Meanings of 低头
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Podcast: 低头
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AI Study Notes for 低头
低头 (dītóu) vs 俯身 (fǔshēn): use 低头 for bowing or lowering the head specifically, while 俯身 emphasizes bending the body forward.
Be careful not to confuse 低头 with other similar phrases that imply different actions, such as '抬头' (tái tóu), which means to raise one's head. It's generally used in both formal and informal contexts, but be mindful of the tone; using a soft tone can convey more humility.
This word could be relevant for HSK 3 learners as it includes the basic structure of verbs and complements. Students should focus on using it in sentences that express yielding or submission, linking it with other vocabulary about gestures or emotions.
Learners often mistakenly use 低头 when they mean 'look down' in a casual context. The correct phrase for 'look down' is '看下去' (kàn xiàqù). Another common error is using it inappropriately in contexts that don't involve yielding or respect.
Pronunciation of 低头
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Component Characters
How to say to bow the head in Chinese
“to bow the head” in Chinese is低头
低头 (di1 tou2) means to lower one's head or bow down, often symbolizing submission or yielding in a conversation or situation. It can imply humility or an acknowledgment of defeat, typically used in contexts where someone concedes or shows respect.
When to use 低头
Be careful not to confuse 低头 with other similar phrases that imply different actions, such as '抬头' (tái tóu), which means to raise one's head. It's generally used in both formal and informal contexts, but be mindful of the tone; using a soft tone can convey more humility.
低头 or something close to it
低头 (dītóu) vs 俯身 (fǔshēn): use 低头 for bowing or lowering the head specifically, while 俯身 emphasizes bending the body forward.
What learners get wrong
Learners often mistakenly use 低头 when they mean 'look down' in a casual context. The correct phrase for 'look down' is '看下去' (kàn xiàqù). Another common error is using it inappropriately in contexts that don't involve yielding or respect.
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Frequently Asked Questions about 低头
No, 低头 can also be used metaphorically to describe yielding in arguments or accepting defeat.
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