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气功 — pronunciations, definitions, and tags
HanziPinyinEnglishTags
气功qìgōngqigong, a system of deep breathing exercisesHSK 7, n, 9 strokes, rank #40314, Very Hard
qìgōng(qi4gong1)qi gong T4
  1. 1qigong, a system of deep breathing exercises
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March 24, 2026

气功(氣功)qìgōng(qi4gong1)

气功 (qìgōng) refers to a system of traditional Chinese exercises that combines controlled breathing, meditation, and movement to cultivate and balance one's vital energy, or 'qi'. It is commonly practiced for health improvement, stress reduction, and spiritual development. Qigong can be a form of physical exercise, meditation, or a holistic approach to wellness.

Strokes9Frequency#40314DifficultyVery Hard
Cultural note

气功 plays an important role in Chinese culture, often linked to Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and concepts of harmony and balance. It is frequently practiced in parks across China, showcasing community and health-focused lifestyles.

Memory tip

Think of 气 (qì) as 'air' or 'breath' and 功 (gōng) as 'work' or 'achievement'. Imagine a person drawing in deep breaths while performing graceful movements, as if they are 'working' with their 'breath' to harness energy. Visualize a glowing aura around them to reinforce the idea of cultivating energy.

Meanings of 气功

qìgōng(qi4gong1)
1qigong, a system of deep breathing exercises
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About 气功

气功Simplified
氣功Traditional
9Strokes
—Radical
名词míngcínoun (n.)Part of Speech
#40314Frequency Rank
HSK 2.0L6HSK 3.0L7HSKKL3CEFRC1

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Podcast: 气功

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AI study notes for 气功

Quick Contrast

气功 (qìgōng) vs 太极拳 (tàijíquán) — choose 气功 when emphasizing energy cultivation and breathing techniques, while 太极拳 focuses on martial arts movement and self-defense.

Usage Notes

气功 is often used in both formal and informal contexts but is primarily associated with health and wellness discussions. Common mistakes include confusing it with other forms of exercise like tai chi. Be mindful of the tones; incorrect pronunciation can change the meaning significantly.

HSK Study Tips

As an HSK 6 word, 气功 connects to other health-related vocabulary like 健康 (jiànkāng, health) and 瑜伽 (yújiā, yoga). Students should focus on its use in conversations about alternative medicine and personal wellness practices, as well as understanding its cultural significance.

Common Mistakes

Learners often confuse 气功 with other forms of exercise like 瑜伽 (yújiā, yoga). It's important to remember that while both promote wellness, their techniques and cultural backgrounds differ significantly.

AI-enhanced 2026-03-24

Pronunciation of 气功

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Component characters

气qìgas
HSK 44 strokes气
View full entry
功gōngmeritorious deed or service
HSK 75 strokes力
View full entry

How to say qigong, a system of deep breathing exercises in Chinese

“qigong, a system of deep breathing exercises” in Chinese is气功qìgōng

气功 (qìgōng) refers to a system of traditional Chinese exercises that combines controlled breathing, meditation, and movement to cultivate and balance one's vital energy, or 'qi'. It is commonly practiced for health improvement, stress reduction, and spiritual development. Qigong can be a form of physical exercise, meditation, or a holistic approach to wellness.

When to use 气功

气功 is often used in both formal and informal contexts but is primarily associated with health and wellness discussions. Common mistakes include confusing it with other forms of exercise like tai chi. Be mindful of the tones; incorrect pronunciation can change the meaning significantly.

气功 or something close to it

气功 (qìgōng) vs 太极拳 (tàijíquán) — choose 气功 when emphasizing energy cultivation and breathing techniques, while 太极拳 focuses on martial arts movement and self-defense.

What learners get wrong

Learners often confuse 气功 with other forms of exercise like 瑜伽 (yújiā, yoga). It's important to remember that while both promote wellness, their techniques and cultural backgrounds differ significantly.

Write 气功

气
功

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Cultural Notes for 气功

🌏Cross-cultural Insight

While Western cultures often emphasize physical fitness through vigorous exercise, qigong emphasizes a holistic approach to health that integrates mental and spiritual aspects, focusing on energy balance rather than just physical exertion.

Frequently asked questions about 气功

Practicing qigong can improve physical health, enhance mental clarity, reduce stress, and promote emotional well-being.

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