word (general term including monosyllables through to short phrases)
HSK 4, n, rank #9648, Medium
词语
cíyǔ
term (e.g. technical term)
HSK 4, n, rank #9648, Medium
词语
cíyǔ
expression
HSK 4, n, rank #9648, Medium
cíyǔ(ci2yu3) T2
1word (general term including monosyllables through to short phrases)
2term (e.g. technical term)
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March 24, 2026
词语(詞語)cíyǔ(ci2yu3)
The term '词语' (cí yǔ) refers to a word or expression in Chinese, encompassing both single characters and phrases. It is commonly used in educational contexts, particularly in language learning, to describe vocabulary and terminology, including technical terms.
Frequency#9648DifficultyMedium
Cultural Note
In Chinese education, '词语' is heavily emphasized in language acquisition, reflecting the importance of vocabulary building in mastering the language. Understanding terms and expressions is crucial for effective communication in Chinese society.
Memory Tip
Imagine a 'word' (词) being a 'key' (语) that unlocks communication. Visualize a giant key made of letters that opens doors to different languages and ideas, making '词语' a powerful tool for understanding.
Meanings of 词语
cíyǔ(ci2yu3)
1word (general term including monosyllables through to short phrases)
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AI Study Notes for 词语
Quick Contrast
词汇 (cíhuì) refers to vocabulary as a collection of words, while 词语 (cíyǔ) emphasizes individual words or expressions.
Memory Mnemonic
Imagine a 'word' (词) being a 'key' (语) that unlocks communication. Visualize a giant key made of letters that opens doors to different languages and ideas, making '词语' a powerful tool for understanding.
Usage Notes
Be careful not to confuse '词语' with just '词' (word), which only refers to single characters or words. '词语' is more comprehensive and includes phrases. It's often used in formal contexts, especially in education.
HSK Study Tips
As an HSK Level 4 word, '词语' connects with other vocabulary related to language learning, such as '语言' (language) and '词典' (dictionary). Focus on using it in sentences to describe different types of words and expressions.
Cultural Note
In Chinese education, '词语' is heavily emphasized in language acquisition, reflecting the importance of vocabulary building in mastering the language. Understanding terms and expressions is crucial for effective communication in Chinese society.
Common Mistakes
Learners often misuse '词语' by using it interchangeably with '词' without considering the broader context. For example, saying '我学习词' (I study words) instead of '我学习词语' (I study terms and expressions) omits the phrase aspect.
AI-enhanced 2026-03-24
Pronunciation of 词语
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Grammar Patterns of 词语
词语 functions as a noun — it names a person, place, thing, or concept. Place it as a subject before the verb (主+谓) or as an object after the verb (谓+宾). Most Chinese nouns require a measure word between the number and the noun (e.g. 一个/三本). It carries 3 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.
Sports commentators repeat the same phrases ad nauseam.
3
刚出现的词语
gāng chū xiàn de cí yǔ
a newly minted expression
Cultural Notes for 词语
🏮Cultural insight
In Chinese education, '词语' is heavily emphasized in language acquisition, reflecting the importance of vocabulary building in mastering the language. Understanding terms and expressions is crucial for effective communication in Chinese society.
Frequently Asked Questions about 词语
'词' refers to individual words, while '词语' includes both single words and phrases, making it a broader term.
Yes, '词语' can include idiomatic expressions, as they are considered specific phrases within the language.
'词语' is more commonly used in educational or formal contexts rather than casual conversations.
