Meanings of 足球
Listen & Choose the Meaning
Choose the correct answer:
About 足球
Podcast: 足球
Podcast: 足球
Listen to Jason & Amy break down this word for you
New here?
AI Study Notes for 足球
足球 (soccer) vs 橄榄球 (rugby) — choose 足球 when referring specifically to soccer, while 橄榄球 denotes rugby.
Be careful with pronunciation since both syllables in 足球 are pronounced with a second tone (zu2) and a second tone (qiu2). It’s often used in informal settings among friends discussing sports, but can also be appropriate in formal contexts when discussing sports events.
Although 足球 is not specifically listed in HSK levels, it connects to the vocabulary related to sports and leisure activities. Students should focus on the tones and practice using it in sentences related to sports to enhance their conversational skills.
Learners often confuse the tones, pronouncing it as 'zu1 qiu2' instead of 'zu2 qiu2'. Another mistake is using it in place of other sports terms, like saying '我喜欢打足球' (Wǒ xǐhuān dǎ zúqiú) which should be '我喜欢踢足球' (Wǒ xǐhuān tī zúqiú) since '踢' means to kick.
Pronunciation of 足球
Drill the tone of 足球 with AI-powered exercises, get instant feedback, and earn XP toward mastery. Interactive tone practice is part of Pro.
Component Characters
How to say soccer ball in Chinese
“soccer ball” in Chinese is足球
足球 refers to both the sport of soccer and the soccer ball itself. It is commonly used in contexts related to sports, games, and recreational activities. The term can also signify a cultural phenomenon in countries where soccer is a major pastime.
When to use 足球
Be careful with pronunciation since both syllables in 足球 are pronounced with a second tone (zu2) and a second tone (qiu2). It’s often used in informal settings among friends discussing sports, but can also be appropriate in formal contexts when discussing sports events.
足球 or something close to it
足球 (soccer) vs 橄榄球 (rugby) — choose 足球 when referring specifically to soccer, while 橄榄球 denotes rugby.
What learners get wrong
Learners often confuse the tones, pronouncing it as 'zu1 qiu2' instead of 'zu2 qiu2'. Another mistake is using it in place of other sports terms, like saying '我喜欢打足球' (Wǒ xǐhuān dǎ zúqiú) which should be '我喜欢踢足球' (Wǒ xǐhuān tī zúqiú) since '踢' means to kick.
Write 足球
New here? to save your writing progress and earn XP.
Practice writing 足球 stroke by stroke. Watch the animation to learn the stroke order, then try writing it yourself.
Cultural Notes for 足球
While soccer is universally popular, the way it is celebrated and discussed can differ significantly; for instance, in many Western cultures, soccer is known as football, while in China, football can refer to American football.
Frequently Asked Questions about 足球
You can say '我喜欢足球' (Wǒ xǐhuān zúqiú).
Jason Recommends
Not sure what to learn after 足球?
Jason picks three words from your level and explains why each one is worth your time next. It takes a free account so he knows what you already know.