Meanings of 忌讳
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Podcast: 忌讳
Podcast: 忌讳
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AI study notes for 忌讳
禁忌 (jìn jì) refers specifically to prohibitions or things that are forbidden, while 忌讳 (jì huì) encompasses broader cultural sensitivities and avoidance.
忌讳 is often used in both spoken and written Chinese to discuss sensitive topics. Be cautious with its use; it can convey strong cultural or personal sentiments. A common mistake is confusing it with similar terms like 禁忌 (jìnjì), which is more formal and refers to strict prohibitions.
As an HSK 6 word, 忌讳 connects well with other advanced vocabulary about social behaviors and customs. Students should focus on understanding its nuances in different contexts and practice using it in sentences related to cultural taboos.
Learners often misuse 忌讳 by applying it to benign subjects, such as a preference against certain foods. For example, saying '我忌讳西红柿' (I avoid tomatoes) is incorrect; it should be reserved for more serious or culturally sensitive topics.
Pronunciation of 忌讳
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Component characters
How to say taboo in Chinese
“taboo” in Chinese is忌讳
忌讳 (jìhuì) refers to something that is regarded as taboo or something that should be avoided due to cultural or personal sensitivities. It is commonly used in contexts where certain topics, actions, or even words are considered inappropriate or offensive, reflecting social norms and traditions.
When to use 忌讳
忌讳 is often used in both spoken and written Chinese to discuss sensitive topics. Be cautious with its use; it can convey strong cultural or personal sentiments. A common mistake is confusing it with similar terms like 禁忌 (jìnjì), which is more formal and refers to strict prohibitions.
忌讳 or something close to it
禁忌 (jìn jì) refers specifically to prohibitions or things that are forbidden, while 忌讳 (jì huì) encompasses broader cultural sensitivities and avoidance.
What learners get wrong
Learners often misuse 忌讳 by applying it to benign subjects, such as a preference against certain foods. For example, saying '我忌讳西红柿' (I avoid tomatoes) is incorrect; it should be reserved for more serious or culturally sensitive topics.
Write 忌讳
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Practice writing 忌讳 stroke by stroke. Watch the animation to learn the stroke order, then try writing it yourself.
Grammar patterns of 忌讳
忌讳 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.
Fill the gap
Type the missing word. Pinyin works; then pick the character.
毒瘾仍然是个有些____的话题。
The topic of addiction remains something of a taboo.
Example sentences for 忌讳 (2)
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Cultural Notes for 忌讳
In Western cultures, discussing taboo topics may be seen as a way to confront issues directly, while in Chinese culture, avoidance is often preferred to maintain social harmony.
Frequently asked questions about 忌讳
Yes, 忌讳 can be used in both formal and informal settings, but the context should be appropriate to avoid misunderstandings.
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