Meanings of 磋商
Listen & Choose the Meaning
Choose the correct answer:
About 磋商
Podcast: 磋商
Podcast: 磋商
Listen to Jason & Amy break down this word for you
New here?
AI Study Notes for 磋商
磋商 (cuōshāng) vs 商讨 (shāngtǎo): 磋商 emphasizes a more formal and serious negotiation process, while 商讨 suggests a more general discussion or deliberation.
Be careful not to confuse 磋商 with other terms for discussion like 讨论 (tǎo lùn), which is more casual. 磋商 is more formal and often involves official parties. It is typically used in contexts that require seriousness and depth, such as diplomatic discussions or business negotiations.
As an HSK Level 6 word, 磋商 connects with other advanced vocabulary related to negotiation and communication, such as 协商 (xié shāng) and 谈判 (tán pàn). Focus on understanding the nuances of formal discussions and practice using it in appropriate contexts.
Learners often misuse 磋商 in informal contexts, mistakenly saying '我们来磋商这个问题' (let's negotiate this issue) among friends. Instead, they should use 讨论 (let's discuss this issue).
Pronunciation of 磋商
Drill the tone of 磋商 with AI-powered exercises, get instant feedback, and earn XP toward mastery. Interactive tone practice is part of Pro.
Component Characters
How to say to consult in Chinese
“to consult” in Chinese is磋商
磋商 refers to the act of consulting or discussing matters seriously, often in the context of negotiations or formal discussions. It is commonly used in business, politics, or legal contexts where parties come together to reach an agreement or resolve issues.
When to use 磋商
Be careful not to confuse 磋商 with other terms for discussion like 讨论 (tǎo lùn), which is more casual. 磋商 is more formal and often involves official parties. It is typically used in contexts that require seriousness and depth, such as diplomatic discussions or business negotiations.
磋商 or something close to it
磋商 (cuōshāng) vs 商讨 (shāngtǎo): 磋商 emphasizes a more formal and serious negotiation process, while 商讨 suggests a more general discussion or deliberation.
What learners get wrong
Learners often misuse 磋商 in informal contexts, mistakenly saying '我们来磋商这个问题' (let's negotiate this issue) among friends. Instead, they should use 讨论 (let's discuss this issue).
Write 磋商
New here? to save your writing progress and earn XP.
Practice writing 磋商 stroke by stroke. Watch the animation to learn the stroke order, then try writing it yourself.
Grammar Patterns of 磋商
磋商 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 6 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.
Complete the Sentence
____中还达成了重启两个联委会的决议。
It was also agreed to reactivate two joint committees on negotiations.
Example Sentences for 磋商 (2)
Cultural Notes for 磋商
In Western cultures, negotiations may emphasize directness and assertiveness, while 磋商 embodies a more collaborative and harmonious approach, reflecting the Chinese value of maintaining relationships.
Frequently Asked Questions about 磋商
Use 磋商 when the context is formal and involves serious negotiation, while 讨论 is more suitable for casual discussions.
Jason Recommends
Not sure what to learn after 磋商?
Jason picks three words from your level and explains why each one is worth your time next. It takes a free account so he knows what you already know.