Meanings of 优先
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Podcast: 优先
Podcast: 优先
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AI Study Notes for 优先
优先 (yōuxiān) vs 首先 (shǒuxiān) — use 优先 when emphasizing priority over others, while 首先 indicates the first in a sequence.
Learners often confuse 优先 with 重要 (zhòngyào, important), but while both imply significance, 优先 specifically refers to precedence. It is often used in both formal and informal contexts, especially in business settings. Be careful with the tones to avoid misunderstandings.
As an HSK 6 word, 优先 connects with other advanced vocabulary about decision-making and prioritization. Focus on its usage in formal documents and in discussions about time management and organizational strategies.
Learners may mistakenly use 优先 to mean 'important'. For example, saying '这个任务很优先' (This task is very important) is incorrect; it should be '这个任务很重要'.
Pronunciation of 优先
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Jason Explains 优先 to You
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Component Characters
How to say priority in Chinese
“priority” in Chinese is优先
优先 (yōuxiān) means 'priority' or 'to take precedence'. It is commonly used in contexts where certain tasks, rights, or considerations are given preference over others, such as in scheduling, decision-making, or resource allocation.
When to use 优先
Learners often confuse 优先 with 重要 (zhòngyào, important), but while both imply significance, 优先 specifically refers to precedence. It is often used in both formal and informal contexts, especially in business settings. Be careful with the tones to avoid misunderstandings.
优先 or something close to it
优先 (yōuxiān) vs 首先 (shǒuxiān) — use 优先 when emphasizing priority over others, while 首先 indicates the first in a sequence.
What learners get wrong
Learners may mistakenly use 优先 to mean 'important'. For example, saying '这个任务很优先' (This task is very important) is incorrect; it should be '这个任务很重要'.
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Practice writing 优先 stroke by stroke. Watch the animation to learn the stroke order, then try writing it yourself.
Grammar Patterns of 优先
优先 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. It carries 3 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.
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如果你决定出售这辆车，给我____购买权好吗？
Will you give me first refusal on the car, if you decide to sell it?
Example Sentences for 优先 (5)
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Frequently Asked Questions about 优先
Yes, but it's more frequently used in formal or business contexts.
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