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平行 — pronunciations, definitions, and tags
HanziPinyinEnglishTags
平行píngxíngparallelHSK 7, n, rank #9284, Hard
平行píngxíngof equal rankHSK 7, n, rank #9284, Hard
平行píngxíngsimultaneousHSK 7, n, rank #9284, Hard
píngxíng(ping2xing2) T2
  1. 1parallel
  2. 2of equal rank
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March 24, 2026
平行píngxíng(ping2xing2)

The term '平行' refers to things that run parallel to each other, either in a physical sense or in terms of rank or status. It can also describe events or actions that occur simultaneously. Commonly used in mathematics, geometry, and metaphorically in discussions about social status or relationships.

Frequency#9284DifficultyHard
Cultural Note

'平行' reflects the Chinese cultural value of harmony and balance, often emphasized in philosophy and social relationships. The idea of maintaining parallel paths can symbolize equality in status or opportunity among individuals.

Memory Tip

Imagine two train tracks running side by side, never crossing each other, symbolizing '平行'. The character '平' (flat) suggests evenness, while '行' (to walk or move) represents the idea of movement along those parallel lines. Picture two friends walking together on these tracks at the same pace.

Meanings of 平行

píngxíng(ping2xing2)
1parallel
2of equal rank
Exercise 1 of 2

Listen & Choose the Meaning

Choose the correct answer:

About 平行

平行Simplified
Strokes
Radical
形容词xíngróngcíadjective (adj.)Part of Speech
#9284Frequency Rank
HSK 2.0L6HSK 3.0L7HSKKL3CEFRC1

Podcast: 平行

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Podcast: 平行

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AI Study Notes for 平行

Quick Contrast

平行 (píngxíng) vs 并行 (bìngxíng): Use 平行 when emphasizing parallelism in a geometric or metaphorical sense, while 并行 focuses more on simultaneous actions or processes.

Memory Mnemonic

Imagine two train tracks running side by side, never crossing each other, symbolizing '平行'. The character '平' (flat) suggests evenness, while '行' (to walk or move) represents the idea of movement along those parallel lines. Picture two friends walking together on these tracks at the same pace.

Usage Notes

Be cautious not to confuse '平行' with '相同' (same), as they imply different meanings. '平行' is often used in more formal contexts, such as academic discussions or technical descriptions. Common collocations include '平行线' (parallel lines) and '平行关系' (parallel relationship).

HSK Study Tips

As an HSK Level 6 word, '平行' expands on the concepts of position and relationships introduced in earlier levels. Students should focus on its application in both mathematical contexts and social discussions, as well as its contrast with other related terms.

Cultural Note

'平行' reflects the Chinese cultural value of harmony and balance, often emphasized in philosophy and social relationships. The idea of maintaining parallel paths can symbolize equality in status or opportunity among individuals.

Common Mistakes

Learners often confuse '平行' with '相同', mistakenly saying '他们的地位是平行的' (Their statuses are the same) instead of '他们的地位是相同的'. Remember, '平行' emphasizes parallelism, not sameness.

AI-enhanced 2026-03-24

Pronunciation of 平行

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Component Characters

píngflat
HSK 55 strokes广
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xíngto walk
HSK 36 strokes
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Write 平行

Practice writing 平行 stroke by stroke. Watch the animation to learn the stroke order, then try writing it yourself.

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Grammar Patterns of 平行

平行 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 3 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 2

Complete the Sentence

无论延伸多长,____线永不相交。

Parallel lines will never meet no matter how far extended.

Example Sentences for 平行 (2)

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1
无论延伸多长,平行线永不相交。

wú lùn yán shēn duō cháng, , píng háng xiàn yǒng bù xiāng。

Parallel lines will never meet no matter how far extended.
2
平行线在远处看上去似交合在一起.

píng háng xiàn zài yuǎn chǔ kàn shàng qù sì jiāo hé zài yī qǐ.

The parallels seem to come together in the distance.

Cultural Notes for 平行

🏮Cultural insight

'平行' reflects the Chinese cultural value of harmony and balance, often emphasized in philosophy and social relationships. The idea of maintaining parallel paths can symbolize equality in status or opportunity among individuals.

🌏Cross-cultural Insight

In Western cultures, the concept of equality is often tied to individualism, while in Chinese culture, '平行' highlights harmony within a group or community.

Frequently Asked Questions about 平行

'平行' can be used like this: '这两条线是平行的' (These two lines are parallel).