HSK Words: 普通 (pǔ tōng) VS 普遍 (pǔ biàn)

Tuesday, December 19, 2023

Synonyms are words that have similar meanings, but not always identical. Understanding the nuances between them is crucial in effective communication. In this article, we will explore the differences between 普通 (pǔ tōng) VS 普遍 (pǔ biàn) and their various synonyms to enhance our HSK vocabulary and communication skills.

普通(pǔ tōng) means usual or not special, which refers to ordinary people or things.

Examples:

  1. He was a very ordinary man, rarely noticed by everyone.
    他是个很普通的人，很少被大家注意。
    tā shì gè hěn pǔ tōng de rén ， hěn shǎo bèi dà jiā zhù yì 。
  2. This book looks ordinary, but it was a gift from my mom.
    这本书看起来很普通，但是它是妈妈送给我的礼物。
    zhè běn shū kàn qǐ lái hěn pǔ tōng ， dàn shì tā shì mā mā sòng gěi wǒ de lǐ wù 。
  3. She's just an average kid, not a genius.
    她只是个普通的孩子，不是天才。
    tā zhǐ shì gè pǔ tōng de hái zi ， bù shì tiān cái 。

普遍(pǔ biàn), in the sense that it exists on a wide scale; having a common character: a universal phenomenon.

Examples:

  1. There was general support for my view.
    大家普遍支持我的观点。
    dà jiā pǔ biàn zhī chí wǒ de guān diǎn 。
  2. This phenomenon is common in China.
    这种现象在中国很普遍。
    zhè zhǒng xiàn xiàng zài zhōng guó hěn pǔ biàn 。
  3. Handshakes are more common in some countries.
    握手在一些国家更普遍。
    wò shǒu zài yī xiē guó jiā gèng pǔ biàn 。

Quiz: Please consider whether to use 普通(pǔ tōng) VS 普遍(pǔ biàn) in following sentences.

  1. 网络舆情控制是企业____面对的问题。
    wǎng luò yú qíng kòng zhì shì qǐ yè ____ miàn duì de wèn tí 。
  2. 政府要更多地考虑____百姓地要求。
    zhèng fǔ yào gèng duō de kǎo lǜ ____ bǎi xìng dì yāo qiú 。
  3. 他的做法引起了人们____的不满。
    tā de zuò fǎ yǐn qǐ le rén men ____ de bù mǎn 。

Answer:

  1. 普遍(pǔ biàn) 
  2. 普通(pǔ tōng) 
  3. 普遍(pǔ biàn) 

Sign up for a free trial now!

FAQ / Tips

Thank you for choosing Chinese Learning for your language learning needs.If you need to cancel or reschedule a lesson, please do so at least 4 hours ahead of time. To request a cancellation, please send an email to ivy.wang @chineselearning.com or service @chineselearning.com.We appreciate your cooperation and understanding, and we look forward to providing you with the best learning experience possible."
Our learning is different from traditional language learning in a number of ways. Firstly, we use technology to enhance the learning experience and provide personalized learning paths for each student. Secondly, our focus is not just on language proficiency, but also on cultural understanding and practical application of the language.Thirdly, we place a strong emphasis on developing speaking and listening skills, as well as reading and writing.Additionally, we incorporate modern teaching methods and materials, such as multimedia resources and interactive exercises.Finally, our courses are designed to be flexible and adaptable, allowing students to learn at their own pace and according to their own schedule.
We provide a wealth of Chinese teaching materials and learning resources, including but not limited to textbooks, workbooks, listening materials, reading materials, video courses, and online courses.Our teaching materials and resources are carefully selected and designed to meet the learning needs and goals of different learners. At the same time, our teachers will provide personalized teaching and guidance based on the learning characteristics and needs of students to ensure that students can learn and master Chinese language efficiently.
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.
We offer highly flexible class schedules that cater to your needs, with lessons available from 7am to 10pm Beijing time, seven days a week.This allows you to conveniently take lessons at any time and from any location that suits your schedule.
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.