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March 24, 2026
形态(形態)xíngtài(xing2tai4)
形态 (xíngtài) refers to the physical shape or form of an object, often used in scientific contexts like biology and morphology. It can also describe the pattern or structure of things in a more abstract sense, such as behaviors or trends. This term is commonly used in discussions about characteristics and classifications of various entities.
Strokes15Frequency#12851DifficultyHard
Cultural Note
The concept of 形态 is significant in traditional Chinese medicine, where the shape and form of bodily features are believed to reflect health states and conditions. This idea extends to various cultural practices, including art and design, where form is essential.
Memory Tip
Think of 形 (xíng) as 'shape' and态 (tài) as 'state'. Imagine a sculptor shaping a statue, where the 形 represents the sculpture's form, and态 signifies the state it portrays. Visualize a statue in a park, showcasing its distinct shape and how it stands in a specific state.
Meanings of 形态
xíngtài(xing2tai4)
1shape
2form
Exercise 1 of 2
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About 形态
形态Simplified
形態Traditional
15Strokes
—Radical
名词míngcínoun (n.)Part of Speech
#12851Frequency Rank
HSK 2.0L6HSK 3.0L6IntermediateHSKKL3CEFRB2
Podcast: 形态
Podcast: 形态
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AI Study Notes for 形态
Quick Contrast
形状 (xíngzhuàng) refers specifically to the shape of an object, while 形态 (xíngtài) encompasses a broader range of forms and patterns, including abstract concepts.
Usage Notes
Be careful not to confuse 形态 with 形象 (xíngxiàng), which refers more to image or representation. This term is generally used in formal contexts, especially in academic and scientific discussions. Common collocations include '形态变化' (xíngtài biànhuà - shape change) and '形态特征' (xíngtài tèzhēng - morphological characteristics).
HSK Study Tips
As an HSK 6 word, 形态 connects to other advanced vocabulary related to analysis and description, such as 结构 (jiégòu - structure) and 特征 (tèzhēng - characteristic). Students should focus on using it in context, especially in sentences that describe changes or classifications.
Common Mistakes
Learners may confuse 形态 with 形象, leading to incorrect usage in contexts discussing physical forms versus images. For example, saying '他的形象很美' (tā de xíngxiàng hěn měi - his image is beautiful) instead of the more appropriate '他的形态很美' (tā de xíngtài hěn měi - his shape is beautiful) when referring to physical form.
AI-enhanced 2026-03-24
Pronunciation of 形态
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Knowing 形态 is seven skills, not one.
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形态 (xíngtài) refers to the physical shape or form of an object, often used in scientific contexts like biology and morphology. It can also describe the pattern or structure of things in a more abstract sense, such as behaviors or trends. This term is commonly used in discussions about characteristics and classifications of various entities.
When to use 形态
Be careful not to confuse 形态 with 形象 (xíngxiàng), which refers more to image or representation. This term is generally used in formal contexts, especially in academic and scientific discussions. Common collocations include '形态变化' (xíngtài biànhuà - shape change) and '形态特征' (xíngtài tèzhēng - morphological characteristics).
形态 or something close to it
形状 (xíngzhuàng) refers specifically to the shape of an object, while 形态 (xíngtài) encompasses a broader range of forms and patterns, including abstract concepts.
What learners get wrong
Learners may confuse 形态 with 形象, leading to incorrect usage in contexts discussing physical forms versus images. For example, saying '他的形象很美' (tā de xíngxiàng hěn měi - his image is beautiful) instead of the more appropriate '他的形态很美' (tā de xíngtài hěn měi - his shape is beautiful) when referring to physical form.
Write 形态
形
态
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Grammar Patterns of 形态
形态 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 4 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
Fill the gap
Type the missing word. Pinyin works; then pick the character.
