Meanings of 断绝
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Podcast: 断绝
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AI Study Notes for 断绝
断绝 (duànjué) vs 切断 (qiēduàn): use 断绝 for relationships or connections, while 切断 is more about physically cutting off or interrupting something.
This term is more formal and often used in serious contexts, such as legal or emotional situations. A common mistake is using it in a casual context where simpler terms would suffice. Be cautious with the tone; using the wrong tone can change the meaning entirely.
As an HSK level 6 word, 断绝 connects to other advanced vocabulary regarding relationships and severance. Students should focus on its usage in both formal writings and conversations, particularly in contexts of endings or separations.
Learners often confuse 断绝 with 结束 (jie2 shu4), which simply means 'to end' without the connotation of severance. For example, saying '我们结束了' (wǒmen jiéshùle) means 'we ended it,' but does not imply a permanent severing like 断绝 would.
Pronunciation of 断绝
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Component Characters
How to say to sever in Chinese
“to sever” in Chinese is断绝
断绝 (duan4 jue2) means to sever or break off a connection or relationship. It is often used in contexts involving relationships, communication, or ties to something, indicating a complete and final cessation. This term conveys a sense of decisiveness and permanence in the action of cutting ties.
When to use 断绝
This term is more formal and often used in serious contexts, such as legal or emotional situations. A common mistake is using it in a casual context where simpler terms would suffice. Be cautious with the tone; using the wrong tone can change the meaning entirely.
断绝 or something close to it
断绝 (duànjué) vs 切断 (qiēduàn): use 断绝 for relationships or connections, while 切断 is more about physically cutting off or interrupting something.
What learners get wrong
Learners often confuse 断绝 with 结束 (jie2 shu4), which simply means 'to end' without the connotation of severance. For example, saying '我们结束了' (wǒmen jiéshùle) means 'we ended it,' but does not imply a permanent severing like 断绝 would.
Write 断绝
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Grammar Patterns of 断绝
断绝 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 2 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.
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苔丝直哭得声咽气结,肝肠____;因为她憋了这些天了,到今天才一齐都发泄出来.
Tess was convulsed with weeping, the tension of so many days having relaxed at last.
Example Sentences for 断绝 (1)
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Frequently Asked Questions about 断绝
Yes, 断绝 can refer to breaking off friendships, indicating a complete cessation of the relationship.
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