Meanings of 中断
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Podcast: 中断
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AI Study Notes for 中断
中止 (zhōngzhǐ) - use 中断 when the interruption is unexpected or sudden, while 中止 implies a more formal or planned cessation.
Be cautious when using 中断, as it can imply a negative connotation if used in contexts like relationships or important tasks. It is often used in both formal and informal settings, especially in business or academic settings. Common collocations include 中断会议 (interrupt the meeting) and 中断服务 (discontinue service).
As an HSK Level 6 word, 中断 connects well with other words related to interruptions or pauses, such as 停止 (tíngzhǐ, stop) and 终止 (zhōngzhǐ, terminate). Focus on using it in sentences to describe situations where an action is cut short.
Learners often confuse 中断 with 结束 (jiéshù, to end), using it incorrectly in contexts where something is simply finished rather than interrupted. For example, saying '我们已经中断了这个项目' (We have already interrupted this project) instead of '我们已经结束了这个项目' (We have already ended this project).
Pronunciation of 中断
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Component Characters
How to say to cut short in Chinese
“to cut short” in Chinese is中断
中断 (zhōngduàn) means to interrupt or break off an action or process. It is commonly used in contexts like conversations, meetings, or ongoing activities where something is suddenly halted or stopped.
When to use 中断
Be cautious when using 中断, as it can imply a negative connotation if used in contexts like relationships or important tasks. It is often used in both formal and informal settings, especially in business or academic settings. Common collocations include 中断会议 (interrupt the meeting) and 中断服务 (discontinue service).
中断 or something close to it
中止 (zhōngzhǐ) - use 中断 when the interruption is unexpected or sudden, while 中止 implies a more formal or planned cessation.
What learners get wrong
Learners often confuse 中断 with 结束 (jiéshù, to end), using it incorrectly in contexts where something is simply finished rather than interrupted. For example, saying '我们已经中断了这个项目' (We have already interrupted this project) instead of '我们已经结束了这个项目' (We have already ended this project).
Write 中断
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Grammar Patterns of 中断
中断 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.
Fill the gap
Type the missing word. Pinyin works; then pick the character.
投资可能会____，而这会引起经济衰退。
Investment could dry up and that could cause the economy to falter.
Example Sentences for 中断 (4)
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Cultural Notes for 中断
In Western cultures, interruptions can sometimes be seen as a sign of engagement or enthusiasm, while in Chinese culture, they are often perceived as rude or disruptive.
Frequently Asked Questions about 中断
Yes, 中断 can refer to personal conversations, especially if one person stops the other abruptly.
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