Listen to the audio pronunciation 3 times to gain XP
March 24, 2026
危机(危機)wēijī(wei1ji1)
危机 (wēijī) refers to a critical situation or turning point, often characterized by a high level of uncertainty and potential danger. It is commonly used in contexts related to economics, politics, and personal situations where urgent action is required to prevent disaster.
Frequency#2961DifficultyHard
Cultural Note
In Chinese business culture, understanding the concept of 危机 is crucial, as crises can significantly impact company reputations and stakeholder trust. The idea of addressing crises head-on is often emphasized in leadership training.
Memory Tip
Think of 危 (wēi) as a 'weigh' scale tipping dangerously, indicating danger. The character 机 (jī) resembles a machine or mechanism, which can break down in a crisis. Together, they symbolize a precarious situation that needs immediate attention.
Meanings of 危机
wēijī(wei1ji1)
1crisis
Exercise 1 of 2
Listen & Choose the Meaning
Choose the correct answer:
About 危机
危机Simplified
危機Traditional
—Strokes
—Radical
名词míngcínoun (n.)Part of Speech
#2961Frequency Rank
个Measure Word
HSK 2.0L6HSK 3.0L6IntermediateHSKKL3CEFRC1
Podcast: 危机
Podcast: 危机
Listen to Jason & Amy break down this word for you
New here?
AI Study Notes for 危机
Quick Contrast
危机 (wēijī) vs 突发事件 (tūfā shìjiàn) — use 危机 for situations involving critical turning points, while 突发事件 refers to unexpected events without the same level of urgency or potential for disaster.
Memory Mnemonic
Think of 危 (wēi) as a 'weigh' scale tipping dangerously, indicating danger. The character 机 (jī) resembles a machine or mechanism, which can break down in a crisis. Together, they symbolize a precarious situation that needs immediate attention.
Usage Notes
Learners often confuse 危机 with similar terms like 窘境 (jiǒngjìng), which is more about a difficult situation without the urgency. It's important to use 危机 in contexts implying a pressing need for resolution. Be mindful of the tone; mispronouncing it can lead to misunderstandings.
HSK Study Tips
As an HSK 6 word, 危机 connects well with other advanced vocabulary related to politics and economics. Focus on using it in sentences that describe situations requiring urgent decisions, which will help you grasp its nuance better.
Cultural Note
In Chinese business culture, understanding the concept of 危机 is crucial, as crises can significantly impact company reputations and stakeholder trust. The idea of addressing crises head-on is often emphasized in leadership training.
Common Mistakes
Learners sometimes mix up 危机 with 危害 (wēihài), which means harm or danger, leading to misinterpretations. For example, saying '我们在一个危害' (wǒmen zài yīgè wēihài) instead of '我们在一个危机' (wǒmen zài yīgè wēijī) is incorrect.
AI-enhanced 2026-03-24
Pronunciation of 危机
Premium — Locked
AI tone practice
Pro
Drill the tone of 危机 with AI-powered exercises, get instant feedback, and earn XP toward mastery. Interactive tone practice is part of Pro.
New here? to save your writing progress and earn XP.
Practice writing 危机 stroke by stroke. Watch the animation to learn the stroke order, then try writing it yourself.
Write correctly 3 times to earn XP
Grammar Patterns of 危机
危机 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 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
这场____看来远未结束。
An end to the crisis seems a long way off.
Example Sentences for 危机 (16)
Listen to all sentences once to receive XP
1
这场危机看来远未结束。
zhè cháng wēi jī kàn lái yuǎn wèi jié shù。
An end to the crisis seems a long way off.
2
该国领导人低估了这场危机的严重性。
gāi guó lǐng dǎo rén dī gū le zhè cháng wēi jī de yán zhòng xìng。
The country'sleadership had underestimated the depth of the crisis.
This crisis made us realize the need for better risk management.
15
专家们正在试图找到解决能源危机的办法。
Zhuānjiāmen zhèngzài shìtú zhǎodào jiějué néngyuán wēijī de bànfǎ.
Experts are trying to find solutions to the energy crisis.
16
他在危机时刻表现出了非凡的领导能力。
Tā zài wēijī shíkè biǎoxiàn chūle fēifán de lǐngdǎo nénglì.
He demonstrated exceptional leadership skills during the crisis.
Cultural Notes for 危机
🏮Cultural insight
In Chinese business culture, understanding the concept of 危机 is crucial, as crises can significantly impact company reputations and stakeholder trust. The idea of addressing crises head-on is often emphasized in leadership training.
Frequently Asked Questions about 危机
Yes, 危机 can refer to personal crises, such as emotional breakdowns or significant life changes.
It is used in both contexts, but you may find it more frequently in formal discussions or media.
Synonyms include 风险 (fēngxiǎn) for risk and 窘境 (jiǒngjìng) for a predicament, though they have different nuances.