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March 24, 2026
上演()shàngyǎn(shang4yan3)
The term '上演' (shang4 yan3) refers to the act of presenting a performance, such as a play or a movie screening. It is commonly used in theatrical and cinematic contexts, signifying the actual display of artistic work to an audience.
Frequency#4711DifficultyHard
Cultural Note
In Chinese culture, theater and film hold significant importance, with traditional forms like Peking opera being a cherished art. The term '上演' reflects the ongoing appreciation for these performances in modern society.
Memory Tip
Imagine a stage (上) being elevated (演) above the ground, where actors perform a play. Picture the '上' as a raised stage and '演' as the action of acting, helping you remember both the meaning of performing and the pronunciation.
Meanings of 上演
shàngyǎn(shang4yan3)
1to screen (a movie)
2to stage (a play)
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About 上演
上演Simplified
Traditional
—Strokes
—Radical
动词dòngcíverb (v.)Part of Speech
#—Frequency Rank
HSK 3.0L7IntermediateHSKKL3CEFRC1
Podcast: 上演
Podcast: 上演
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AI Study Notes for 上演
Quick Contrast
演出 (yǎnchū) - use '上演' when emphasizing the act of presenting a performance, while '演出' focuses more on the performance event itself.
Memory Mnemonic
Imagine a stage (上) being elevated (演) above the ground, where actors perform a play. Picture the '上' as a raised stage and '演' as the action of acting, helping you remember both the meaning of performing and the pronunciation.
Usage Notes
Be careful not to confuse '上演' with '演出' (yan3 chu1), which also means performance but emphasizes the process rather than the event. This term is generally used in a formal context, especially when discussing theater or film.
HSK Study Tips
Though not in the HSK curriculum, understanding '上演' connects well with other performance-related vocabulary. Focus on practicing its usage in sentences about movies or plays to enhance your speaking skills.
Cultural Note
In Chinese culture, theater and film hold significant importance, with traditional forms like Peking opera being a cherished art. The term '上演' reflects the ongoing appreciation for these performances in modern society.
Common Mistakes
Learners often confuse '上演' with '放映' (fang4 ying4), which specifically means to screen a film. For example, saying '电影上演' (diàn yǐng shàng yǎn) is incorrect; instead, use '电影放映' (diàn yǐng fàng yìng).
AI-enhanced 2026-03-24
Pronunciation of 上演
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Cultural Notes for 上演
🏮Cultural insight
In Chinese culture, theater and film hold significant importance, with traditional forms like Peking opera being a cherished art. The term '上演' reflects the ongoing appreciation for these performances in modern society.
Frequently Asked Questions about 上演
Yes, '上演' can refer to both movies and theatrical performances.
It's more common in formal discussions about performances, so use it in appropriate contexts.
'上演' focuses on the act of staging, while '演出' emphasizes the performance event itself.
