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March 24, 2026
工夫()gōngfu(gong1fu5)
工夫 (gōngfu) refers to the time or effort invested in a task, often implying skill or craftsmanship. It can denote both a duration spent doing something and the expertise acquired through practice. This term is commonly used when discussing the quality of work or the dedication required to achieve a certain level of skill.
Frequency#9726DifficultyMedium
Cultural Note
In Chinese culture, the concept of 工夫 emphasizes the value placed on craftsmanship and the dedication needed to master a skill, reflecting a broader philosophical approach to work and personal growth.
Memory Tip
Imagine a craftsman (工) who puts in hours (夫) of work to perfect his skill, representing the effort and time (工夫) he dedicates to his craft. Visualize him chiseling away at a block of stone, demonstrating how工 (work) and夫 (time) combine to create something beautiful.
Meanings of 工夫
gōngfu(gong1fu5)
primary
1period of time (may be months, or mere seconds)
2(old) laborer
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About 工夫
工夫Simplified
Traditional
—Strokes
—Radical
名词míngcínoun (n.)Part of Speech
#—Frequency Rank
HSK 3.0L6ElementaryTOCFLL3YCTL4HSKKL2CEFRA2
Podcast: 工夫
Podcast: 工夫
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AI Study Notes for 工夫
Quick Contrast
巧夫 (qiǎofū) - choose 工夫 when referring to the time and effort invested in developing skill, while 巧夫 emphasizes cleverness or skillfulness in execution.
Memory Mnemonic
Imagine a craftsman (工) who puts in hours (夫) of work to perfect his skill, representing the effort and time (工夫) he dedicates to his craft. Visualize him chiseling away at a block of stone, demonstrating how工 (work) and夫 (time) combine to create something beautiful.
Usage Notes
Learners often confuse 工夫 with 努力 (nǔlì), which means 'effort' but does not emphasize time. This term is more common in informal contexts when discussing skills acquired over time. Be cautious with tones; mispronouncing the first tone could change its meaning.
HSK Study Tips
While 工夫 is not formally listed in HSK levels, it connects to themes of effort and skill found in HSK 3 and 4 vocabulary. Focus on using it in sentences about hobbies or skills to reinforce its meaning through context.
Cultural Note
In Chinese culture, the concept of 工夫 emphasizes the value placed on craftsmanship and the dedication needed to master a skill, reflecting a broader philosophical approach to work and personal growth.
Common Mistakes
Learners often misuse 工夫 when they mean 'effort' alone without context, such as saying '我没有工夫' (I have no effort) instead of '我没有时间' (I have no time). Correct usage requires a context emphasizing skill or time invested.
AI-enhanced 2026-03-24
Pronunciation of 工夫
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Cultural Notes for 工夫
🏮Cultural insight
In Chinese culture, the concept of 工夫 emphasizes the value placed on craftsmanship and the dedication needed to master a skill, reflecting a broader philosophical approach to work and personal growth.
Frequently Asked Questions about 工夫
工夫 emphasizes the time and skill developed, while 努力 focuses solely on effort.
Yes, but it is most effective when referring to skilled work or tasks that require time to master.
It is more common in informal contexts, especially when talking about personal skills or hobbies.
