Meanings of 向往
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Podcast: 向往
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AI Study Notes for 向往
向往 (yearn for) vs 渴望 (desire) — use 向往 when expressing a longing for something idealized or aspirational, while 渴望 implies a more urgent or intense desire.
While '向往' is used mainly in positive contexts, learners should avoid confusing it with '向' (to face/toward) and '往' (to go), as they have different meanings. It's commonly used in both formal and informal settings, especially when discussing dreams and goals.
As an HSK 6 word, '向往' connects with other advanced vocabulary related to aspirations and emotions. Students should focus on using it in sentences that express their hopes or future plans, enhancing their emotional expression in Mandarin.
Learners often confuse '向往' with '想念' (to miss), using it incorrectly in contexts of longing for people instead of aspirations. For instance, saying '我向往他' (I yearn for him) should be corrected to '我想念他' (I miss him).
Pronunciation of 向往
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Component Characters
How to say to yearn for in Chinese
“to yearn for” in Chinese is向往
The term '向往' means to yearn for or to look forward to something with a strong desire. It often conveys deep emotional longing and is commonly used in contexts such as aspirations for a brighter future, cherished dreams, or idealized places.
When to use 向往
While '向往' is used mainly in positive contexts, learners should avoid confusing it with '向' (to face/toward) and '往' (to go), as they have different meanings. It's commonly used in both formal and informal settings, especially when discussing dreams and goals.
向往 or something close to it
向往 (yearn for) vs 渴望 (desire) — use 向往 when expressing a longing for something idealized or aspirational, while 渴望 implies a more urgent or intense desire.
What learners get wrong
Learners often confuse '向往' with '想念' (to miss), using it incorrectly in contexts of longing for people instead of aspirations. For instance, saying '我向往他' (I yearn for him) should be corrected to '我想念他' (I miss him).
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Practice writing 向往 stroke by stroke. Watch the animation to learn the stroke order, then try writing it yourself.
Grammar Patterns of 向往
向往 functions as an adverb — it modifies a verb, adjective, or another adverb. In Chinese, adverbs sit BEFORE the verb they modify (我也去, 他常常迟到), never after it. 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.
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在世界体坛上，一枚奥运会金牌是最令人____的奖项。
An Olympic gold medal is the most sought-after prize in world sport.
Example Sentences for 向往 (1)
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Frequently Asked Questions about 向往
'向往' is primarily positive and should not be used to express negative feelings. It specifically denotes a longing for something desirable.
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