Meanings of 故障
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Podcast: 故障
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AI Study Notes for 故障
故障 (gùzhàng) vs 故障 (gùzhàng) — use 故障 when referring specifically to a malfunction in a system, while 故障 can also imply broader issues or failures in performance.
故障 is used in both formal and informal contexts, often in technical or professional discussions. Be careful not to confuse it with similar terms like 错误 (cuòwù), which means 'error' but is more general and does not imply a mechanical failure. Common collocations include '设备故障' (shèbèi gùzhàng) meaning 'equipment malfunction'.
As an HSK level 6 word, 故障 connects well with other technical vocabulary and terms related to technology and maintenance. Students should focus on contextual usage and collocations to improve understanding and communication in technical discussions.
Learners often confuse 故障 with 失误 (shīwù), which means 'mistake' rather than a malfunction. A common mistake is saying '设备失误' instead of '设备故障' when referring to equipment failures.
Pronunciation of 故障
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Component Characters
How to say malfunction in Chinese
“malfunction” in Chinese is故障
故障 (gùzhàng) refers to a malfunction or breakdown in a system or object, commonly used in technical contexts such as machinery, electronics, or software. It implies a failure that disrupts normal functioning and can denote defects or shortcomings in performance.
When to use 故障
故障 is used in both formal and informal contexts, often in technical or professional discussions. Be careful not to confuse it with similar terms like 错误 (cuòwù), which means 'error' but is more general and does not imply a mechanical failure. Common collocations include '设备故障' (shèbèi gùzhàng) meaning 'equipment malfunction'.
故障 or something close to it
故障 (gùzhàng) vs 故障 (gùzhàng) — use 故障 when referring specifically to a malfunction in a system, while 故障 can also imply broader issues or failures in performance.
What learners get wrong
Learners often confuse 故障 with 失误 (shīwù), which means 'mistake' rather than a malfunction. A common mistake is saying '设备失误' instead of '设备故障' when referring to equipment failures.
Write 故障
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Grammar Patterns of 故障
故障 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 9 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.
还有几次事故主要是起飞时引擎出现____造成的。
There were also several accidents mainly caused by engine failures on take-off.
Example Sentences for 故障 (9)
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Cultural Notes for 故障
In Western cultures, the term 'failure' may be viewed more negatively, often associated with personal accountability, whereas 故障 in Chinese contexts can emphasize the need for systemic solutions rather than individual blame.
Frequently Asked Questions about 故障
You can use 故障 in any technical context, such as discussing machinery, electronics, or even software bugs.
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