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March 24, 2026
指挥(指揮)zhǐhuī(zhi3hui1)
The verb 指挥 (zhǐ huī) means to conduct, command, or direct, often used in contexts like leading an orchestra or managing a group. It implies a position of authority where one directs actions or performances, highlighting leadership and coordination skills. This term is commonly used in both artistic and organizational settings.
Frequency#2667DifficultyMedium
Cultural Note
In Chinese culture, the role of a conductor is highly respected, symbolizing not just musical talent but also the ability to unify and lead a team. This reflects the importance placed on harmony and collective effort in Chinese society.
Memory Tip
Imagine a conductor with a baton, pointing (指) and commanding (挥) the orchestra to create beautiful music. The character 指 (zhǐ) looks like a hand pointing, while 执 (huī) resembles the motion of waving a baton, reinforcing the meaning of directing.
Meanings of 指挥
zhǐhuī(zhi3hui1)
1to conduct
2to command
Exercise 1 of 2
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About 指挥
指挥Simplified
指揮Traditional
—Strokes
—Radical
名词míngcínoun (n.)Part of Speech
#2667Frequency Rank
个Measure Word
HSK 2.0L5HSK 3.0L6IntermediateTOCFLL4HSKKL2CEFRB1
Podcast: 指挥
Podcast: 指挥
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AI Study Notes for 指挥
Quick Contrast
指挥 (zhǐhuī) vs 管理 (guǎnlǐ) — use 指挥 when emphasizing conducting or directing performances, while 管理 focuses on managing or overseeing operations.
Memory Mnemonic
Imagine a conductor with a baton, pointing (指) and commanding (挥) the orchestra to create beautiful music. The character 指 (zhǐ) looks like a hand pointing, while 执 (huī) resembles the motion of waving a baton, reinforcing the meaning of directing.
Usage Notes
指挥 is often used in formal contexts, such as in orchestras or military commands. A common mistake is to confuse it with similar verbs; ensure you use it specifically for scenarios involving leadership or direction. Be mindful of the tone when pronouncing it, as mispronouncing the first tone can change its meaning.
HSK Study Tips
As an HSK 5 word, 指挥 connects with other verbs related to leadership and management, like 领导 (lǐng dǎo, to lead) or 管理 (guǎn lǐ, to manage). Students should focus on its usage in both musical and organizational contexts to grasp its full range.
Cultural Note
In Chinese culture, the role of a conductor is highly respected, symbolizing not just musical talent but also the ability to unify and lead a team. This reflects the importance placed on harmony and collective effort in Chinese society.
Common Mistakes
Learners often confuse 指挥 with 指示 (zhǐ shì, to indicate), leading to incorrect usage. For example, saying '我指挥他去做作业' (I command him to do homework) should be corrected to '我让他去做作业' (I let him do homework) when implying a more casual direction.
AI-enhanced 2026-03-24
Pronunciation of 指挥
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Grammar Patterns of 指挥
指挥 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 5 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.
Exercise 1 of 4
Complete the Sentence
他得到____官的许可来与我会合。
He got permission from his commanding officer to join me.
Example Sentences for 指挥 (10)
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1
他得到指挥官的许可来与我会合。
tā dé dào zhǐ huī guān de xǔ kě lái yǔ wǒ huì hé。
He got permission from his commanding officer to join me.
Fusilier Jones ran towards the Ops Room to find his lieutenant.
7
他对新的法国指挥官印象很好。
tā duì xīn de fǎ guó zhǐ huī guān yìn xiàng hěn hǎo。
He was quite favourably impressed with the new French commander.
8
那个人是约翰·吉布，纽约应急管理办公室的行动总指挥官。
nà gè rén shì yuē hàn· · jí， bù ， niǔ yuē yīng jí guǎn lǐ bàn gōng shì de háng dòng zǒng zhǐ。
That's John Gibb, operations chief for New York Emergency Management.
9
据说在那些被捕的人员中有两人自称是地区指挥官。
jù shuō zài nà xiē bèi bǔ de rén yuán zhōng yǒu liǎng rén zì chēng shì dì qū zhǐ huī guān。
Two of those arrested are said to be self-styled area commanders.
10
他还在为可采用的进近航线与指挥塔台争执不下。
tā huán zài wéi kě cǎi yòng de jìn jìn háng xiàn yǔ zhǐ huī tǎ tái zhēng zhí bù xià。
He is still bickering with the control tower over admissible approach routes.
Cultural Notes for 指挥
🏮Cultural insight
In Chinese culture, the role of a conductor is highly respected, symbolizing not just musical talent but also the ability to unify and lead a team. This reflects the importance placed on harmony and collective effort in Chinese society.
Frequently Asked Questions about 指挥
Yes, 指挥 can refer to directing or commanding in various situations, including military or organizational settings.
指挥 focuses more on directing actions, while 领导 emphasizes overall leadership and guidance.
It is mostly used in formal contexts, but can also be applied in casual situations when referring to directing a group.
