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March 24, 2026
功能gōngnéng(gong1neng2)
功能 (gōng néng) refers to the function or capability of something, often used in contexts like technology, machinery, or even personal attributes. It highlights what something can do and is frequently used to describe features in devices or the roles individuals play within a system.
Frequency#3760DifficultyMedium
Cultural Note
In Chinese society, understanding the 功能 of technology is essential, as many people rely on devices for daily tasks. This reflects a broader cultural emphasis on efficiency and utility in both personal and professional settings.
Memory Tip
Think of 功 (gōng) as a tool or instrument that works, and 能 (néng) as energy or ability. Imagine a well-functioning machine that has all the right tools (功) and energy (能) to operate effectively. This visual can help you remember both the meaning and pronunciation.
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AI Study Notes for 功能
Quick Contrast
用途 (yòngtú) - use '功能' when emphasizing the specific function or capability, while '用途' focuses more on the practical application or purpose of something.
Memory Mnemonic
Think of 功 (gōng) as a tool or instrument that works, and 能 (néng) as energy or ability. Imagine a well-functioning machine that has all the right tools (功) and energy (能) to operate effectively. This visual can help you remember both the meaning and pronunciation.
Usage Notes
Be careful not to confuse 功能 with similar words like 作用 (zuò yòng), which often refers to the effect or role of something rather than its capability. This term is more common in technical or formal contexts, so use it appropriately in discussions about features or functions.
HSK Study Tips
As a level 5 vocabulary word, 功能 connects with other terms related to capabilities and descriptions of objects or actions. Focus on using it in sentences that describe technology or personal skills to reinforce its practical application.
Cultural Note
In Chinese society, understanding the 功能 of technology is essential, as many people rely on devices for daily tasks. This reflects a broader cultural emphasis on efficiency and utility in both personal and professional settings.
Common Mistakes
Learners often confuse 功能 with 目的 (mù dì), which means purpose. For example, saying '这个机器的目的是...' (This machine's purpose is...) instead of '这个机器的功能是...' (This machine's function is...). Make sure to use 功能 when referring to capabilities.
AI-enhanced 2026-03-24
Pronunciation of 功能
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Grammar Patterns of 功能
功能 functions as a noun — it names a person, place, thing, or concept. Place it as a subject before the verb (主+谓) or as an object after the verb (谓+宾). Most Chinese nouns require a measure word between the number and the noun (e.g. 一个/三本). It carries 2 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.
The function of the thymus was unknown until relatively recently.
9
胃的功能是充分消化食物,以便让其进入肠道.
wèi de gōng néng shì chōng fēn xiāo huà shí wù, , yǐ biàn ràng qí jìn rù cháng.
The function of the stomach is to digest food sufficiently to enable it to pass into the intestine.
10
目前医生每天在给他按摩,帮助他恢复腿臂的功能.
mù qián yī shēng měi tiān zài gěi tā àn mó, , bāng zhù tā huī fù tuǐ bì de gōng.
At present the doctor is giving him daily massages to help restore the function of his limbs.
Cultural Notes for 功能
🏮Cultural insight
In Chinese society, understanding the 功能 of technology is essential, as many people rely on devices for daily tasks. This reflects a broader cultural emphasis on efficiency and utility in both personal and professional settings.
Frequently Asked Questions about 功能
Yes, 功能 can describe a person's capabilities, especially in a professional or skill-oriented context.
While it's more commonly found in formal or technical contexts, it can be understood in informal settings when discussing tools or skills.
功能 focuses on the capability or function of something, while 作用 emphasizes the impact or role it plays.
