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March 24, 2026
包围(包圍)bāowéi(bao1wei2)
The verb 包围 (bāo wèi) means to surround or encircle something. It is commonly used in both physical and metaphorical contexts, such as describing a military encirclement or the feeling of being surrounded by emotions. The nuance suggests a comprehensive enclosure, often implying a sense of confinement or restriction.
Strokes12Frequency#3700DifficultyVery Hard
Cultural Note
In Chinese history, military strategies often involved encirclement tactics, which are reflected in the term 包围. This word is also used in contemporary discussions about social and emotional situations, highlighting the importance of feeling enclosed or trapped in various aspects of life.
Memory Tip
Imagine a protective '包' (bāo) or bag that '围' (wéi) encircles something precious inside it. Visualize the bag wrapping tightly around various valuable items, representing the action of surrounding them completely, which links to the pronunciation 'bāo wèi'.
Meanings of 包围
bāowéi(bao1wei2)
1to surround
2to encircle
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About 包围
包围Simplified
包圍Traditional
12Strokes
—Radical
动词dòngcíverb (v.)Part of Speech
#3700Frequency Rank
HSK 2.0L6HSK 3.0L7IntermediateTOCFLL5HSKKL3CEFRB2
Podcast: 包围
Podcast: 包围
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AI Study Notes for 包围
Quick Contrast
围绕 (wéi rào) - use 包围 when emphasizing a complete enclosure, while 围绕 suggests circling around something without full confinement.
Usage Notes
Be cautious with tone; using the incorrect tone can change the meaning of the word entirely. 包围 is typically used in more formal contexts, such as military or strategic discussions. Common collocations include '包围圈' (surrounding circle) and '被包围' (to be surrounded).
HSK Study Tips
As an HSK 6 word, 包围 connects well with other verbs describing actions, especially in contexts involving control or influence. Focus on mastering its usage in both literal and figurative language, considering its potential in idiomatic expressions.
Common Mistakes
Learners often confuse 包围 with 围绕 (wéi rào), as they both mean to encircle. However, 包围 suggests a more complete enclosure and can imply a sense of being trapped, while 围绕 is often used in a looser context. For example, saying '我被围绕' (wǒ bèi wéi rào) instead of '我被包围' (wǒ bèi bāo wèi) can lead to misunderstanding.
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Pronunciation of 包围
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The verb 包围 (bāo wèi) means to surround or encircle something. It is commonly used in both physical and metaphorical contexts, such as describing a military encirclement or the feeling of being surrounded by emotions. The nuance suggests a comprehensive enclosure, often implying a sense of confinement or restriction.
When to use 包围
Be cautious with tone; using the incorrect tone can change the meaning of the word entirely. 包围 is typically used in more formal contexts, such as military or strategic discussions. Common collocations include '包围圈' (surrounding circle) and '被包围' (to be surrounded).
包围 or something close to it
围绕 (wéi rào) - use 包围 when emphasizing a complete enclosure, while 围绕 suggests circling around something without full confinement.
What learners get wrong
Learners often confuse 包围 with 围绕 (wéi rào), as they both mean to encircle. However, 包围 suggests a more complete enclosure and can imply a sense of being trapped, while 围绕 is often used in a looser context. For example, saying '我被围绕' (wǒ bèi wéi rào) instead of '我被包围' (wǒ bèi bāo wèi) can lead to misunderstanding.
Write 包围
包
围
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Grammar Patterns of 包围
包围 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.
