Meanings of 后顾之忧
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Podcast: 后顾之忧
Podcast: 后顾之忧
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AI Study Notes for 后顾之忧
This idiom is often used in contexts discussing personal decisions, family obligations, or future uncertainties. Be careful not to confuse it with similar idioms that emphasize different aspects of worry or concern. In formal contexts, it can reflect deeper emotional burdens, while in informal speech, it might simply denote everyday anxieties.
As an HSK Level 6 word, 后顾之忧 connects well with other idioms and expressions related to worries and responsibilities. Students should focus on understanding its usage in complex sentences and with other idiomatic expressions to enhance their fluency.
Learners often confuse 后顾之忧 with simpler phrases like '忧虑' (worry) and misuse it in contexts that do not involve familial or future concerns. For example, saying '我没有后顾之忧' in a casual context about minor stressors is incorrect; this idiom should pertain to significant worries.
Pronunciation of 后顾之忧
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Idiom Spotlight: 后顾之忧
Component Characters
How to say fears of trouble in the rear (idiom); family worries (obstructing freedom of action) in Chinese
“fears of trouble in the rear (idiom); family worries (obstructing freedom of action)” in Chinese is后顾之忧
后顾之忧 (hòu gù zhī yōu) refers to the concerns or worries that one has about potential problems or difficulties from behind, often related to family or future consequences. It implies that such worries can hinder one's ability to act freely or pursue new opportunities, highlighting the burden of responsibilities that can affect decision-making.
When to use 后顾之忧
This idiom is often used in contexts discussing personal decisions, family obligations, or future uncertainties. Be careful not to confuse it with similar idioms that emphasize different aspects of worry or concern. In formal contexts, it can reflect deeper emotional burdens, while in informal speech, it might simply denote everyday anxieties.
What learners get wrong
Learners often confuse 后顾之忧 with simpler phrases like '忧虑' (worry) and misuse it in contexts that do not involve familial or future concerns. For example, saying '我没有后顾之忧' in a casual context about minor stressors is incorrect; this idiom should pertain to significant worries.
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Grammar Patterns of 后顾之忧
后顾之忧 functions as a four-character idiom (成语). Treat it as a fixed unit; it usually plays the role of a single adjective, adverb, or noun phrase inside the larger sentence. 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.
Complete the Sentence
无____而能提早退休当是件幸事。
It would be nice to be able to afford to retire earlier.
Example Sentences for 后顾之忧 (1)
Frequently Asked Questions about 后顾之忧
Generally, 后顾之忧 carries a negative connotation, indicating burdensome worries. However, it can sometimes be used to highlight the importance of family in decision-making.
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