HSK 4 — Upper-Intermediate
Build on your HSK 1–3 foundation. 1,000 new vocabulary words, 76 new grammar patterns, and the dialogues to express opinions, narrate experiences, discuss society, and handle longer, more abstract conversations.
How Our Lessons Work
Informed by university-level Chinese language pedagogy and Singapore MOE's principles for AI-assisted learning — every lesson is designed for active, scaffolded practice.
Dialogue-First Learning
Every lesson opens with a realistic conversation so you hear words in context before studying them individually.
Scaffolded Feedback
Practice questions give hints before answers — guided discovery helps you build intuition, not just memorize.
Interleaved Practice
Vocabulary, grammar, flashcards, and quizzes are woven together so your brain forms stronger connections.
Cultural Context
Language doesn't exist in a vacuum. Cultural notes explain why Chinese speakers say things the way they do.
Lessons
98 lessons across 20 units. Each lesson introduces new HSK 4 words, plus grammar points, dialogues, writing practice, flashcards, and quizzes.
How each unit works
Every unit follows the same four-step arc — from a quick overview to a format-faithful exam.
- Step 1
Overview
A one-page tour of the unit's arc — the topics you'll meet, the new grammar you'll unlock, and the cultural context behind it.
- Step 2
Lessons
The core teaching surface — dialogue, vocabulary, grammar, writing practice, exercises, and the Mastery Mission. One lesson at a time.
- Step 3
Review
Pull every lesson in the unit back together — flashcards, mixed quizzes, and a mastery checklist so nothing decays before the exam.
- Step 4
Exam
A timed, format-faithful test on the unit — Listening + Reading + Writing (and Speaking on HSK 7-9). Practice mode or full Exam mode.
Celebrating Love and Gender
爱与性别的庆祝Discuss relationships, weddings, and the roles of men and women in society, including terms like 新娘 (bride) and 夫妻 (husband and wife).
Family Ties and Young Hearts
家庭与青春Discuss relationships within families, including terms for couples, wives, and husbands, as well as young men and handsome guys in social contexts.
Family Ties and Celebrations
亲情与庆典Discuss relationships within families, from siblings to spouses, and celebrate significant events like weddings. Use terms for family members and partners to express bonds and share experiences.
Dressing for Friendship
友谊的穿搭Discuss how to dress warmly for outings with close friends, using words for clothing items like coat, sweater, and scarf, while also touching on the dynamics of friendship.
When It Doesn't Matter
无所谓的态度Discuss how to express indifference or a lack of concern, as well as situations that feel urgent or overwhelming. Use these phrases to convey feelings about time, importance, and personal connections.
Beyond the Limits
超越极限Discuss how to express extreme conditions and limitations, including concepts like 'countless' and 'unable', while emphasizing the idea of going beyond what is considered normal.
Opposites Attract
相反的吸引Discuss contrasting ideas and perspectives, such as what is not necessarily true or the opposite of expectations. Explore how to express alternatives and contradictions in conversation.
Embracing the Unique
拥抱独特Explore themes of independence and the mysterious aspects of life, while pondering questions about what makes experiences special and unique.
Unexpected Surprises
意外惊喜Discuss situations where you encounter unexpected events, express feelings of boredom or interest, and talk about things that are free or limited.
Setting the Scene
布置场景Discuss how to arrange and classify items, describe locations, and set conditions in various contexts. Use these words to talk about organizing spaces, establishing positions, and fixing arrangements.
Confirming Codes and Tests
确认密码与测试Discuss how to confirm codes, conduct tests, and detect issues in machinery. Explore the series of answers and contrasts regarding various installations.
Building Blocks of Meaning
意义的构成Discuss how different elements come together to form ideas, agreements, and plans. Use these words to talk about what something contains, comprises, or is based on.
Meeting Expectations
相遇与预测Discuss your appointments and encounters, express doubts about future events, and share your forecasts with confidence.
Facing Life's Choices
面对选择Discuss situations where you must face challenges, rely on support, or make decisions about where to reside. Explore scenarios involving flights and the implications of being compelled to act.
Dreams and Tears
梦想与泪水Discuss emotions through smiles and tears, share dreams and aspirations, and describe images that evoke strong feelings.
Reflections on Memories
怀念与反映Explore how memories shape our feelings of longing and reflection, using words related to dreams, cherishing the past, and the imagery of windows and mirrors.
Shadows and Insects
影子与虫子Discuss the hidden meanings behind descriptions and hints, while exploring the imagery of shadows and insects in different contexts.
