Listen to the audio pronunciation 3 times to gain XP
March 24, 2026
命令mìnglìng(ming4ling4)
命令 (mìnglìng) means an order or command given to someone, often in a formal context such as military or organizational settings. It conveys authority and the expectation of compliance, highlighting its use in hierarchical relationships. Commonly, it is used in situations where instructions are issued that must be followed.
Strokes13Frequency#965DifficultyHard
Cultural Note
In Chinese culture, following orders and respecting hierarchy is deeply ingrained, especially in workplaces and educational institutions. The concept of 命令 reflects traditional values of obedience and authority.
Memory Tip
Imagine a general issuing a command (命令) to troops. The character 命 (mìng) looks like a mouth (口) and a destiny (命), as if ordering fate itself. The sound 'ling' can be remembered by thinking of 'linking' orders together—a chain of commands.
Meanings of 命令
mìnglìng(ming4ling4)
1order
2command
Exercise 1 of 2
Listen & Choose the Meaning
Choose the correct answer:
About 命令
命令Simplified
13Strokes
—Radical
名词míngcínoun (n.)Part of Speech
#965Frequency Rank
道Measure Word
HSK 2.0L5HSK 3.0L6IntermediateHSKKL3BCT✓CEFRB2
Podcast: 命令
Podcast: 命令
Listen to Jason & Amy break down this word for you
New here?
AI Study Notes for 命令
Quick Contrast
指令 (zhǐlìng) - use 指令 for more technical or procedural instructions, while 命令 emphasizes authority and command in a hierarchical context.
Usage Notes
Be cautious with the tone when pronouncing 命令, as mispronouncing it can change the meaning. It is generally used in formal contexts, so avoid using it in casual conversations. Common collocations include '发布命令' (to issue an order) and '遵守命令' (to obey commands).
HSK Study Tips
As an HSK 5 word, 命令 connects well with other words related to authority and control, such as 指示 (zhǐshì, instruction) and 要求 (yāoqiú, demand). Focus on understanding its usage in both written and spoken forms to enhance your communication skills.
Common Mistakes
Learners often confuse 命令 with other similar words like 订单 (dìngdān, order for goods). For example, saying '我需要一个命令' (Wǒ xūyào yī gè mìnglìng) instead of '我需要一个订单' (Wǒ xūyào yī gè dìngdān) can lead to misunderstandings.
AI-enhanced 2026-03-24
Pronunciation of 命令
Premium — Locked
AI tone practice
Pro
Drill the tone of 命令 with AI-powered exercises, get instant feedback, and earn XP toward mastery. Interactive tone practice is part of Pro.
命令 (mìnglìng) means an order or command given to someone, often in a formal context such as military or organizational settings. It conveys authority and the expectation of compliance, highlighting its use in hierarchical relationships. Commonly, it is used in situations where instructions are issued that must be followed.
When to use 命令
Be cautious with the tone when pronouncing 命令, as mispronouncing it can change the meaning. It is generally used in formal contexts, so avoid using it in casual conversations. Common collocations include '发布命令' (to issue an order) and '遵守命令' (to obey commands).
命令 or something close to it
指令 (zhǐlìng) - use 指令 for more technical or procedural instructions, while 命令 emphasizes authority and command in a hierarchical context.
What learners get wrong
Learners often confuse 命令 with other similar words like 订单 (dìngdān, order for goods). For example, saying '我需要一个命令' (Wǒ xūyào yī gè mìnglìng) instead of '我需要一个订单' (Wǒ xūyào yī gè dìngdān) can lead to misunderstandings.
Write 命令
命
令
New here? to save your writing progress and earn XP.
Practice writing 命令 stroke by stroke. Watch the animation to learn the stroke order, then try writing it yourself.
Write correctly 3 times to earn XP
Grammar Patterns of 命令
命令 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.
