学习
xué xí
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."
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xué xí zhī shito acquire knowledge
- 学习语言xué xí yǔ yánto learn a language
Examples
我喜欢学习新事物。
wǒ xǐ huan xué xí xīn shì wù 。
I like learning new things.
他正在努力学习中文。
tā zhèng zài nǔ lì xué xí zhōng wén 。
He is diligently studying Chinese.
学习是一个持续的过程。
xué xí shì yí gè chí xù de guò chéng 。
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
和平 · Peace钱 · Money闭嘴 · Shut up
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