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March 24, 2026
弹性(彈性)tánxìng(tan2xing4)
弹性 (tánxìng) refers to the quality of being flexible or elastic, allowing for adaptability in various contexts, such as materials or personal behavior. It is commonly used in both physical and metaphorical senses, indicating how something can change or stretch under pressure without breaking.
Frequency#11657DifficultyHard
Cultural Note
In modern Chinese workplaces, the concept of 弹性 (flexibility) is increasingly valued, reflecting the shift towards more adaptable work environments and the importance of work-life balance in contemporary society.
Memory Tip
Imagine a rubber band (弹) that can stretch (性) without snapping. The image of a rubber band helps remind you that 弹性 relates to flexibility and elasticity, and the sound of 'tán' can be linked to 'tango,' where dancers need flexibility to move gracefully.
Meanings of 弹性
tánxìng(tan2xing4)
1flexibility
2elasticity
Exercise 1 of 2
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About 弹性
弹性Simplified
彈性Traditional
—Strokes
—Radical
名词míngcínoun (n.)Part of Speech
#11657Frequency Rank
HSK 2.0L6HSK 3.0L6AdvancedTOCFLL5CEFRC2
Podcast: 弹性
Podcast: 弹性
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AI Study Notes for 弹性
Quick Contrast
柔韧性 (róurènxìng) refers specifically to the quality of being pliable or bendable, while 弹性 (tánxìng) emphasizes the ability to return to original shape after deformation.
Memory Mnemonic
Imagine a rubber band (弹) that can stretch (性) without snapping. The image of a rubber band helps remind you that 弹性 relates to flexibility and elasticity, and the sound of 'tán' can be linked to 'tango,' where dancers need flexibility to move gracefully.
Usage Notes
Be cautious not to confuse 弹性 with rigidity; they are opposites. This term is often used in both formal and informal contexts, particularly in discussions about materials or coping strategies in psychology. Common collocations include '弹性工作时间' (flexible working hours) and '弹性思维' (flexible thinking).
HSK Study Tips
As an HSK Level 6 word, 弹性 connects well with other advanced vocabulary related to physical properties and personal attributes. Students should focus on understanding its application in different contexts, especially in professional and academic discussions.
Cultural Note
In modern Chinese workplaces, the concept of 弹性 (flexibility) is increasingly valued, reflecting the shift towards more adaptable work environments and the importance of work-life balance in contemporary society.
Common Mistakes
Learners often confuse 弹性 with other terms like 硬性 (rigidity), leading to incorrect usage. For example, saying '这项工作需要硬性' instead of '这项工作需要弹性' (This job requires rigidity instead of flexibility) is a common error.
AI-enhanced 2026-03-24
Pronunciation of 弹性
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Grammar Patterns of 弹性
弹性 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 4
Complete the Sentence
____很好的球
a very bouncy ball
Example Sentences for 弹性 (5)
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1
弹性很好的球
dàn xìng hěn hǎo de qiú
a very bouncy ball
2
这种奢侈的滑石润肤露能使缺水的皮肤恢复柔软与弹性。
zhè zhǒng shē chǐ de huá shí rùn fū lòu néng shǐ quē shuǐ de pí fū huī fù róu ruǎn yǔ dàn xìng。
This luxurious talcum lotion restores softness and suppleness to dehydrated skin.
The toughness, lightness, strength, and elasticity of whalebone gave it a wide variety of uses.
Exercise 1 of 1
Reorder the Sentence
a very bouncy ball
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Cultural Notes for 弹性
🏮Cultural insight
In modern Chinese workplaces, the concept of 弹性 (flexibility) is increasingly valued, reflecting the shift towards more adaptable work environments and the importance of work-life balance in contemporary society.
🌏Cross-cultural Insight
While flexibility in the workplace is valued in both Chinese and Western cultures, the approach to achieving it can differ; Western cultures may emphasize individual choice, whereas Chinese culture often focuses on collective harmony.
Frequently Asked Questions about 弹性
You can use 弹性 when discussing materials, such as rubber or fabric, as well as in personal contexts, like flexible work schedules or adaptive thinking.
弹性 can be used in both formal and informal settings, but it is often found in academic discussions or professional environments.
The correct pronunciation is tán xìng, with the second syllable having a falling tone and the first syllable a rising tone.