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March 24, 2026
波浪bōlàng(bo1lang4)
波浪 (bōlàng) refers to waves, especially those seen in oceans or large bodies of water. It can describe both the physical phenomenon of waves and metaphorically represent fluctuations in situations, such as emotions or trends. Commonly used in discussions about nature, physics, and even in poetry to evoke imagery.
Frequency#13097DifficultyHard
Cultural Note
In Chinese culture, waves are often associated with the ebb and flow of life, symbolizing change and unpredictability. The concept of '波浪' can also be found in traditional poetry, where waves might represent emotions or the passage of time.
Memory Tip
Imagine standing on a beach, watching the '波' (bō) - the sound of waves crashing - while '浪' (làng) sounds like 'long', as in the long rolling waves that stretch far into the horizon. Picture these waves rhythmically coming and going, creating a soothing but powerful motion.
Meanings of 波浪
bōlàng(bo1lang4)
1wave
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About 波浪
波浪Simplified
—Strokes
—Radical
其它专名míngcíproper noun (pr.n.)Part of Speech
#13097Frequency Rank
HSK 2.0L6HSK 3.0L7IntermediateTOCFLL5HSKKL3CEFRC1
Podcast: 波浪
Podcast: 波浪
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AI Study Notes for 波浪
Quick Contrast
涟漪 (liányī) refers specifically to ripples or small waves on the surface of water, while 波浪 (bōlàng) denotes larger, more powerful waves.
Memory Mnemonic
Imagine standing on a beach, watching the '波' (bō) - the sound of waves crashing - while '浪' (làng) sounds like 'long', as in the long rolling waves that stretch far into the horizon. Picture these waves rhythmically coming and going, creating a soothing but powerful motion.
Usage Notes
Be cautious with the tones; '波' (bō) must be pronounced high and level, while '浪' (làng) is falling. It is often used in both formal and informal contexts, especially in literature or discussions about nature. Common collocations include '海浪' (hǎilàng - sea waves) and '波浪声' (bōlàng shēng - sound of waves).
HSK Study Tips
As an HSK 6 word, it connects well with other vocabulary related to nature and movement. Students should focus on using it in context, especially combined with adjectives and verbs to describe actions related to waves.
Cultural Note
In Chinese culture, waves are often associated with the ebb and flow of life, symbolizing change and unpredictability. The concept of '波浪' can also be found in traditional poetry, where waves might represent emotions or the passage of time.
Common Mistakes
Learners often confuse the tones, pronouncing it as 'bōláng' instead of 'bōlàng'. Additionally, they may use it inappropriately when discussing non-wave related topics, so it's essential to ensure the context fits the meaning.
AI-enhanced 2026-03-24
Pronunciation of 波浪
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Grammar Patterns of 波浪
波浪 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.
Alongshore bars are produced at the point of wave break.
Cultural Notes for 波浪
🏮Cultural insight
In Chinese culture, waves are often associated with the ebb and flow of life, symbolizing change and unpredictability. The concept of '波浪' can also be found in traditional poetry, where waves might represent emotions or the passage of time.
🌏Cross-cultural Insight
In Western cultures, waves might primarily symbolize relaxation or leisure (like beach vacations), while in Chinese culture, they more often symbolize the natural cycles of life and the importance of harmony with nature.
Frequently Asked Questions about 波浪
It is pronounced as 'bōlàng', with the first syllable '波' in a high tone and the second syllable '浪' in a falling tone.
Yes, '波浪' can describe fluctuations in various contexts, such as emotions or market trends.
'海浪' (hǎilàng) for sea waves and '波浪声' (bōlàng shēng) for the sound of waves are commonly used.
