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March 24, 2026
保留bǎoliú(bao3liu2)
保留 (bǎo liú) means to retain or preserve something. It is commonly used in contexts where one maintains a certain quality, state, or possession, such as retaining information or preserving traditions. The nuance can imply either physical retention or the continuation of an abstract concept.
Frequency#2605DifficultyMedium
Cultural Note
保留 is often used in the context of cultural preservation, such as retaining traditional Chinese festivals or practices amidst modernization. This reflects the value placed on heritage in Chinese society.
Memory Tip
Think of 保 (bǎo) as a 'guard' or 'protect' and 留 (liú) as 'to stay' or 'to remain.' Imagine a guard protecting a treasure that must stay safe and not be lost. This imagery helps you remember that 保留 means to keep something safe and intact.
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AI Study Notes for 保留
Quick Contrast
保留 (bǎoliú) vs 保存 (bǎocún): choose 保留 when emphasizing the act of retaining a quality or state, while 保存 focuses more on the act of keeping something safe or in good condition.
Memory Mnemonic
Think of 保 (bǎo) as a 'guard' or 'protect' and 留 (liú) as 'to stay' or 'to remain.' Imagine a guard protecting a treasure that must stay safe and not be lost. This imagery helps you remember that 保留 means to keep something safe and intact.
Usage Notes
Be cautious with the usage of 保留 in formal settings; it can imply a deliberate decision to maintain or withhold something. Common collocations include 保留意见 (retain opinions) and 保留权利 (reserve rights). Remember to use the correct tones, as mispronunciation can change the meaning.
HSK Study Tips
As a level 5 HSK word, 保留 connects well with other verbs related to preservation or maintenance. Focus on using it in sentences that require discussing customs or traditions, as well as in contexts involving decision-making.
Cultural Note
保留 is often used in the context of cultural preservation, such as retaining traditional Chinese festivals or practices amidst modernization. This reflects the value placed on heritage in Chinese society.
Common Mistakes
Learners often confuse 保留 with 保存 (bǎo cún). For example, saying '我保存我的意见' (Wǒ bǎo cún wǒ de yìjiàn) instead of '我保留我的意见' (Wǒ bǎo liú wǒ de yìjiàn) is incorrect, as 保留 specifically indicates a decision to withhold or maintain an opinion.
AI-enhanced 2026-03-24
Pronunciation of 保留
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Grammar Patterns of 保留
保留 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 7 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.
Read these notes carefully and keep them for future reference.
9
票为您保留到明天中午.
piào wéi nín bǎo liú dào míng tiān zhōng wǔ.
We'll reserve the ticket for you till tomorrow noon.
10
1.7万印第安人生活在亚利桑那州的保留地。
1.7 1.7 wàn yìn dì ān rén shēng huó zài yà lì sāng nà zhōu de bǎo liú。
Seventeen thousand Indians live in Arizona on a reservation.
Cultural Notes for 保留
🏮Cultural insight
保留 is often used in the context of cultural preservation, such as retaining traditional Chinese festivals or practices amidst modernization. This reflects the value placed on heritage in Chinese society.
🌏Cross-cultural Insight
In Western cultures, the concept of retaining might focus more on individualism and personal choice, whereas in Chinese culture, it often emphasizes collective heritage and continuity.
Frequently Asked Questions about 保留
No, 保留 can be used in both formal and informal situations, but be mindful of the context.
No, 保留 can also refer to abstract concepts like opinions or rights.
Similar words include 保存 (bǎo cún) which means to save or preserve, and 维持 (wéi chí) which means to maintain.
