Meanings of 突如其来
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AI study notes for 突如其来
突发 (tūfā) - use 突如其来 for emphasis on the unexpectedness of an event; 突发 focuses more on the sudden onset.
This idiom is generally used in both formal and informal contexts but is more commonly found in written language. Be cautious with tone; the phrase should not be used lightly, as it conveys a sense of urgency and seriousness. Collocations include '突如其来的消息' (sudden news) or '突如其来的变化' (sudden changes).
Although not a specific HSK vocabulary term, 突如其来 can be encountered in advanced texts. It's beneficial for learners to recognize idiomatic expressions and their nuances at higher levels, as they often convey meaning more succinctly than literal translations.
Learners often confuse this idiom with similar phrases. For example, saying '突然如来' (tūrán rú lái) is incorrect; the proper form is '突如其来'. Additionally, using it in contexts where the event is not truly unexpected can lead to misunderstandings.
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Idiom spotlight: 突如其来
Component characters
How to say to arise abruptly in Chinese
“to arise abruptly” in Chinese is突如其来
突如其来 is an idiom that means something occurs unexpectedly or suddenly, often catching people by surprise. It is commonly used to describe events or situations that happen without warning, emphasizing the abruptness of the occurrence.
When to use 突如其来
This idiom is generally used in both formal and informal contexts but is more commonly found in written language. Be cautious with tone; the phrase should not be used lightly, as it conveys a sense of urgency and seriousness. Collocations include '突如其来的消息' (sudden news) or '突如其来的变化' (sudden changes).
突如其来 or something close to it
突发 (tūfā) - use 突如其来 for emphasis on the unexpectedness of an event; 突发 focuses more on the sudden onset.
What learners get wrong
Learners often confuse this idiom with similar phrases. For example, saying '突然如来' (tūrán rú lái) is incorrect; the proper form is '突如其来'. Additionally, using it in contexts where the event is not truly unexpected can lead to misunderstandings.
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Frequently asked questions about 突如其来
No, it can describe both negative and positive unexpected events, such as a surprise party.
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