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March 24, 2026
主流zhǔliú(zhu3liu2)
The term '主流' (zhǔliú) refers to the main or dominant trend, idea, or current within a particular context, such as culture, politics, or society. It often indicates what is widely accepted or practiced, distinguishing it from minority opinions or alternative movements. In discussions, it emphasizes the prevailing views or practices that shape the overall direction of a topic.
Frequency#13791DifficultyHard
Cultural Note
'主流' is often discussed in the context of Chinese media and arts, where government influence can lead to a pronounced mainstream culture. Understanding this term is crucial for navigating conversations about social norms and popular movements in China.
Memory Tip
Think of '主' (zhǔ) as the 'main' and '流' (liú) as a 'flowing stream.' Imagine a river where the main stream carries the majority of water, representing the dominant ideas or trends in society. This imagery connects the pronunciation 'zhǔliú' with its meaning as the primary current.
Meanings of 主流
zhǔliú(zhu3liu2)
1main stream (of a river)
2fig. the essential point
Exercise 1 of 2
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About 主流
主流Simplified
—Strokes
—Radical
区别词distinguishing word (dist.)Part of Speech
#13791Frequency Rank
HSK 2.0L6HSK 3.0L6IntermediateHSKKL3CEFRC1
Podcast: 主流
Podcast: 主流
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AI Study Notes for 主流
Quick Contrast
主流 (mainstream) vs 趋势 (trend) — choose 主流 when emphasizing dominant ideas or practices, while 趋势 refers more broadly to any direction or development.
Memory Mnemonic
Think of '主' (zhǔ) as the 'main' and '流' (liú) as a 'flowing stream.' Imagine a river where the main stream carries the majority of water, representing the dominant ideas or trends in society. This imagery connects the pronunciation 'zhǔliú' with its meaning as the primary current.
Usage Notes
'主流' is commonly used in discussions about cultural phenomena, media trends, or political opinions. Be careful with its tone; the third and second tones can be tricky for learners. It's best used in more formal contexts, but can also appear in casual conversations when discussing popular opinions.
HSK Study Tips
As a level 6 HSK word, '主流' connects to other advanced vocabulary related to sociology and culture. Students should focus on using it in sentences discussing current events or cultural dynamics, which will help reinforce its meaning and usage.
Cultural Note
'主流' is often discussed in the context of Chinese media and arts, where government influence can lead to a pronounced mainstream culture. Understanding this term is crucial for navigating conversations about social norms and popular movements in China.
Common Mistakes
Learners often confuse '主流' with '流行' (liúxíng), which means 'popular' rather than 'mainstream.' For example, saying '这本书是主流' (This book is mainstream) is incorrect; it should specify '这本书很流行' (This book is popular) instead.
AI-enhanced 2026-03-24
Pronunciation of 主流
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Cultural Notes for 主流
🏮Cultural insight
'主流' is often discussed in the context of Chinese media and arts, where government influence can lead to a pronounced mainstream culture. Understanding this term is crucial for navigating conversations about social norms and popular movements in China.
🌏Cross-cultural Insight
In Western cultures, the concept of 'mainstream' often emphasizes individualism and diversity of thought, whereas in Chinese culture, it can reflect a more collectivist approach where conformity to the mainstream is more prevalent.
Frequently Asked Questions about 主流
'主流'在当今社会中影响着许多年轻人的选择。 (The mainstream influences many young people's choices in today's society.)
Yes, '主流' can be used informally, but it's more commonly found in discussions about serious topics like politics or cultural trends.
'主流' can refer to opinions, trends, products, and cultural movements, so it's versatile in its usage.
