Meanings of 曲折
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Podcast: 曲折
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AI Study Notes for 曲折
曲折 (winding) vs 复杂 (complex) — use 曲折 when emphasizing the winding nature of a path or situation, while 复杂 focuses more on intricacy without the connotation of a winding journey.
Be careful not to confuse 曲折 with similar words like 复杂 (complex), as 曲折 implies a winding or indirect nature rather than just being complicated. It's typically used in both formal and informal contexts, often in discussions about life's journey or storytelling.
As an HSK Level 6 word, 曲折 connects well with other advanced vocabulary that describes experiences, such as 经验 (experience) and 难题 (difficult problems). Focus on using it in descriptive contexts to enhance your fluency.
Learners often misuse 曲折 by applying it in contexts that require a different nuance, such as using it interchangeably with 复杂 (complex). For example, saying '这件事情非常曲折' (This matter is very winding) is correct, but saying '这件事情非常复杂' should be reserved for discussions requiring a straightforward complexity.
Pronunciation of 曲折
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Component Characters
How to say winding in Chinese
“winding” in Chinese is曲折
曲折 refers to something that is winding or convoluted, both in a literal sense, like a path or road, and in a figurative sense, such as a complex situation or narrative. It often conveys the idea of challenges or difficulties along a journey, emphasizing the non-linear nature of experiences.
When to use 曲折
Be careful not to confuse 曲折 with similar words like 复杂 (complex), as 曲折 implies a winding or indirect nature rather than just being complicated. It's typically used in both formal and informal contexts, often in discussions about life's journey or storytelling.
曲折 or something close to it
曲折 (winding) vs 复杂 (complex) — use 曲折 when emphasizing the winding nature of a path or situation, while 复杂 focuses more on intricacy without the connotation of a winding journey.
What learners get wrong
Learners often misuse 曲折 by applying it in contexts that require a different nuance, such as using it interchangeably with 复杂 (complex). For example, saying '这件事情非常曲折' (This matter is very winding) is correct, but saying '这件事情非常复杂' should be reserved for discussions requiring a straightforward complexity.
Write 曲折
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Grammar Patterns of 曲折
曲折 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 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.
Fill the gap
Type the missing word. Pinyin works; then pick the character.
几架马车仍然在破落的矿村中____行进。
A few horse-drawn carts still trundle through the dilapidated mining villages.
Example Sentences for 曲折 (10)
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Frequently Asked Questions about 曲折
You can use 曲折 when discussing physical paths, life experiences, or stories that have unexpected developments.
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