Meanings of 缘故
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Podcast: 缘故
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AI Study Notes for 缘故
原因 (yuányīn) — use 缘故 when emphasizing the context or background of a situation, while 原因 focuses more on the direct cause.
Be careful not to confuse 缘故 with simply 阐明 (chǎn míng), which means to clarify. While 缘故 can be used in both formal and informal contexts, it tends to be more formal. Common collocations include '由于某种缘故' (due to certain reasons) and '这个事情的缘故' (the reason for this matter).
As an HSK 6 word, 缘故 connects with other advanced vocabulary related to causation and explanation, such as 原因 (yuán yīn) meaning 'cause' or 'reason'. Focus on using it in complex sentences to enhance your fluency.
Learners often confuse 缘故 with other similar terms like 理由 (lǐ yóu), which is more about justification than reason. For instance, saying '我没有理由' (I have no reason) instead of '我没有缘故' is a common error; the latter implies a more contextual cause.
Pronunciation of 缘故
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Jason Explains 缘故 to You
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Component Characters
How to say reason in Chinese
“reason” in Chinese is缘故
缘故 (yuán gù) refers to the reason or cause behind an event or situation. It is commonly used in both spoken and written Mandarin to explain why something has happened or to provide justification for actions taken.
When to use 缘故
Be careful not to confuse 缘故 with simply 阐明 (chǎn míng), which means to clarify. While 缘故 can be used in both formal and informal contexts, it tends to be more formal. Common collocations include '由于某种缘故' (due to certain reasons) and '这个事情的缘故' (the reason for this matter).
缘故 or something close to it
原因 (yuányīn) — use 缘故 when emphasizing the context or background of a situation, while 原因 focuses more on the direct cause.
What learners get wrong
Learners often confuse 缘故 with other similar terms like 理由 (lǐ yóu), which is more about justification than reason. For instance, saying '我没有理由' (I have no reason) instead of '我没有缘故' is a common error; the latter implies a more contextual cause.
Write 缘故
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Practice writing 缘故 stroke by stroke. Watch the animation to learn the stroke order, then try writing it yourself.
Grammar Patterns of 缘故
缘故 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 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.
他似乎只是出于职业____而喜欢她。
He seemed fond of her in a strictly professional way.
Example Sentences for 缘故 (4)
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Frequently Asked Questions about 缘故
You can say, '我因为工作原因不能参加聚会' (I cannot attend the gathering due to work reasons).
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