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March 24, 2026
修养(修養)xiūyǎng(xiu1yang3)
修养 (xiu1 yang3) refers to the process of self-cultivation and personal development, often encompassing moral, intellectual, and artistic growth. It is commonly used in contexts involving personal improvement, education, and the enhancement of one's character or manners. The term implies a lifelong commitment to better oneself and can be applied in both personal and professional settings.
Strokes18Frequency#18191DifficultyVery Hard
Cultural Note
In Chinese culture, 修养 is highly valued, often associated with Confucian ideals of virtue and self-cultivation, reflecting the importance of moral integrity and continuous learning in both personal and social life.
Memory Tip
Imagine a wise old sage sitting in a serene garden, nurturing both plants and his mind. The character '修' (xiu) looks like a person fixing or repairing something, symbolizing the act of improving oneself, while '养' (yang) can be visualized as nurturing growth. Together, they represent the idea of cultivating one’s inner self.
Meanings of 修养
xiūyǎng(xiu1yang3)
1accomplishment
2training
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About 修养
修养Simplified
修養Traditional
18Strokes
—Radical
名词míngcínoun (n.)Part of Speech
#18191Frequency Rank
HSK 2.0L6HSK 3.0L7IntermediateHSKKL3CEFRB2
Podcast: 修养
Podcast: 修养
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AI Study Notes for 修养
Quick Contrast
修身 (xiūshēn) vs 修养 (xiūyǎng): use 修身 when focusing specifically on moral and ethical self-cultivation, while 修养 encompasses a broader range of personal development.
Memory Mnemonic
Imagine a wise old sage sitting in a serene garden, nurturing both plants and his mind. The character '修' (xiu) looks like a person fixing or repairing something, symbolizing the act of improving oneself, while '养' (yang) can be visualized as nurturing growth. Together, they represent the idea of cultivating one’s inner self.
Usage Notes
Learners often confuse 修养 with related terms like 教养 (jiao4 yang3), which refers specifically to upbringing or manners. This word is more commonly used in formal contexts, so it’s best to use it when discussing personal development in professional or academic discussions. Be careful with the tones; mispronouncing them can change the meaning entirely.
HSK Study Tips
As a level 6 word, 修养 connects with other HSK 6 vocabulary focusing on personal development and philosophy. Students should focus on understanding its applications in various contexts, especially in discussions about ethics and self-improvement.
Cultural Note
In Chinese culture, 修养 is highly valued, often associated with Confucian ideals of virtue and self-cultivation, reflecting the importance of moral integrity and continuous learning in both personal and social life.
Common Mistakes
Learners may mistakenly use 修养 interchangeably with other words like 教养, which focuses more on upbringing rather than personal improvement. For example, saying '他的修养很好' (His upbringing is good) is incorrect; it should be '他的教养很好' (His upbringing is good).
AI-enhanced 2026-03-24
Pronunciation of 修养
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Grammar Patterns of 修养
修养 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 3 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.
Exercise 1 of 4
Complete the Sentence
对于____心性有兴趣的人来说,巴黎是个好城市.
Paris is a good city for people who are interested in culture.
Attending this international conference is to improve professional training.
Cultural Notes for 修养
🏮Cultural insight
In Chinese culture, 修养 is highly valued, often associated with Confucian ideals of virtue and self-cultivation, reflecting the importance of moral integrity and continuous learning in both personal and social life.
Frequently Asked Questions about 修养
Yes, but it is more suited for formal discussions about personal growth and ethics.
No, it encompasses various aspects of self-improvement, including intellectual and artistic development.
Engaging in lifelong learning, practicing mindfulness, and reflecting on personal values can enhance your 修养.
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