Meanings of 象棋
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Podcast: 象棋
Podcast: 象棋
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AI study notes for 象棋
While 象棋 is commonly used in informal settings, it can also appear in formal discussions about traditional games. Be careful with the tones: '象' (xiàng) has a falling tone, while '棋' (qí) has a rising tone. Common collocations include '下象棋' (to play Chinese chess) and '象棋比赛' (Chinese chess competition).
As an HSK Level 5 word, 象棋 expands on students' vocabulary related to games and leisure activities. Students should focus on recognizing the radicals: 豕 (shǐ) for 'elephant' and 棋 (qí) for 'chess' to connect with similar words about games.
Learners often confuse 象棋 with 国际象棋 (international chess), using them interchangeably. Remember that 象棋 specifically refers to the Chinese version, while 国际象棋 refers to the Western variant.
Pronunciation of 象棋
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Component characters
How to say Chinese chess in Chinese
“Chinese chess” in Chinese is象棋
象棋 (xiàngqí) refers to Chinese chess, a strategic board game that is popular in China and other East Asian countries. The game involves two players who maneuver pieces on a checkered board, aiming to capture the opponent's general (king). It is often played as a recreational activity, fostering strategic thinking and planning skills.
When to use 象棋
While 象棋 is commonly used in informal settings, it can also appear in formal discussions about traditional games. Be careful with the tones: '象' (xiàng) has a falling tone, while '棋' (qí) has a rising tone. Common collocations include '下象棋' (to play Chinese chess) and '象棋比赛' (Chinese chess competition).
What learners get wrong
Learners often confuse 象棋 with 国际象棋 (international chess), using them interchangeably. Remember that 象棋 specifically refers to the Chinese version, while 国际象棋 refers to the Western variant.
Write 象棋
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Practice writing 象棋 stroke by stroke. Watch the animation to learn the stroke order, then try writing it yourself.
Grammar patterns of 象棋
象棋 functions as a verb — the action or state of the sentence. The Chinese order is Subject + Verb + Object (我吃饭). Negate it with 不 (habitual / future) or 没(有) (completed action). Add aspect markers like 了, 过, 着 directly after the verb. The example sentences below show it in action, with practice buttons (Listen, Practice Writing, Practice Speaking) on every line.
Fill the gap
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有个犯人刻了一副漂亮的木头____。
One of the prisoners has carved a beautiful wooden chess set.
Example sentences for 象棋 (4)
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Frequently asked questions about 象棋
国际象棋 refers to international chess, which has different rules and pieces compared to traditional Chinese chess (象棋).
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