Meanings of 脑筋
Listen & Choose the Meaning
Choose the correct answer:
About 脑筋
Podcast: 脑筋
Podcast: 脑筋
Listen to Jason & Amy break down this word for you
New here?
AI Study Notes for 脑筋
脑力 (nǎolì) - use 脑筋 when emphasizing creative thinking or problem-solving skills, while 脑力 focuses on cognitive capacity or mental strength.
Be cautious not to confuse 脑筋 with similar terms like 思维 (thinking) or 头脑 (head/mind), which have more specific meanings. '脑筋' is often used in informal contexts, so it may not be suitable for formal writing. Watch for tone errors, particularly mispronouncing the third tone of '脑' which can change the intended meaning.
While 脑筋 is not part of the HSK vocabulary list, it connects well with other words related to thinking and intelligence at HSK Level 3-4. Students should focus on recognizing and using it in phrases about problem-solving and creativity.
Learners often mistakenly use 脑筋 to mean 'head' in a physical sense, which is incorrect. Instead, remember it refers to mental processes, as in '动脑筋' for thinking creatively rather than referring to one's physical head.
Pronunciation of 脑筋
Drill the tone of 脑筋 with AI-powered exercises, get instant feedback, and earn XP toward mastery. Interactive tone practice is part of Pro.
Component Characters
How to say brains in Chinese
“brains” in Chinese is脑筋
脑筋 refers to one's mind or way of thinking, often implying intelligence or mental agility. It is commonly used in contexts discussing problem-solving or creativity, as in the phrase '动脑筋' (to think creatively). The term emphasizes mental capacity and flexibility in thought processes.
When to use 脑筋
Be cautious not to confuse 脑筋 with similar terms like 思维 (thinking) or 头脑 (head/mind), which have more specific meanings. '脑筋' is often used in informal contexts, so it may not be suitable for formal writing. Watch for tone errors, particularly mispronouncing the third tone of '脑' which can change the intended meaning.
脑筋 or something close to it
脑力 (nǎolì) - use 脑筋 when emphasizing creative thinking or problem-solving skills, while 脑力 focuses on cognitive capacity or mental strength.
What learners get wrong
Learners often mistakenly use 脑筋 to mean 'head' in a physical sense, which is incorrect. Instead, remember it refers to mental processes, as in '动脑筋' for thinking creatively rather than referring to one's physical head.
Write 脑筋
New here? to save your writing progress and earn XP.
Practice writing 脑筋 stroke by stroke. Watch the animation to learn the stroke order, then try writing it yourself.
Frequently Asked Questions about 脑筋
You can say '他真会动脑筋' (Tā zhēn huì dòng nǎojīn), meaning 'He really knows how to think creatively.'
Jason Recommends
Not sure what to learn after 脑筋?
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.