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March 24, 2026
吩fēn(fen1)
The character 吩 (fēn) means to leave instructions or to command someone to do something. It is commonly used in formal contexts where authority is exercised, such as in workplaces or hierarchical settings. This word implies a sense of direction or guidance given by someone in a position of power.
Strokes7Radical口Frequency#69296DifficultyVery Hard
Cultural Note
In Chinese culture, the act of giving orders is often tied to respect and hierarchy, particularly in workplaces where seniority plays a significant role. Understanding how to use 吩 in context can help navigate professional environments more effectively.
Memory Tip
Imagine a boss (the radical 否) confidently giving orders (the sound 'fēn' resembles 'fan' in English) to their team. Visualize a scene where the boss is using a megaphone to amplify their instructions, ensuring everyone hears and understands them clearly.
Meanings of 吩
fēn(fen1)
1leave instructions
2to order
Exercise 1 of 2
Listen & Choose the Meaning
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About 吩
吩Simplified
7Strokes
口Radical
动词dòngcíverb (v.)Part of Speech
#65535Frequency Rank
Podcast: 吩
Podcast: 吩
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AI Study Notes for 吩
Quick Contrast
指示 (zhǐshì) - use 吩 (fēn) when emphasizing formal commands from authority, while 指示 (zhǐshì) is more about giving instructions without the same hierarchical implication.
Memory Mnemonic
Imagine a boss (the radical 否) confidently giving orders (the sound 'fēn' resembles 'fan' in English) to their team. Visualize a scene where the boss is using a megaphone to amplify their instructions, ensuring everyone hears and understands them clearly.
Usage Notes
Be careful to use 吩 in contexts that involve authority or formal instructions; using it in casual conversations may come off as overly commanding. Common collocations include 吩咐 (fēnfu, to instruct) and 吩令 (fēnlìng, to order). Remember that the tone should be clear and assertive.
HSK Study Tips
Though 吩 is not part of the official HSK levels, it connects with HSK 4 vocabulary like 命令 (mìnglìng, to command) and 教导 (jiàodǎo, to teach). Focus on practicing its usage in sentences that involve giving or receiving instructions.
Cultural Note
In Chinese culture, the act of giving orders is often tied to respect and hierarchy, particularly in workplaces where seniority plays a significant role. Understanding how to use 吩 in context can help navigate professional environments more effectively.
Common Mistakes
Learners often confuse 吩 with more casual terms like 叫 (jiào, to call) or 告诉 (gàosù, to tell), which are less authoritative. For instance, saying 吩我去买东西 (fēn wǒ qù mǎi dōngxi) is incorrect; instead, use 吩咐我去买东西 (fēnfu wǒ qù mǎi dōngxi).
AI-enhanced 2026-03-24
Pronunciation of 吩
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Grammar Patterns of 吩
吩 functions as a verb — the action or state of the sentence. The Chinese order is Subject + Verb + Object (我吃饭). Negate it with 不 (habitual / future) or 没(有) (completed action). Add aspect markers like 了, 过, 着 directly after the verb. It carries 3 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.
Exercise 1 of 4
Complete the Sentence
如果我可以效劳的话，敬请____咐。
If I can be of service, I am at your disposal.
Example Sentences for 吩 (5)
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1
如果我可以效劳的话，敬请吩咐。
rú guǒ wǒ kě yǐ xiào láo de huà， ， jìng qǐng fēn。
If I can be of service, I am at your disposal.
2
她很善于让男人听她的吩咐！
tā hěn shàn yú ràng nán rén tīng tā de fēn fù！
She is very clever at getting men to do her bidding!
3
“特雷莎，告诉他们我所有的电话都别挂。”她吩咐她的服装师。
“ “ tè léi， suō ， gào sù tā mén wǒ suǒ yǒu de diàn huà dū。” bié guà 。” tā fēn fù tā de。
"Tell them to hold all my calls, Theresa," she instructed her dresser.
nǐ zhào wǒ de fēn fù bǎ suǒ yǒu de bīng qì dū nuó zǒu le?
Have you removed all the weapons as I bade you?
Cultural Notes for 吩
🏮Cultural insight
In Chinese culture, the act of giving orders is often tied to respect and hierarchy, particularly in workplaces where seniority plays a significant role. Understanding how to use 吩 in context can help navigate professional environments more effectively.
Word Family of 吩
Words Containing This Character3
吩咐fēnfùto tell
吩fēnto order
噻吩thiophene (chemistry) (loanword)
Exercise 1 of 3
Compound Meaning
What does 吩咐 mean?
Frequently Asked Questions about 吩
Use 吩 when you want to emphasize authoritative instructions, particularly in formal or business contexts.
It's best to avoid using 吩 in casual settings, as it may sound too commanding or formal.
Common phrases include 吩咐 (fēnfu) and 吩令 (fēnlìng), both related to giving instructions.
