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March 24, 2026
通过(通過)tōngguò(tong1guo4)
The word 通过 (tōngguò) signifies the action of passing through something or achieving something by means of a process. It is commonly used in contexts such as transportation, approval processes, and communication to indicate a successful transition or completion.
Frequency#541DifficultyMedium
Cultural Note
In Chinese culture, the concept of 'passing through' is often linked to processes like examinations and approvals, which are significant in educational and bureaucratic contexts. For instance, students must pass rigorous exams to advance in their studies.
Memory Tip
Think of 通过 as a bridge (通) that allows you to cross (过) to the other side. Imagine walking across this bridge to reach your destination, symbolizing the process of getting through or passing successfully.
Meanings of 通过
tōngguò(tong1guo4)
1by means of
2through
Exercise 1 of 2
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About 通过
通过Simplified
通過Traditional
—Strokes
—Radical
介词jiècípreposition (prep.)Part of Speech
#541Frequency Rank
HSK 2.0L4HSK 3.0L4ElementaryTOCFLL2HSKKL1CEFRA1
Podcast: 通过
Podcast: 通过
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AI Study Notes for 通过
Quick Contrast
通过 (tōngguò) vs 经过 (jīngguò): use 通过 when emphasizing the successful completion or achievement of a process, while 经过 focuses more on the act of passing through or experiencing something without the implication of success.
Memory Mnemonic
Think of 通过 as a bridge (通) that allows you to cross (过) to the other side. Imagine walking across this bridge to reach your destination, symbolizing the process of getting through or passing successfully.
Usage Notes
Be cautious with its use in formal versus informal contexts; while it is generally neutral, in specific situations like legal or official matters, a more formal equivalent may be preferred. Common collocations include 通过考试 (to pass an exam) and 通过批准 (to get approval).
HSK Study Tips
As an HSK Level 4 word, 通过 helps connect learners with other related vocabulary, such as 通过率 (pass rate) and 通过证书 (certificate of passing). Focus on its usage in different contexts to solidify understanding.
Cultural Note
In Chinese culture, the concept of 'passing through' is often linked to processes like examinations and approvals, which are significant in educational and bureaucratic contexts. For instance, students must pass rigorous exams to advance in their studies.
Common Mistakes
Learners often confuse 通过 with other similar terms like 经过 (jīngguò), which means 'to pass by'. For example, saying '我经过了考试' (I passed by the exam) is incorrect; it should be '我通过了考试'.
AI-enhanced 2026-03-24
Pronunciation of 通过
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Grammar Patterns of 通过
通过 functions as a preposition (often called a "coverb" in Chinese). It introduces a phrase that comes BEFORE the main verb (我在家吃饭, 给妈妈打电话), unlike English which puts prepositions after the verb. It carries 8 related meanings, each with its own usage notes below. The example sentences below show it in action, with practice buttons (Listen, Practice Writing, Practice Speaking) on every line.
The legislation is expected to be passed in the next parliament.
Cultural Notes for 通过
🏮Cultural insight
In Chinese culture, the concept of 'passing through' is often linked to processes like examinations and approvals, which are significant in educational and bureaucratic contexts. For instance, students must pass rigorous exams to advance in their studies.
Frequently Asked Questions about 通过
You can say '我通过了考试' (I passed the exam) to indicate that you successfully completed it.
Yes, 通过 is commonly used in both spoken and written contexts, making it versatile.
In addition to 'to pass through', it can also mean 'to adopt' or 'to switch over', depending on the context.
