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March 24, 2026
后果(後果)hòuguǒ(hou4guo3)
后果 (hòuguǒ) refers to the consequences or outcomes that follow an action or event. It is commonly used in discussions about results, especially in moral or cautionary contexts, emphasizing the importance of considering the repercussions of one's actions.
Frequency#2582DifficultyMedium
Cultural Note
In Chinese culture, the concept of 后果 is often tied to the importance of collective responsibility and the idea that one's actions can impact the community, emphasizing the need for careful consideration of decisions.
Memory Tip
Think of 后 (hòu) as a 'back' and 果 (guǒ) as 'fruit.' Imagine a tree bearing fruit at the back of your yard, representing the results that grow out of your actions. If you plant bad seeds, the 'fruit' will be negative consequences.
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AI Study Notes for 后果
Quick Contrast
结果 (jiéguǒ) - use 结果 for a more neutral outcome or result, while 后果 emphasizes negative consequences.
Memory Mnemonic
Think of 后 (hòu) as a 'back' and 果 (guǒ) as 'fruit.' Imagine a tree bearing fruit at the back of your yard, representing the results that grow out of your actions. If you plant bad seeds, the 'fruit' will be negative consequences.
Usage Notes
Learners often confuse 后果 with 结果 (jiéguǒ), which means 'result' but lacks the negative connotation of consequences. Use 后果 in more serious contexts, such as warnings about actions leading to undesirable outcomes.
HSK Study Tips
As an HSK 5 word, 后果 connects with other vocabulary about consequences and moral lessons. Students should focus on using it in sentences that illustrate cause and effect, reinforcing the idea of accountability.
Cultural Note
In Chinese culture, the concept of 后果 is often tied to the importance of collective responsibility and the idea that one's actions can impact the community, emphasizing the need for careful consideration of decisions.
Common Mistakes
Learners may incorrectly use 后果 in informal settings, where 结果 would be more appropriate. For example, saying '我想知道这个事情的后果' instead of '我想知道这个事情的结果' is too formal for casual conversation.
AI-enhanced 2026-03-24
Pronunciation of 后果
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Grammar Patterns of 后果
后果 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.
Your side will be held responsible for all the consequences arising therefrom.
10
刻蚀超越此值的后果应该是清楚的.
kè shí chāo yuè cǐ zhí de hòu guǒ yīng gāi shì qīng chǔ de.
The concern with etching beyond this point should be clear.
Cultural Notes for 后果
🏮Cultural insight
In Chinese culture, the concept of 后果 is often tied to the importance of collective responsibility and the idea that one's actions can impact the community, emphasizing the need for careful consideration of decisions.
Frequently Asked Questions about 后果
While 后果 often implies negative consequences, it can also refer to neutral or even positive outcomes, depending on the context.
Yes, but it's more common in formal discussions or when discussing serious topics, like laws or personal decisions.
You can say, '如果你不学习，你会面临不好的后果' (If you don’t study, you will face bad consequences).
