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March 24, 2026
程序chéngxù(cheng2xu4)
程序 (chéng xù) refers to a series of steps or procedures to achieve a particular result, commonly used in contexts such as computer programming and formal processes. It implies an organized sequence that must be followed, making it essential in both technical and bureaucratic settings.
Strokes19Frequency#1808DifficultyHard
Cultural Note
In China, the concept of 程序 is critical in the rapidly growing tech industry, where understanding programming and systematic procedures is essential for career advancement and innovation.
Memory Tip
Imagine a chef following a recipe (程序) step-by-step: first, you chop vegetables, then sauté them. The character 程 has the radical for 'road' (程) which signifies a path or sequence, and '序' hints at the order of steps in that path.
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AI Study Notes for 程序
Quick Contrast
流程 (liúchéng) refers to a flow or process, typically emphasizing the movement or progression through stages, while 程序 (chéngxù) focuses more on the specific steps or rules to be followed.
Usage Notes
Be mindful of using 程序 in both technical and non-technical contexts, as it can refer to both computer programs and procedural processes in daily life. Common collocations include '程序设计' (program design) or '申请程序' (application procedure). Avoid confusion with the similar-sounding '程序员' (programmer), which refers specifically to a person.
HSK Study Tips
As an HSK Level 5 word, 程序 connects to vocabulary related to technology and processes. Students should focus on its usage in both formal situations, such as business or academia, and informal discussions about technology.
Common Mistakes
Learners often confuse 程序 with '过程' (guò chéng), which means 'process.' For example, saying '我在学习这个过程' (I am studying this process) instead of '程序' when referring to a specific program is incorrect. Use '程序' for structured sequences or programs.
AI-enhanced 2026-03-24
Pronunciation of 程序
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程序 (chéng xù) refers to a series of steps or procedures to achieve a particular result, commonly used in contexts such as computer programming and formal processes. It implies an organized sequence that must be followed, making it essential in both technical and bureaucratic settings.
When to use 程序
Be mindful of using 程序 in both technical and non-technical contexts, as it can refer to both computer programs and procedural processes in daily life. Common collocations include '程序设计' (program design) or '申请程序' (application procedure). Avoid confusion with the similar-sounding '程序员' (programmer), which refers specifically to a person.
程序 or something close to it
流程 (liúchéng) refers to a flow or process, typically emphasizing the movement or progression through stages, while 程序 (chéngxù) focuses more on the specific steps or rules to be followed.
What learners get wrong
Learners often confuse 程序 with '过程' (guò chéng), which means 'process.' For example, saying '我在学习这个过程' (I am studying this process) instead of '程序' when referring to a specific program is incorrect. Use '程序' for structured sequences or programs.
Write 程序
程
序
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Grammar Patterns of 程序
程序 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
Complete the Sentence
向导____和模板可以帮助你创建手册、日历和网页。
Wizards and templates can help you create brochures, calendars, and Web pages.
