Meanings of 平庸
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Podcast: 平庸
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AI Study Notes for 平庸
平凡 (píngfán) — use 平庸 for a stronger emphasis on mediocrity, while 平凡 suggests something is ordinary without the negative connotation.
Be cautious when using 平庸, as it can carry a negative connotation when describing people or their work. It is more commonly used in informal contexts rather than formal writing. Additionally, avoid confusing it with similar terms like 优秀 (yōuxiù), which means 'excellent'.
As an HSK 6 word, 平庸 connects to other advanced vocabulary describing qualities and characteristics. Focus on using it in comparative sentences to enhance understanding of its implications in context.
Learners often use 平庸 too broadly, applying it to situations that are simply average rather than truly mediocre. For example, saying '这部电影很平庸' (This movie is very mediocre) without context can be misinterpreted; instead, it should be reserved for works that lack effort or creativity.
Pronunciation of 平庸
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Component Characters
How to say mediocre in Chinese
“mediocre” in Chinese is平庸
平庸 (píngyōng) refers to something that is mediocre or commonplace, lacking in distinctive qualities. It is often used to describe individuals, performances, or ideas that do not stand out and are seen as ordinary or unremarkable.
When to use 平庸
Be cautious when using 平庸, as it can carry a negative connotation when describing people or their work. It is more commonly used in informal contexts rather than formal writing. Additionally, avoid confusing it with similar terms like 优秀 (yōuxiù), which means 'excellent'.
平庸 or something close to it
平凡 (píngfán) — use 平庸 for a stronger emphasis on mediocrity, while 平凡 suggests something is ordinary without the negative connotation.
What learners get wrong
Learners often use 平庸 too broadly, applying it to situations that are simply average rather than truly mediocre. For example, saying '这部电影很平庸' (This movie is very mediocre) without context can be misinterpreted; instead, it should be reserved for works that lack effort or creativity.
Write 平庸
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Practice writing 平庸 stroke by stroke. Watch the animation to learn the stroke order, then try writing it yourself.
Grammar Patterns of 平庸
平庸 functions as an adjective. In Chinese it behaves like a stative verb: place it directly after the subject without 是 (我很高，not 我是高). Use 不 to negate (不高) and pair it with 很 in plain affirmative sentences. 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.
Fill the gap
Type the missing word. Pinyin works; then pick the character.
老诗人抨击了现代文体的____无奇.
The old poet decried the mediocrity of today's writing.
Example Sentences for 平庸 (1)
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Frequently Asked Questions about 平庸
The opposite is 优秀 (yōuxiù), meaning 'excellent' or 'outstanding'.
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