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March 24, 2026
原理yuánlǐ(yuan2li3)
原理 (yuánlǐ) refers to the fundamental principles or theories that govern the operation of a system or concept. It is commonly used in scientific, philosophical, and technical contexts to describe the underlying rules or laws that explain how something works.
Frequency#8741DifficultyHard
Cultural Note
In Chinese education, understanding the 原理 behind concepts is highly emphasized, especially in subjects like physics and mathematics, reflecting the culture's focus on foundational knowledge and critical thinking.
Memory Tip
Think of 原 (yuán) as the origin and 理 (lǐ) as logic. Imagine a tree with deep roots (原) providing stability and logic (理) guiding its growth. This visualizes the idea of fundamental principles that support complex systems.
Meanings of 原理
yuánlǐ(yuan2li3)
1principle
2theory
Exercise 1 of 2
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About 原理
原理Simplified
—Strokes
—Radical
名词míngcínoun (n.)Part of Speech
#8741Frequency Rank
HSK 2.0L6HSK 3.0L6IntermediateHSKKL3CEFRB2
Podcast: 原理
Podcast: 原理
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AI Study Notes for 原理
Quick Contrast
原则 (yuánzé) - use 原理 for fundamental principles of operation, while 原则 refers more to general principles or guidelines.
Memory Mnemonic
Think of 原 (yuán) as the origin and 理 (lǐ) as logic. Imagine a tree with deep roots (原) providing stability and logic (理) guiding its growth. This visualizes the idea of fundamental principles that support complex systems.
Usage Notes
Be careful not to confuse 原理 with related terms like 方法 (fāngfǎ, method) or 规则 (guīzé, rule), as they have different meanings. 原理 is more formal and typically used in academic or technical writing, while 方法 is more informal. Watch out for the second tone in 原 and the third tone in 理 to avoid mispronunciation.
HSK Study Tips
At HSK 6, students should focus on understanding how 原理 connects to other technical vocabulary and concepts. Consider exploring related words such as 理论 (lǐlùn, theory) and 机制 (jīzhì, mechanism) to broaden your understanding of theoretical discussions.
Cultural Note
In Chinese education, understanding the 原理 behind concepts is highly emphasized, especially in subjects like physics and mathematics, reflecting the culture's focus on foundational knowledge and critical thinking.
Common Mistakes
Learners often confuse 原理 with 理论, mistakenly using one when the other is more appropriate. For example, saying '这个原理是错误的' (This principle is wrong) when they mean '理论' (theory) can lead to misunderstandings.
AI-enhanced 2026-03-24
Pronunciation of 原理
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Grammar Patterns of 原理
原理 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 5
Complete the Sentence
本节只涉及显微镜的一些基本____.
The present section has included only the basic principles of a microscope.
Example Sentences for 原理 (4)
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1
本节只涉及显微镜的一些基本原理.
běn jié zhī shè jí xiǎn wēi jìng de yī xiē jī běn yuán lǐ.
The present section has included only the basic principles of a microscope.
2
渗析原理的应用是除半咸水中的盐.
shèn xī yuán lǐ de yīng yòng shì chú bàn xián shuǐ zhōng de yán.
The dialysis principle can be used for demineralization of brackish water.
3
以机械原理为基础的应变计是刻痕应变计.
yǐ jī xiè yuán lǐ wéi jī chǔ de yīng biàn jì shì kè hén yīng biàn jì.
The strain gage based on mechanical principles is the scratch gage.
4
略举数例,用以说明这一原理.
lüè jǔ shù lì, , yòng yǐ shuō míng zhè yī yuán.
Here are few examples to illustrate this principle.
Cultural Notes for 原理
🏮Cultural insight
In Chinese education, understanding the 原理 behind concepts is highly emphasized, especially in subjects like physics and mathematics, reflecting the culture's focus on foundational knowledge and critical thinking.
Frequently Asked Questions about 原理
You can say: '这个理论的原理是基于实验数据。' (The principle of this theory is based on experimental data.)
原理 refers to fundamental principles, while 理论 refers to broader theories that may include multiple principles.
It's typically used in more formal or academic contexts rather than casual conversation.
