不符 (bùfú) means 'to be inconsistent with' or 'to not match'. It is commonly used in contexts where something does not conform to expectations, standards, or agreements. This term is frequently found in legal, business, or formal discussions.
HSK 5, 16 strokes, Hard
bùfú(bu4fu2) T4
Listen to the audio pronunciation 3 times to gain XP
May 27, 2026
不符bùfú(bu4fu2)
不符 (bùfú) means 'to be inconsistent with' or 'to not match'. It is commonly used in contexts where something does not conform to expectations, standards, or agreements. This term is frequently found in legal, business, or formal discussions.
Strokes16Frequency#—DifficultyHard
Cultural Note
不符 is often used in the context of business contracts in China, where strict adherence to terms is culturally significant. Deviations from agreed terms can lead to serious disputes.
Memory Tip
Imagine a pair of shoes that are supposed to match a stylish outfit but are the wrong color. The '不' (bù) looks like a barrier, indicating that something is off, while '符' (fú) can remind you of a flag or symbol that signifies agreement. Together, they depict a mismatch.
About 不符
不符Simplified
16Strokes
—Radical
动词dòngcíverb (v.)Part of Speech
#—Frequency Rank
HSK 3.0L5IntermediateHSKKL3CEFRB2
Podcast: 不符
Podcast: 不符
Listen to Jason & Amy break down this word for you
New here?
AI Study Notes for 不符
Quick Contrast
不一致 (bù yī zhì) - use 不符 (bùfú) when emphasizing a lack of match or conformity, while 不一致 (bù yī zhì) is more about general inconsistency.
Memory Mnemonic
Imagine a pair of shoes that are supposed to match a stylish outfit but are the wrong color. The '不' (bù) looks like a barrier, indicating that something is off, while '符' (fú) can remind you of a flag or symbol that signifies agreement. Together, they depict a mismatch.
Usage Notes
Learners often confuse 不符 with similar expressions like 不同 (different) or 不合 (not fitting). It is typically used in formal contexts, so avoid using it in casual conversations. Remember that the tone is crucial; mispronouncing it can lead to misunderstandings.
HSK Study Tips
At HSK 5, focus on understanding the contexts where 不符 is applicable, particularly in formal writing or discussions. It connects well with vocabulary related to agreements or specifications, such as 合同 (contract) and 规范 (norm).
Cultural Note
不符 is often used in the context of business contracts in China, where strict adherence to terms is culturally significant. Deviations from agreed terms can lead to serious disputes.
Common Mistakes
Learners may mistakenly say 不同 (bùtóng) when they mean 不符 (bùfú), as both involve differences. Remember, 不符 specifically indicates a mismatch or inconsistency, not just difference.
AI-enhanced 2026-05-27
Pronunciation of 不符
Premium — Locked
AI tone practice
Pro
Drill the tone of 不符 with AI-powered exercises, get instant feedback, and earn XP toward mastery. Interactive tone practice is part of Pro.
New here? to save your writing progress and earn XP.
Practice writing 不符 stroke by stroke. Watch the animation to learn the stroke order, then try writing it yourself.
Write correctly 3 times to earn XP
Cultural Notes for 不符
🏮Cultural insight
不符 is often used in the context of business contracts in China, where strict adherence to terms is culturally significant. Deviations from agreed terms can lead to serious disputes.
Frequently Asked Questions about 不符
It's best reserved for formal contexts, such as business or legal discussions, rather than casual conversation.
Look for phrases like 不符合同 (not in accordance with the contract) or 不符规定 (not in line with regulations).
It's related but not interchangeable with words like 不同 (different) or 不合 (not compatible), as each carries distinct meanings.
