualities Example Sentences 我完全同意你的看法。 Wǒ wánquán tóngyì nǐ de kànfǎ. I completely agree with your view. 这件事完全是误会。 Zhè jiàn shì wánquán shì wùhuì. This matter...
季节 (jìjié) — season
季节 (jìjié) 季节 means season, referring to one of the four seasons: spring (春天), summer (夏天), autumn (秋天), and winter (冬天). It is used to talk about weather, nature cycles, and activities that belong to a particular time of year. Meanings [noun] Season (one of the four seasons of the year). Example Sentences 你最喜欢哪个季节？ Nǐ zuì xǐhuān nǎ gè jìjié? Which season do you like the most? 秋天是我最喜欢的季节。 Qiūtiān shì...
知识 (zhīshi) — knowledge
知识 (zhīshi) 知识 refers to knowledge in general, including facts, skills, and understanding gained through education, reading, or experience. Meanings [noun] knowledge; information and understanding acquired through learning or experience Example Sentences 读书可以增加我们的知识。 Dúshū kěyǐ zēngjiā wǒmen de zhīshi. Reading books can increase our knowledge. 她有丰富的医学知识。 Tā yǒu fēngfù de yīxué zhīshi. She has a wealth of medical knowledge. 学校的目的是传授知识和技能。 Xuéxiào de mùdì shì chuánshòu zhīshi hé jìnéng. The purpose...
困 (kùn) — sleepy; drowsy
困 (kùn) 困 describes the feeling of drowsiness and the need to sleep, especially during the day. Meanings [adj] sleepy; drowsy; tired and needing sleep Example Sentences 我昨晚没睡好，今天很困。 Wǒ zuówǎn méi shuì hǎo, jīntiān hěn kùn. I didn't sleep well last night and I'm very sleepy today. 下午两点是最容易困的时候。 Xiàwǔ liǎng diǎn shì zuì róngyì kùn de shíhou. Two in the afternoon is when it's easiest to feel sleepy. 他困得眼睛都睁不开了。 Tā...
菜单 (càidān) — menu
菜单 (càidān) 菜单 means menu. It is the list of dishes and drinks available at a restaurant. 菜 means dish and 单 means a list or slip of paper. Meanings [noun] Menu; bill of fare. Example Sentences 请给我看看菜单。 Qǐng gěi wǒ kànkan càidān. Please let me see the menu. 服务员，这里的菜单有英文版吗？ Fúwùyuán, zhèlǐ de càidān yǒu yīngwén bǎn ma? Waiter, does the menu here have an English version? 他看了半天菜单，还不知道点什么。 Tā kàn...
气氛 (qìfēn) — atmosphere; ambiance
气氛 (qìfēn) 气氛 refers to the overall mood, atmosphere, or feeling of a place, event, or social situation. Meanings [noun] atmosphere; ambiance; mood; vibe Example Sentences 今晚的聚会气氛很热闹。 Jīn wǎn de jùhuì qìfēn hěn rènào. The atmosphere at tonight's gathering is very lively. 教室里的学习气氛非常好。 Jiàoshì lǐ de xuéxí qìfēn fēicháng hǎo. The study atmosphere in the classroom is very good. 这家咖啡厅的气氛很轻松舒适。 Zhè jiā kāfēitīng de qìfēn hěn qīngsōng shūshì. The atmosphere...
打扫 (dǎsǎo) — to clean / to sweep
打扫 (dǎsǎo) 打扫 means to clean up or sweep, typically referring to cleaning a room, floor, or indoor space. It is often followed by a location as the object. The similar word 扫 (sǎo) alone can mean to sweep, but 打扫 is more commonly used for general cleaning. Meanings [verb] To clean; to sweep; to tidy up (a room or space). Example Sentences 我每周末打扫房间。 Wǒ měi zhōumò dǎsǎo fángjiān. I...
流利 (liúlì) — fluent
流利 (liúlì) 流利 describes smooth, unimpeded production of language — speech or writing that flows without hesitation or errors. It is the standard term for "fluent" in the context of language learning. Meanings [adjective] Fluent; smooth; flowing; without hesitation. Example Sentences 她的英语说得非常流利。 Tā de Yīngyǔ shuō de fēicháng liúlì. She speaks English extremely fluently. 我希望有一天可以流利地说中文。 Wǒ xīwàng yǒu yītiān kěyǐ liúlì de shuō Zhōngwén. I hope one day I can...
精彩 (jīngcǎi) — wonderful
精彩 (jīngcǎi) 精彩 describes something that is wonderful, brilliant, or spectacular — typically a performance, speech, film, or activity that stands out for its excellence and engages the audience fully. Meanings [adjective] Wonderful; brilliant; splendid; exciting; superb. Example Sentences 这部电影非常精彩，值得一看。 Zhè bù diànyǐng fēicháng jīngcǎi, zhídé yī kàn. This film is wonderful and worth watching. 他的演讲很精彩，大家都鼓掌了。 Tā de yǎnjiǎng hěn jīngcǎi, dàjiā dōu gǔzhǎng le. His speech was brilliant and...
