Meanings of 翻来覆去
Listen & Choose the Meaning
Choose the correct answer:
About 翻来覆去
Podcast: 翻来覆去
Podcast: 翻来覆去
Listen to Jason & Amy break down this word for you
New here?
AI Study Notes for 翻来覆去
反复 (fǎnfù) — use 翻来覆去 for a more vivid image of restlessness, while 反复 is more neutral and can refer to any repeated action.
Be careful with the context in which you use this idiom; it can convey a sense of frustration or discomfort. It is generally informal and may not be suitable for formal writing. Common collocations include '翻来覆去的思考' (repeatedly thinking) and '翻来覆去的睡眠' (sleepless tossing and turning).
This idiom is suitable for intermediate learners, as it combines basic verbs with more complex meanings. Students should focus on the individual components of the phrase and how they work together to convey the overall meaning.
Learners often confuse the tones, pronouncing it as 'fan2 lai2 fu4 qu4' instead of the correct 'fan1 lai2 fu4 qu4'. Additionally, some may use it in a positive context, which is incorrect.
Pronunciation of 翻来覆去
Drill the tone of 翻来覆去 with AI-powered exercises, get instant feedback, and earn XP toward mastery. Interactive tone practice is part of Pro.
Idiom Spotlight: 翻来覆去
Component Characters
How to say to toss and turn (sleeplessly) in Chinese
“to toss and turn (sleeplessly)” in Chinese is翻来覆去
翻来覆去 (fān lái fù qù) is an idiom that means to toss and turn, typically used to describe someone who is unable to sleep due to restlessness or anxiety. It can also imply doing something repeatedly or going back and forth on a decision or thought.
When to use 翻来覆去
Be careful with the context in which you use this idiom; it can convey a sense of frustration or discomfort. It is generally informal and may not be suitable for formal writing. Common collocations include '翻来覆去的思考' (repeatedly thinking) and '翻来覆去的睡眠' (sleepless tossing and turning).
翻来覆去 or something close to it
反复 (fǎnfù) — use 翻来覆去 for a more vivid image of restlessness, while 反复 is more neutral and can refer to any repeated action.
What learners get wrong
Learners often confuse the tones, pronouncing it as 'fan2 lai2 fu4 qu4' instead of the correct 'fan1 lai2 fu4 qu4'. Additionally, some may use it in a positive context, which is incorrect.
Write 翻来覆去
New here? to save your writing progress and earn XP.
Practice writing 翻来覆去 stroke by stroke. Watch the animation to learn the stroke order, then try writing it yourself.
Frequently Asked Questions about 翻来覆去
No, this idiom generally carries a negative connotation, indicating restlessness or indecision.
Jason Recommends
Not sure what to learn after 翻来覆去?
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.