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March 24, 2026
万一(萬一)wànyī(wan4yi1)
万一 (wàn yī) refers to a hypothetical situation or contingency, often translated as 'just in case' or 'if by any chance.' It is commonly used to express caution or to prepare for unexpected events, particularly in formal or serious contexts.
Strokes4Frequency#2484DifficultyHard
Cultural Note
In Chinese culture, being prepared for unforeseen circumstances is valued, often reflecting a pragmatic approach to life. The concept of 万一 is prevalent in traditional sayings about caution and foresight.
Memory Tip
Imagine a scenario where you have a backup plan '万一' (wàn yī) for every situation. The first character '万' (wàn) looks like a large number, which suggests extreme possibilities, while '一' (yī) represents a single chance. Picture a large safety net just in case something goes wrong!
Meanings of 万一
wànyī(wan4yi1)
1just in case
2if by any chance
Exercise 1 of 2
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About 万一
万一Simplified
萬一Traditional
4Strokes
—Radical
连词连词conjunction (conj.)Part of Speech
#2484Frequency Rank
HSK 2.0L5HSK 3.0L5IntermediateTOCFLL4HSKKL2CEFRB1
Podcast: 万一
Podcast: 万一
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AI Study Notes for 万一
Quick Contrast
万一 (wànyī) vs 以防 (yǐfáng) — use 万一 for hypothetical scenarios, while 以防 emphasizes precautionary measures.
Usage Notes
万一 is typically used in conditional sentences to introduce a hypothetical scenario. Be careful not to confuse it with '如果' (rúguǒ), which means 'if' in a more general sense. It is more formal and may not be suitable for casual conversations.
HSK Study Tips
As an HSK Level 5 word, 万一 connects with other conditional phrases like '如果' (rúguǒ) and '要是' (yàoshi). Students should focus on using it in context, particularly in discussing plans or precautions.
Common Mistakes
Learners often misuse 万一 with a literal translation, saying something like '如果万一' (rúguǒ wàn yī), which is incorrect. Instead, use 万一 alone, as in '万一发生什么情况.'
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Pronunciation of 万一
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万一 (wàn yī) refers to a hypothetical situation or contingency, often translated as 'just in case' or 'if by any chance.' It is commonly used to express caution or to prepare for unexpected events, particularly in formal or serious contexts.
When to use 万一
万一 is typically used in conditional sentences to introduce a hypothetical scenario. Be careful not to confuse it with '如果' (rúguǒ), which means 'if' in a more general sense. It is more formal and may not be suitable for casual conversations.
万一 or something close to it
万一 (wànyī) vs 以防 (yǐfáng) — use 万一 for hypothetical scenarios, while 以防 emphasizes precautionary measures.
What learners get wrong
Learners often misuse 万一 with a literal translation, saying something like '如果万一' (rúguǒ wàn yī), which is incorrect. Instead, use 万一 alone, as in '万一发生什么情况.'
Write 万一
万
一
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Grammar Patterns of 万一
万一 functions as a number. It almost always combines with a measure word before a noun (三个人, 五本书). Standalone numbers are rare outside of math or counting. 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.
