Meanings of 虚伪
Listen & Choose the Meaning
Choose the correct answer:
About 虚伪
Podcast: 虚伪
Podcast: 虚伪
Listen to Jason & Amy break down this word for you
New here?
AI Study Notes for 虚伪
虚假 (xūjiǎ) - use 虚伪 when referring to insincerity in character or actions, while 虚假 emphasizes falsehood or deception in statements or representations.
This word is often used in formal contexts, particularly in philosophical or moral discussions. Be careful not to confuse it with similar-sounding words; the tone is critical, so use it judiciously to avoid sounding overly harsh or accusatory. Common collocations include '虚伪的态度' (hypocritical attitude) or '虚伪的行为' (hypocritical behavior).
As an HSK Level 6 word, 虚伪 connects to other vocabulary related to ethics and personal character, such as 诚实 (chéng shí, honesty) and 真实 (zhēn shí, truth). Students should focus on understanding its use in various contexts and practice constructing sentences that reflect its nuanced meaning.
Learners often misuse 虚伪 by applying it too broadly; for example, saying '这个人很虚伪' (This person is very false) without context can sound vague. Instead, specify the behavior, like '他的承诺很虚伪' (His promises are very hypocritical).
Pronunciation of 虚伪
Drill the tone of 虚伪 with AI-powered exercises, get instant feedback, and earn XP toward mastery. Interactive tone practice is part of Pro.
Component Characters
How to say false in Chinese
“false” in Chinese is虚伪
虚伪 (xū wěi) refers to a state of being false or insincere, often used to describe actions or people that pretend to have qualities or beliefs that they do not genuinely possess. It commonly appears in discussions about morality, ethics, and social behavior, highlighting the disparity between one's outward appearance and inner reality.
When to use 虚伪
This word is often used in formal contexts, particularly in philosophical or moral discussions. Be careful not to confuse it with similar-sounding words; the tone is critical, so use it judiciously to avoid sounding overly harsh or accusatory. Common collocations include '虚伪的态度' (hypocritical attitude) or '虚伪的行为' (hypocritical behavior).
虚伪 or something close to it
虚假 (xūjiǎ) - use 虚伪 when referring to insincerity in character or actions, while 虚假 emphasizes falsehood or deception in statements or representations.
What learners get wrong
Learners often misuse 虚伪 by applying it too broadly; for example, saying '这个人很虚伪' (This person is very false) without context can sound vague. Instead, specify the behavior, like '他的承诺很虚伪' (His promises are very hypocritical).
Write 虚伪
New here? to save your writing progress and earn XP.
Practice writing 虚伪 stroke by stroke. Watch the animation to learn the stroke order, then try writing it yourself.
Grammar Patterns of 虚伪
虚伪 functions as an adjective. In Chinese it behaves like a stative verb: place it directly after the subject without 是 (我很高，not 我是高). Use 不 to negate (不高) and pair it with 很 in plain affirmative sentences. It carries 4 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
男爵对整件事的____感到越来越生气。
The baron became increasingly heated over the hypocrisy of it all.
Example Sentences for 虚伪 (2)
Frequently Asked Questions about 虚伪
The opposite would be 诚实 (chéng shí), meaning 'honest' or 'truthful.'
Jason Recommends
Not sure what to learn after 虚伪?
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.