Meanings of 平凡
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Podcast: 平凡
Podcast: 平凡
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AI Study Notes for 平凡
平凡 (ordinary) vs 普通 (common) — use 平凡 to emphasize humility in ordinariness, while 普通 is more neutral.
Imagine a flat, plain pancake (平) that is common at breakfast. It's not fancy like a gourmet dish, but it's satisfying and fills you up. This helps you remember that 平凡 means ordinary or commonplace.
Be careful not to confuse 平凡 with 高尚 (gāoshàng), which means noble or lofty; they convey very different meanings. This word is generally neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, often appearing in discussions about societal values.
As an HSK Level 6 word, 平凡 connects with other vocabulary describing qualities and characteristics. Focus on its usage in contrasting contexts, such as comparing the ordinary with the extraordinary (非凡, fēifán).
In Chinese culture, the concept of 平凡 is often celebrated in literature and philosophy, where the ordinary life is seen as valuable and meaningful, reflecting humility and a grounded nature.
Learners often misuse 平凡 to describe something positively, like saying '这件事很平凡' (This matter is very ordinary), which could imply it lacks importance. Instead, consider the context to avoid negative connotations.
Pronunciation of 平凡
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Component Characters
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Grammar Patterns of 平凡
平凡 functions as an adjective. In Chinese it behaves like a stative verb: place it directly after the subject without 是 (我很高，not 我是高). Use 不 to negate (不高) and pair it with 很 in plain affirmative sentences. It carries 3 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.
Complete the Sentence
____与非凡的差异仅在于那一点点额外的努力。
The difference between ordinary and extraordinary is that little extra.--Jimmy Johnson
Example Sentences for 平凡 (3)
Cultural Notes for 平凡
In Chinese culture, the concept of 平凡 is often celebrated in literature and philosophy, where the ordinary life is seen as valuable and meaningful, reflecting humility and a grounded nature.
Frequently Asked Questions about 平凡
Yes, you can use 平凡 to describe someone as being humble or down-to-earth, but be aware that it might imply a lack of ambition.