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March 24, 2026
半信半疑()bànxìnbànyí(ban4xin4ban4yi2)
The idiom 半信半疑 (bàn xìn bàn yí) describes a state of being half convinced and half doubtful about something. It is commonly used in contexts where someone is uncertain about the truth of a claim or story, indicating a lack of complete trust or belief.
Frequency#42643DifficultyVery Hard
Cultural Note
In Chinese culture, showing skepticism can be viewed as a sign of wisdom and caution, especially in discussions about rumors or unverified information. This idiom reflects a common cultural value of critical thinking.
Memory Tip
Imagine a seesaw where one side represents belief (信) and the other side represents doubt (疑). When you are 半信半疑, the seesaw is balanced in the middle, representing your split feelings about a situation. Remember: 'ban' sounds like 'balance', and you're balancing trust and skepticism.
Meanings of 半信半疑
bànxìnbànyí(ban4xin4ban4yi2)
1half doubting
2dubious
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About 半信半疑
半信半疑Simplified
Traditional
—Strokes
—Radical
#—Frequency Rank
HSK 3.0L7AdvancedTOCFLL5CEFRC2
Podcast: 半信半疑
Podcast: 半信半疑
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AI Study Notes for 半信半疑
Memory Mnemonic
Imagine a seesaw where one side represents belief (信) and the other side represents doubt (疑). When you are 半信半疑, the seesaw is balanced in the middle, representing your split feelings about a situation. Remember: 'ban' sounds like 'balance', and you're balancing trust and skepticism.
Usage Notes
This phrase is often used in informal conversations to express skepticism. Learners should be cautious not to overuse it in formal writing. A common mistake is to use it in a positive context, whereas it typically conveys doubt.
HSK Study Tips
While this idiom does not appear in HSK lists, it is useful for intermediate learners as it connects to themes of belief and doubt present in HSK 3-4 vocabulary. Focus on understanding its nuance in conversation and how to express skepticism appropriately.
Cultural Note
In Chinese culture, showing skepticism can be viewed as a sign of wisdom and caution, especially in discussions about rumors or unverified information. This idiom reflects a common cultural value of critical thinking.
Common Mistakes
Learners often confuse this idiom with 绝对相信 (jué duì xiāng xìn), which means 'to absolutely believe'. For example, saying '我对他的故事绝对半信半疑' is incorrect; the correct phrase is '我对他的故事半信半疑'.
AI-enhanced 2026-03-24
Pronunciation of 半信半疑
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Cultural Notes for 半信半疑
🏮Cultural insight
In Chinese culture, showing skepticism can be viewed as a sign of wisdom and caution, especially in discussions about rumors or unverified information. This idiom reflects a common cultural value of critical thinking.
Frequently Asked Questions about 半信半疑
Yes, it's appropriate to use 半信半疑 when expressing uncertainty about the effectiveness or quality of a new product.
It is primarily used in informal contexts, so it’s best to avoid it in formal writing.
