参加
Traditional: 參加
cān jiā HSK 3

English Meaning

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📚 Example Sentences

他参加了比赛。
Tā cānjiā le bǐsài.
He took part in the competition.
我想参加聚会。
Wǒ xiǎng cānjiā jùhuì.
I want to join the party.
她参加了考试。
Tā cānjiā le kǎoshì.
She took the exam.
我参加比赛。
Wǒ cānjiā bǐsài.
I join the competition.
他参加会议。
Tā cānjiā huìyì.
He attends the meeting.

💡 Memory Tip

Break it down: 参 (cān) can relate to 'joining' as in 参考 (reference), and 加 (jiā) means 'to add'—think of 'adding yourself' to an event to participate.

📝 Usage Notes

It is neutral in formality, used in both spoken and written Chinese across formal and informal contexts. Common in settings like meetings, parties, competitions, clubs, or discussions.

📖 Grammar Points

Used as a transitive verb followed by a noun object (e.g., 参加 + event). It can be modified by adverbs like 积极 (actively) or 必须 (must). Often appears in structures like 参加...的会议.

🏯 Cultural Notes

In Chinese culture, participating in group activities is often valued for social harmony and collective effort, so 参加 is frequently used in educational, workplace, and community contexts to encourage involvement.

🔄 Similar Words

Similar to 参与 (cānyù), which also means 'to participate' but often implies deeper involvement in processes like discussions or planning. 参加 is broader and more common for general attendance, while 参与 can be more formal or active.

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