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世袭 — pronunciations, definitions, and tags
HanziPinyinEnglishTags
世袭shìxísuccessionHSK 7, unknown, 16 strokes, rank #36138, Very Hard
世袭shìxíinheritanceHSK 7, unknown, 16 strokes, rank #36138, Very Hard
世袭shìxíhereditaryHSK 7, unknown, 16 strokes, rank #36138, Very Hard
shìxí(shi4xi2)shi xi T4
  1. 1succession
  2. 2inheritance
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March 24, 2026

世袭(世襲)shìxí(shi4xi2)

世袭 refers to the concept of hereditary succession, where titles, positions, or property are passed down from one generation to the next. It is commonly used in contexts related to aristocracy, royalty, or family businesses. This term emphasizes the continuity of lineage and tradition in governance or ownership.

Strokes16Frequency#36138DifficultyVery Hard
Cultural note

In Chinese history, the concept of 世袭 has played a significant role in maintaining dynasties and noble families, influencing social hierarchy and governance. The practice of passing titles and lands through generations has deep cultural roots in Confucian values of filial piety and respect for ancestors.

Memory tip

Imagine a royal family where the crown is passed down through generations. The character '世' (shì) looks like a house with a roof, representing a family, while '袭' (xí) suggests the act of taking over or inheriting. Together, they create a vivid image of succession within a family.

Meanings of 世袭

shìxí(shi4xi2)
1succession
2inheritance
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About 世袭

世袭Simplified
世襲Traditional
16Strokes
—Radical
#—Frequency Rank
HSK 3.0L7AdvancedCEFRC2

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AI study notes for 世袭

Usage Notes

Be careful not to confuse 世袭 with related terms like 继承 (jì chéng), which specifically means inheritance. 世袭 is more formal and often used in historical or political contexts. Also, remember that the first syllable is pronounced with a falling tone (shì).

HSK Study Tips

Although 世袭 is not part of the HSK vocabulary, understanding this term can help learners connect with other words related to family and inheritance, such as 继承 (inheritance) and 家族 (family). Focus on the context of usage to enhance retention.

Common Mistakes

Learners often confuse 世袭 with 继承, thinking they are interchangeable. Remember, 世袭 implies a hereditary aspect, while 继承 focuses solely on the act of inheriting. For example, saying '我继承了王位' (I inherited the throne) should actually use 世袭 to imply the hereditary nature.

AI-enhanced 2026-03-24

Pronunciation of 世袭

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Component characters

世shìlife
5 strokes一
View full entry
袭xíto attack
11 strokes龙
View full entry

How to say succession in Chinese

“succession” in Chinese is世袭shìxí

世袭 refers to the concept of hereditary succession, where titles, positions, or property are passed down from one generation to the next. It is commonly used in contexts related to aristocracy, royalty, or family businesses. This term emphasizes the continuity of lineage and tradition in governance or ownership.

When to use 世袭

Be careful not to confuse 世袭 with related terms like 继承 (jì chéng), which specifically means inheritance. 世袭 is more formal and often used in historical or political contexts. Also, remember that the first syllable is pronounced with a falling tone (shì).

What learners get wrong

Learners often confuse 世袭 with 继承, thinking they are interchangeable. Remember, 世袭 implies a hereditary aspect, while 继承 focuses solely on the act of inheriting. For example, saying '我继承了王位' (I inherited the throne) should actually use 世袭 to imply the hereditary nature.

Write 世袭

世
袭

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Frequently asked questions about 世袭

Yes, while it has historical significance, it can also refer to modern family businesses where ownership is passed down.

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