Meanings of 知识分子
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AI study notes for 知识分子
知识分子 (intellectual) vs 学者 (scholar) — use 知识分子 for a broader social role, while 学者 specifically refers to someone who specializes in academic study.
When using 知识分子, be mindful that it often carries a formal connotation and can imply a sense of responsibility towards society. Common collocations include '知识分子的责任' (the responsibilities of intellectuals) and '知识分子的角色' (the role of intellectuals). Avoid using it in casual contexts as it may sound overly pretentious.
While 知识分子 is not a standard HSK vocabulary, it connects to HSK Level 5 words related to education and society, like 学习 (xuéxí - study) and 教育 (jiàoyù - education). Students should focus on understanding the nuances of how intellectuals are perceived in Chinese society.
Learners often confuse 知识分子 with 普通人 (pǔtōngrén - ordinary people), mistakenly applying it to those without a higher education. For example, saying '他是一个普通知识分子' (He is an ordinary intellectual) is incorrect; instead, use '他是一个知识分子' (He is an intellectual).
Pronunciation of 知识分子
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Idiom spotlight: 知识分子
Component characters
How to say intellectual in Chinese
“intellectual” in Chinese is知识分子
The term 知识分子 (zhīshifènzǐ) refers to individuals who are engaged in intellectual pursuits, often characterized by their education and critical thinking. Commonly used in discussions about academia, culture, and social issues, it highlights the role of educated people in society, particularly in influencing ideas and policies.
When to use 知识分子
When using 知识分子, be mindful that it often carries a formal connotation and can imply a sense of responsibility towards society. Common collocations include '知识分子的责任' (the responsibilities of intellectuals) and '知识分子的角色' (the role of intellectuals). Avoid using it in casual contexts as it may sound overly pretentious.
知识分子 or something close to it
知识分子 (intellectual) vs 学者 (scholar) — use 知识分子 for a broader social role, while 学者 specifically refers to someone who specializes in academic study.
What learners get wrong
Learners often confuse 知识分子 with 普通人 (pǔtōngrén - ordinary people), mistakenly applying it to those without a higher education. For example, saying '他是一个普通知识分子' (He is an ordinary intellectual) is incorrect; instead, use '他是一个知识分子' (He is an intellectual).
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Cultural Notes for 知识分子
知识分子在中国历史上被视为社会的中坚力量，尤其是在古代，读书人被称为‘士’。士阶层在科举制度下扮演着重要角色，影响着国家的政策和文化发展。
‘书中自有黄金屋’这句古语强调了知识的重要性，认为知识能够带来财富和地位，是对知识分子的赞美。
In Western cultures, the term 'intellectual' often carries a more individualistic connotation, whereas 知识分子 emphasizes collective responsibility and social contribution.
Frequently asked questions about 知识分子
知识分子 play a crucial role in society as they contribute to the development of ideas, culture, and education. They often engage in public discourse and can influence political and social change through their work and advocacy.
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