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March 24, 2026
元素yuánsù(yuan2su4)
元素 (yuán sù) refers to an 'element' in various contexts, especially in chemistry and mathematics. In chemistry, it denotes a basic substance that cannot be broken down into simpler substances, while in mathematics, it represents an individual member of a set. This term is commonly used in scientific discussions and educational contexts.
Frequency#5275DifficultyHard
Cultural Note
In Chinese education, science and math are highly emphasized, and understanding terms like '元素' is crucial for students pursuing careers in science or engineering. This reflects the high value placed on scientific knowledge in modern Chinese society.
Memory Tip
Imagine a giant periodic table where each element is a unique character. The first part '元' (yuán) looks like the foundation stone, suggesting it's a fundamental building block, while '素' (sù) resembles a smooth surface, hinting at the pure nature of elements. Together, think of them as the essential 'building blocks' of matter.
Meanings of 元素
yuánsù(yuan2su4)
1element
2element of a set
Exercise 1 of 2
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About 元素
元素Simplified
—Strokes
—Radical
名词míngcínoun (n.)Part of Speech
#5275Frequency Rank
HSK 2.0L6HSK 3.0L6IntermediateHSKKL3CEFRC1
Podcast: 元素
Podcast: 元素
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AI Study Notes for 元素
Quick Contrast
化学元素 (huàxué yuánsù) vs 物质 (wùzhì) — use 元素 when referring specifically to a chemical element, while 物质 refers to matter in a broader sense.
Memory Mnemonic
Imagine a giant periodic table where each element is a unique character. The first part '元' (yuán) looks like the foundation stone, suggesting it's a fundamental building block, while '素' (sù) resembles a smooth surface, hinting at the pure nature of elements. Together, think of them as the essential 'building blocks' of matter.
Usage Notes
Be cautious to not confuse '元素' with '成分' (chéng fèn), which means 'component' and is used in a broader context. '元素' is more formal and is often used in scientific discussions, whereas '成分' can be used in everyday language. Ensure correct tone pronunciation: 元 (2nd tone) and 素 (4th tone).
HSK Study Tips
As an HSK Level 6 word, 元素 connects well with other scientific terms that learners might encounter, such as '化合物' (huà hé wù, compound) and '化学' (huà xué, chemistry). Focus on the practical applications of this term in scientific contexts, as this will enhance your understanding and usage of related vocabulary.
Cultural Note
In Chinese education, science and math are highly emphasized, and understanding terms like '元素' is crucial for students pursuing careers in science or engineering. This reflects the high value placed on scientific knowledge in modern Chinese society.
Common Mistakes
Learners often confuse 元素 with similar-sounding terms like 结果 (jié guǒ, result) or 组成 (zǔ chéng, composition). For example, saying '这个元素是结果' (zhège yuánsù shì jié guǒ) is incorrect; it should be '这个元素是基础' (zhège yuánsù shì jī chǔ), meaning 'This element is fundamental.'
AI-enhanced 2026-03-24
Pronunciation of 元素
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Grammar Patterns of 元素
元素 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 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.
Exercise 1 of 4
Complete the Sentence
碳是一种(化学)____, 而二氧化碳则是一种化合物.
Carbon is an element, while carbon dioxide is a compound.
Example Sentences for 元素 (4)
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1
碳是一种(化学)元素, 而二氧化碳则是一种化合物.
tàn shì yī zhǒng( ( huà) xué ), yuán sù , ér èr yǎng huà tàn zé shì yī zhǒng.
Carbon is an element, while carbon dioxide is a compound.
2
在无质子的酸中, 它是另一种缺电子元素.
zài wú zhì zǐ de suān zhōng, , tā shì lìng yī zhǒng quē diàn zǐ yuán.
In aprotic acids, it is some other electron - deficient element.
3
我们现在把各矩阵元素上的一撇略去.
wǒ mén xiàn zài bǎ gè jǔ zhèn yuán sù shàng de yī piē lüè qù.
We now omit the prime on the matrix elements.
4
通常, 钙素过量是与该元素相联系的阴离子伴随产生的.
tōng cháng, , gài sù guò liáng shì yǔ gāi yuán sù xiāng lián xì de yīn lí zǐ bàn suí chǎn shēng.
In general, excess calcium effects result from the anion with which the element is associated.
Cultural Notes for 元素
🏮Cultural insight
In Chinese education, science and math are highly emphasized, and understanding terms like '元素' is crucial for students pursuing careers in science or engineering. This reflects the high value placed on scientific knowledge in modern Chinese society.
Frequently Asked Questions about 元素
元素 refers specifically to fundamental chemical elements or members of a set, while 成分 refers to components or ingredients, which can include mixtures.
You can say '氢是一种重要的元素' (Qīng shì yī zhǒng zhòngyào de yuánsù), meaning 'Hydrogen is an important element.'
Not usually; it is primarily used in scientific or educational contexts rather than casual conversation.
