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March 24, 2026
抓紧(抓緊)zhuājǐn(zhua1jin3)
The term '抓紧' (zhuā jǐn) means to grasp firmly or to hold onto something tightly. It is often used metaphorically to express the importance of paying special attention to a task or situation, urging someone to act quickly and seize opportunities. You might hear it in contexts where urgency or focus is required, such as studying for an exam or completing a project.
Frequency#3071DifficultyMedium
Cultural Note
In Chinese culture, the concept of '抓紧' reflects the value placed on diligence and seizing opportunities. This is evident during important events like the Chinese New Year, where people are encouraged to make the most of their time with family and business opportunities.
Memory Tip
Imagine you are at a carnival, holding onto a big, fluffy cotton candy (抓, zhua) tightly (紧, jin) so it doesn't slip away. The image of you tightly grasping this treat helps you remember that '抓紧' means to hold on firmly and not let opportunities slip through your fingers.
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AI Study Notes for 抓紧
Quick Contrast
紧握 (jǐn wò) - use '抓紧' when emphasizing urgency or focus on a task, while '紧握' simply refers to holding something tightly without the same connotation of seizing an opportunity.
Memory Mnemonic
Imagine you are at a carnival, holding onto a big, fluffy cotton candy (抓, zhua) tightly (紧, jin) so it doesn't slip away. The image of you tightly grasping this treat helps you remember that '抓紧' means to hold on firmly and not let opportunities slip through your fingers.
Usage Notes
'抓紧' is often used in both formal and informal contexts, but be cautious with its tone; it can imply urgency which may not always be appropriate. Common collocations include '抓紧时间' (seize the time) or '抓紧机会' (seize the opportunity). A common mistake is to confuse it with '抓' (to catch) alone, which lacks the nuance of urgency.
HSK Study Tips
As an HSK Level 5 word, '抓紧' connects well with other action-oriented verbs. Students should focus on its applications in various contexts, especially in phrases related to time management and urgency. Practice using it in sentences to express the need to take action or focus.
Cultural Note
In Chinese culture, the concept of '抓紧' reflects the value placed on diligence and seizing opportunities. This is evident during important events like the Chinese New Year, where people are encouraged to make the most of their time with family and business opportunities.
Common Mistakes
Learners often misuse '抓紧' by omitting the context of urgency. For example, saying '抓机会' without '紧' loses the emphasis on the need to act quickly. The correct phrase is '抓紧机会'.
AI-enhanced 2026-03-24
Pronunciation of 抓紧
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Grammar Patterns of 抓紧
抓紧 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.
In Chinese culture, the concept of '抓紧' reflects the value placed on diligence and seizing opportunities. This is evident during important events like the Chinese New Year, where people are encouraged to make the most of their time with family and business opportunities.
Frequently Asked Questions about 抓紧
'抓' simply means to catch or grab, whereas '抓紧' emphasizes holding something firmly and paying attention to it, often with a sense of urgency.
Yes, '抓紧' can be used in both casual and formal conversations, especially when discussing the importance of acting quickly.
You can say '我们必须抓紧时间完成这个项目' which means 'We must seize the time to complete this project.'
