(used in combination with words like 到[dao4] or 至[zhi4] in constructs of the form 到...為止|到...为止)
HSK 6, unknown, rank #1582, Hard
wéizhǐ(wei2zhi3) T2
1until
2(used in combination with words like 到[dao4] or 至[zhi4] in constructs of the form 到...為止|到...为止)
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March 24, 2026
为止(為止)wéizhǐ(wei2zhi3)
为止 (wéizhǐ) means 'until' and is often used to indicate a point in time or condition that marks the end of something. It is typically found in phrases like '到...为止' (dào... wéizhǐ), which translates to 'up until...'. This expression is frequently used in both spoken and written Chinese to set boundaries for time or events.
Frequency#1582DifficultyHard
Cultural Note
In Chinese culture, setting clear timelines or boundaries is essential in planning and commitments, reflecting a collective approach to time management in both personal and professional contexts.
Memory Tip
Think of 为 (wéi) as 'for' and 止 (zhǐ) as 'stop'. Imagine a person saying, 'I will work for you until you say stop!' This imagery links the concept of duration (until) with the characters and their sounds.
Meanings of 为止
wéizhǐ(wei2zhi3)
1until
2(used in combination with words like 到[dao4] or 至[zhi4] in constructs of the form 到...為止|到...为止)
Exercise 1 of 2
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About 为止
为止Simplified
為止Traditional
—Strokes
—Radical
动词dòngcíverb (v.)Part of Speech
#—Frequency Rank
HSK 3.0L6IntermediateHSKKL3CEFRB2
Podcast: 为止
Podcast: 为止
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AI Study Notes for 为止
Memory Mnemonic
Think of 为 (wéi) as 'for' and 止 (zhǐ) as 'stop'. Imagine a person saying, 'I will work for you until you say stop!' This imagery links the concept of duration (until) with the characters and their sounds.
Usage Notes
Be careful not to confuse 为止 with similar phrases that denote different meanings or timeframes. It's more formal than casual expressions and is commonly used in reports or announcements. Make sure to use the correct tone when pronouncing it to avoid misunderstandings.
HSK Study Tips
为止 appears more in advanced contexts, so focus on its combination with other words like 到 (dào) and 至 (zhì). Understanding how it fits into time-related phrases will enhance your comprehension of temporal expressions in Chinese.
Cultural Note
In Chinese culture, setting clear timelines or boundaries is essential in planning and commitments, reflecting a collective approach to time management in both personal and professional contexts.
Common Mistakes
Learners often misuse 为止 by omitting the required context, such as saying '我会等为止' instead of '我会等到星期五为止' (I'll wait until Friday). Always include a specific reference point when using 为止.
AI-enhanced 2026-03-24
Pronunciation of 为止
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Cultural Notes for 为止
🏮Cultural insight
In Chinese culture, setting clear timelines or boundaries is essential in planning and commitments, reflecting a collective approach to time management in both personal and professional contexts.
Frequently Asked Questions about 为止
It is typically more formal and is less common in casual spoken language.
While it primarily relates to time, it can also be used in contexts expressing limits or conditions.
Make sure to use the second tone for 为 (wéi) and the third tone for 止 (zhǐ) for accurate pronunciation.
