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March 24, 2026
物质(物質)wùzhì(wu4zhi4)
The term 物质 (wùzhì) refers to matter or substance in both a physical and philosophical sense. It encompasses the tangible materials that make up the universe, as well as the idea of materialism in a socio-economic context. Commonly used in scientific discussions and philosophical debates, it emphasizes the importance of physical reality.
Frequency#2851DifficultyHard
Cultural Note
物质 is often discussed in the context of China's rapid modernization and economic growth, highlighting a shift towards materialism in contemporary society. This term can reflect broader societal values concerning consumption and success.
Memory Tip
Imagine a 'wu'nderful 'zhi'p sailing through a sea of materials. The ship represents 'matter' (物质) as it carries different substances across the waters, reminding you that 'wu' sounds like 'woo' and 'zhi' sounds like 'gee', making 'woo-zhih' a memorable pairing.
Meanings of 物质
wùzhì(wu4zhi4)
1matter
2substance
Exercise 1 of 2
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About 物质
物质Simplified
物質Traditional
—Strokes
—Radical
名词míngcínoun (n.)Part of Speech
#2851Frequency Rank
个Measure Word
HSK 2.0L5HSK 3.0L5IntermediateHSKKL3CEFRB2
Podcast: 物质
Podcast: 物质
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AI Study Notes for 物质
Quick Contrast
物质 (wùzhì) vs 材料 (cáiliào) — use 物质 for the concept of matter in a broader philosophical or scientific context, while 材料 refers specifically to materials or ingredients used for construction or production.
Memory Mnemonic
Imagine a 'wu'nderful 'zhi'p sailing through a sea of materials. The ship represents 'matter' (物质) as it carries different substances across the waters, reminding you that 'wu' sounds like 'woo' and 'zhi' sounds like 'gee', making 'woo-zhih' a memorable pairing.
Usage Notes
Learners often confuse 物质 with 精神 (jīngshén), which means spirit or mind. While 物质 is associated with the material world, 精神 pertains to the mental or spiritual aspects. This word is typically used in formal contexts, especially in academic discussions about science or philosophy.
HSK Study Tips
As an HSK 5 word, 物质 connects well with other vocabulary related to science and philosophy, such as 科学 (kēxué, science) and 理论 (lǐlùn, theory). Students should focus on using 物质 in sentences that discuss physical properties or materialistic values.
Cultural Note
物质 is often discussed in the context of China's rapid modernization and economic growth, highlighting a shift towards materialism in contemporary society. This term can reflect broader societal values concerning consumption and success.
Common Mistakes
Learners often confuse 物质 with 物品 (wùpǐn), which means 'goods' or 'items'. For example, saying '我喜欢这个物品' (Wǒ xǐhuān zhège wùzhì) is incorrect; it should be '我喜欢这个物品' (Wǒ xǐhuān zhège wùpǐn).
AI-enhanced 2026-03-24
Pronunciation of 物质
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Grammar Patterns of 物质
物质 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 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.
Exercise 1 of 4
Complete the Sentence
硝酸盐是水和土壤中自然存在的化学____。
Nitrates are chemicals that occur naturally in water and the soil.
The object has no real value, materially or emotionally.
9
物质和意识形态上的障碍在东欧已不复存在。
wù zhì hé yì shí xíng tài shàng de zhàng ài zài dōng ōu yǐ bù fù cún zài。
Physical and ideological barriers had come down in Eastern Europe.
10
脱咖啡因的咖啡仍含一些刺激物和其他可能致癌的有害物质。
tuō kā fēi yīn de kā fēi réng hán yī xiē cì jī wù hé qí tā kě néng zhì ái de yǒu hài wù zhì。
Decaffeinated coffee still contains some stimulants and other nasties linked with cancer.
Cultural Notes for 物质
🏮Cultural insight
物质 is often discussed in the context of China's rapid modernization and economic growth, highlighting a shift towards materialism in contemporary society. This term can reflect broader societal values concerning consumption and success.
Frequently Asked Questions about 物质
You can say '这个材料是很好的物质' (Zhège cáiliào shì hěn hǎo de wùzhì) meaning 'This material is a very good substance.'
物质 refers to the concept of matter or substance in general, while 材料 specifically means 'material' in the context of something used for construction or making things.
Yes, 物质 can describe materialism in philosophy, discussing the importance of physical substance over spiritual values.
