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March 24, 2026
定义(定義)dìngyì(ding4yi4)
The term '定义' (dìngyì) refers to a precise explanation of the meaning of a word or concept. In academic and professional contexts, it is commonly used to clarify complex ideas and facilitate understanding among speakers. It emphasizes the importance of specificity in communication.
Frequency#4794DifficultyHard
Cultural Note
In Chinese culture, clarity in definitions is crucial for effective communication, especially in philosophical, legal, and educational discussions. The importance of precise definitions reflects the value placed on understanding and knowledge in these domains.
Memory Tip
Think of '定' (dìng) as 'deciding' and '义' (yì) as 'meaning'. Imagine a judge deciding on the exact meaning of a law—this visual connection helps you remember that '定义' is about defining the meaning of something.
Meanings of 定义
dìngyì(ding4yi4)
1definition
Exercise 1 of 2
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About 定义
定义Simplified
定義Traditional
—Strokes
—Radical
名词míngcínoun (n.)Part of Speech
#4794Frequency Rank
HSK 2.0L6HSK 3.0L6AdvancedTOCFLL5CEFRC2
Podcast: 定义
Podcast: 定义
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AI Study Notes for 定义
Quick Contrast
解释 (jiěshì) vs 阐述 (chǎnshù) — use '定义' when referring to a formal definition, while '解释' is for general explanations, and '阐述' is for elaborating or expounding on a topic.
Memory Mnemonic
Think of '定' (dìng) as 'deciding' and '义' (yì) as 'meaning'. Imagine a judge deciding on the exact meaning of a law—this visual connection helps you remember that '定义' is about defining the meaning of something.
Usage Notes
Be cautious with the pronunciation; the tones can change the meaning. '定义' is more formal, often used in academic writing and discussions, while casual conversations may use simpler terms. Common collocations include '给出定义' (to provide a definition) or '重新定义' (to redefine).
HSK Study Tips
As an HSK Level 6 word, '定义' connects with other advanced vocabulary related to communication and comprehension. Focus on its application in formal contexts, such as essays or presentations, to enhance your language skills at this level.
Cultural Note
In Chinese culture, clarity in definitions is crucial for effective communication, especially in philosophical, legal, and educational discussions. The importance of precise definitions reflects the value placed on understanding and knowledge in these domains.
Common Mistakes
Learners often confuse '定义' with '定义性', which refers to something being definitional or defining. For example, saying '我想要一个定义性' (I want a defining one) instead of '我想要一个定义' (I want a definition) demonstrates this error.
AI-enhanced 2026-03-24
Pronunciation of 定义
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Grammar Patterns of 定义
定义 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). 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
“这全视乎你对朋克摇滚乐的____，不是吗？”
It all depends on your definition of punk, doesn'tit?
Example Sentences for 定义 (4)
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1
“这全视乎你对朋克摇滚乐的定义，不是吗？”
“ “ zhè quán shì hū nǐ duì péng kè yáo gǔn lè de dìng， yì ， bù？”
It all depends on your definition of punk, doesn'tit?
2
路易斯·阿姆斯特朗把爵士乐简明扼要地定义为“我一门糊口的手艺”。
lù yì sī· · ā mǔ sī tè lǎng bǎ jué shì lè jiǎn míng è yào dì dìng yì“ wéi “ wǒ yī mén hū kǒu de”。
Louis Armstrong defined jazz pithily as "what I play for a living".
3
定义零 级微 扰的方程简单地决定了静态解.
dìng yì líng jí wēi rǎo de fāng chéng jiǎn dān dì jué dìng le jìng.
The equations defining the zero - order perturbation simply govern the static solution.
Two of the trucks were stopped because they had tents in them, and under the commanders' definition of humanitarian aid, that didn't count.
Cultural Notes for 定义
🏮Cultural insight
In Chinese culture, clarity in definitions is crucial for effective communication, especially in philosophical, legal, and educational discussions. The importance of precise definitions reflects the value placed on understanding and knowledge in these domains.
Frequently Asked Questions about 定义
Make sure to use the fourth tone for both characters: 'dìng' and 'yì'.
While it's more common in formal contexts, you can use it informally if discussing topics requiring clarity.
You can use terms like '说明' (explanation) or '解释' (interpretation) in similar contexts.
