Listen to the audio pronunciation 3 times to gain XP
March 24, 2026
改革gǎigé(gai3ge2)
改革 (gǎigé) refers to the process of making changes to improve systems, institutions, or practices. It is commonly used in political, economic, and social contexts, particularly in discussions about policies and reforms in China. The term implies a structured approach aimed at enhancing efficiency or effectiveness.
Frequency#8692DifficultyHard
Cultural Note
The concept of '改革' is deeply rooted in modern Chinese history, particularly associated with the economic reforms initiated by Deng Xiaoping in the late 1970s, which transformed China's economy and society.
Memory Tip
Imagine '改' (to change) as a person with a changeable face (the character has a radical suggesting change), while '革' (to reform) looks like a leather worker crafting something new. Together, they symbolize the act of changing and improving, which sounds like 'gai' in 'gǎigé'.
Meanings of 改革
gǎigé(gai3ge2)
1reform
2to reform
Exercise 1 of 2
Listen & Choose the Meaning
Choose the correct answer:
About 改革
改革Simplified
—Strokes
—Radical
名动词dòngcíverb-noun (v.-n.)Part of Speech
#8692Frequency Rank
次Measure Word
HSK 2.0L5HSK 3.0L5IntermediateTOCFLL5HSKKL3CEFRB2
Podcast: 改革
Podcast: 改革
Listen to Jason & Amy break down this word for you
New here?
AI Study Notes for 改革
Quick Contrast
改革 (gǎigé) vs 变革 (biàngé) — use 改革 for systematic improvements, while 变革 implies a more radical or revolutionary change.
Memory Mnemonic
Imagine '改' (to change) as a person with a changeable face (the character has a radical suggesting change), while '革' (to reform) looks like a leather worker crafting something new. Together, they symbolize the act of changing and improving, which sounds like 'gai' in 'gǎigé'.
Usage Notes
Be cautious with the tone; '改革' is pronounced with a rising tone for '改' and a neutral tone for '革'. It is formal and often used in academic, political, or professional contexts. Common collocations include '经济改革' (economic reform) and '社会改革' (social reform).
HSK Study Tips
As an HSK Level 5 word, '改革' connects with other terms related to social sciences and policy discussions. Focus on its use in phrases and sentences, as well as its derivatives like '改革开放' (reform and opening up).
Cultural Note
The concept of '改革' is deeply rooted in modern Chinese history, particularly associated with the economic reforms initiated by Deng Xiaoping in the late 1970s, which transformed China's economy and society.
Common Mistakes
Learners often confuse '改革' with '改变' (to change), which is more general. For example, saying '我想要改革我的生活' (I want to reform my life) is incorrect; it should be '我想要改变我的生活' (I want to change my life).
AI-enhanced 2026-03-24
Pronunciation of 改革
Premium — Locked
AI tone practice
Pro
Drill the tone of 改革 with AI-powered exercises, get instant feedback, and earn XP toward mastery. Interactive tone practice is part of Pro.
New here? to save your writing progress and earn XP.
Practice writing 改革 stroke by stroke. Watch the animation to learn the stroke order, then try writing it yourself.
Write correctly 3 times to earn XP
Cultural Notes for 改革
🏮Cultural insight
The concept of '改革' is deeply rooted in modern Chinese history, particularly associated with the economic reforms initiated by Deng Xiaoping in the late 1970s, which transformed China's economy and society.
🌏Cross-cultural Insight
In Western contexts, 'reform' often implies a gradual process, while in China, '改革' can signify sweeping changes implemented by the government, reflecting a more centralized approach.
Frequently Asked Questions about 改革
'改革' can be used in sentences like '中国的经济改革促进了快速发展' (China's economic reforms have promoted rapid development).
'改革' is generally seen positively, but it can also be criticized if the outcomes are unfavorable, such as in controversial political reforms.
'改革' is more common in formal discussions; in everyday conversation, you might hear more specific terms related to personal or local changes.
