Meanings of 外向
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Podcast: 外向
Podcast: 外向
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AI Study Notes for 外向
外向 (wàixiàng) vs 友好 (yǒuhǎo) — use '外向' to emphasize sociability as a personality trait, while '友好' focuses on being friendly or kind.
'外向' is commonly used in psychology and social contexts to describe personality types, so be mindful of the context. A common mistake is using it interchangeably with '内向' without understanding the nuances. It can be used in both formal and informal settings, but in formal discussions about personality traits, it might be preferable to use more specific terms.
As an HSK Level 6 word, '外向' connects to other vocabulary describing personality traits and social behaviors. Students should focus on how to describe different personality types in Chinese and practice using them in sentences to enhance fluency.
Learners often confuse '外向' and '内向' when describing personalities, leading to incorrect statements like '他是一个内向的人' (He is an extroverted person, incorrectly labeled as introverted). Always double-check the context and use the correct term based on the intended meaning.
Pronunciation of 外向
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Jason Explains 外向 to You
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Component Characters
How to say outward-looking in Chinese
“outward-looking” in Chinese is外向
The term '外向' (wài xiàng) describes a personality trait characterized by an outward orientation, where individuals are sociable, enthusiastic, and energized by interactions with others. It can also refer to economic concepts, particularly in relation to export-oriented practices. In social contexts, it contrasts with '内向' (nèi xiàng), which refers to introverted individuals.
When to use 外向
'外向' is commonly used in psychology and social contexts to describe personality types, so be mindful of the context. A common mistake is using it interchangeably with '内向' without understanding the nuances. It can be used in both formal and informal settings, but in formal discussions about personality traits, it might be preferable to use more specific terms.
外向 or something close to it
外向 (wàixiàng) vs 友好 (yǒuhǎo) — use '外向' to emphasize sociability as a personality trait, while '友好' focuses on being friendly or kind.
What learners get wrong
Learners often confuse '外向' and '内向' when describing personalities, leading to incorrect statements like '他是一个内向的人' (He is an extroverted person, incorrectly labeled as introverted). Always double-check the context and use the correct term based on the intended meaning.
Write 外向
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Practice writing 外向 stroke by stroke. Watch the animation to learn the stroke order, then try writing it yourself.
Grammar Patterns of 外向
外向 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 5 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.
我收回说过的话，我想也许我是____型的人。
I take it back, I think perhaps I am an extrovert.
Example Sentences for 外向 (5)
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Cultural Notes for 外向
In Western cultures, extroversion is often celebrated and openly encouraged, while in some East Asian cultures, including China, the balance between extroversion and introversion is appreciated for maintaining group harmony.
Frequently Asked Questions about 外向
You can say '他是一个外向的人' (Tā shì yīgè wàixiàng de rén), meaning 'He is an extroverted person.'
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