Meanings of 反问
Listen & Choose the Meaning
Choose the correct answer:
About 反问
Podcast: 反问
Podcast: 反问
Listen to Jason & Amy break down this word for you
New here?
AI Study Notes for 反问
反驳 (fǎnbó) is used when directly countering or rebutting an argument, while 反问 (fǎnwèn) involves responding with a question to provoke thought, not necessarily countering the argument directly.
Be cautious of using 反问 in overly formal contexts, as it may come off as confrontational. Common collocations include 反问句 (rhetorical question) and 以问反问 (to answer a question with a question). Remember that the tone of your voice can impact how your rhetorical question is received, so use it judiciously.
As an HSK 6 word, 反问 connects with other advanced vocabulary related to debate and dialogue. Students should focus on practicing its usage in various contexts, especially in argumentative speech or writing, to understand its effectiveness.
Learners often misuse 反问 by responding with a statement instead of another question. For instance, saying '这是不可能的' (That's impossible) instead of a question like '你真这么认为吗?' (Do you really think so?) misses the essence of 反问.
Pronunciation of 反问
Drill the tone of 反问 with AI-powered exercises, get instant feedback, and earn XP toward mastery. Interactive tone practice is part of Pro.
Component Characters
How to say to ask (a question) in reply in Chinese
“to ask (a question) in reply” in Chinese is反问
反问 (fǎn wèn) refers to the act of responding to a question with another question, often used to emphasize a point or to provoke thought. It is commonly employed in rhetorical contexts to challenge the original question or to highlight absurdities in the question itself. This technique is prevalent in debates and discussions to reinforce one's argument.
When to use 反问
Be cautious of using 反问 in overly formal contexts, as it may come off as confrontational. Common collocations include 反问句 (rhetorical question) and 以问反问 (to answer a question with a question). Remember that the tone of your voice can impact how your rhetorical question is received, so use it judiciously.
反问 or something close to it
反驳 (fǎnbó) is used when directly countering or rebutting an argument, while 反问 (fǎnwèn) involves responding with a question to provoke thought, not necessarily countering the argument directly.
What learners get wrong
Learners often misuse 反问 by responding with a statement instead of another question. For instance, saying '这是不可能的' (That's impossible) instead of a question like '你真这么认为吗?' (Do you really think so?) misses the essence of 反问.
Write 反问
New here? to save your writing progress and earn XP.
Practice writing 反问 stroke by stroke. Watch the animation to learn the stroke order, then try writing it yourself.
Grammar Patterns of 反问
反问 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.
Complete the Sentence
“这些孩子知道他们有多幸运吗？”杰克逊____道。
"Do these kids know how lucky they are?" Jackson asked rhetorically.
Example Sentences for 反问 (6)
Cultural Notes for 反问
In Western cultures, rhetorical questions are also used, but they may not carry the same weight of challenging authority as they do in Chinese contexts, where questioning can be seen as a form of respect and engagement.
Frequently Asked Questions about 反问
You can say, '你为什么这么想？难道你不觉得反问很重要吗？' (Why do you think that? Don't you think asking back is important?)
Jason Recommends
Not sure what to learn after 反问?
Jason picks three words from your level and explains why each one is worth your time next. It takes a free account so he knows what you already know.