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March 24, 2026
保持bǎochí(bao3chi2)
保持 (bǎochí) means to keep or maintain something in a certain state or condition. It is commonly used in contexts such as maintaining a relationship, keeping a routine, or preserving the quality of an item. This verb implies an active effort to ensure that something remains unchanged or in good condition.
Frequency#628DifficultyMedium
Cultural Note
In Chinese culture, maintaining relationships is highly valued, hence the frequent use of 保持 in social contexts like keeping friendships or family ties strong.
Memory Tip
Imagine a person holding a large '保' (bǎo) - which looks like they are 'holding' or 'keeping' something safe. The second part '持' (chí) means to hold. Picture them saying 'I must keep this safe!' to remember both the meaning and pronunciation.
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AI Study Notes for 保持
Quick Contrast
保持 (bǎochí) vs 维持 (wéichí): use 保持 when emphasizing the act of keeping something in a specific state, while 维持 focuses more on the act of sustaining or supporting something over time.
Memory Mnemonic
Imagine a person holding a large '保' (bǎo) - which looks like they are 'holding' or 'keeping' something safe. The second part '持' (chí) means to hold. Picture them saying 'I must keep this safe!' to remember both the meaning and pronunciation.
Usage Notes
Common mistakes include using 保持 incorrectly with nouns that cannot be actively maintained, like emotions. It's generally informal but can be used in formal contexts; however, ensure the subject is appropriate. Collocations include 保持联系 (maintain contact) and 保持冷静 (keep calm).
HSK Study Tips
As an HSK 5 word, 保持 connects with other verbs related to action and maintenance, such as 维护 (wéihù, to safeguard) and 继续 (jìxù, to continue). Focus on using it in various contexts to enhance your vocabulary.
Cultural Note
In Chinese culture, maintaining relationships is highly valued, hence the frequent use of 保持 in social contexts like keeping friendships or family ties strong.
Common Mistakes
Learners often misuse 保持 with abstract concepts like feelings or states that can't be actively maintained; for example, saying '保持快乐' (keep happiness) is incorrect. Instead, use it with actionable states, like '保持健康' (maintain health).
AI-enhanced 2026-03-24
Pronunciation of 保持
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Grammar Patterns of 保持
保持 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 4 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.
bǎo chí bàn gōng huán jìng de zhěng jié， ， yóu qí shì nǐ de zhuō。
Keep your office space looking good, particularly your desk.
9
总的来说，下层民众被认为是传统的保持者。
zǒng de lái shuō， ， xià céng mín zhòng bèi rèn wéi shì chuán tǒng de bǎo chí。
Generally, the lower classes are considered to be the bearers of tradition.
10
这使得该法与绝大多数医学见解保持了一致。
zhè shǐ dé gāi fǎ yǔ jué dà duō shù yī xué jiàn jiě bǎo chí le yī zhì。
This brings the law into line with most medical opinion.
Cultural Notes for 保持
🏮Cultural insight
In Chinese culture, maintaining relationships is highly valued, hence the frequent use of 保持 in social contexts like keeping friendships or family ties strong.
Frequently Asked Questions about 保持
No, 保持 is typically used with tangible nouns or states, like maintaining a routine or standard, rather than abstract concepts like emotions.
Yes, it can be used in both formal and informal contexts, but ensure it fits the subject matter appropriately.
You can remember it by associating it with '保' (to protect) and '持' (to hold), emphasizing the act of maintaining.
