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March 24, 2026
互补(互補)hùbǔ(hu4bu3)
互补 (hù bǔ) refers to the concept of complementarity, where two or more elements enhance each other's strengths and balance each other's weaknesses. This term is commonly used in various contexts, such as relationships, teamwork, and even in discussing colors or skills that work well together.
Frequency#24262DifficultyHard
Cultural Note
In Chinese philosophy, particularly in concepts like Yin and Yang, the idea of complementarity is vital, emphasizing balance and harmony in relationships and nature.
Memory Tip
Imagine two puzzle pieces that fit together perfectly, each providing what the other lacks. The character 互 (hù) resembles a person reaching out to another, while 补 (bǔ) looks like a person filling a gap, symbolizing how they complement each other.
Meanings of 互补
hùbǔ(hu4bu3)
1complementary
2to complement each other
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About 互补
互补Simplified
互補Traditional
—Strokes
—Radical
动词dòngcíverb (v.)Part of Speech
#—Frequency Rank
HSK 3.0L7AdvancedCEFRC2
Podcast: 互补
Podcast: 互补
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AI Study Notes for 互补
Quick Contrast
互补 (hùbǔ) vs 补充 (bǔchōng) — use 互补 when referring to elements that enhance each other, while 补充 emphasizes adding something to complete or enhance a whole.
Memory Mnemonic
Imagine two puzzle pieces that fit together perfectly, each providing what the other lacks. The character 互 (hù) resembles a person reaching out to another, while 补 (bǔ) looks like a person filling a gap, symbolizing how they complement each other.
Usage Notes
Be careful not to confuse 互补 with just 'complementary' in a general sense; it specifically implies an active relationship where entities support each other. In formal contexts, it can also refer to complementary roles in teams or partnerships.
HSK Study Tips
Though not part of the HSK vocabulary, understanding 互补 can enhance your grasp of compound words and phrases. Focus on how it connects with other words related to cooperation and synergy, which can be beneficial in discussions about teamwork.
Cultural Note
In Chinese philosophy, particularly in concepts like Yin and Yang, the idea of complementarity is vital, emphasizing balance and harmony in relationships and nature.
Common Mistakes
Learners often mispronounce 互补 as *hù bǔ*, placing the wrong tone on 补. The correct pronunciation is with the fourth tone on 互 and the third tone on 补.
AI-enhanced 2026-03-24
Pronunciation of 互补
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In Chinese philosophy, particularly in concepts like Yin and Yang, the idea of complementarity is vital, emphasizing balance and harmony in relationships and nature.
Frequently Asked Questions about 互补
互补 can be used in various contexts, such as in teamwork or partnerships. For instance, '在这次项目中，我们的角色是互补的，让工作进展更顺利。' (In this project, our roles are complementary, allowing the work to progress more smoothly.)
Yes, 互补 is commonly used in both formal and informal conversations, particularly when discussing teamwork, relationships, or any scenario where cooperation is involved. It conveys the idea of synergy and mutual enhancement between parties.
互补 (hù bǔ) means 'complementary' or 'to complement each other.' It is often used to describe how two things enhance or complete one another, suggesting a mutual benefit or balance.
You can use 互补 in sentences to describe relationships or situations where two elements enhance each other. For example, '他们的技能是互补的，能有效合作。' (Their skills are complementary, allowing them to collaborate effectively.)
You can say '他们的性格互补' (Their personalities complement each other).
No, it can be used in both formal and informal contexts, such as friendships or casual partnerships.
Synonyms include 互相支持 (mutual support) or 补充 (supplement).
