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March 24, 2026
从事(從事)cóngshì(cong2shi4)
从事 means to engage in, undertake, or deal with a particular activity or profession. It is often used in formal contexts, especially when discussing one's job, profession, or a specific field of study. This word emphasizes active participation in a given task or work.
Frequency#4750DifficultyMedium
Cultural Note
In Chinese culture, the concept of work is often tied to personal identity and social status, making 从事 a significant term in discussions about one's profession, especially in job interviews or networking.
Memory Tip
Imagine a person 'cong' (从) a path 'zhi' (事) that leads them to their career. Visualize them walking down this path, actively engaging in their work, as they move forward in their professional journey.
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AI Study Notes for 从事
Quick Contrast
从事 (cóngshì) vs 参与 (cānyù) — use 从事 for professional engagement, while 参与 emphasizes participation in an event or activity.
Memory Mnemonic
Imagine a person 'cong' (从) a path 'zhi' (事) that leads them to their career. Visualize them walking down this path, actively engaging in their work, as they move forward in their professional journey.
Usage Notes
Common mistakes include using 从事 with a subject that is too casual; it is typically used in formal or professional contexts. Be cautious with the tone; ensure the right tones are used to avoid confusion. Typical collocations include 从事工作 (engage in work) and 从事研究 (engage in research).
HSK Study Tips
As an HSK 5 word, 从事 connects well with other verbs related to actions and occupations. Focus on using it in sentences that describe what you or others are involved in, particularly in professional or academic settings.
Cultural Note
In Chinese culture, the concept of work is often tied to personal identity and social status, making 从事 a significant term in discussions about one's profession, especially in job interviews or networking.
Common Mistakes
Learners often mistakenly use 从事 with emotional or casual activities, like using it in '我从事看电影' (I engage in watching movies), which is incorrect. Instead, use it for professional activities, such as '我从事医学' (I engage in medicine).
AI-enhanced 2026-03-24
Pronunciation of 从事
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Grammar Patterns of 从事
从事 functions as a verb — the action or state of the sentence. The Chinese order is Subject + Verb + Object (我吃饭). Negate it with 不 (habitual / future) or 没(有) (completed action). Add aspect markers like 了, 过, 着 directly after the verb. It carries 6 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.
This licence would not allow him to trade as a plc.
10
从事初级保健护理工作的几乎都是女性。
cóng shì chū jí bǎo jiàn hù lǐ gōng zuò de jī hū dū shì nǚ xìng。
It is nearly always women who are the primary care givers.
Cultural Notes for 从事
🏮Cultural insight
In Chinese culture, the concept of work is often tied to personal identity and social status, making 从事 a significant term in discussions about one's profession, especially in job interviews or networking.
Frequently Asked Questions about 从事
从事 is generally more suitable for formal contexts, so it's better to use it in professional discussions rather than casual chats.
While it is commonly used to describe professions, it can also refer to engaging in various activities or pursuits.
You can say, '我从事教育工作' (I engage in education work) to describe your occupation.
