Meanings of 吃力
Listen & Choose the Meaning
Choose the correct answer:
About 吃力
Podcast: 吃力
Podcast: 吃力
Listen to Jason & Amy break down this word for you
New here?
AI Study Notes for 吃力
吃力 (chīlì) vs 辛苦 (xīnkǔ): Use 吃力 for tasks that feel laborious or strenuous, while 辛苦 emphasizes the hardship or suffering involved in the effort.
Imagine a person 'eating' ('吃') a huge weight ('力') – the heavier the weight, the more effort it takes to lift. This vivid imagery helps you remember that '吃力' signifies a task that requires strenuous effort.
'吃力' is commonly used in both formal and informal contexts, but it can sound more dramatic in casual conversations. Be careful not to confuse it with '轻松' (easy), as they represent opposite meanings. Common collocations include '工作吃力' (labor-intensive work) and '学习吃力' (strenuous studying).
As an HSK Level 6 word, '吃力' connects with other advanced vocabulary related to effort and challenge. Students should focus on using it in context with phrases that describe difficulty or effort, such as '他做这个项目很吃力' (He finds this project very strenuous).
In Chinese culture, the value placed on hard work and perseverance is significant. '吃力' reflects this cultural emphasis, as individuals often take pride in overcoming strenuous tasks, viewing them as a testament to their character and dedication.
Learners often misuse '吃力' by applying it to situations that are merely challenging but not strenuous, such as saying '这道题很吃力' (This question is very strenuous) instead of '这道题有点难' (This question is a bit difficult). It's important to reserve '吃力' for tasks that genuinely require intense effort.
Pronunciation of 吃力
Drill the tone of 吃力 with AI-powered exercises, get instant feedback, and earn XP toward mastery. Interactive tone practice is part of Pro.
Component Characters
Write 吃力
New here? to save your writing progress and earn XP.
Practice writing 吃力 stroke by stroke. Watch the animation to learn the stroke order, then try writing it yourself.
Grammar Patterns of 吃力
吃力 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 5 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.
Complete the Sentence
他坐在书桌后____地写着，用的是一支部队发的钢笔。
He sat behind a desk laboriously writing with an Army issue pen.
Example Sentences for 吃力 (3)
Cultural Notes for 吃力
In Chinese culture, the value placed on hard work and perseverance is significant. '吃力' reflects this cultural emphasis, as individuals often take pride in overcoming strenuous tasks, viewing them as a testament to their character and dedication.
Frequently Asked Questions about 吃力
While '吃力' typically conveys difficulty, it can be used positively to express pride in overcoming challenges, such as completing a tough project.