to waste one's time by using an inappropriate method
HSK 7, unknown, rank #54372, Very Hard
zǒuwānlù(zou3wan1lu4) T3
1to take an indirect route
2to waste one's time by using an inappropriate method
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March 24, 2026
走弯路(走彎路)zǒuwānlù(zou3wan1lu4)
走弯路 (zǒu wān lù) means to take an indirect or roundabout way to reach a destination, often implying that the method used is inefficient or unnecessarily complicated. It can be used both literally, as in physical travel, and figuratively, to describe inefficient approaches in work or problem-solving.
Frequency#54372DifficultyVery Hard
Cultural Note
In Chinese culture, efficiency and directness are highly valued, particularly in business and education. The phrase 走弯路 reflects a common frustration with unnecessary complications in achieving goals.
Memory Tip
Imagine a traveler who needs to reach a destination but decides to take a winding path instead of the direct route. The character 走 (zǒu) means 'to walk,' while 弯 (wān) means 'bent' or 'curved,' and 路 (lù) means 'road.' Visualize walking on a winding road, which reminds you of taking the long way around.
Meanings of 走弯路
zǒuwānlù(zou3wan1lu4)
1to take an indirect route
2to waste one's time by using an inappropriate method
Exercise 1 of 2
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About 走弯路
走弯路Simplified
走彎路Traditional
—Strokes
—Radical
#—Frequency Rank
HSK 3.0L7AdvancedCEFRC2
Podcast: 走弯路
Podcast: 走弯路
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AI Study Notes for 走弯路
Quick Contrast
绕路 (rào lù) - use 走弯路 when emphasizing inefficiency or complication, while 绕路 focuses on the detour aspect.
Memory Mnemonic
Imagine a traveler who needs to reach a destination but decides to take a winding path instead of the direct route. The character 走 (zǒu) means 'to walk,' while 弯 (wān) means 'bent' or 'curved,' and 路 (lù) means 'road.' Visualize walking on a winding road, which reminds you of taking the long way around.
Usage Notes
Be cautious not to confuse 走弯路 with similar phrases that imply taking risks or shortcuts. This phrase is more about inefficiency rather than danger. It is commonly used in both formal and informal contexts, especially in discussions about work methods or strategies.
HSK Study Tips
While 走弯路 is not an HSK vocabulary word, it can be related to HSK Level 3 terms like 路 (lù) and 走 (zǒu). Focus on understanding the context in which this phrase can be used, especially in problem-solving scenarios.
Cultural Note
In Chinese culture, efficiency and directness are highly valued, particularly in business and education. The phrase 走弯路 reflects a common frustration with unnecessary complications in achieving goals.
Common Mistakes
Learners often confuse 走弯路 with 走直路 (zǒu zhílù, 'to go straight') and use it incorrectly to imply a faster route. Remember that 走弯路 specifically indicates inefficiency, not speed.
AI-enhanced 2026-03-24
Pronunciation of 走弯路
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Cultural Notes for 走弯路
🏮Cultural insight
In Chinese culture, efficiency and directness are highly valued, particularly in business and education. The phrase 走弯路 reflects a common frustration with unnecessary complications in achieving goals.
Frequently Asked Questions about 走弯路
Yes, it's commonly used to describe inefficient business strategies or methods.
Yes, it usually carries a negative connotation, suggesting wasted time or effort.
Yes, phrases like 走捷径 (zǒu jiéjìng) meaning 'to take a shortcut' can convey different meanings.
