Meanings of 劲
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About 劲
Podcast: 劲
Podcast: 劲
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AI Study Notes for 劲
劲 (jìn) vs 力 (lì) — use 劲 for a sense of spirited energy or enthusiasm, while 力 focuses more on physical strength or force.
Picture a strong wind (劲) blowing through a sturdy tree. The character's left side (力) represents strength, while the right side suggests movement or energy, reminding you that 'jìn' means to exert power or enthusiasm.
Be careful not to confuse 劲 (jìn) with other similar-sounding words. It's generally used in both formal and informal contexts, but tends to appear more in spoken language. Common collocations include '劲头' (jìntóu - enthusiasm) and '劲松' (jìngsōng - strong and relaxed).
Although 劲 is not part of the HSK vocabulary list, it connects with other words about strength and energy like 强 (qiáng - strong) and 力量 (lìliàng - power). Focus on using 劲 in phrases to describe both physical and emotional strength at this level.
In traditional Chinese martial arts, the concept of 劲 is crucial as it refers to the internal strength and energy used in movements. It reflects the importance placed on balance between physical strength and mental focus in Chinese culture.
Learners often confuse 劲 (jìn) with 力 (lì), leading to incorrect usage. For example, saying '我没有力' (wǒ méiyǒu lì - I have no strength) instead of '我没有劲' (wǒ méiyǒu jìn - I have no energy) can change the intended meaning.
Pronunciation of 劲
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Etymology of 劲
Simplified form of 勁. Phonosemantic compound. 力 represents the meaning and 巠 represents the sound.
strength
Character Formation Type
What type of character formation is 劲?
Decomposition of 劲
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Write 劲
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Practice writing 劲 stroke by stroke. Watch the animation to learn the stroke order, then try writing it yourself.
Grammar Patterns of 劲
劲 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 12 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.
Complete the Sentence
这场胜利为我们在比利时的比赛鼓足了____儿。
The win sets us up perfectly for the match in Belgium.
Common Confusions with 劲
Similar pronunciation and shape, but different meanings.
Spot the Difference
Which character means "strength"?
Example Sentences for 劲 (10)
Cultural Notes for 劲
In traditional Chinese martial arts, the concept of 劲 is crucial as it refers to the internal strength and energy used in movements. It reflects the importance placed on balance between physical strength and mental focus in Chinese culture.
In Western cultures, strength is often viewed as a purely physical attribute, whereas in Chinese culture, it encompasses emotional and spiritual dimensions as well.
Word Family of 劲
Compound Meaning
What does 劲 mean?
Frequently Asked Questions about 劲
劲 (jìn) emphasizes strength, energy, or enthusiasm, while 精力 (jīnglì) refers specifically to one's vitality or stamina. While both words can describe a person's energy, 劲 often conveys a more dynamic or spirited connotation. Understanding the context helps in choosing the right word.