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March 24, 2026
犹如(猶如)yóurú(you2ru2)
犹如 (yóu rú) is used to express similarity or comparison, often translated as 'similar to' or 'as if.' It is commonly used in both formal and literary contexts to draw parallels between two subjects, emphasizing resemblance and likeness.
Frequency#11471DifficultyHard
Cultural Note
In Chinese literature and poetry, the use of 犹如 is prevalent, reflecting the culture's appreciation for metaphorical language and vivid imagery. It often appears in classical texts and modern prose to enhance the expressive quality of writing.
Memory Tip
Think of 犹 (yóu) as a dog (犭 radical) that is as loyal as a friend. Like a loyal friend, it shows a resemblance (如, rú) to someone you trust. Imagine a dog that behaves just like its owner, highlighting the concept of similarity.
Meanings of 犹如
yóurú(you2ru2)
1similar to
2appearing to be
Exercise 1 of 2
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About 犹如
犹如Simplified
猶如Traditional
—Strokes
—Radical
动词dòngcíverb (v.)Part of Speech
#11471Frequency Rank
HSK 2.0L6HSK 3.0L6AdvancedCEFRC2
Podcast: 犹如
Podcast: 犹如
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AI Study Notes for 犹如
Quick Contrast
如同 vs 犹如: Use 犹如 to emphasize a more formal or literary comparison, while 如同 is more commonly used in everyday speech.
Memory Mnemonic
Think of 犹 (yóu) as a dog (犭 radical) that is as loyal as a friend. Like a loyal friend, it shows a resemblance (如, rú) to someone you trust. Imagine a dog that behaves just like its owner, highlighting the concept of similarity.
Usage Notes
Be careful not to confuse 犹如 with just any comparative phrase; it carries a more poetic tone. It's often used in writing, speeches, and formal contexts, so avoid using it in casual conversations. Common collocations include 犹如...般 (as if...), indicating a strong comparison.
HSK Study Tips
As an HSK Level 6 word, 犹如 connects with other advanced vocabulary that deals with comparisons and descriptions. Focus on using it in complex sentences to refine your understanding of nuanced comparisons.
Cultural Note
In Chinese literature and poetry, the use of 犹如 is prevalent, reflecting the culture's appreciation for metaphorical language and vivid imagery. It often appears in classical texts and modern prose to enhance the expressive quality of writing.
Common Mistakes
Learners often misuse 犹如 by using it in overly casual contexts. For example, saying '他犹如很忙' (He is similar to very busy) is incorrect; instead, say '他犹如很忙碌' (He seems very busy).
AI-enhanced 2026-03-24
Pronunciation of 犹如
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Grammar Patterns of 犹如
犹如 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
最后上完蜡后，它看起来____缎子般光滑亮泽。
The final stage of waxing left it with a satin sheen.
Example Sentences for 犹如 (7)
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1
最后上完蜡后，它看起来犹如缎子般光滑亮泽。
zuì hòu shàng wán là hòu， ， tā kàn qǐ lái yóu rú duàn zǐ bān guāng huá liàng。
The final stage of waxing left it with a satin sheen.
2
他说人们谈起解雇犹如在讲恐怖故事。
tā shuō rén mén tán qǐ jiě gù yóu rú zài jiǎng kǒng bù gù shì。
He described talk of sackings as scare stories.
3
她双唇努起犹如一朵玫瑰花蕾，在他的鼻子上吻了一下。
tā shuāng chún nǔ qǐ yóu rú yī duǒ méi guī huā lěi， ， zài tā de bí zǐ shàng wěn le yī。
She puckered her lips into a rosebud and kissed him on the nose.
Fear - stricken, the dog turned and flurried like an animal in a pen.
Cultural Notes for 犹如
🏮Cultural insight
In Chinese literature and poetry, the use of 犹如 is prevalent, reflecting the culture's appreciation for metaphorical language and vivid imagery. It often appears in classical texts and modern prose to enhance the expressive quality of writing.
🌏Cross-cultural Insight
In Western cultures, similes are often straightforward and less poetic, while in Chinese, comparisons like 犹如 carry deeper connotations and often invoke imagery or emotion.
Frequently Asked Questions about 犹如
It's more appropriate for formal writing or speeches; in casual conversation, simpler comparisons are preferred.
Use it to draw a comparison between two things, such as '他的声音犹如天籁' (His voice is like heavenly music).
No, they are different; 似乎 means 'seems' while 犹如 emphasizes similarity.
