Meanings of 慰
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About 慰
Podcast: 慰
Podcast: 慰
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AI Study Notes for 慰
安慰 (ān wèi) vs 慰藉 (wèi jiè) — use 慰 when referring specifically to the act of comforting someone directly, while 安慰 is more general and can imply a broader sense of reassurance.
Be careful not to confuse 慰 (wèi) with similar-sounding words like 魏 (wèi), which is a proper noun. This verb is generally used in more formal contexts, especially when discussing emotional support. Common collocations include 慰问 (wèiwèn) meaning to express condolences.
Although 慰 is not included in the HSK levels, it is relevant for learners aiming for advanced conversational skills. Focus on its usage in phrases related to emotional support, which can enhance your ability to discuss sensitive topics.
Learners often confuse 慰 (wèi) with 安慰 (ānwèi), both meaning to comfort but used in slightly different contexts. For instance, saying '我想慰他' is incorrect; it should be '我想安慰他' for a more natural expression.
Pronunciation of 慰
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Jason Explains 慰 to You
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Etymology of 慰
heart
Origin
慰 = 心 + 尉. What kind of character does that make it?
Decomposition of 慰
Parts
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How to say to comfort in Chinese
“to comfort” in Chinese is慰
The character 慰 (wèi) means to comfort or console someone in times of distress or sadness. It is commonly used in contexts where emotional support is offered, such as during a loss or a difficult situation. This term conveys a sense of reassurance and care.
When to use 慰
Be careful not to confuse 慰 (wèi) with similar-sounding words like 魏 (wèi), which is a proper noun. This verb is generally used in more formal contexts, especially when discussing emotional support. Common collocations include 慰问 (wèiwèn) meaning to express condolences.
慰 or something close to it
安慰 (ān wèi) vs 慰藉 (wèi jiè) — use 慰 when referring specifically to the act of comforting someone directly, while 安慰 is more general and can imply a broader sense of reassurance.
What learners get wrong
Learners often confuse 慰 (wèi) with 安慰 (ānwèi), both meaning to comfort but used in slightly different contexts. For instance, saying '我想慰他' is incorrect; it should be '我想安慰他' for a more natural expression.
Write 慰
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Practice writing 慰 stroke by stroke. Watch the animation to learn the stroke order, then try writing it yourself.
Grammar Patterns of 慰
慰 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 4 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.
“你真的不说吗？”她问道，乞求得到安____。
"You really won't tell?" she asked, begging for reassurance.
Common Confusions with 慰
Similar sound but different meaning.
Similar pronunciation and structure, but different meaning.
Which one
Which one means “to comfort”?
Example Sentences for 慰 (10)
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Word Family of 慰
Words with 慰
What does 安慰 mean?
Frequently Asked Questions about 慰
You can say '我想要慰问他' (Wǒ xiǎng yào wèiwèn tā), meaning 'I want to comfort him.'
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