Meanings of 约束
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Podcast: 约束
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AI Study Notes for 约束
限制 (xiànzhì) - use 约束 when emphasizing moral or social constraints, whereas 限制 focuses more on physical or legal limitations.
Learners often confuse 约束 with related terms like 限制 (xian4 zhi4), which also means to limit but can carry different connotations. It's important to use 约束 in contexts suggesting a moral or social obligation, rather than simply a physical limitation. Common collocations include "约束行为" (restrict behavior) and "自我约束" (self-restraint).
As an HSK 6 word, 约束 connects well with other advanced vocabulary related to social sciences and ethics. Students should focus on understanding its application in various contexts and how it contrasts with similar terms, enhancing their nuanced understanding of restriction in Mandarin.
A frequent error is using 约束 in casual contexts where a simpler word like 限制 might be more appropriate. For example, saying '我想约束我的午餐' (I want to restrict my lunch) should be corrected to '我想限制我的午餐' (I want to limit my lunch).
Pronunciation of 约束
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Component Characters
How to say to restrict in Chinese
“to restrict” in Chinese is约束
约束 (yue1 shu4) refers to the act of imposing limits or restrictions on something, whether it be behavior, choices, or circumstances. It is commonly used in contexts such as legal frameworks, personal discipline, or social norms, indicating a boundary that must not be crossed.
When to use 约束
Learners often confuse 约束 with related terms like 限制 (xian4 zhi4), which also means to limit but can carry different connotations. It's important to use 约束 in contexts suggesting a moral or social obligation, rather than simply a physical limitation. Common collocations include "约束行为" (restrict behavior) and "自我约束" (self-restraint).
约束 or something close to it
限制 (xiànzhì) - use 约束 when emphasizing moral or social constraints, whereas 限制 focuses more on physical or legal limitations.
What learners get wrong
A frequent error is using 约束 in casual contexts where a simpler word like 限制 might be more appropriate. For example, saying '我想约束我的午餐' (I want to restrict my lunch) should be corrected to '我想限制我的午餐' (I want to limit my lunch).
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Grammar Patterns of 约束
约束 functions as a verb — the action or state of the sentence. The Chinese order is Subject + Verb + Object (我吃饭). Negate it with 不 (habitual / future) or 没(有) (completed action). Add aspect markers like 了, 过, 着 directly after the verb. It carries 5 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.
这条规定赋予了总统绝对及不受____的权力。
This provision gives the president total and unchecked power.
Example Sentences for 约束 (4)
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Cultural Notes for 约束
In Western cultures, the idea of restriction is often viewed as a limitation on personal freedom, while in Chinese culture, it can be seen as a necessary aspect of social order and community well-being.
Frequently Asked Questions about 约束
You can say '他需要约束自己的行为' (He needs to restrict his behavior) to demonstrate its usage.
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