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逍遥 — pronunciations, definitions, and tags
HanziPinyinEnglishTags
逍遥xiāoyáo逍遥 (xiāoyáo) refers to a state of carefree enjoyment, freedom, and unrestrained happiness. It is often used to describe a relaxed, leisurely lifestyle or someone who is wandering without worries. This term can also evoke a sense of spiritual or existential freedom, suggesting a life unencumbered by societal pressures.HSK 7, 16 strokes, Hard
xiāoyáo(xiao1yao2) T1
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May 27, 2026
逍遥xiāoyáo(xiao1yao2)

逍遥 (xiāoyáo) refers to a state of carefree enjoyment, freedom, and unrestrained happiness. It is often used to describe a relaxed, leisurely lifestyle or someone who is wandering without worries. This term can also evoke a sense of spiritual or existential freedom, suggesting a life unencumbered by societal pressures.

Strokes16Frequency#—DifficultyHard
Cultural Note

In Chinese culture, the concept of 逍遥 is often associated with Taoism, which emphasizes living in harmony with nature and the universe. It reflects an ideal lifestyle of peace and contentment, contrasting with the hustle and bustle of modern life.

Memory Tip

Imagine a carefree person (逍) strolling through a beautiful garden (遥), laughing and enjoying life without a single worry. The character 逍 looks like someone dancing freely, while 遥 reminds you of a distant, peaceful journey. Together, they create a vivid image of a person enjoying the freedom of the open air.

About 逍遥

逍遥Simplified
16Strokes
Radical
名词míngcínoun (n.)Part of Speech
#—Frequency Rank
HSK 3.0L7AdvancedCEFRC2

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Podcast: 逍遥

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AI Study Notes for 逍遥

Quick Contrast

悠闲 (yōuxián) refers to a leisurely and relaxed state, but emphasizes a calmness and tranquility, while 逍遥 (xiāoyáo) conveys a sense of carefree enjoyment and freedom from worries.

Memory Mnemonic

Imagine a carefree person (逍) strolling through a beautiful garden (遥), laughing and enjoying life without a single worry. The character 逍 looks like someone dancing freely, while 遥 reminds you of a distant, peaceful journey. Together, they create a vivid image of a person enjoying the freedom of the open air.

Usage Notes

逍遥 is typically used in informal contexts to describe a relaxed state or lifestyle. Be cautious not to confuse it with words that imply irresponsibility; 逍遥 carries a positive connotation of enjoyment and freedom. Common collocations include 逍遥自在 (carefree and at ease) and 逍遥游 (carefree travel).

HSK Study Tips

At HSK Level 7, focus on understanding the nuances of 逍遥 in literature and poetry, as it often appears in these contexts. Relate it to other vocabulary around leisure and freedom, such as 自由 (zìyóu, freedom) and 游 (yóu, to roam), to enrich your understanding of personal expression in Mandarin.

Cultural Note

In Chinese culture, the concept of 逍遥 is often associated with Taoism, which emphasizes living in harmony with nature and the universe. It reflects an ideal lifestyle of peace and contentment, contrasting with the hustle and bustle of modern life.

Common Mistakes

Learners often misinterpret 逍遥 as merely 'carefree' without the connotation of joy. For example, saying 'he is 逍遥 because he doesn't care' misses the positive aspect; a better usage is 'he is 逍遥 while enjoying life.'

AI-enhanced 2026-05-27

Pronunciation of 逍遥

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Cultural Notes for 逍遥

🏮Cultural insight

In Chinese culture, the concept of 逍遥 is often associated with Taoism, which emphasizes living in harmony with nature and the universe. It reflects an ideal lifestyle of peace and contentment, contrasting with the hustle and bustle of modern life.

🌏Cross-cultural Insight

Unlike the Western concept of 'freedom' which can often emphasize individualism and rights, 逍遥 encompasses a more communal and harmonious sense of freedom rooted in nature and balance.

Frequently Asked Questions about 逍遥

You can use 逍遥 when discussing leisure activities, travel, or even in philosophical discussions about life.