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March 24, 2026
指令zhǐlìng(zhi3ling4)
指令 (zhǐlìng) refers to an order or command, often used in contexts such as military, computer programming, or formal instructions. It conveys a sense of authority and expectation for compliance, making it suitable in both professional and authoritative settings.
Frequency#4030DifficultyHard
Cultural Note
In Chinese workplaces, following指令 (zhǐlìng) from superiors is often seen as a professional duty, reflecting the hierarchical nature of many organizations. This contrasts with more egalitarian approaches in some Western offices, where collaboration may take precedence over strict adherence to orders.
Memory Tip
Imagine a general issuing a '指令' (zhǐlìng) to troops, where '指' (zhǐ) means to point, and '令' (lìng) suggests an order. Visualize the general pointing directly at his soldiers while giving them a clear command, reinforcing both meaning and pronunciation.
Meanings of 指令
zhǐlìng(zhi3ling4)
1order
2command
Exercise 1 of 2
Listen & Choose the Meaning
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About 指令
指令Simplified
—Strokes
—Radical
名词míngcínoun (n.)Part of Speech
#4030Frequency Rank
HSK 2.0L6HSK 3.0L7AdvancedBCT✓CEFRC2
Podcast: 指令
Podcast: 指令
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AI Study Notes for 指令
Quick Contrast
命令 (mìnglìng) vs 指示 (zhǐshì): Use 指令 (zhǐlìng) for formal orders, while 命令 (mìnglìng) emphasizes authoritative commands, and 指示 (zhǐshì) is more about giving instructions or guidance.
Memory Mnemonic
Imagine a general issuing a '指令' (zhǐlìng) to troops, where '指' (zhǐ) means to point, and '令' (lìng) suggests an order. Visualize the general pointing directly at his soldiers while giving them a clear command, reinforcing both meaning and pronunciation.
Usage Notes
Be cautious with the tone; '指令' is pronounced with the third tone followed by the fourth tone, which can be tricky for learners. It is more formal than casual alternatives like '命令' (mìnglìng). Common collocations include '发出指令' (to issue an order) and '遵循指令' (to follow instructions).
HSK Study Tips
As an HSK Level 6 word, '指令' connects with other advanced vocabulary related to authority and governance. Focus on its usage in formal contexts, and practice with related terms like '命令' (command) and '指导' (guidance) to deepen comprehension.
Cultural Note
In Chinese workplaces, following指令 (zhǐlìng) from superiors is often seen as a professional duty, reflecting the hierarchical nature of many organizations. This contrasts with more egalitarian approaches in some Western offices, where collaboration may take precedence over strict adherence to orders.
Common Mistakes
Learners often confuse '指令' with '指示' (zhǐshì), thinking they are interchangeable. However, '指示' usually refers to guidance or indication, while '指令' is a direct order. For example, saying '我给你一个指示' (I give you an instruction) should be corrected to '我给你一个指令' for an authoritative command.
AI-enhanced 2026-03-24
Pronunciation of 指令
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Grammar Patterns of 指令
指令 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 4
Complete the Sentence
不容置疑的事实是，电脑执行逻辑操作____。
The indisputable fact is that computers carry out logical operations.
Example Sentences for 指令 (6)
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1
不容置疑的事实是，电脑执行逻辑操作指令。
bù róng zhì yí de shì shí shì， ， diàn nǎo zhí háng luó jí cāo zuò zhǐ。
The indisputable fact is that computers carry out logical operations.
Thanks to a new EU directive, insecticide labelling will be more specific.
Cultural Notes for 指令
🏮Cultural insight
In Chinese workplaces, following指令 (zhǐlìng) from superiors is often seen as a professional duty, reflecting the hierarchical nature of many organizations. This contrasts with more egalitarian approaches in some Western offices, where collaboration may take precedence over strict adherence to orders.
Frequently Asked Questions about 指令
It's generally used in formal contexts rather than casual conversation, where simpler terms would be more appropriate.
'指令' is often more specific to instructions given in technical or formal settings, while '命令' can imply broader commands.
Yes, '指令' is commonly seen in written documents, especially in military and technical contexts.
