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March 24, 2026
本质(本質)běnzhì(ben3zhi4)
本质 (běn zhì) refers to the inherent essence or intrinsic nature of something. It is often used to discuss the fundamental qualities that define an object or concept, especially in philosophical or analytical contexts.
Strokes13Frequency#5644DifficultyHard
Cultural Note
In Chinese philosophy, especially in Confucianism and Taoism, the concept of 本质 is crucial for understanding the true nature of humanity and the universe, emphasizing introspection and understanding one's true self.
Memory Tip
Imagine a tree (本) with deep roots that represent the core (质) qualities of its being. The tree's roots symbolize the essence of what makes it, it grows strong and tall because of its deep connection to its nature.
Meanings of 本质
běnzhì(ben3zhi4)
1essence
2nature
Exercise 1 of 2
By ear
Play it, then pick what 本质 means.
About 本质
本质Simplified
本質Traditional
13Strokes
—Radical
名词míngcínoun (n.)Part of Speech
#5644Frequency Rank
HSK 2.0L5HSK 3.0L5IntermediateTOCFLL5HSKKL3CEFRC1
Podcast: 本质
Podcast: 本质
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AI Study Notes for 本质
Quick Contrast
本质 (běnzhì) vs 特征 (tèzhēng) — use 本质 when discussing the inherent essence of something, while 特征 refers to specific characteristics or features.
Usage Notes
本质 is often used in formal discussions or academic writing, so it's important to ensure you're using it in the right context. Common collocations include '事物的本质' (the essence of things) and '本质问题' (essential issues). Be careful with tone; ensure the third tone (本) is pronounced correctly to avoid confusion.
HSK Study Tips
As an HSK Level 5 word, 本质 connects well with other abstract concepts like 价值 (value) and 特征 (characteristics). Focus on using it in sentences that explore deeper meanings or qualities.
Common Mistakes
Learners often confuse 本质 with 表面 (biǎomiàn, surface), mistakenly using it to describe superficial qualities. For example, saying '这个人的表面很本质' (This person's surface is very essence) is incorrect; it should be '这个人的本质很深刻' (This person's essence is profound).
AI-enhanced 2026-03-24
Pronunciation of 本质
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How Well Do You Know 本质?
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本质 (běn zhì) refers to the inherent essence or intrinsic nature of something. It is often used to discuss the fundamental qualities that define an object or concept, especially in philosophical or analytical contexts.
When to use 本质
本质 is often used in formal discussions or academic writing, so it's important to ensure you're using it in the right context. Common collocations include '事物的本质' (the essence of things) and '本质问题' (essential issues). Be careful with tone; ensure the third tone (本) is pronounced correctly to avoid confusion.
本质 or something close to it
本质 (běnzhì) vs 特征 (tèzhēng) — use 本质 when discussing the inherent essence of something, while 特征 refers to specific characteristics or features.
What learners get wrong
Learners often confuse 本质 with 表面 (biǎomiàn, surface), mistakenly using it to describe superficial qualities. For example, saying '这个人的表面很本质' (This person's surface is very essence) is incorrect; it should be '这个人的本质很深刻' (This person's essence is profound).
Write 本质
本
质
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Grammar Patterns of 本质
本质 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.
Exercise 1 of 4
Fill the gap
Type the missing word. Pinyin works; then pick the character.
这个想法的出发点是好的，但是条理混乱，而且____上是错误的。
The thinking is good-hearted, but muddled and fundamentally unsound.
