Meanings of 平安
Listen & Choose the Meaning
Choose the correct answer:
About 平安
Podcast: 平安
Podcast: 平安
Listen to Jason & Amy break down this word for you
New here?
AI Study Notes for 平安
安全 (ānquán) refers specifically to security and safety measures, while 平安 (píng'ān) conveys a broader sense of peace and tranquility.
Imagine a calm and peaceful area (平) where you can feel completely safe (安). The character 平 looks like a flat surface, suggesting stability, while 安 contains a roof (indicating protection) over a woman (or a heart), symbolizing safety and tranquility.
Learners often confuse 平安 with similar terms like 安全 (ānquán), which specifically means 'safety' in a more general sense. This word is commonly used in both formal and informal contexts, especially in greetings like '祝你平安' (Wishing you peace and safety).
As an HSK Level 5 word, 平安 connects well with other vocabulary related to safety and peace, like 安静 (ānjìng, quiet) and 平静 (píngjìng, calm). Students should focus on understanding its usage in common phrases and contexts.
平安 is deeply rooted in Chinese culture, often invoked during festivals like the Lunar New Year, where people wish for a peaceful and safe year ahead. It's also commonly used in blessings for travelers and during important life events.
Learners often incorrectly use 平安 when referring to general safety, mixing it up with 安全 (ānquán). For example, saying '我需要平安的工作' instead of '我需要安全的工作' (I need a safe job) is incorrect.
Pronunciation of 平安
Drill the tone of 平安 with AI-powered exercises, get instant feedback, and earn XP toward mastery. Interactive tone practice is part of Pro.
Component Characters
Write 平安
New here? to save your writing progress and earn XP.
Practice writing 平安 stroke by stroke. Watch the animation to learn the stroke order, then try writing it yourself.
Grammar Patterns of 平安
平安 functions as an adjective. In Chinese it behaves like a stative verb: place it directly after the subject without 是 (我很高，not 我是高). Use 不 to negate (不高) and pair it with 很 in plain affirmative sentences. It carries 5 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.
Complete the Sentence
那架波音747上的9名机组成员____获释。
The nine crew on the Boeing 747 were released unharmed.
Example Sentences for 平安 (3)
Cultural Notes for 平安
平安 is deeply rooted in Chinese culture, often invoked during festivals like the Lunar New Year, where people wish for a peaceful and safe year ahead. It's also commonly used in blessings for travelers and during important life events.
Frequently Asked Questions about 平安
No, 平安 can be used in both formal and informal contexts, making it versatile for everyday conversations.