围观 (wéi guān) means to surround and observe a situation or event, often used in the context of people gathering to watch something happening, typically out of curiosity. It can imply a sense of bystander involvement without direct participation, often seen in situations like accidents or public performances.
HSK 7, 16 strokes, Hard
wéiguān(wei2guan1) T2
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May 27, 2026
围观wéiguān(wei2guan1)
围观 (wéi guān) means to surround and observe a situation or event, often used in the context of people gathering to watch something happening, typically out of curiosity. It can imply a sense of bystander involvement without direct participation, often seen in situations like accidents or public performances.
Strokes16Frequency#—DifficultyHard
Cultural Note
In Chinese culture, the concept of '围观' is prevalent during events like public demonstrations or street performances, reflecting a communal curiosity and the social nature of people gathering to witness shared experiences.
Memory Tip
Imagine a crowd of people forming a circle (围) around a fascinating spectacle, each person keenly observing (观) what is unfolding. Picture them leaning in, eyes wide with curiosity, as they take in every detail of the event.
About 围观
围观Simplified
16Strokes
—Radical
动词dòngcíverb (v.)Part of Speech
#—Frequency Rank
HSK 3.0L7AdvancedCEFRC2
Podcast: 围观
Podcast: 围观
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AI Study Notes for 围观
Quick Contrast
围观 (wéi guān) vs 观看 (guān kàn): Use 围观 when emphasizing the act of surrounding and observing a situation, while 观看 focuses more on the act of watching or viewing without the implication of being part of a crowd.
Memory Mnemonic
Imagine a crowd of people forming a circle (围) around a fascinating spectacle, each person keenly observing (观) what is unfolding. Picture them leaning in, eyes wide with curiosity, as they take in every detail of the event.
Usage Notes
This term is commonly used in informal contexts and can sometimes carry a negative connotation, suggesting that people are merely spectators rather than helping. Be cautious not to confuse it with similar terms that imply participation rather than observation.
HSK Study Tips
At HSK Level 7, focus on understanding the subtleties of this word in relation to societal behaviors and how it contrasts with active participation. Connect it with other words related to observation and community, such as 观察 (to observe) and 参与 (to participate).
Cultural Note
In Chinese culture, the concept of '围观' is prevalent during events like public demonstrations or street performances, reflecting a communal curiosity and the social nature of people gathering to witness shared experiences.
Common Mistakes
Learners often confuse 围观 with similar verbs. For instance, saying '我想围观这个电影' (I want to surround and observe this movie) is incorrect; the correct phrase would be '我想看这个电影' (I want to watch this movie).
AI-enhanced 2026-05-27
Pronunciation of 围观
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Cultural Notes for 围观
🏮Cultural insight
In Chinese culture, the concept of '围观' is prevalent during events like public demonstrations or street performances, reflecting a communal curiosity and the social nature of people gathering to witness shared experiences.
Frequently Asked Questions about 围观
Not necessarily, but it often carries a connotation of passivity or failure to intervene in situations where action might be needed.
It is generally informal and may not be suitable for formal contexts; consider using more neutral terms in formal writing.
观看 (guān kàn) means to watch or view more passively, while 围观 emphasizes the act of surrounding and actively observing a situation.
