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March 24, 2026
耐心nàixīn(nai4xin1)
耐心 (nài xīn) means 'to be patient' or 'patience.' It is commonly used in contexts where perseverance and calmness are required, such as during challenging tasks or when dealing with difficult situations. The term conveys a sense of endurance and a positive attitude despite delays or obstacles.
Frequency#2576DifficultyHard
Cultural Note
In Chinese culture, patience is highly valued and often seen as a virtue, particularly in traditional teachings like Confucianism. The concept of 耐心 is essential when dealing with interpersonal relationships and business dealings, where taking time and being considerate is appreciated.
Memory Tip
To remember 耐心, think of '耐' (nài) as 'enduring' a tough situation patiently, and '心' (xīn) as 'heart.' Imagine a heart that stays calm and steady, waiting through a storm without losing hope. The sound 'nai' can be remembered by associating it with 'nigh,' as in 'patience is nigh when storms arise.'
Meanings of 耐心
nàixīn(nai4xin1)
1to be patient
2patience
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About 耐心
耐心Simplified
—Strokes
—Radical
名形词xíngróngcíadj-noun (adj.-n.)Part of Speech
#2576Frequency Rank
HSK 2.0L4HSK 3.0L4IntermediateHSKKL3CEFRB2
Podcast: 耐心
Podcast: 耐心
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AI Study Notes for 耐心
Quick Contrast
耐心 (nàixīn) vs 忍耐 (rěnnài) — use 耐心 when emphasizing a calm and positive attitude, while 忍耐 focuses more on enduring hardship or suffering.
Memory Mnemonic
To remember 耐心, think of '耐' (nài) as 'enduring' a tough situation patiently, and '心' (xīn) as 'heart.' Imagine a heart that stays calm and steady, waiting through a storm without losing hope. The sound 'nai' can be remembered by associating it with 'nigh,' as in 'patience is nigh when storms arise.'
Usage Notes
Learners often confuse 耐心 with other similar terms like 耐 (nài), which means 'to endure' without the connotation of calmness. It is used in both formal and informal contexts, but be cautious with the tone; ensure you use the correct fourth and first tones. Common collocations include '有耐心' (yǒu nài xīn) meaning 'to have patience.'
HSK Study Tips
As an HSK Level 4 word, 耐心 connects to other vocabulary about emotions and attitudes. Focus on using it in sentences that describe personal experiences or advice about patience in various situations, as this will reinforce both its meaning and practical usage.
Cultural Note
In Chinese culture, patience is highly valued and often seen as a virtue, particularly in traditional teachings like Confucianism. The concept of 耐心 is essential when dealing with interpersonal relationships and business dealings, where taking time and being considerate is appreciated.
Common Mistakes
Learners often misuse the word by confusing it with 急 (jí), which means 'impatient.' For example, saying '我没有耐心' (Wǒ méiyǒu nàixīn) can be misinterpreted in contexts where patience is actually needed; instead, clarify the situation by using it appropriately.
AI-enhanced 2026-03-24
Pronunciation of 耐心
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Grammar Patterns of 耐心
耐心 functions as an adjective. In Chinese it behaves like a stative verb: place it directly after the subject without 是 (我很高，not 我是高). Use 不 to negate (不高) and pair it with 很 in plain affirmative sentences. It carries 2 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.
Bear with me for a minute, and you'll see what I mean.
Cultural Notes for 耐心
🏮Cultural insight
In Chinese culture, patience is highly valued and often seen as a virtue, particularly in traditional teachings like Confucianism. The concept of 耐心 is essential when dealing with interpersonal relationships and business dealings, where taking time and being considerate is appreciated.
Frequently Asked Questions about 耐心
You can say '我对这个项目很有耐心' (Wǒ duì zhège xiàngmù hěn yǒu nàixīn), meaning 'I am very patient with this project.'
Yes, 耐心 is generally seen as a positive trait, reflecting wisdom and maturity in handling life's challenges.
Absolutely! You can say '她很有耐心' (Tā hěn yǒu nàixīn), meaning 'She is very patient.'
