Meanings of 封建
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AI Study Notes for 封建
封建 (fēngjiàn) vs 统治 (tǒngzhì) — use 封建 for the specific historical context of feudalism, while 统治 refers to general governance or rule.
Be careful not to confuse 封建 with modern governance concepts, as it is often used in a historical context. It generally has a negative connotation, suggesting backwardness or oppression in contemporary discussions. Common collocations include 封建制度 (feudal system) and 封建思想 (feudal thinking).
As an HSK Level 6 word, 封建 connects to other historical or political vocabulary studied at this level. Focus on its usage in discussions about China's past and its contrasts with modern governance. Knowing this term can also enhance your understanding of related concepts such as 统治 (rule) and 社会 (society).
Learners often mistakenly use 封建 to describe any hierarchical system. It's important to specify that it refers to a specific historical context. For example, saying '现代社会是封建的' (Modern society is feudal) is incorrect; a better way to express this would be '现代社会与封建制度有很大不同' (Modern society is very different from the feudal system).
Pronunciation of 封建
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Component Characters
How to say system of enfeoffment in Chinese
“system of enfeoffment” in Chinese is封建
封建 (fēngjiàn) refers to a system of enfeoffment or feudalism, where land is held by lords who grant portions to vassals in exchange for loyalty and service. This concept is often used in historical contexts to describe governance structures in ancient China and other cultures, highlighting the hierarchical relationships between different social classes.
When to use 封建
Be careful not to confuse 封建 with modern governance concepts, as it is often used in a historical context. It generally has a negative connotation, suggesting backwardness or oppression in contemporary discussions. Common collocations include 封建制度 (feudal system) and 封建思想 (feudal thinking).
封建 or something close to it
封建 (fēngjiàn) vs 统治 (tǒngzhì) — use 封建 for the specific historical context of feudalism, while 统治 refers to general governance or rule.
What learners get wrong
Learners often mistakenly use 封建 to describe any hierarchical system. It's important to specify that it refers to a specific historical context. For example, saying '现代社会是封建的' (Modern society is feudal) is incorrect; a better way to express this would be '现代社会与封建制度有很大不同' (Modern society is very different from the feudal system).
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Grammar Patterns of 封建
封建 functions as an adjective. In Chinese it behaves like a stative verb: place it directly after the subject without 是 (我很高，not 我是高). Use 不 to negate (不高) and pair it with 很 in plain affirmative sentences. It carries 4 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.
他天生擅长交际：他的祖先曾是____领主。
Diplomacy was in his blood: his ancestors had been feudal lords.
Example Sentences for 封建 (1)
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Frequently Asked Questions about 封建
封建 describes the political structure that shaped ancient Chinese society, where land and power were distributed among nobles.
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