Meanings of 偶像
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About 偶像
Podcast: 偶像
Podcast: 偶像
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AI Study Notes for 偶像
明星 (míngxīng) - use 偶像 for figures admired for their inspirational qualities, while 明星 refers specifically to celebrities known for their fame.
Be cautious of the context in which you use '偶像', as it can imply both positive admiration and critical obsession. It is often used in informal settings when talking about pop culture, but can also appear in more serious discussions about role models. Common collocations include '流行偶像' (liú xíng ǒu xiàng) for 'pop idol'.
As an HSK 6 word, '偶像' connects well with other terms related to fame and admiration, such as '明星' (míng xīng, star) and '崇拜' (chóng bài, to worship). Students should focus on the nuances of admiration and the contexts in which idols are discussed in modern society.
Learners often confuse '偶像' with '英雄' (yīng xióng, hero) and use them interchangeably, but they have different connotations. For example, saying '他是我的英雄' (Tā shì wǒ de yīng xióng) may imply admiration for bravery rather than celebrity status, which is more fitting for '偶像'.
Pronunciation of 偶像
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Component Characters
How to say idol in Chinese
“idol” in Chinese is偶像
偶像 (ǒu xiàng) refers to an idol or a figure that is greatly admired or revered, often in popular culture. This term is commonly used to describe celebrities, musicians, and other public figures who inspire admiration among fans, reflecting both personal and cultural aspirations.
When to use 偶像
Be cautious of the context in which you use '偶像', as it can imply both positive admiration and critical obsession. It is often used in informal settings when talking about pop culture, but can also appear in more serious discussions about role models. Common collocations include '流行偶像' (liú xíng ǒu xiàng) for 'pop idol'.
偶像 or something close to it
明星 (míngxīng) - use 偶像 for figures admired for their inspirational qualities, while 明星 refers specifically to celebrities known for their fame.
What learners get wrong
Learners often confuse '偶像' with '英雄' (yīng xióng, hero) and use them interchangeably, but they have different connotations. For example, saying '他是我的英雄' (Tā shì wǒ de yīng xióng) may imply admiration for bravery rather than celebrity status, which is more fitting for '偶像'.
Write 偶像
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Practice writing 偶像 stroke by stroke. Watch the animation to learn the stroke order, then try writing it yourself.
Grammar Patterns of 偶像
偶像 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). The example sentences below show it in action, with practice buttons (Listen, Practice Writing, Practice Speaking) on every line.
Complete the Sentence
她死后成了部分人狂热崇拜的____。
Since her death, she has become a cult figure.
Example Sentences for 偶像 (6)
Cultural Notes for 偶像
While the concept of an idol exists in both Chinese and Western cultures, the intensity and nature of fan engagement can differ, with Chinese fans often exhibiting more communal and organized support for their idols compared to the more individualistic approach seen in the West.
Frequently Asked Questions about 偶像
It translates to 'idol' in English, referring to someone who is greatly admired.
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