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March 24, 2026
言语(言語)yányǔ(yan2yu3)
言语 (yán yǔ) refers to spoken language or speech. It encompasses the act of speaking as well as the words themselves. This term is commonly used when discussing communication and can imply both formal and informal contexts.
Frequency#6776DifficultyHard
Cultural Note
In Chinese culture, the importance of effective communication is highly valued, and the concept of 言语 reflects this. It is often emphasized in education and public speaking, where mastery of language is seen as a mark of intelligence and respect.
Memory Tip
Think of 言 (yán) as representing 'speech' with its radical for 'words' and 语 (yǔ) as 'language', which looks like a person talking. Imagine a person passionately telling a story, emphasizing the importance of words in communication.
Meanings of 言语
yányǔ(yan2yu3)
primary
1words
2to speak
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About 言语
言语Simplified
言語Traditional
—Strokes
—Radical
名词míngcínoun (n.)Part of Speech
#—Frequency Rank
HSK 3.0L6IntermediateHSKKL3CEFRB2
Podcast: 言语
Podcast: 言语
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AI Study Notes for 言语
Quick Contrast
言辞 (yáncí) refers more specifically to the choice of words or expressions used in speech, while 言语 (yányǔ) encompasses a broader concept of spoken language.
Memory Mnemonic
Think of 言 (yán) as representing 'speech' with its radical for 'words' and 语 (yǔ) as 'language', which looks like a person talking. Imagine a person passionately telling a story, emphasizing the importance of words in communication.
Usage Notes
Be careful not to confuse 言语 with 语言 (yǔyán), which specifically refers to 'language' in a broader sense, including written forms. The term can be used in both formal and informal settings but is more common in discussions about communication skills or language studies.
HSK Study Tips
While 言语 is not specifically listed in HSK vocabulary, it relates closely to other HSK words like 说 (shuō - to speak) and 语 (yǔ - language). Students should focus on understanding the context in which 言语 is used, particularly in discussions about language and communication.
Cultural Note
In Chinese culture, the importance of effective communication is highly valued, and the concept of 言语 reflects this. It is often emphasized in education and public speaking, where mastery of language is seen as a mark of intelligence and respect.
Common Mistakes
Learners often confuse 言语 with 语言. For example, saying '我学言语' (I study speech) instead of '我学语言' (I study language) can lead to misunderstanding. Remember, 言语 emphasizes spoken communication.
AI-enhanced 2026-03-24
Pronunciation of 言语
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Cultural Notes for 言语
🏮Cultural insight
In Chinese culture, the importance of effective communication is highly valued, and the concept of 言语 reflects this. It is often emphasized in education and public speaking, where mastery of language is seen as a mark of intelligence and respect.
Frequently Asked Questions about 言语
言语 refers specifically to spoken language and speech, while 语言 encompasses all forms of language, including both spoken and written.
Yes, 言语 can be used in both formal and informal contexts, especially when discussing topics related to communication.
It is pronounced as yán yǔ, with the second syllable being a rising tone.
