Listen to the audio pronunciation 3 times to gain XP
March 24, 2026
大体(大體)dàtǐ(da4ti3)
大体 (dà tǐ) refers to a general overview or the main points of a situation rather than the specifics. It is commonly used when summarizing information or giving a rough estimate, allowing speakers to convey their understanding without delving into details.
Frequency#21651DifficultyHard
Cultural Note
In Chinese communication, summarizing the 'big picture' is often valued over detailing every small aspect, as it reflects a holistic perspective that is appreciated in both social and professional contexts.
Memory Tip
Imagine a large body (大) of water (体) that represents the big picture. Just as you can't see every drop in a vast ocean, 大体 helps you focus on the overall situation rather than the minute details.
Meanings of 大体
dàtǐ(da4ti3)
1in general
2more or less
Exercise 1 of 2
Listen & Choose the Meaning
Choose the correct answer:
About 大体
大体Simplified
大體Traditional
—Strokes
—Radical
副词fùcíadverb (adv.)Part of Speech
#21651Frequency Rank
HSK 2.0L6HSK 3.0L7AdvancedTOCFLL5CEFRC2
Podcast: 大体
Podcast: 大体
Listen to Jason & Amy break down this word for you
New here?
AI Study Notes for 大体
Quick Contrast
大致 (dà zhì) - use 大体 for a more general overview, while 大致 implies a rough approximation or estimation.
Memory Mnemonic
Imagine a large body (大) of water (体) that represents the big picture. Just as you can't see every drop in a vast ocean, 大体 helps you focus on the overall situation rather than the minute details.
Usage Notes
Learners often confuse 大体 with similar terms like 主要 (zhǔ yào, main) or 总体 (zǒng tǐ, overall), which can lead to subtle miscommunication. It is generally used in informal contexts, so be cautious when using it in formal writing or speeches.
HSK Study Tips
As an HSK 6 word, 大体 connects well with other advanced vocabulary that discusses summarization or generalization. Focus on using it in conjunction with phrases that express opinion or assessment, such as 总的来说 (zǒng de lái shuō, generally speaking).
Cultural Note
In Chinese communication, summarizing the 'big picture' is often valued over detailing every small aspect, as it reflects a holistic perspective that is appreciated in both social and professional contexts.
Common Mistakes
Learners may incorrectly use 大体 as a synonym for 'exactly,' saying 大体对 (dà tǐ duì, roughly correct) when they mean 确切对 (què qiè duì, exactly correct). The correct usage should focus on generalizations.
AI-enhanced 2026-03-24
Pronunciation of 大体
Premium — Locked
AI tone practice
Pro
Drill the tone of 大体 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 大体 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 大体
大体 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 8 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
____上，这些人都是热爱和平、遵纪守法的公民。
By and large, these people are peace-loving, law-abiding citizens.
gāo xiào jiào shī dà tǐ shàng chéng rèn duì qí suǒ jiào zhuān yè quē fá rè qíng。
University teachers generally have admitted a lack of enthusiasm about their subjects.
4
这两则故事大体上一致.
zhè liǎng zé gù shì dà tǐ shàng yī zhì.
The two stories were in substantial agreement.
5
“ 她起码该顾点大体,不在吃饭的时候给他打电话嘛.
“ “ tā qǐ mǎ gāi gù diǎn dà, tǐ , bù zài chī fàn de shí hòu gěi tā dǎ diàn.
'she might have the decency not to telephone him at dinner time.
Cultural Notes for 大体
🏮Cultural insight
In Chinese communication, summarizing the 'big picture' is often valued over detailing every small aspect, as it reflects a holistic perspective that is appreciated in both social and professional contexts.
Frequently Asked Questions about 大体
It's better to use 大体 in informal contexts; for formal presentations, consider using 总体 or 主要 instead.
大体 focuses on the overall situation, while 大致 emphasizes approximation or roughness in details.
