HSK Words: 故意 (gù yì) VS 特意 (tè yì)

Thursday, December 28, 2023

When learning Chinese, the HSK words 故意 (gù yì) and 特意 (tè yì) are often confused. They all convey some intent or purpose. Their meanings and usage differ slightly. In this article, we will distinguish between these two words by analyzing their meanings and usage.

The word 故意 (gù yì) mainly refers to doing something consciously and deliberately, with intention or motive behind it. It emphasizes the intention and motive behind an action and often carries a negative or derogatory connotation.

Examples:

  1. He deliberately knocked over the cup.
    他故意打翻了杯子。
    tā gù yì dǎ fān le bēi zi。
  2. I know he is lying, but he deliberately concealed the truth.
    我知道他在说谎,但他故意隐瞒了真相。
    wǒ zhī dào tā zài shuō huǎng,dàn tā gù yì yǐn mán le zhēn xiàng。
  3. He deliberately told her the truth to make her angry.
    他故意把真相告诉了她,想让她生气。
    tā gù yì bǎ zhēn xiāng gào sù le tā,xiǎng ràng tā shēng qì。

The word 特意 (tè yì) means doing something in a special way or for a specific purpose. It emphasizes the special nature or importance of an action and is often used to express a positive intention or attitude.

Examples:

  1. I specially prepared this gift for you.
    我特意为你准备了这个礼物。
    wǒ tè yì wèi nǐ zhǔn bèi le zhè gè lǐ wù 。
  2. He used the towel that the master had prepared for him.
    他用了主人特意给他准备的毛巾。
    tā yòng le zhǔ rén tè yì gěi tā zhǔn bèi de máo jīn 。
  3. I arrived at the company early especially today.
    今天我特意提前到了公司。
    jīn tiān wǒ tè yì tí qián dào le gōng sī 。

By understanding the differences in meaning and usage of these two words, we can more accurately use them in Chinese communication, avoiding confusion and misunderstanding.

Quiz: Please consider whether to use 故意 (gù yì) or 特意 (tè yì) in the following sentences.

  1. 我们____停下来欣赏风景。
    wǒ men ____ tíng xià lái xīn shǎng fēng jǐng。
  2. 他从来不会____伤害任何人。
    tā cóng lái bù huì ____ shāng hài rèn hé rén 。
  3. 他们正____隐瞒消息。
    tā men zhèng ____ yǐn mán xiāo xī 。

Answers:

  1. 特意 (tè yì)
  2. 故意 (gù yì)
  3. 故意 (gù yì)

Sign up for a free trial now!

FAQ / Tips

As a first - time student, if you are not completely satisfied with our service, we offer a cancellation policy that allows you to cancel your subscription before the first month. In such cases, we only charge a one - month fee and refund the remaining balance to you as soon as possible.We strive to ensure that our customers are fully satisfied with our service and are committed to providing a hassle - free refund process.
Our Chinese learning method is focused on personalized and interactive one-on-one lessons with a professional teacher. The lessons are conducted live through our online teaching platform, which allows you to see and talk to the teacher. You can schedule the lessons at a time that suits you, and the teacher will tailor the lesson content to your specific needs and goals. During the lesson, you can ask questions and receive feedback from the teacher to ensure you understand and master the knowledge and skills being taught. We also have a student service team and academic coordinator team to assist you with your learning and provide any additional support you may need.Overall, our method is designed to be flexible, personalized, and interactive to help you achieve your language learning goals.
Our students come from a wide range of ages, from 3 years old to over 80 years old. Our courses are tailored to each student's age and proficiency level to ensure they can receive maximum benefit and progress. Whether you want to learn Chinese as a second language or improve your existing Chinese skills, we can provide you with courses and resources that are suitable for you
We offer secure and convenient payment options, including PayPal. PayPal is a widely recognized and trusted online payment platform that provides a secure way to make transactions. We also follow industry-standard security protocols to ensure the safety of your personal and financial information.
Our teaching methodology is centered around our students and their individual learning objectives.We provide personalized learning plans, innovative and flexible teaching materials and methods, and strive to make learning Chinese a joyful and enjoyable experience.Our approach is designed to engage students and foster a deep understanding of the Chinese language, culture, and customs. We believe that learning should be fun and meaningful, and we work hard to ensure that every student enjoys their Chinese language learning journey with us.
If you have any questions or concerns, you can send an email to: service @chineselearning.com.We have a team of professionals who will be happy to assist you with any issues as soon as possible.