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黑马 — pronunciations, definitions, and tags
HanziPinyinEnglishTags
黑马hēimǎdark horseHSK 7, unknown, 15 strokes, rank #16629, Very Hard
黑马hēimǎfig. unexpected winnerHSK 7, unknown, 15 strokes, rank #16629, Very Hard
hēimǎ(hei1ma3)hei ma T1
  1. 1dark horse
  2. 2fig. unexpected winner
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March 24, 2026

黑马(黑馬)hēimǎ(hei1ma3)

The term '黑马' (hēi mǎ) literally translates to 'black horse' and is commonly used to refer to an unexpected winner or a surprise contender in competitions, elections, or other competitive contexts. This phrase can also imply someone or something that has hidden talents or potential that others may not recognize.

Strokes15Frequency#16629DifficultyVery Hard
Cultural Note

'黑马' has cultural significance in various Chinese contexts, particularly in sports and politics, where underdogs may emerge victorious. This reflects the Chinese value of perseverance and the belief that unexpected success is possible with hard work.

Memory Tip

Imagine a dark horse racing unexpectedly ahead of the pack, surprising everyone with its speed and agility. The character '黑' (hēi) looks like a shadow, suggesting something hidden, while '马' (mǎ) means horse, helping you remember that it's about an unexpected winner in a race.

Meanings of 黑马

hēimǎ(hei1ma3)
1dark horse
2fig. unexpected winner
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About 黑马

黑马Simplified
黑馬Traditional
15Strokes
—Radical
名词míngcínoun (n.)Part of Speech
#—Frequency Rank
HSK 3.0L7AdvancedCEFRC2

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Podcast: 黑马

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AI Study Notes for 黑马

Quick Contrast

意外 (yìwài, unexpected) — use '黑马' when emphasizing an unexpected winner or surprise in a competitive context, rather than just any unexpected occurrence.

Usage Notes

When using '黑马', it's essential to apply it in contexts related to competition or surprise outcomes. A common mistake is to use it in non-competitive contexts; for instance, saying '他是我的黑马' (He is my black horse) might sound awkward unless you specify a competitive scenario. It is more commonly used in informal contexts.

HSK Study Tips

As this term is not a standard HSK vocabulary word, it may be beneficial for learners at HSK 4 and above to understand idiomatic expressions. Focus on how '黑马' can be applied in discussions about sports, politics, or any competitive events to enhance conversational skills.

Common Mistakes

Learners often confuse '黑马' with '黑羊' (hēi yáng), which does not exist in this context. Always remember that '黑马' is strictly used for unexpected winners, not for any other animal.

AI-enhanced 2026-03-24

Pronunciation of 黑马

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Component Characters

黑hēiblack
HSK 512 strokes黑
View full entry
马mǎhorse
HSK 33 strokes马
View full entry

How to say dark horse in Chinese

“dark horse” in Chinese is黑马hēimǎ

The term '黑马' (hēi mǎ) literally translates to 'black horse' and is commonly used to refer to an unexpected winner or a surprise contender in competitions, elections, or other competitive contexts. This phrase can also imply someone or something that has hidden talents or potential that others may not recognize.

When to use 黑马

When using '黑马', it's essential to apply it in contexts related to competition or surprise outcomes. A common mistake is to use it in non-competitive contexts; for instance, saying '他是我的黑马' (He is my black horse) might sound awkward unless you specify a competitive scenario. It is more commonly used in informal contexts.

黑马 or something close to it

意外 (yìwài, unexpected) — use '黑马' when emphasizing an unexpected winner or surprise in a competitive context, rather than just any unexpected occurrence.

What learners get wrong

Learners often confuse '黑马' with '黑羊' (hēi yáng), which does not exist in this context. Always remember that '黑马' is strictly used for unexpected winners, not for any other animal.

Write 黑马

黑
马

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Frequently Asked Questions about 黑马

Yes, '黑马' can refer to a company or individual that unexpectedly becomes successful or competitive in the market.

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