学习
xuéxí
Learning · trad. 學習
学习 (xuéxí) is the most common and versatile word for "to learn" or "to study" in Mandarin Chinese. It can refer to acquiring knowledge, skills, or even a new language. It can also be used as a noun meaning "learning" or "study."
What does 学习 (xuéxí) mean?
学习 (xuéxí) means “learning” in English. Word for word, it breaks down as “study practice.”
When to use it
Neutral and widely applicable. It's used for formal education, self-study, or learning new skills. For a more casual or specific "to learn" (especially a subject or skill), you might just use 学 (xué). When someone asks about your studies, you might say 我在学习中文 (Wǒ zài xuéxí Zhōngwén, "I am learning Chinese").
How to pronounce it
Sounds like "shweh-SHEE." Both syllables have a rising (second) tone.
Other ways to say it
- 学xuéto learn / to study (more casual, often for a specific subject/skill)
- 学习知识xuéxí zhīshito acquire knowledge
- 学习语言xuéxí yǔyánto learn a language
Examples
我喜欢学习新事物。
wǒ xǐhuan xuéxí xīn shìwù.
I like learning new things.
他正在努力学习中文。
tā zhèngzài nǔlì xuéxí Zhōngwén.
He is diligently studying Chinese.
学习是一个持续的过程。
xuéxí shì yī ge chíxù de guòchéng.
Learning is a continuous process.
Pro tip: 学习 can be both a verb ("to learn/study") and a noun ("learning/study"). For example, "学习很重要" (Learning is very important) uses it as a noun. When used as a verb, it often implies a more formal or sustained effort than just 学.
Related phrases
课 · Class字母 · Alphabet一二三四五六七八九十 · 1 to 10
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