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March 24, 2026
权威(權威)quánwēi(quan2wei1)
权威 (quán wēi) refers to the concept of authority or power that commands respect and influence in a particular context. It is commonly used to describe individuals or institutions that have recognized expertise or control, such as judges, professors, or governmental bodies. The term suggests not just power, but also the legitimacy and prestige associated with that power.
Frequency#6772DifficultyHard
Cultural Note
In Chinese culture, authority is often linked to respect for elders and established institutions, reflecting Confucian values. 权威 is frequently invoked in discussions about education, governance, and family hierarchies, underscoring the importance of social order.
Memory Tip
Imagine a 'quaint' (sounds like 'quan') wise old figure sitting on a throne, representing authority and respect. The character 权 combines 'power' (权) with 'prestige' (威), visually depicting a figure of power wearing a crown, symbolizing their authoritative position.
Meanings of 权威
quánwēi(quan2wei1)
1authority
2authoritative
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About 权威
权威Simplified
權威Traditional
—Strokes
—Radical
名词míngcínoun (n.)Part of Speech
#6772Frequency Rank
HSK 2.0L6HSK 3.0L7AdvancedCEFRC2
Podcast: 权威
Podcast: 权威
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AI Study Notes for 权威
Quick Contrast
权力 (quánlì) refers specifically to power or control, while 权威 (quánwēi) emphasizes the respect and legitimacy associated with that power.
Memory Mnemonic
Imagine a 'quaint' (sounds like 'quan') wise old figure sitting on a throne, representing authority and respect. The character 权 combines 'power' (权) with 'prestige' (威), visually depicting a figure of power wearing a crown, symbolizing their authoritative position.
Usage Notes
When using 权威, it's important to ensure the context is appropriate; it is often formal and may not be suitable in casual conversations. Common collocations include 权威人士 (authoritative figure) and 权威机构 (authoritative institution). Be cautious with the tone, as mispronouncing the tones can change the meaning significantly.
HSK Study Tips
As an HSK Level 6 word, 权威 connects to other advanced vocabulary related to governance, law, and social structures. Students should focus on its use in formal contexts and practice recognizing its collocations. Exploring synonyms can deepen understanding, such as 专家 (expert) or 领导 (leader).
Cultural Note
In Chinese culture, authority is often linked to respect for elders and established institutions, reflecting Confucian values. 权威 is frequently invoked in discussions about education, governance, and family hierarchies, underscoring the importance of social order.
Common Mistakes
Learners often misuse 权威 by applying it too broadly, such as saying '我的朋友是权威' (My friend is an authority) when it should be used for recognized figures. Instead, use '我尊重我的朋友的意见' (I respect my friend's opinion) for informal contexts.
AI-enhanced 2026-03-24
Pronunciation of 权威
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Grammar Patterns of 权威
权威 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
现在欧共体越来越有自信与____性了。
The EU is now acquiring greater assurance and authority.
You should report aggressive drivers to the authorities.
Cultural Notes for 权威
🏮Cultural insight
In Chinese culture, authority is often linked to respect for elders and established institutions, reflecting Confucian values. 权威 is frequently invoked in discussions about education, governance, and family hierarchies, underscoring the importance of social order.
Frequently Asked Questions about 权威
Generally, no. 权威 is more appropriate in formal contexts and may seem out of place in casual conversations.
Some synonyms include 权力 (power) and 专家 (expert), but each has its own nuances.
Not necessarily. While it often implies respect, it can also suggest oppressive authority in certain contexts.