Colorful Tales and Legends
五彩传奇Explore the world of animated films, fairy tales, and legends while discussing the beauty of poetry and the wisdom of Sun Tzu. Engage in conversations about the colorful aspects of childhood and modern communication through WeChat.
Gaining Membership and Investment
获取会员与投资Discuss how to gain membership in organizations, participate in activities, and attract investments. Use terms related to registration and investment to navigate these topics.
Igniting Excitement
点燃兴奋Discuss your interests and what excites you, from bustling events to the thrill of a thunderstorm. Share experiences about igniting passions and the intensity of emotions.
Moving Ideas and People
推动思想与移民Discuss how ideas can be promoted and how immigration influences societies. Explore the dynamics of movement, both in thought and in people.
Pursuing Dreams and Awakening Emotions
追梦与觉醒Discuss the emotional highs and lows of striving for goals, the surprises that life brings, and the moments that awaken us to new possibilities.
Conquering Challenges
征服挑战Discuss the themes of war and conquest, as well as the act of choosing and selecting in various contexts. Explore the nuances of smoking and breathing, both literally and metaphorically.
Seizing Opportunities
把握机遇Discuss how to absorb and digest new information, utilize opportunities, and expand your skills in various contexts.
Climbing New Heights
攀登新高Discuss the process of planting and nurturing growth, from planting seeds to climbing mountains. Use vocabulary related to extending experiences and reaching new levels.
Strength in Action
行动中的力量Discuss how to arrange and display efforts while exerting strength, from holding objects to sweeping and rowing. Use these verbs to express determination and the importance of grasping opportunities.
Bending Together
聚在一起Discuss how to accumulate experiences at a party, stick together as friends, and even address health topics like injections and medical needs.
Stroll Through Life's Thorns
穿越荆棘Discuss feelings of vexation and injury while exploring the idea of dropping in on friends or putting on new clothes. Use these words to describe everyday experiences and encounters.
Capturing Moments
捕捉瞬间Discuss applying for activities, taking photos, and enjoying energetic moments. Explore topics like aviation and the simple pleasures of using a straw while relaxing.
Cutting Down Costs
削减开支Discuss strategies to lower expenses and reduce prices, as well as personal goals like losing weight and becoming healthier.
Breaking Free from Limits
摆脱限制Discuss how to curtail unwanted habits or relationships, prevent negative situations, and avoid restrictions in life. Use vocabulary to express the need to shed burdens and split up from limiting circumstances.
When Things Fall Apart
分崩离析Discuss scenarios of separation and defeat, including business failures and personal setbacks. Use vocabulary related to scattering, closing, and bankruptcy.
When Defeat Strikes
败北时刻Discuss feelings of disappointment and neglect when faced with defeat, and explore actions like stopping, cutting, or breaking away from challenges.
Easing Downward Progress
逐步放松Discuss how to gradually ease stress and save energy while managing tasks, including going downstairs and recognizing weak points.
Treasures and Triumphs
珍宝与奖赏Discuss the value of precious items like gold and jade, share stories about treasured possessions, and celebrate winning prizes or bonuses.
Winning with Courage
勇气与胜利Discuss how to win awards and overcome challenges through bravery and self-confidence, while feeling proud of your achievements.
Celebrating Success
庆祝成功Discuss the importance of admiration and praise in achieving success, explore topics like scholarships and rewards, and share blessings for others' accomplishments.
Cherishing What We Love
珍爱我们的财富Discuss the importance of property and heritage, express enthusiasm for what you cherish, and share your love for your country and the joys that come with it.
The Pursuit of Excellence
追求卓越Discuss qualities such as being outstanding, remarkable, and graceful, as well as the importance of noble and honest character in achieving personal and communal benefits.
Famous Gifts and Good Fortune
名人礼与运气Discuss the significance of gifts like 鲜花 and 红包, the role of 运气 in life, and share stories about 著名 figures and their 权利.
The Pinnacle of Prestige
尊贵的光临Discuss the allure of brand-name products and the significance of honoring someone's presence, as well as the cultural importance of family names like Wang and An.
Between Two Sides
两边之间Discuss the relationships and differences between two sides, including how many kinds of things exist within certain limits or how often events occur.
Diversity in Unity
多样中的一致Discuss how diverse elements can come together to form a unanimous agreement, explore individual scores in competitions, and understand how to average results.
Unity in Diversity
多元统一Discuss how different elements can come together as a whole, addressing ideas of unity, commonality, and generalizations about groups or categories.
Roots of Companionship
伙伴的根Discuss the significance of companionship and the roots that bind people together, exploring concepts of partnership and origins.
