Meanings of 责任
By ear
Play it, then pick what 责任 means.
About 责任
Podcast: 责任
Podcast: 责任
Listen to Jason & Amy break down this word for you
New here?
AI Study Notes for 责任
义务 (yìwù) vs 责任 (zérèn): use 责任 when emphasizing moral accountability, while 义务 focuses more on legal or formal obligations.
Common mistakes include confusing 责任 (zérèn) with similar words like 义务 (yìwù), which means obligation but lacks the same moral weight. This term is generally used in both formal and informal contexts, but is especially prevalent in discussions around work ethics and personal accountability. Pay attention to the tonal distinction; the second tone is rising, while the fourth tone is falling.
As an HSK Level 4 word, 责任 connects well with other vocabulary about work and social roles, such as 职责 (zhízé) meaning 'duty' or 'function.' Students should focus on using it in sentences related to their responsibilities in various contexts.
Learners often confuse 责任 with the word 责任心 (zérèn xīn), which means 'sense of responsibility.' For example, saying '我有责任心' (Wǒ yǒu zérèn xīn) is correct, while using '我有责任' (Wǒ yǒu zérèn) in a context where 'sense of responsibility' is meant can lead to confusion.
Pronunciation of 责任
Drill the tone of 责任 with AI-powered exercises, get instant feedback, and earn XP toward mastery. Interactive tone practice is part of Pro.
Jason Explains 责任 to You
Let me explain 责任 for you
Make it yours
Jason looks at what you watch and listen to, the checkpoints you have cleared, our lessons and what you have been exploring, and explains 责任 through them.
Sign in free to make it personal. New accounts start with 300 AI credits.
How Well Do You Know 责任?
Learning Lab
Knowing 责任 is seven skills, not one.
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.
- MeaningFree
- CharacterFree
- PinyinFree
- TonePro
- ListeningPro
- SpeakingPro
- WritingPro
Component Characters
How to say responsibility in Chinese
“responsibility” in Chinese is责任
责任 (zérèn) refers to the concept of responsibility or duty that one has towards others or oneself. It often implies a moral or ethical obligation, and can be used in both personal and professional contexts. Understanding this term is crucial for discussing accountability in various situations, such as work, family, and social roles.
When to use 责任
Common mistakes include confusing 责任 (zérèn) with similar words like 义务 (yìwù), which means obligation but lacks the same moral weight. This term is generally used in both formal and informal contexts, but is especially prevalent in discussions around work ethics and personal accountability. Pay attention to the tonal distinction; the second tone is rising, while the fourth tone is falling.
责任 or something close to it
义务 (yìwù) vs 责任 (zérèn): use 责任 when emphasizing moral accountability, while 义务 focuses more on legal or formal obligations.
What learners get wrong
Learners often confuse 责任 with the word 责任心 (zérèn xīn), which means 'sense of responsibility.' For example, saying '我有责任心' (Wǒ yǒu zérèn xīn) is correct, while using '我有责任' (Wǒ yǒu zérèn) in a context where 'sense of responsibility' is meant can lead to confusion.
Write 责任
New here? to save your writing progress and earn XP.
Practice writing 责任 stroke by stroke. Watch the animation to learn the stroke order, then try writing it yourself.
Grammar Patterns of 责任
责任 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 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.
Fill the gap
Type the missing word. Pinyin works; then pick the character.
这就是说，____不在你，你千万不要怪自己。
What this means is that the responsibility is not on you — you must not blame yourself.
Example Sentences for 责任 (10)
Ask Jason
Have a question about 责任?
Jason answers about this word at your level: example sentences, how it differs from similar words, and a way to remember it.
Sign in free to ask. New accounts start with 300 AI credits.
Frequently Asked Questions about 责任
You can say, '我有责任照顾家人' (Wǒ yǒu zérèn zhàogù jiārén), meaning 'I have the responsibility to take care of my family.'
Jason Recommends
Not sure what to learn after 责任?
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.