Meanings of 性命
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About 性命
Podcast: 性命
Podcast: 性命
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AI Study Notes for 性命
生命 (shēngmìng) refers specifically to biological life or existence, while 性命 (xìngmìng) encompasses a deeper philosophical and existential significance.
A common mistake is to confuse '性命' with simpler terms for life, such as '生活' (shēnghuó), which refers to daily living. '性命' is more formal and is often used in literary or philosophical contexts. Be mindful of the tone; '性命' requires a fourth tone for both characters.
As an HSK 6 word, '性命' connects with other advanced vocabulary about life and existence. Students should focus on understanding its usage in philosophical discussions and literature, as well as how it relates to personal and societal values.
Learners often confuse '性命' with '生命' (shēngmìng), leading to inappropriate usage. For example, saying '我珍惜我的生命' (Wǒ zhēnxī wǒ de shēngmìng) is correct, but '我珍惜我的性命' (Wǒ zhēnxī wǒ de xìngmìng) feels overly dramatic and formal in everyday conversation.
Pronunciation of 性命
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Component Characters
How to say life in Chinese
“life” in Chinese is性命
The term '性命' (xìngmìng) refers to life in a profound sense, encompassing both the biological aspect of existence and the essence or vitality of a person's life. It is commonly used in discussions about the value of life, human existence, and can also imply the importance of one's fate or destiny.
When to use 性命
A common mistake is to confuse '性命' with simpler terms for life, such as '生活' (shēnghuó), which refers to daily living. '性命' is more formal and is often used in literary or philosophical contexts. Be mindful of the tone; '性命' requires a fourth tone for both characters.
性命 or something close to it
生命 (shēngmìng) refers specifically to biological life or existence, while 性命 (xìngmìng) encompasses a deeper philosophical and existential significance.
What learners get wrong
Learners often confuse '性命' with '生命' (shēngmìng), leading to inappropriate usage. For example, saying '我珍惜我的生命' (Wǒ zhēnxī wǒ de shēngmìng) is correct, but '我珍惜我的性命' (Wǒ zhēnxī wǒ de xìngmìng) feels overly dramatic and formal in everyday conversation.
Write 性命
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Practice writing 性命 stroke by stroke. Watch the animation to learn the stroke order, then try writing it yourself.
Grammar Patterns of 性命
性命 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). The example sentences below show it in action, with practice buttons (Listen, Practice Writing, Practice Speaking) on every line.
Complete the Sentence
我们已经失去了一切，不过谢天谢地，总算是保住了____。
We have lost everything, but thank God, our lives have been spared.
Example Sentences for 性命 (4)
Frequently Asked Questions about 性命
'性命' is not commonly used in casual conversation; it is more often found in formal contexts or literature.
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