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March 24, 2026
借口jièkǒu(jie4kou3)
借口 (jièkǒu) refers to an excuse or pretext used to justify an action or avoid responsibility. It is commonly used in contexts where someone tries to explain their behavior or decisions, often implying insincerity or a lack of accountability.
Strokes13Frequency#2209DifficultyVery Hard
Cultural Note
In Chinese culture, the concept of 借口 can reflect a broader societal emphasis on harmony and face-saving, where individuals may avoid direct confrontation by using excuses rather than addressing issues openly.
Memory Tip
Imagine someone borrowing (借) a coat (口) to avoid the cold. The coat represents an excuse to shield themselves from criticism or consequences, linking the character's components to its meaning.
Meanings of 借口
jièkǒu(jie4kou3)
1to use as an excuse
2on the pretext
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About 借口
借口Simplified
13Strokes
—Radical
名词míngcínoun (n.)Part of Speech
#2209Frequency Rank
HSK 2.0L5HSK 3.0L7AdvancedCEFRC2
Podcast: 借口
Podcast: 借口
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AI Study Notes for 借口
Quick Contrast
借口 (jièkǒu) vs 理由 (lǐyóu) — use 借口 when implying insincerity or avoidance, while 理由 is more neutral, referring to a reason without negative connotations.
Usage Notes
Be cautious with the tone when using 借口, as it can imply dishonesty. It is typically used in informal contexts but can appear in formal discussions about responsibility. Common collocations include '找借口' (to find an excuse) and '用借口' (to use an excuse).
HSK Study Tips
As an HSK Level 5 word, 借口 connects with other words regarding responsibility and accountability. Students should practice forming sentences that illustrate its usage in everyday scenarios, enhancing their understanding of excuses in social interactions.
Common Mistakes
Learners often confuse 借口 with 理由 (lǐyóu), which means 'reason.' An incorrect sentence might be '我有一个理由' (I have an excuse), which should instead use 借口: '我有一个借口.'
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Pronunciation of 借口
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借口 (jièkǒu) refers to an excuse or pretext used to justify an action or avoid responsibility. It is commonly used in contexts where someone tries to explain their behavior or decisions, often implying insincerity or a lack of accountability.
When to use 借口
Be cautious with the tone when using 借口, as it can imply dishonesty. It is typically used in informal contexts but can appear in formal discussions about responsibility. Common collocations include '找借口' (to find an excuse) and '用借口' (to use an excuse).
借口 or something close to it
借口 (jièkǒu) vs 理由 (lǐyóu) — use 借口 when implying insincerity or avoidance, while 理由 is more neutral, referring to a reason without negative connotations.
What learners get wrong
Learners often confuse 借口 with 理由 (lǐyóu), which means 'reason.' An incorrect sentence might be '我有一个理由' (I have an excuse), which should instead use 借口: '我有一个借口.'
Write 借口
借
口
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Grammar Patterns of 借口
借口 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 4 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.
