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March 24, 2026
指导(指導)zhǐdǎo(zhi3dao3)
指导 (zhǐ dǎo) refers to the act of guiding or providing direction to someone, often in an educational or coaching context. This word is commonly used when discussing teaching methods, leadership roles, or mentorship situations. It conveys a sense of support and direction provided to help someone achieve knowledge or skills.
Frequency#3038DifficultyMedium
Cultural Note
In Chinese culture, the concept of 指导 is closely associated with the traditional value placed on mentorship and respect for teachers. Guidance is often seen as a communal effort, with experienced individuals helping novices navigate their paths.
Memory Tip
Imagine a wise guide (指) pointing (导) the way through a dense forest. The character 指 (zhǐ) looks like a finger pointing, and 导 (dǎo) resembles a person leading the way. Together, they create a vivid image of guidance and direction.
Meanings of 指导
zhǐdǎo(zhi3dao3)
1to guide
2to give directions
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About 指导
指导Simplified
指導Traditional
—Strokes
—Radical
名词míngcínoun (n.)Part of Speech
#3038Frequency Rank
个Measure Word
HSK 2.0L5HSK 3.0L5ElementaryTOCFLL3HSKKL2CEFRA2
Podcast: 指导
Podcast: 指导
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AI Study Notes for 指导
Quick Contrast
辅导 (fǔ dǎo) vs 指导 (zhǐ dǎo): Use 辅导 when emphasizing personal tutoring or assistance, while 指导 implies a broader or more formal guidance.
Memory Mnemonic
Imagine a wise guide (指) pointing (导) the way through a dense forest. The character 指 (zhǐ) looks like a finger pointing, and 导 (dǎo) resembles a person leading the way. Together, they create a vivid image of guidance and direction.
Usage Notes
When using 指导, ensure that it fits the context of providing advice or instruction. Common mistakes include using it in overly casual situations, where a simpler term like '帮助' (bāng zhù) might suffice. Remember to use the correct tones, as mispronouncing can change the word's meaning.
HSK Study Tips
As an HSK Level 5 word, 指导 connects well with other educational terms like 教学 (jiào xué, teaching) and 培训 (péi xùn, training). Focus on using this word in contexts that involve teaching, mentoring, or coaching to solidify its meaning.
Cultural Note
In Chinese culture, the concept of 指导 is closely associated with the traditional value placed on mentorship and respect for teachers. Guidance is often seen as a communal effort, with experienced individuals helping novices navigate their paths.
Common Mistakes
Learners often confuse 指导 with 领导 (lǐng dǎo), which means 'to lead.' For example, saying '我指导一组人' (I guide a group of people) is correct, but using '我领导一组人' implies a leadership role rather than simply providing direction.
AI-enhanced 2026-03-24
Pronunciation of 指导
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Grammar Patterns of 指导
指导 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 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.
The couple have sought help from marriage guidance counsellors.
4
这座房子是在约翰的合伙人的指导下盖起来的。
zhè zuò fáng zǐ shì zài yuē hàn de hé huǒ rén de zhǐ dǎo xià gài qǐ lái de。
The house was built under the direction of John's partner.
5
她接受的婚姻指导师培训能保证她学业一结束就找到工作。
tā jiē shòu de hūn yīn zhǐ dǎo shī péi xùn néng bǎo zhèng tā xué yè yī jié shù jiù zhǎo dào gōng zuò。
Training as a marriage counsellor would guarantee her some employment once her schooling was through.
Cultural Notes for 指导
🏮Cultural insight
In Chinese culture, the concept of 指导 is closely associated with the traditional value placed on mentorship and respect for teachers. Guidance is often seen as a communal effort, with experienced individuals helping novices navigate their paths.
🌏Cross-cultural Insight
In Western cultures, guidance often emphasizes individual independence, while in Chinese culture, it is more about communal support and shared knowledge through guidance.
Frequently Asked Questions about 指导
Yes, 指导 is appropriate in both formal and informal contexts, especially in educational or professional settings.
While both mean to guide or teach, 指导 is more about providing direction, while 教导 focuses on instructing.
You might say, '老师指导学生如何写论文' (The teacher guides the students on how to write a thesis).
