Meanings of 神仙
Listen & Choose the Meaning
Choose the correct answer:
About 神仙
Podcast: 神仙
Podcast: 神仙
Listen to Jason & Amy break down this word for you
New here?
AI Study Notes for 神仙
仙人 (xiānrén) - use 神仙 (shénxiān) for a broader, more whimsical context, while 仙人 (xiānrén) often refers specifically to a Daoist immortal with a more serious connotation.
Be cautious to use 神仙 in contexts that relate to mythology or fantasy; using it in serious discussions about spirituality may be inappropriate. Common collocations include '神仙故事' (stories of immortals) and '神仙姐姐' (fairy sister), which are often found in casual conversation or literature.
As an HSK 6 word, 神仙 connects to other advanced vocabulary related to mythology and fantasy, such as 妖怪 (yāoguài, monster) or 传说 (chuánshuō, legend). Focus on understanding its usage in literary contexts, as well as its metaphorical application in describing whimsical characters.
Learners often confuse 神仙 with 仙人 (xiānrén), which specifically means an immortal person. For example, saying '他是一个神仙人' (Tā shì yī gè shénxiān rén) is incorrect; it should be '他是一个仙人' (Tā shì yī gè xiānrén).
Pronunciation of 神仙
Drill the tone of 神仙 with AI-powered exercises, get instant feedback, and earn XP toward mastery. Interactive tone practice is part of Pro.
Component Characters
How to say Daoist immortal in Chinese
“Daoist immortal” in Chinese is神仙
神仙 (shénxiān) refers to a Daoist immortal or a supernatural being with magical abilities. In contemporary contexts, it can also refer to fantastical creatures like fairies or elves, often embodying a lighthearted or whimsical persona, reflecting a sense of wonder and playfulness in both traditional and modern Chinese storytelling.
When to use 神仙
Be cautious to use 神仙 in contexts that relate to mythology or fantasy; using it in serious discussions about spirituality may be inappropriate. Common collocations include '神仙故事' (stories of immortals) and '神仙姐姐' (fairy sister), which are often found in casual conversation or literature.
神仙 or something close to it
仙人 (xiānrén) - use 神仙 (shénxiān) for a broader, more whimsical context, while 仙人 (xiānrén) often refers specifically to a Daoist immortal with a more serious connotation.
What learners get wrong
Learners often confuse 神仙 with 仙人 (xiānrén), which specifically means an immortal person. For example, saying '他是一个神仙人' (Tā shì yī gè shénxiān rén) is incorrect; it should be '他是一个仙人' (Tā shì yī gè xiānrén).
Write 神仙
New here? to save your writing progress and earn XP.
Practice writing 神仙 stroke by stroke. Watch the animation to learn the stroke order, then try writing it yourself.
Grammar Patterns of 神仙
神仙 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.
Complete the Sentence
____教母的魔法使灰姑娘的破烂衣衫变成了一件漂亮的长外衣.
The fairy godmother's magic charm turned Cinderella's rags into a beautiful gown.
Example Sentences for 神仙 (1)
Frequently Asked Questions about 神仙
No, while originally rooted in Daoist beliefs, 神仙 can also refer to fictional characters in modern stories, making it versatile in both religious and secular contexts.
Jason Recommends
Not sure what to learn after 神仙?
Jason picks three words from your level and explains why each one is worth your time next. It takes a free account so he knows what you already know.