Meanings of 劲
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Podcast: 劲
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AI Study Notes for 劲
劲 (jìn) vs 力 (lì) — use 劲 for a sense of spirited energy or enthusiasm, while 力 focuses more on physical strength or force.
Be careful not to confuse 劲 (jìn) with other similar-sounding words. It's generally used in both formal and informal contexts, but tends to appear more in spoken language. Common collocations include '劲头' (jìntóu - enthusiasm) and '劲松' (jìngsōng - strong and relaxed).
Although 劲 is not part of the HSK vocabulary list, it connects with other words about strength and energy like 强 (qiáng - strong) and 力量 (lìliàng - power). Focus on using 劲 in phrases to describe both physical and emotional strength at this level.
Learners often confuse 劲 (jìn) with 力 (lì), leading to incorrect usage. For example, saying '我没有力' (wǒ méiyǒu lì - I have no strength) instead of '我没有劲' (wǒ méiyǒu jìn - I have no energy) can change the intended meaning.
Pronunciation of 劲
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Jason Explains 劲 to You
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Its meaning, its character, its pinyin, its tone — hearing it, saying it, writing it. The Learning Lab measures each one from your own practice, on every word you study, so you see what you actually know rather than how much you have done.
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Etymology of 劲
Simplified form of 勁. Phonosemantic compound. 力 represents the meaning and 巠 represents the sound.
strength
Origin
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Decomposition of 劲
Parts
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How to say strength in Chinese
“strength” in Chinese is劲
The character 劲 (jìn) refers to strength, energy, or enthusiasm. It can describe physical power, mental vigor, or a spirited attitude. Commonly used in contexts relating to physical fitness or emotional states, it conveys a sense of robustness and vitality.
When to use 劲
Be careful not to confuse 劲 (jìn) with other similar-sounding words. It's generally used in both formal and informal contexts, but tends to appear more in spoken language. Common collocations include '劲头' (jìntóu - enthusiasm) and '劲松' (jìngsōng - strong and relaxed).
劲 or something close to it
劲 (jìn) vs 力 (lì) — use 劲 for a sense of spirited energy or enthusiasm, while 力 focuses more on physical strength or force.
What learners get wrong
Learners often confuse 劲 (jìn) with 力 (lì), leading to incorrect usage. For example, saying '我没有力' (wǒ méiyǒu lì - I have no strength) instead of '我没有劲' (wǒ méiyǒu jìn - I have no energy) can change the intended meaning.
Write 劲
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Practice writing 劲 stroke by stroke. Watch the animation to learn the stroke order, then try writing it yourself.
Grammar Patterns of 劲
劲 functions as a noun — it names a person, place, thing, or concept. Place it as a subject before the verb (主+谓) or as an object after the verb (谓+宾). Most Chinese nouns require a measure word between the number and the noun (e.g. 一个/三本). It carries 12 related meanings, each with its own usage notes below. The example sentences below show it in action, with practice buttons (Listen, Practice Writing, Practice Speaking) on every line.
Fill the gap
Type the missing word. Pinyin works; then pick the character.
这场胜利为我们在比利时的比赛鼓足了____儿。
The win sets us up perfectly for the match in Belgium.
Common Confusions with 劲
Similar pronunciation and shape, but different meanings.
Which one
Which one means “strength”?
Example Sentences for 劲 (10)
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Cultural Notes for 劲
In Western cultures, strength is often viewed as a purely physical attribute, whereas in Chinese culture, it encompasses emotional and spiritual dimensions as well.
Word Family of 劲
Words with 劲
What does 强劲 mean?
Frequently Asked Questions about 劲
劲 (jìn) emphasizes strength, energy, or enthusiasm, while 精力 (jīnglì) refers specifically to one's vitality or stamina. While both words can describe a person's energy, 劲 often conveys a more dynamic or spirited connotation. Understanding the context helps in choosing the right word.
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