Colors and Characteristics
色彩与特征Discuss the different types and kinds of colors and their characteristics, as well as how to describe scenes and sceneries using specific signs and symbols.
Navigating Trends and Traditions
把握潮流与传统Discuss the interplay between current trends and traditional customs, explore the rules and principles that govern social behavior, and analyze the circumstances influencing these dynamics.
Crafting Unique Styles
塑造独特风格Discuss how to describe and model various structures and styles, from unique designs to typical models and mechanisms.
Themes of Identity and History
身份与历史的主题Discuss the intersection of identity and history, explore political themes, and analyze statistical data related to policies and designs.
Roles and Rules
角色与规则Discuss the importance of roles in society, the structure of laws and grammar, and explore the flavors of classic literature and common sense.
Turning Points
转折点Discuss how to pass on messages, shift perspectives, and turn around situations. Explore the nuances of translation and copying in communication.
Debates and Dialogues
辩论与交流Engage in discussions about opinions, attend lectures, and explore the dynamics of communication and debate. Learn how to exchange ideas and express your thoughts effectively.
Guiding the Way Forward
引导前行Discuss how to handle various situations, report on progress, and guide others effectively. Explore the roles of a tour guide and the importance of documenting experiences.
Taking Responsibility
承担责任Discuss how to undertake responsibilities, admit mistakes, and correct misunderstandings. Explore the importance of understanding and explaining conclusions in various contexts.
Weaving Connections
编织关系Discuss the roles of diplomats and accountants, summarize interviews, and explore how to remind others in professional settings.
Persuasion and Understanding
说服与理解Discuss how to persuade others, express sympathy, and handle misunderstandings. You can also talk about spreading information through notifications and the importance of reading.
Measuring Big Projects
测量大项目Discuss the dimensions and scales of large projects, including how to measure size and implement measures effectively.
Measuring What Matters
衡量重要Discuss the weight and content of various materials, as well as body weight and health. Explore topics related to physical attributes and the internal versus external aspects of objects.
Land of Law and Power
法治与土地Discuss the role of government and law in managing land and resources, including the significance of courts and judges in upholding justice.
Navigating the Urban Landscape
探索城市空间Discuss distances and positions in the city, how to find addresses, and the various streets you might walk along.
Data and Disposables
数据与废品Discuss the role of data in research papers and the impact of plastic waste, while also exploring how to exchange business cards and the significance of various types of media like CDs and records.
Shapes and Sizes
形状与尺寸Discuss different shapes like circles and squares, and measurements in millimeters and centimeters. You can also talk about objects like boxes, suitcases, and wheels.
Urban Delights and Tasty Treats
城市美味与趣味Discuss the deliciousness of chocolate and corn while exploring the urban district. You can also talk about animals by describing their tails and bones.
Connecting Communities
连接社区Discuss the resources available in your county, explore websites for local dining halls, and share experiences from small-scale events on the playground or stage.
Navigating the High Rise
高楼导航Discuss the layout and features of large buildings, including elevators and staircases, as well as tools like calendars and alarm clocks to manage your time effectively.
Navigating City Life
城市生活Discuss your experiences at bars and post offices, navigate through traffic jams, and describe individuals by their height and stature.
The Depths of Flavor
味道的深度Explore the nuances of taste and texture with words describing flavors like bitter, sour, and insipid, as well as the richness and delicacy found in food and experiences.
Intense Connections
紧密关系Discuss the nature of close relationships, secrets, and the weight of intense emotions. Explore how intimacy can create both bonds and challenges.
Finding Calm in Silence
静谧中的力量Explore the beauty of tranquility and steadiness, discussing themes of calmness, silence, and the strength found in a firm and stable presence.
Bright Simplicity
鲜明的单纯Discuss the qualities of simplicity and brightness in life, exploring concepts like transparency, purity, and the ease of achieving satisfaction.
In the Dark and Damp
阴暗潮湿Discuss feelings of anxiety in cold, damp environments, and describe coarse textures or careless actions. Explore the impact of dark and narrow spaces on mood and perception.
Finding Clarity in Comfort
清醒与舒适Discuss the importance of being clear-headed while enjoying a cozy environment. Explore themes of honesty and purity, from personal traits to the quality of water.
Timing is Everything
时机至关重要Discuss the sequence of events, planning ahead, and acting promptly with words related to timing and order.
Time Is of the Essence
时间紧迫Discuss the importance of meeting deadlines and the urgency of tasks, as well as the need for rapid responses during critical periods.
