Meanings of 动身
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Podcast: 动身
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AI Study Notes for 动身
出发 (chūfā) - use 动身 when emphasizing the action of starting a journey, while 出发 is more general and can imply the departure itself without the same focus on the action.
Learners often confuse 动身 with 出发 (chūfā), which also means to set off, but 动身 emphasizes the act of leaving one's current location. It's used in both formal and informal contexts, but be mindful of using it appropriately in travel-related conversations. Note that the tone of '动' is the fourth tone, which can lead to mispronunciation.
As an HSK 6 word, 动身 connects to themes of travel and movement found in other vocabulary at this level. Focus on using it in sentences involving travel plans and understand its nuances compared to similar words like 出发 and 离开.
Learners may incorrectly use 动身 in contexts where 离开 would be more appropriate, such as saying '我动身了' (wǒ dòng shēn le) when they mean 'I left.' The correct phrase should be '我离开了' (wǒ líkāi le).
Pronunciation of 动身
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Component Characters
How to say to go on a journey in Chinese
“to go on a journey” in Chinese is动身
动身 (dòng shēn) refers to the act of setting off or starting a journey. This phrase is commonly used in contexts involving travel or departure, whether it's for a short trip or a long journey. It carries a sense of action and intention, emphasizing the moment one begins to move from one place to another.
When to use 动身
Learners often confuse 动身 with 出发 (chūfā), which also means to set off, but 动身 emphasizes the act of leaving one's current location. It's used in both formal and informal contexts, but be mindful of using it appropriately in travel-related conversations. Note that the tone of '动' is the fourth tone, which can lead to mispronunciation.
动身 or something close to it
出发 (chūfā) - use 动身 when emphasizing the action of starting a journey, while 出发 is more general and can imply the departure itself without the same focus on the action.
What learners get wrong
Learners may incorrectly use 动身 in contexts where 离开 would be more appropriate, such as saying '我动身了' (wǒ dòng shēn le) when they mean 'I left.' The correct phrase should be '我离开了' (wǒ líkāi le).
Write 动身
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Practice writing 动身 stroke by stroke. Watch the animation to learn the stroke order, then try writing it yourself.
Grammar Patterns of 动身
动身 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 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.
他无力地耸耸肩，扭____体想要挣脱。
He gave a feeble shrug and tried to squirm free.
Example Sentences for 动身 (7)
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Frequently Asked Questions about 动身
Yes, 动身 can be used for both short and long journeys.
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