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界限 — pronunciations, definitions, and tags
HanziPinyinEnglishTags
界限jièxiànboundaryHSK 7, n, rank #7376, Hard
界限jièxiànmarginalHSK 7, n, rank #7376, Hard
jièxiàn(jie4xian4) T4
  1. 1boundary
  2. 2marginal
Listen to the audio pronunciation 3 times to gain XP
March 24, 2026
界限jièxiàn(jie4xian4)

The term 界限 (jièxiàn) refers to a boundary or limit that separates different areas, concepts, or categories. It can be used in both physical and abstract contexts, such as defining personal space, setting limits in relationships, or distinguishing between different fields of study.

Frequency#7376DifficultyHard
Cultural Note

In Chinese culture, the concept of boundaries is significant in interpersonal relationships, where maintaining personal space and respect for others' limits is valued. Understanding 界限 can help learners navigate social interactions more effectively.

Memory Tip

Imagine a giant wall (界) that represents the boundary (限) between two lands. The character 界 (jiè) looks like a border with two areas on either side, while 限 (xiàn) suggests a line that limits movement, helping you remember its meaning as a boundary.

Meanings of 界限

jièxiàn(jie4xian4)
1boundary
2marginal
Exercise 1 of 2

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About 界限

界限Simplified
Strokes
Radical
名词míngcínoun (n.)Part of Speech
#7376Frequency Rank
HSK 2.0L6HSK 3.0L7AdvancedCEFRC2

Podcast: 界限

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Podcast: 界限

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AI Study Notes for 界限

Quick Contrast

界限 (boundary) vs 边界 (border) — use 界限 for more abstract or conceptual separations, while 边界 is typically used for physical borders.

Memory Mnemonic

Imagine a giant wall (界) that represents the boundary (限) between two lands. The character 界 (jiè) looks like a border with two areas on either side, while 限 (xiàn) suggests a line that limits movement, helping you remember its meaning as a boundary.

Usage Notes

Be cautious not to confuse 界限 with similar terms like 边界 (biānjiè), which specifically denotes a geographical border. This word is neutral and can be used in both formal and informal settings. Ensure you use the correct tones to convey the intended meaning; mispronouncing can lead to misunderstandings.

HSK Study Tips

As an HSK 6 word, 界限 connects with other advanced vocabulary relating to boundaries and limitations, such as 限制 (xiànzhì, restriction) and 界 (jiè, scope). Focus on using it in various contexts to enhance your fluency and comprehension.

Cultural Note

In Chinese culture, the concept of boundaries is significant in interpersonal relationships, where maintaining personal space and respect for others' limits is valued. Understanding 界限 can help learners navigate social interactions more effectively.

Common Mistakes

Learners often confuse 界限 with 边界 (biānjiè), leading to incorrect usage in geographical contexts. Remember that 界限 is broader and can apply to various types of limits, not just physical ones.

AI-enhanced 2026-03-24

Pronunciation of 界限

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Component Characters

jièboundary
HSK 79 strokes
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xiànlimit
HSK 68 strokes
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Write 界限

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

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Grammar Patterns of 界限

界限 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 1

Complete the Sentence

在工作和闲暇之间很难划出明确的____。

It was hard to draw clear lines of demarcation between work and leisure.

Example Sentences for 界限 (1)

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1
在工作和闲暇之间很难划出明确的界限。

zài gōng zuò hé xián xiá zhī jiān hěn nán huá chū míng què de jiè xiàn。

It was hard to draw clear lines of demarcation between work and leisure.

Cultural Notes for 界限

🏮Cultural insight

In Chinese culture, the concept of boundaries is significant in interpersonal relationships, where maintaining personal space and respect for others' limits is valued. Understanding 界限 can help learners navigate social interactions more effectively.

🌏Cross-cultural Insight

In Western cultures, boundaries may often be seen as rigid lines, while in Chinese culture, boundaries can be more fluid, emphasizing harmony and respect for others' space.

Frequently Asked Questions about 界限

No, 界限 can also refer to abstract boundaries, such as limits in relationships or concepts.