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March 24, 2026
最后(最後)zuìhòu(zui4hou4)
最后 (zuì hòu) means 'last' or 'final' and is often used to refer to the concluding part of something, such as an event, a process, or a sequence. It can also imply a sense of finality or culmination, often conveying the idea of something being ultimate or definitive in nature.
Strokes18Frequency#249DifficultyMedium
Cultural Note
In Chinese culture, the concept of '最后' often carries significant weight, especially in contexts like family gatherings where the final moments are cherished. The phrase '最后的晚餐' (the last supper) also resonates deeply in cultural discussions, symbolizing closure.
Memory Tip
Imagine a race where the last runner crosses the finish line, holding a sign that says '最后' (finally). The character 最 means 'most' or 'last' and is like a peak, while 后 suggests something that comes after. Visualize the end of a journey, symbolizing the ultimate point.
Meanings of 最后
zuìhòu(zui4hou4)
1final
2last
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About 最后
最后Simplified
最後Traditional
18Strokes
—Radical
方位词direction word (dir.)Part of Speech
#249Frequency Rank
HSK 2.0L3HSK 3.0L3ElementaryTOCFLL1HSKKL1CEFRA1
Podcast: 最后
Podcast: 最后
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AI Study Notes for 最后
Quick Contrast
最终 (zuìzhōng) is used for 'final' in the sense of reaching a conclusion, while 最后 (zuìhòu) emphasizes the last in a sequence or order.
Usage Notes
Be cautious with the tone when pronouncing 最后; both characters are fourth tone, which can be challenging. It is commonly used in both formal and informal contexts, frequently appearing in phrases like '最后的机会' (the last chance). Avoid confusing it with 以前 (before) or 之后 (after), as they indicate different time references.
HSK Study Tips
As an HSK Level 3 word, 最后 is useful for expressing sequences and conclusions in conversations. Students should practice using it in sentences to describe events, such as '最后，我回家了' (Finally, I went home). Connecting it with words like 第一 (first) and 中间 (middle) can enhance understanding of sequences.
Common Mistakes
Learners often mistake 最后 for 结束 (to end) when they actually have different implications; for instance, saying '我最后了' (I finished last) instead of '我结束了' (I have finished). Remember that 最后 emphasizes the final position rather than the act of finishing.
AI-enhanced 2026-03-24
Pronunciation of 最后
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最后 (zuì hòu) means 'last' or 'final' and is often used to refer to the concluding part of something, such as an event, a process, or a sequence. It can also imply a sense of finality or culmination, often conveying the idea of something being ultimate or definitive in nature.
When to use 最后
Be cautious with the tone when pronouncing 最后; both characters are fourth tone, which can be challenging. It is commonly used in both formal and informal contexts, frequently appearing in phrases like '最后的机会' (the last chance). Avoid confusing it with 以前 (before) or 之后 (after), as they indicate different time references.
最后 or something close to it
最终 (zuìzhōng) is used for 'final' in the sense of reaching a conclusion, while 最后 (zuìhòu) emphasizes the last in a sequence or order.
What learners get wrong
Learners often mistake 最后 for 结束 (to end) when they actually have different implications; for instance, saying '我最后了' (I finished last) instead of '我结束了' (I have finished). Remember that 最后 emphasizes the final position rather than the act of finishing.
Write 最后
最
后
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Grammar Patterns of 最后
最后 carries 4 distinct meanings. Below you'll find the patterns that show how it combines with other words, plus example sentences pulled directly from native usage.
