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March 24, 2026
规律(規律)guīlǜ(gui1lv4)
规律 (guīlǜ) refers to a pattern or rule that governs certain phenomena, often used in scientific or behavioral contexts. It implies a sense of order and predictability, highlighting how certain actions or events follow a consistent framework. For example, it can describe the laws of nature or behavioral norms in society.
Strokes17Frequency#7087DifficultyHard
Cultural Note
The concept of 规律 is deeply embedded in Chinese philosophy, particularly in the idea of balance and harmony found in Daoism. It reflects the belief that understanding the natural laws can lead to a more harmonious life.
Memory Tip
Imagine a 'rule' (规律) that governs the universe, like a dance rhythm that repeats. The character 规 (guī) looks like a person drawing a line, establishing the order, while 律 (lǜ) resembles musical notes, representing the rhythm of this order.
Meanings of 规律
guīlǜ(gui1lv4)
primary
1rule (e.g. of science)
2law of behavior
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About 规律
规律Simplified
規律Traditional
17Strokes
—Radical
名形词xíngróngcíadj-noun (adj.-n.)Part of Speech
#7087Frequency Rank
HSK 2.0L5HSK 3.0L5IntermediateTOCFLL4HSKKL2CEFRB1
Podcast: 规律
Podcast: 规律
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AI Study Notes for 规律
Quick Contrast
规律 (guīlǜ) vs 原则 (yuánzé): Use 规律 when emphasizing patterns or predictable rules in phenomena, while 原则 refers to fundamental principles or guidelines that govern behavior.
Usage Notes
Be careful not to confuse 规律 with similar terms like 法则 (fǎzé), which often indicates a more rigid or formal law. It is generally used in academic or serious contexts, so avoid using it in casual conversation. Common collocations include 规律性 (guīlǜxìng) for 'regularity' and 遵循规律 (zūnxún guīlǜ) meaning 'to follow the rules.'
HSK Study Tips
As an HSK 5 word, 规律 connects well with other words related to science and behavior, such as 现象 (xiànxiàng, phenomenon) and 原因 (yuányīn, cause). Students should focus on understanding its use in different contexts, particularly in scientific discussions or analyses of behavior.
Common Mistakes
Learners often misuse 规律 in casual contexts, mistakenly thinking it can apply to any rule, such as personal preferences. For instance, saying '我的规律是早上喝咖啡' (Wǒ de guīlǜ shì zǎoshang hē kāfēi) is incorrect; it should be phrased in a more casual way like '我习惯早上喝咖啡' (Wǒ xíguàn zǎoshang hē kāfēi).
AI-enhanced 2026-03-24
Pronunciation of 规律
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规律 (guīlǜ) refers to a pattern or rule that governs certain phenomena, often used in scientific or behavioral contexts. It implies a sense of order and predictability, highlighting how certain actions or events follow a consistent framework. For example, it can describe the laws of nature or behavioral norms in society.
When to use 规律
Be careful not to confuse 规律 with similar terms like 法则 (fǎzé), which often indicates a more rigid or formal law. It is generally used in academic or serious contexts, so avoid using it in casual conversation. Common collocations include 规律性 (guīlǜxìng) for 'regularity' and 遵循规律 (zūnxún guīlǜ) meaning 'to follow the rules.'
规律 or something close to it
规律 (guīlǜ) vs 原则 (yuánzé): Use 规律 when emphasizing patterns or predictable rules in phenomena, while 原则 refers to fundamental principles or guidelines that govern behavior.
What learners get wrong
Learners often misuse 规律 in casual contexts, mistakenly thinking it can apply to any rule, such as personal preferences. For instance, saying '我的规律是早上喝咖啡' (Wǒ de guīlǜ shì zǎoshang hē kāfēi) is incorrect; it should be phrased in a more casual way like '我习惯早上喝咖啡' (Wǒ xíguàn zǎoshang hē kāfēi).
Write 规律
规
律
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Grammar Patterns of 规律
规律 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 5 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.