头疼 (tóuténg) — headache / troublesome
头疼 (tóuténg) 头疼 literally means the head hurts. It is used both literally (to have a headache) and figuratively (to find something troublesome or annoying). It is also written 头痛 (tóutòng) with the same meaning. Meanings [verb] To have a headache; for one's head to hurt. [adjective] Troublesome; annoying; a headache (figurative). Example Sentences 我今天头疼，不想出门。 Wǒ jīntiān tóuténg, bù xiǎng chūmén. I have a headache today and do not want...
走过来 (zǒu guòlái) — walk over here
走过来 (zǒu guòlái) 走过来 is a verb with a compound directional complement. 走 (to walk) is the base verb; 过来 (come over / toward the speaker) is the directional complement indicating movement toward the person speaking. Contrast with 走过去 (walk over there, away from the speaker). Structure 走 (walk) + 过来 (directional complement: come this way) = walk toward the speaker. Other base verbs with 过来: 跑过来 (run over here),...
变 (biàn) — to change
变 (biàn) 变 means to change or become something different. It describes a transformation in state, appearance, or quality. It is often followed by an adjective describing the new state. Meanings [verb] To change; to become; to transform. Example Sentences 天气突然变冷了。 Tiānqì tūrán biàn lěng le. The weather suddenly became cold. 他变了很多，我都认不出来了。 Tā biàn le hěn duō, wǒ dōu rèn bù chūlái le. He has changed so much I almost...
写错 (xiě cuò) — to write incorrectly / to make a writing mistake
写错 (xiě cuò) A verb-result compound where 写 (to write) + 错 (wrong/mistaken) means to write something incorrectly. Meanings [verb + complement] To write incorrectly, to make a mistake in writing. Example Sentences 我把这个字写错了。 Wǒ bǎ zhège zì xiě cuò le. I wrote this character incorrectly. 你的名字写错了，应该是这样写。 Nǐ de míngzì xiě cuò le, yīnggāi shì zhèyàng xiě. Your name is written incorrectly; it should be written this way. 考试的时候，我写错了几道题。 Kǎoshì...
目标 (mùbiāo) — goal; target
目标 (mùbiāo) 目标 refers to a goal, target, or objective that one aims to achieve, whether in studies, work, or life. Meanings [noun] goal; objective; aim; target Example Sentences 我的目标是在一年内学会中文。 Wǒ de mùbiāo shì zài yī nián nèi xuéhuì Zhōngwén. My goal is to learn Chinese within one year. 你有没有明确的人生目标？ Nǐ yǒu méiyǒu míngquè de rénshēng mùbiāo? Do you have a clear life goal? 只要有目标，就有前进的方向。 Zhǐyào yǒu mùbiāo, jiù yǒu...
关系 (guānxi) — relationship / connection / to matter
关系 (guānxi) Refers to the connection or relationship between people or things. Appears in the key phrases 有关系 (to be related/to matter) and 没关系 (it doesn't matter / no problem). Meanings [noun] Relationship, connection, link. [noun/verb phrase] 没关系 — doesn't matter, no problem; 有关系 — related, relevant. Example Sentences 他们两个人的关系很好。 Tāmen liǎng gè rén de guānxi hěn hǎo. The relationship between the two of them is very good. 这件事跟我没有关系。 Zhè...
礼物 (lǐwù) — gift
礼物 (lǐwù) 礼物 is the standard word for a gift or present — something given to someone as a gesture of affection, celebration, or gratitude. Meanings [noun] Gift; present. Example Sentences 我给她买了一件生日礼物。 Wǒ gěi tā mǎi le yī jiàn shēngrì lǐwù. I bought her a birthday gift. 谢谢你的礼物，我非常喜欢！ Xièxiè nǐ de lǐwù, wǒ fēicháng xǐhuān! Thank you for your gift; I like it very much! 他从中国带回来了很多礼物。 Tā cóng Zhōngguó dài...
合适 (héshì) — suitable / appropriate
合适 (héshì) 合适 means suitable, appropriate, or fitting. It describes a good match between a person and a role, an item and a purpose, or a situation and a response. It is a common everyday adjective used in shopping, work, and personal contexts. Meanings [adjective] Suitable; appropriate; fitting; the right match. Example Sentences 这双鞋很合适，我买了。 Zhè shuāng xié hěn héshì, wǒ mǎi le. These shoes fit perfectly; I bought them. 你觉得这份工作合适吗？...
时代 (shídài) — era; age; times
时代 (shídài) 时代 describes a broad period of time defined by particular social, cultural, or technological characteristics, larger in scope than 时间 (shíjiān). Meanings [noun] era; age; period; times Example Sentences 我们生活在一个信息时代。 Wǒmen shēnghuó zài yīgè xìnxī shídài. We live in an information age. 那是一个非常重要的历史时代。 Nà shì yīgè fēicháng zhòngyào de lìshǐ shídài. That was a very important era in history. 时代变了，年轻人的想法也不一样了。 Shídài biàn le, niánqīngrén de xiǎngfǎ yě bù...
丰富 (fēngfù) — rich; abundant; to enrich
丰富 (fēngfù) 丰富 describes something that is plentiful or varied, and can also be used as a verb meaning to make something richer or more varied. Meanings [adjective] rich; abundant — having a large amount or great variety [verb] to enrich; to broaden — to make something more plentiful or varied Example Sentences 这里的文化生活很丰富。 Zhèlǐ de wénhuà shēnghuó hěn fēngfù. The cultural life here is very rich. 阅读能丰富我们的知识。 Yuèdú néng...