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March 24, 2026
服从(服從)fúcóng(fu2cong2)
The verb 服从 (fúcóng) means to obey or comply with orders, rules, or authority. It is commonly used in contexts where individuals are expected to follow instructions from superiors, such as in military, workplace, or family settings. The term carries a connotation of respect for authority and can imply a sense of duty.
Frequency#4518DifficultyHard
Cultural Note
In Chinese culture, the concept of obedience is deeply rooted in Confucian values, where respect for authority and hierarchy is emphasized. This is particularly evident in family structures and workplace environments, where younger members are expected to defer to elders or superiors.
Memory Tip
Imagine a soldier (服) standing straight, ready to follow orders (从) without hesitation. Visualize the soldier receiving commands and immediately obeying them, reinforcing the connection between the character's components and its meaning.
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AI Study Notes for 服从
Quick Contrast
遵从 (zūncóng) - use 服从 (fúcóng) when emphasizing obedience to authority, while 遵从 (zūncóng) can imply following rules or customs more generally.
Memory Mnemonic
Imagine a soldier (服) standing straight, ready to follow orders (从) without hesitation. Visualize the soldier receiving commands and immediately obeying them, reinforcing the connection between the character's components and its meaning.
Usage Notes
Be mindful of the tone in '服从,' as mispronouncing it can lead to confusion with other similar-sounding words. It is generally used in formal contexts, so avoid using it in casual conversations. Common collocations include '服从命令' (to obey orders) and '服从上级' (to comply with superiors).
HSK Study Tips
As an HSK Level 6 word, 服从 is important for discussing hierarchical relationships and authority in various contexts. Students should practice using it in sentences related to workplace dynamics or military structures to reinforce understanding.
Cultural Note
In Chinese culture, the concept of obedience is deeply rooted in Confucian values, where respect for authority and hierarchy is emphasized. This is particularly evident in family structures and workplace environments, where younger members are expected to defer to elders or superiors.
Common Mistakes
Learners often confuse 服从 with 服气 (fúqì), which means to be convinced or to admire, leading to incorrect sentences like '我对他的决定不服从' (I do not admire his decision) instead of '我对他的决定不服气.' (I do not agree with his decision).
AI-enhanced 2026-03-24
Pronunciation of 服从
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Grammar Patterns of 服从
服从 functions as a verb — the action or state of the sentence. The Chinese order is Subject + Verb + Object (我吃饭). Negate it with 不 (habitual / future) or 没(有) (completed action). Add aspect markers like 了, 过, 着 directly after the verb. 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
劳驾你____我要给出的指令好不好？
Will you kindly obey the instructions I am about to give?
It was no defence to plead that they were only obeying orders.
6
他们只得服从剃光胡须的法令.
tā mén zhī dé fú cóng tì guāng hú xū de fǎ líng.
They had to obey the decree that beards be shaved off.
7
迎合这种空虚理论的唯一方法是梦一般的服从.
yíng hé zhè zhǒng kōng xū lǐ lùn de wéi yī fāng fǎ shì mèng yī bān de fú cóng.
The only way to meet certain speculations is by a dreamy resignation.
8
忽必烈汗准备了一支庞大的舰队和陆军,来惩罚这个拒不服从的统治者.
hū bì liè hàn zhǔn bèi le yī zhī páng dà de jiàn duì hé lù jūn, , lái chéng fá zhè gè jù bù fú cóng de tǒng zhì.
Kublai khan prepared a great fleet and army with which to punish the recalcitrant ruler.
9
谁不服从国王,就将死于剑下.
shuí bù fú cóng guó wáng, , jiù jiāng sǐ yú jiàn.
They that deny the power of the king shall die by the sword.
Cultural Notes for 服从
🏮Cultural insight
In Chinese culture, the concept of obedience is deeply rooted in Confucian values, where respect for authority and hierarchy is emphasized. This is particularly evident in family structures and workplace environments, where younger members are expected to defer to elders or superiors.
Frequently Asked Questions about 服从
While it can be used in everyday conversations, it is more appropriate for formal situations, such as discussions about rules or authority.
Yes, synonyms include 遵从 (zūncóng) and 顺从 (shùncóng), which also mean to obey or comply.
Not necessarily; while it implies respect for authority, it can also suggest a lack of personal autonomy or critical thinking.
