Meanings of 伺候
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Podcast: 伺候
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AI Study Notes for 伺候
照顾 (zhàogù) - use 伺候 when emphasizing respectful service, while 照顾 focuses on care or looking after someone.
'伺候' is often used in formal contexts, so avoid using it in casual conversations. Common collocations include '伺候老爷' (serve the master) or '伺候病人' (attend to the patient). Be careful with the tone, as using the wrong tone can change the meaning significantly.
As an HSK 6 word, '伺候' connects with other advanced vocabulary related to service and caregiving. Focus on its use in more formal conversations and written texts, as well as its collocations with other verbs and nouns in similar contexts.
Learners often confuse '伺候' with '服务,' using them interchangeably. For example, saying '我服务他' instead of '我伺候他' can sound too casual or inappropriate in a formal context.
Pronunciation of 伺候
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Component Characters
How to say to serve in Chinese
“to serve” in Chinese is伺候
The verb '伺候' (ci4 hou4) means to serve or wait upon someone, often in a context of providing assistance or care. It can imply a more personal or attentive form of service, typically used in formal or respectful interactions, such as in hospitality or caregiving situations.
When to use 伺候
'伺候' is often used in formal contexts, so avoid using it in casual conversations. Common collocations include '伺候老爷' (serve the master) or '伺候病人' (attend to the patient). Be careful with the tone, as using the wrong tone can change the meaning significantly.
伺候 or something close to it
照顾 (zhàogù) - use 伺候 when emphasizing respectful service, while 照顾 focuses on care or looking after someone.
What learners get wrong
Learners often confuse '伺候' with '服务,' using them interchangeably. For example, saying '我服务他' instead of '我伺候他' can sound too casual or inappropriate in a formal context.
Write 伺候
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Practice writing 伺候 stroke by stroke. Watch the animation to learn the stroke order, then try writing it yourself.
Grammar Patterns of 伺候
伺候 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 2 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.
里基是个非常难____的孩子。
Ricky was a very demanding child.
Example Sentences for 伺候 (2)
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Cultural Notes for 伺候
In Western cultures, the concept of service may not carry the same connotations of hierarchy and respect as it does in Chinese culture, where '伺候' implies deference to social status.
Frequently Asked Questions about 伺候
Yes, '伺候' is generally used in more formal contexts, especially when referring to serving someone of higher status.
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