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March 24, 2026
透明tòumíng(tou4ming2)
The term 透明 (tòu míng) refers to something that is transparent or clear, allowing light to pass through without obstruction. It can also be used metaphorically to describe openness or transparency in communication, meaning something that is not secretive or hidden.
Frequency#8383DifficultyHard
Cultural Note
In modern Chinese society, the concept of 透明 is increasingly important in discussions about governance and business practices, reflecting a trend towards greater transparency and accountability.
Memory Tip
Imagine a clear glass window that lets you see everything outside. The character 透 (tòu) resembles a person peering through, while 明 (míng) suggests brightness, combining to evoke the idea of clarity and transparency.
Meanings of 透明
tòumíng(tou4ming2)
1transparent
2open (non-secretive)
Exercise 1 of 2
Listen & Choose the Meaning
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About 透明
透明Simplified
—Strokes
—Radical
形容词xíngróngcíadjective (adj.)Part of Speech
#8383Frequency Rank
HSK 2.0L5HSK 3.0L6IntermediateTOCFLL4HSKKL2CEFRB1
Podcast: 透明
Podcast: 透明
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AI Study Notes for 透明
Quick Contrast
清晰 (qīngxī) vs 透明 (tòumíng): Use 透明 when referring to physical transparency or metaphorical openness, while 清晰 emphasizes clarity or distinctness in perception.
Memory Mnemonic
Imagine a clear glass window that lets you see everything outside. The character 透 (tòu) resembles a person peering through, while 明 (míng) suggests brightness, combining to evoke the idea of clarity and transparency.
Usage Notes
Be cautious not to confuse 透明 with similar words like 清楚 (qīng chǔ), which means clear or distinct in understanding. The term is often used in both formal and informal contexts, especially in discussions about transparency in business or government.
HSK Study Tips
As an HSK Level 5 word, 透明 connects with other terms related to clarity and openness, such as 清晰 (qīng xī) meaning clear. Focus on using it in both literal and figurative contexts to enhance your vocabulary range.
Cultural Note
In modern Chinese society, the concept of 透明 is increasingly important in discussions about governance and business practices, reflecting a trend towards greater transparency and accountability.
Common Mistakes
Learners often misuse 透明 by applying it only to physical objects, neglecting its metaphorical use. For example, saying '这件事不透明' (This matter is not transparent) in a discussion is correct, but saying '这块玻璃不透明' (This piece of glass is not transparent) can lead to confusion if the context isn't clear.
AI-enhanced 2026-03-24
Pronunciation of 透明
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Grammar Patterns of 透明
透明 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 2 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
白内障是一种影响晶状体____性的疾病。
Cataracts is a condition that affects the transparency of the lenses.
Example Sentences for 透明 (10)
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1
白内障是一种影响晶状体透明性的疾病。
bái nèi zhàng shì yī zhǒng yǐng xiǎng jīng zhuàng tǐ tòu míng xìng de jí bìng。
Cataracts is a condition that affects the transparency of the lenses.
2
他利用半透明瓷漆绘制出鲜艳生动的图画。
tā lì yòng bàn tòu míng cí qī huì zhì chū xiān yàn shēng dòng de tú huà。
He relied on translucent enamels to produce vivid, glowing pictures.
Companies should be made to reveal more about their financial position.
10
这批货将用面上有透明塑料薄膜的纸盒装.
zhè pī huò jiāng yòng miàn shàng yǒu tòu míng sù liào báo mó de zhǐ hé zhuāng.
This order shall be packed in cartoons with polythene tops.
Cultural Notes for 透明
🏮Cultural insight
In modern Chinese society, the concept of 透明 is increasingly important in discussions about governance and business practices, reflecting a trend towards greater transparency and accountability.
🌏Cross-cultural Insight
The idea of transparency in communication is emphasized in many Western cultures, often seen as a virtue in business ethics, whereas in some Chinese contexts, the balance between transparency and discretion can vary.
Frequently Asked Questions about 透明
Yes, you can describe someone as 透明 to imply they are open and honest.
No, it can also refer to abstract concepts like communication and practices.
It is often used to describe practices that are open and accountable, such as transparent pricing or policies.