Time Delays and Overtime
时间的延误Discuss the impact of delays in schedules, such as arriving late or postponing plans, as well as the implications of working overtime and repeating actions.
Navigating Time's Path
穿越时间的旅程Discuss the transitions between the past, present, and future, including prospects and experiences along the way. Explore how to express almost certain outcomes and ongoing situations.
Anticipating the Future
期待未来Discuss your hopes and expectations for upcoming events, explore the concept of time, and describe what to do just in case plans change.
Cultivating Skills and Repairs
技能与维修Discuss how to cultivate skills and improve techniques, as well as the importance of training and maintenance in various fields.
Guardians of Knowledge
知识守护者Discuss roles like nurses and lawyers, the importance of education, and how to defend and maintain knowledge through lessons and training classes.
Fitness and Focus
健身与研究Discuss your fitness routine, including exercises like gymnastics, and the importance of health checkups. Explore practical applications of research and implementation in various fields.
Mastering Quality and Efficiency
追求质量与效率Discuss how to improve work efficiency and maintain high quality standards. Explore the importance of intelligence and capability in achieving personal and professional goals.
Healing Mind and Body
身心疗愈Discuss the importance of mental health and medical treatment, explore the process of recovery, and talk about personal experiences with interviews and daily habits like brushing teeth.
Crafting a Clean Space
打造整洁空间Discuss how to clean and decorate your living space, the importance of handwork in home projects, and the procedures involved in passing tests or undergoing medical operations.
The Art of Bargaining
讨价还价Discuss the dynamics of shopping, from making purchases and paying bills to negotiating prices and understanding discounts.
Navigating Commerce
商业导航Discuss your duties in commercial affairs, explore the world of goods and their exchange rates, and understand the roles of salespeople and invoicing in business transactions.
Pockets and Substitutes
口袋与替代Discuss how to use public transportation like buses, the importance of pockets for carrying items, and the concept of substitutes in various contexts such as contracts and products.
Powering Up
能量补给Discuss the sources of energy and light, including electric power, gasoline, and the strength needed for various tasks. Explore topics like charging devices and the excitement of lightning.
Powering the Future
未来的动力Discuss the advancements in transportation and energy, from high-speed trains and electric vehicles to the facilities and industries that support them.
From Melons to Seafood
瓜果海鲜Discuss your favorite foods from refreshing melons and fruits to delicious seafood and tofu dishes. Explore the variety of flavors in sodas and dairy products like yogurt.
Chilling and Heating
冰与暖Discuss how temperature affects our daily lives, from ice and boiled water to central heating. Explore the sources of various materials, including raw ingredients and refreshing drinks.
Nature's Canopy
自然的树冠Discuss the beauty of forests, the variety of plants, and the significance of leaves in nature. Explore topics like pine trees, window sills, and the accessibility of nature with wheelchairs.
Seasons of Change
变革的季节Discuss milestones like graduation, the end of terms, and the transitions between seasons such as spring and autumn. Talk about planning for the next month or reflecting on the past month.
Seasons of Home Life
家居四季Discuss the rhythms of home life across seasons, including summer and winter vacations, household duties, and the roles of residents and adults.
Growing Up Through Words
语言中的成长Discuss the journey from childhood to youth, sharing experiences in kindergarten and the importance of diaries in capturing memories. Explore the nuances of colloquial speech and speech sounds as they relate to personal growth.
Academic Paths and Roles
学术之路Discuss the various roles in academia, such as professors and graduate students, while exploring the stages of education from undergraduate courses to academic years.
Fighters and Athletes
战士与运动员Discuss the roles of soldiers and athletes in competitions, explore themes of employment and poverty, and share favorite snacks enjoyed during events.
Naughty Nibbles and Fresh Tea
调皮零食与新鲜茶Discuss your favorite snacks, the freshness of local ingredients, and even share stories about your hometown or experiences with tea. You can also touch on the role of leaders like the president in your native place.
By the End of HSK 4
Listening
Follow extended speech, interviews, and discussions on everyday, academic, and work topics, spoken naturally at 195+ characters per minute.
Speaking
Argue a point of view, narrate experiences in detail, and discuss abstract topics like society, the environment, and technology with growing fluency.
Reading
Read articles, essays, and reports at 160+ characters per minute, recognizing roughly 1,994 cumulative HSK 3.0 words and 1,200 characters.
Writing
Handwrite 1,200 characters and compose structured paragraphs, opinion pieces, and longer narratives on familiar and abstract subjects.
Recommended Culture Reading
Language is inseparable from culture. These articles give you context that makes your vocabulary come alive.