参观
Traditional: 參觀
cān guān HSK 4

English Meaning

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📚 Example Sentences

我们参观博物馆。
Wǒmen cānguān bówùguǎn.
We visit the museum.
他参观学校。
Tā cānguān xuéxiào.
He visits the school.
我想参观公园。
Wǒ xiǎng cānguān gōngyuán.
I want to visit the park.
我们参观博物馆。
Wǒmen cānguān bówùguǎn.
We visit the museum.
他参观工厂。
Tā cānguān gōngchǎng.
He visits the factory.

💡 Memory Tip

Break the characters: 参 (cān) can mean 'to take part in' and 观 (guān) means 'to look at' or 'view'. So, 参观 is like 'taking part in viewing' something—a perfect fit for a structured visit.

📝 Usage Notes

参观 is used in both formal and informal contexts, in spoken and written Chinese. It is commonly used for visiting public or cultural venues like museums, factories, schools, or tourist attractions. It is not typically used for visiting people (use 拜访 or 看望 for that).

📖 Grammar Points

参观 is a transitive verb and usually takes an object (e.g., 参观博物馆). It can be used in serial verb constructions (e.g., 去西安参观兵马俑). It can also be used with aspect markers like 了 (参观了), 过 (参观过), or 正在 (正在参观).

🏯 Cultural Notes

In Chinese culture, 参观 is a common activity for schools and organizations to promote cultural education. Places like museums and historical sites often have discounted or free entry for group 参观. It reflects a value placed on collective learning and cultural heritage appreciation.

🔄 Similar Words

参观 focuses on viewing places/things for learning. 访问 (fǎngwèn) is more formal, often for official visits or interviews. 游览 (yóulǎn) emphasizes touring for pleasure, like sightseeing. 看望 (kànwàng) means to visit people, especially to show concern.

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