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March 24, 2026
故障gùzhàng(gu4zhang4)
故障 (gùzhàng) refers to a malfunction or breakdown in a system or object, commonly used in technical contexts such as machinery, electronics, or software. It implies a failure that disrupts normal functioning and can denote defects or shortcomings in performance.
Frequency#4540DifficultyHard
Cultural Note
The concept of 故障 is significant in modern Chinese life, particularly with the rapid growth of technology and machinery in urban areas. Understanding how to identify and address 故障 is crucial for maintaining equipment in both personal and professional settings.
Memory Tip
Imagine a 'ghost' (故, gù) haunting a 'machine' (障, zhàng) that keeps breaking down. The ghost represents issues that cause malfunctions, making it hard for the machine to work properly. The visual of a haunted machine can help you remember both the meaning and pronunciation.
Meanings of 故障
gùzhàng(gu4zhang4)
1malfunction
2breakdown
Exercise 1 of 2
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About 故障
故障Simplified
—Strokes
—Radical
名词míngcínoun (n.)Part of Speech
#4540Frequency Rank
HSK 2.0L6HSK 3.0L6IntermediateHSKKL3CEFRC1
Podcast: 故障
Podcast: 故障
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AI Study Notes for 故障
Quick Contrast
故障 (gùzhàng) vs 故障 (gùzhàng) — use 故障 when referring specifically to a malfunction in a system, while 故障 can also imply broader issues or failures in performance.
Memory Mnemonic
Imagine a 'ghost' (故, gù) haunting a 'machine' (障, zhàng) that keeps breaking down. The ghost represents issues that cause malfunctions, making it hard for the machine to work properly. The visual of a haunted machine can help you remember both the meaning and pronunciation.
Usage Notes
故障 is used in both formal and informal contexts, often in technical or professional discussions. Be careful not to confuse it with similar terms like 错误 (cuòwù), which means 'error' but is more general and does not imply a mechanical failure. Common collocations include '设备故障' (shèbèi gùzhàng) meaning 'equipment malfunction'.
HSK Study Tips
As an HSK level 6 word, 故障 connects well with other technical vocabulary and terms related to technology and maintenance. Students should focus on contextual usage and collocations to improve understanding and communication in technical discussions.
Cultural Note
The concept of 故障 is significant in modern Chinese life, particularly with the rapid growth of technology and machinery in urban areas. Understanding how to identify and address 故障 is crucial for maintaining equipment in both personal and professional settings.
Common Mistakes
Learners often confuse 故障 with 失误 (shīwù), which means 'mistake' rather than a malfunction. A common mistake is saying '设备失误' instead of '设备故障' when referring to equipment failures.
AI-enhanced 2026-03-24
Pronunciation of 故障
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Grammar Patterns of 故障
故障 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 9 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 5
Complete the Sentence
还有几次事故主要是起飞时引擎出现____造成的。
There were also several accidents mainly caused by engine failures on take-off.
I have a / this horror of being trapped in a broken lift.
Cultural Notes for 故障
🏮Cultural insight
The concept of 故障 is significant in modern Chinese life, particularly with the rapid growth of technology and machinery in urban areas. Understanding how to identify and address 故障 is crucial for maintaining equipment in both personal and professional settings.
🌏Cross-cultural Insight
In Western cultures, the term 'failure' may be viewed more negatively, often associated with personal accountability, whereas 故障 in Chinese contexts can emphasize the need for systemic solutions rather than individual blame.
Frequently Asked Questions about 故障
You can use 故障 in any technical context, such as discussing machinery, electronics, or even software bugs.
No, 故障 can refer to both physical malfunctions and software errors, so it's versatile in technical discussions.
故障 is specific to malfunctions and breakdowns, while 错误 refers to errors or mistakes in a broader sense.
