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March 24, 2026
后果(後果)hòuguǒ(hou4guo3)
后果 (hòuguǒ) refers to the consequences or outcomes that follow an action or event. It is commonly used in discussions about results, especially in moral or cautionary contexts, emphasizing the importance of considering the repercussions of one's actions.
Strokes14Frequency#2582DifficultyHard
Cultural Note
In Chinese culture, the concept of 后果 is often tied to the importance of collective responsibility and the idea that one's actions can impact the community, emphasizing the need for careful consideration of decisions.
Memory Tip
Think of 后 (hòu) as a 'back' and 果 (guǒ) as 'fruit.' Imagine a tree bearing fruit at the back of your yard, representing the results that grow out of your actions. If you plant bad seeds, the 'fruit' will be negative consequences.
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AI Study Notes for 后果
Quick Contrast
结果 (jiéguǒ) - use 结果 for a more neutral outcome or result, while 后果 emphasizes negative consequences.
Usage Notes
Learners often confuse 后果 with 结果 (jiéguǒ), which means 'result' but lacks the negative connotation of consequences. Use 后果 in more serious contexts, such as warnings about actions leading to undesirable outcomes.
HSK Study Tips
As an HSK 5 word, 后果 connects with other vocabulary about consequences and moral lessons. Students should focus on using it in sentences that illustrate cause and effect, reinforcing the idea of accountability.
Common Mistakes
Learners may incorrectly use 后果 in informal settings, where 结果 would be more appropriate. For example, saying '我想知道这个事情的后果' instead of '我想知道这个事情的结果' is too formal for casual conversation.
AI-enhanced 2026-03-24
Pronunciation of 后果
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后果 (hòuguǒ) refers to the consequences or outcomes that follow an action or event. It is commonly used in discussions about results, especially in moral or cautionary contexts, emphasizing the importance of considering the repercussions of one's actions.
When to use 后果
Learners often confuse 后果 with 结果 (jiéguǒ), which means 'result' but lacks the negative connotation of consequences. Use 后果 in more serious contexts, such as warnings about actions leading to undesirable outcomes.
后果 or something close to it
结果 (jiéguǒ) - use 结果 for a more neutral outcome or result, while 后果 emphasizes negative consequences.
What learners get wrong
Learners may incorrectly use 后果 in informal settings, where 结果 would be more appropriate. For example, saying '我想知道这个事情的后果' instead of '我想知道这个事情的结果' is too formal for casual conversation.
Write 后果
后
果
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Grammar Patterns of 后果
后果 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 2 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.
