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March 24, 2026
发言(發言)fāyán(fa1yan2)
发言 refers to the act of making a speech or statement, often in a formal setting such as a meeting or conference. It implies expressing one’s thoughts or opinions publicly, which can include both formal speeches and informal comments.
Frequency#4941DifficultyMedium
Cultural Note
In Chinese culture, making a formal statement or speech is a respected act, often associated with authority and responsibility. The ability to 发言 effectively can influence one’s reputation and relationships in professional settings.
Memory Tip
Imagine a person at a podium (发) holding a microphone, ready to speak (言). The character 发 looks like a person stepping forward to share their voice, making it easier to remember both its form and meaning.
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AI Study Notes for 发言
Quick Contrast
发言 (make a speech) vs 讲话 (speak) — use 发言 for formal contexts, while 讲话 is more general and can refer to any type of speaking.
Memory Mnemonic
Imagine a person at a podium (发) holding a microphone, ready to speak (言). The character 发 looks like a person stepping forward to share their voice, making it easier to remember both its form and meaning.
Usage Notes
发言 is commonly used in formal contexts, so learners should be cautious using it in casual conversations. It often collocates with words like '会议' (meeting) or '讨论' (discussion). Be careful not to confuse it with '发言权' (the right to speak), which includes a notion of entitlement.
HSK Study Tips
As an HSK 5 word, 发言 connects well with other vocabulary relating to communication, such as '讲话' (to speak) and '讨论' (to discuss). Focus on using it in sentences related to meetings or public speaking scenarios to reinforce its practical usage.
Cultural Note
In Chinese culture, making a formal statement or speech is a respected act, often associated with authority and responsibility. The ability to 发言 effectively can influence one’s reputation and relationships in professional settings.
Common Mistakes
Learners often use 发言 incorrectly in casual settings, saying something like '我发言了' (I made a statement) when it sounds too formal. Instead, they might say '我说了' (I spoke) in everyday conversations.
AI-enhanced 2026-03-24
Pronunciation of 发言
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Grammar Patterns of 发言
发言 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 4 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
会上____者的一句话让我思绪飘远。
A phrase from the conference floor set my mind wandering.
A spokeswoman said the agreement had been declared null and void.
Cultural Notes for 发言
🏮Cultural insight
In Chinese culture, making a formal statement or speech is a respected act, often associated with authority and responsibility. The ability to 发言 effectively can influence one’s reputation and relationships in professional settings.
Frequently Asked Questions about 发言
发言 is more formal and often used in structured settings like meetings, while 讲话 can be used more casually and generally means to talk.
It's best to avoid using 发言 in informal contexts as it may sound too formal and out of place.
Common phrases include '发言权' (right to speak) and '发言人' (spokesperson).
