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March 24, 2026
实质(實質)shízhì(shi2zhi4)
实质 (shízhì) refers to the essential nature or substance of something, often used in philosophical or analytical contexts. It denotes the intrinsic qualities that define an object or idea, distinguishing it from superficial characteristics. Commonly used in discussions related to law, philosophy, and material science.
Strokes16Frequency#12279DifficultyHard
Cultural Note
In Chinese philosophy, the concept of 实质 is often discussed in relation to the ideas of reality versus appearance, reflecting a deeper understanding of truth in everyday life and thought.
Memory Tip
Imagine a solid rock (实) representing substance, and a clear, bright light (质) shining through it, illuminating the essence inside. The combination of the rock (实) and light (质) helps you remember the meaning of this word.
Meanings of 实质
shízhì(shi2zhi4)
1substance
2essence
Exercise 1 of 2
Listen & Choose the Meaning
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About 实质
实质Simplified
實質Traditional
16Strokes
—Radical
名词míngcínoun (n.)Part of Speech
#12279Frequency Rank
HSK 2.0L6HSK 3.0L6AdvancedCEFRC2
Podcast: 实质
Podcast: 实质
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AI Study Notes for 实质
Quick Contrast
本质 (běnzhì) refers to the inherent nature or essence of something, emphasizing its fundamental qualities, while 实质 (shízhì) focuses more on the tangible substance or reality of an object or idea.
Usage Notes
Be mindful not to confuse 实质 with similar-sounding words like 实体 (shítǐ), which means 'entity' or 'material body.' This term is formal and often used in academic or professional contexts, so avoid using it in casual conversations. Common collocations include 实质问题 (shízhì wèntí - substantive issue) and 实质内容 (shízhì nèiróng - substantive content).
HSK Study Tips
As an HSK Level 6 word, students should focus on using 实质 in complex sentences and understand its application in abstract discussions. Connecting it with other Level 6 words like 本质 (běnzhì - inherent nature) can enhance comprehension of nuanced meanings.
Common Mistakes
Learners often confuse 实质 with 表面 (biǎomiàn - surface), thinking they mean the same. A wrong example is saying '表面的实质' to mean 'substance of the surface,' which is incorrect; the right phrase is simply '实质.'
AI-enhanced 2026-03-24
Pronunciation of 实质
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实质 (shízhì) refers to the essential nature or substance of something, often used in philosophical or analytical contexts. It denotes the intrinsic qualities that define an object or idea, distinguishing it from superficial characteristics. Commonly used in discussions related to law, philosophy, and material science.
When to use 实质
Be mindful not to confuse 实质 with similar-sounding words like 实体 (shítǐ), which means 'entity' or 'material body.' This term is formal and often used in academic or professional contexts, so avoid using it in casual conversations. Common collocations include 实质问题 (shízhì wèntí - substantive issue) and 实质内容 (shízhì nèiróng - substantive content).
实质 or something close to it
本质 (běnzhì) refers to the inherent nature or essence of something, emphasizing its fundamental qualities, while 实质 (shízhì) focuses more on the tangible substance or reality of an object or idea.
What learners get wrong
Learners often confuse 实质 with 表面 (biǎomiàn - surface), thinking they mean the same. A wrong example is saying '表面的实质' to mean 'substance of the surface,' which is incorrect; the right phrase is simply '实质.'
Write 实质
实
质
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Grammar Patterns of 实质
实质 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.
Exercise 1 of 4
Complete the Sentence
这____上是一种狭隘的、因循守旧的照顾孩子的方法。
It is essentially a narrow and conservative approach to child care.
Example Sentences for 实质 (7)
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1
这实质上是一种狭隘的、因循守旧的照顾孩子的方法。
zhè shí zhì shàng shì yī zhǒng xiá ài de、 、 yīn xún shǒu jiù de zhào gù hái zǐ de fāng。
It is essentially a narrow and conservative approach to child care.
2
是否已经取得了任何实质性进展还是个问题。
shì fǒu yǐ jīng qǔ dé le rèn hé shí zhì xìng jìn zhǎn huán shì gè wèn tí。
It's questionable whether anything of substance has been achieved.
