Meanings of 太空
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About 太空
Podcast: 太空
Podcast: 太空
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AI Study Notes for 太空
宇宙 (yǔzhòu) refers to the universe as a whole, including all matter and energy, while 太空 (tàikōng) specifically denotes outer space, the region beyond Earth's atmosphere.
Learners often confuse 太空 with other terms related to space, such as 航天 (hángtiān, space travel) or 空间 (kōngjiān, space/area), which refer to different aspects. Use 太空 in formal discussions about outer space exploration, while avoiding it in casual conversations about local spaces.
As an HSK Level 6 word, 太空 connects with other advanced vocabulary related to science and technology, such as 宇宙 (yǔzhòu, universe) and 卫星 (wèixīng, satellite). Focus on the context in which these terms are used together, especially in academic or technical settings.
Learners sometimes mistakenly use 太空 to refer to any kind of space, such as personal space or indoor space, which should instead be 空间 (kōngjiān). For example, saying '在太空里' (zài tài kōng lǐ) to mean 'in the room' is incorrect; the correct term is '在空间里' (zài kōngjiān lǐ).
Pronunciation of 太空
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Component Characters
How to say outer space in Chinese
“outer space” in Chinese is太空
太空 (tài kōng) refers to outer space, the vast, seemingly infinite expanse that exists beyond the Earth's atmosphere. It is commonly used in scientific contexts, such as astronomy and space exploration, as well as in discussions about technology and the universe. The term conveys a sense of mystery and vastness associated with celestial bodies and phenomena.
When to use 太空
Learners often confuse 太空 with other terms related to space, such as 航天 (hángtiān, space travel) or 空间 (kōngjiān, space/area), which refer to different aspects. Use 太空 in formal discussions about outer space exploration, while avoiding it in casual conversations about local spaces.
太空 or something close to it
宇宙 (yǔzhòu) refers to the universe as a whole, including all matter and energy, while 太空 (tàikōng) specifically denotes outer space, the region beyond Earth's atmosphere.
What learners get wrong
Learners sometimes mistakenly use 太空 to refer to any kind of space, such as personal space or indoor space, which should instead be 空间 (kōngjiān). For example, saying '在太空里' (zài tài kōng lǐ) to mean 'in the room' is incorrect; the correct term is '在空间里' (zài kōngjiān lǐ).
Write 太空
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Practice writing 太空 stroke by stroke. Watch the animation to learn the stroke order, then try writing it yourself.
Grammar Patterns of 太空
太空 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
海伦描述了她身处____时失重状态下的生活。
Helen described life in a weightless environment during her period in space.
Example Sentences for 太空 (3)
Frequently Asked Questions about 太空
It is pronounced as 'tài kōng', with the first tone on 'kōng' and the fourth tone on 'tài'.
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