Meanings of 起步
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Podcast: 起步
Podcast: 起步
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AI study notes for 起步
出发 (chūfā) - use 起步 when emphasizing the initial stage of starting something new, while 出发 focuses more on the act of departing or setting off.
Be careful not to confuse 起步 with similar phrases like 开始 (kāishǐ), which also means 'to start' but is more general. '起步' is often used in more specific contexts, such as starting a project or a career path. It's an informal term, so it's best suited for everyday conversations rather than formal writing.
While '起步' may not be explicitly listed in the HSK vocabulary, it connects with concepts of starting and initiating, which are crucial at HSK Level 3 and above. Students should focus on understanding how to use it in practical situations and in combination with other verbs.
Learners often confuse '起步' with '开始' (kāishǐ) and use them interchangeably. For example, saying '我会在明天开始我的旅行' (I will start my trip tomorrow) is correct, but saying '我会在明天起步我的旅行' is not standard usage.
Pronunciation of 起步
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Component characters
How to say to set out in Chinese
“to set out” in Chinese is起步
起步 (qǐbù) means to set out or to begin a journey or activity. It is commonly used in contexts where one is starting something new, such as a project, a trip, or even a career. The term can convey the sense of taking the first step towards a goal.
When to use 起步
Be careful not to confuse 起步 with similar phrases like 开始 (kāishǐ), which also means 'to start' but is more general. '起步' is often used in more specific contexts, such as starting a project or a career path. It's an informal term, so it's best suited for everyday conversations rather than formal writing.
起步 or something close to it
出发 (chūfā) - use 起步 when emphasizing the initial stage of starting something new, while 出发 focuses more on the act of departing or setting off.
What learners get wrong
Learners often confuse '起步' with '开始' (kāishǐ) and use them interchangeably. For example, saying '我会在明天开始我的旅行' (I will start my trip tomorrow) is correct, but saying '我会在明天起步我的旅行' is not standard usage.
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Cultural Notes for 起步
The concept of starting something new is common in both cultures, but in Western contexts, there is often a stronger emphasis on planning and preparation before 'setting out', whereas in Chinese culture, there may be more focus on the act of beginning itself.
Frequently asked questions about 起步
'起步' is generally informal and best suited for casual conversations, so it's better to use '开始' in formal contexts.
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