a word of command (used in drilling troops or gymnasts)
HSK 7, unknown, rank #11132, Hard
口令
kǒulìng
password (used by sentry)
HSK 7, unknown, rank #11132, Hard
kǒulìng(kou3ling4) T3
1oral command
2a word of command (used in drilling troops or gymnasts)
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March 24, 2026
口令()kǒulìng(kou3ling4)
口令 (kǒulìng) refers to an oral command or password used primarily in military or gymnastic contexts. It signifies a specific phrase that must be spoken or acknowledged to gain access or to follow a command, highlighting its importance in coordination and discipline.
Frequency#11132DifficultyHard
Cultural Note
In China, the concept of 口令 is associated with the disciplined structure of the military and traditional practices in martial arts, where precise commands are essential for coordination and safety.
Memory Tip
Imagine a soldier shouting a command from their mouth (口) that resonates like a ringing bell (令) to signal action. The sound of 'kou' relates to the action of speaking, while 'ling' signifies authority in commands.
Meanings of 口令
kǒulìng(kou3ling4)
1oral command
2a word of command (used in drilling troops or gymnasts)
Exercise 1 of 2
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About 口令
口令Simplified
Traditional
—Strokes
—Radical
名词míngcínoun (n.)Part of Speech
#—Frequency Rank
HSK 3.0L7AdvancedCEFRC2
Podcast: 口令
Podcast: 口令
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AI Study Notes for 口令
Quick Contrast
口令 (kǒulìng) vs 口号 (kǒuhào): 口令 refers specifically to a command or password, while 口号 is a slogan or motto used for rallying or motivation.
Memory Mnemonic
Imagine a soldier shouting a command from their mouth (口) that resonates like a ringing bell (令) to signal action. The sound of 'kou' relates to the action of speaking, while 'ling' signifies authority in commands.
Usage Notes
口令 is often used in formal contexts, especially in military drills or organized sports. Learners should be careful not to confuse it with other similar terms like '命令' (mìnglìng), which means 'order' or 'command' but is broader in usage.
HSK Study Tips
While 口令 is not specifically categorized in HSK levels, it is useful for learners interested in military or formal communication vocabulary. Focus on the components of the word and practice using it in sentences related to commands or drills.
Cultural Note
In China, the concept of 口令 is associated with the disciplined structure of the military and traditional practices in martial arts, where precise commands are essential for coordination and safety.
Common Mistakes
A common mistake is to use 口令 in informal conversations, where it may sound overly formal or out of place. For example, saying '请给我一个口令' (Please give me a command) in a casual setting is incorrect; a more appropriate phrasing would be '请告诉我' (Please tell me).
AI-enhanced 2026-03-24
Pronunciation of 口令
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Cultural Notes for 口令
🏮Cultural insight
In China, the concept of 口令 is associated with the disciplined structure of the military and traditional practices in martial arts, where precise commands are essential for coordination and safety.
Frequently Asked Questions about 口令
口令 refers specifically to an oral command or password, while 命令 is a broader term meaning an order or command, which can be written or spoken.
You can use 口令 in military contexts, during sports drills, or in any scenario where specific verbal commands are required for coordination.
Make sure to pronounce '口' with a falling tone (3rd tone) and '令' with a rising tone (4th tone) to convey the correct meaning.
