Meanings of 空洞
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Podcast: 空洞
Podcast: 空洞
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AI Study Notes for 空洞
空虚 (kōng xū) refers to emptiness or void, often in a more abstract or emotional sense, while 空洞 (kōng dòng) specifically denotes a physical cavity or emptiness within a solid object.
The term 空洞 is often used in both formal and informal contexts, but it is more commonly found in descriptive writing or technical discussions. Be cautious of its usage in metaphors; for example, saying '空洞的论点' (a hollow argument) implies a lack of depth or validity.
As an HSK 6 word, 空洞 is useful for discussing abstract concepts and physical spaces alike. Students should focus on its applications in both literal and figurative language, as well as collocations with other words like 思想 (thought) or 话语 (speech).
Learners often confuse 空洞 with similar terms like 空虚 (kōng xū), which specifically means emptiness or vacuity in a more abstract sense. For example, saying '他的生活是空洞的' (His life is hollow) is correct, but using 空虚 would be more appropriate if emphasizing emotional emptiness.
Pronunciation of 空洞
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Jason Explains 空洞 to You
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Its meaning, its character, its pinyin, its tone — hearing it, saying it, writing it. The Learning Lab measures each one from your own practice, on every word you study, so you see what you actually know rather than how much you have done.
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Component Characters
How to say cavity in Chinese
“cavity” in Chinese is空洞
空洞 (kōng dòng) refers to an empty space or cavity within a solid object. It can be used in both physical contexts, such as describing a hollow object, and metaphorical ones, like describing a vacuous argument or idea that lacks substance.
When to use 空洞
The term 空洞 is often used in both formal and informal contexts, but it is more commonly found in descriptive writing or technical discussions. Be cautious of its usage in metaphors; for example, saying '空洞的论点' (a hollow argument) implies a lack of depth or validity.
空洞 or something close to it
空虚 (kōng xū) refers to emptiness or void, often in a more abstract or emotional sense, while 空洞 (kōng dòng) specifically denotes a physical cavity or emptiness within a solid object.
What learners get wrong
Learners often confuse 空洞 with similar terms like 空虚 (kōng xū), which specifically means emptiness or vacuity in a more abstract sense. For example, saying '他的生活是空洞的' (His life is hollow) is correct, but using 空虚 would be more appropriate if emphasizing emotional emptiness.
Write 空洞
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Practice writing 空洞 stroke by stroke. Watch the animation to learn the stroke order, then try writing it yourself.
Grammar Patterns of 空洞
空洞 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). 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.
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对《星期天的爱情》这首歌的即兴模仿听起来尤其____。
The ersatz spontaneity of "Sunday Love" sounds especially hollow.
Example Sentences for 空洞 (3)
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Frequently Asked Questions about 空洞
Yes, you can use 空洞 metaphorically to describe feelings of emptiness or lack of fulfillment, such as in relationships.
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