和气
Traditional: 和氣
hé qi HSK 6

English Meaning

📚 Example Sentences

这位老师对学生非常和气。
Zhè wèi lǎoshī duì xuéshēng fēicháng héqi.
This teacher is very gentle with the students.
和气地解决问题是最好的方法。
Héqi de jiějué wèntí shì zuì hǎo de fāngfǎ.
Solving problems kindly is the best method.
他们一家人总是和和气气的。
Tāmen yī jiā rén zǒng shì héhéqìqì de.
Their family is always kind and gentle.
他待人和气。
Tā dàirén héqi.
He treats people kindly.
和气很重要。
Héqi hěn zhòngyào.
Being amiable is important.

💡 Memory Tip

Think of 和 (hé) meaning 'peace/harmony' and 气 (qì) as 'atmosphere/energy'—together, they form the 'harmonious atmosphere' between people. Associate it with the idea of 'keeping the peace' to avoid '伤和气' (hurting the harmony).

📝 Usage Notes

This word is neutral in register, used in both spoken and written Chinese. It is common in everyday contexts like family, friendships, or workplace advice to encourage harmony. It often appears in劝阻 (dissuasion) or劝告 (advice) scenarios, as in the example sentence.

📖 Grammar Points

Often used as an object in phrases like '伤了和气' (damage harmony) or '保持和气' (maintain harmony). It can also function attributively, as in '和气的人' (a harmonious/friendly person).

🏯 Cultural Notes

和气 reflects a key Confucian value emphasizing social harmony and conflict avoidance. The saying '和气生财' (harmony brings wealth) highlights its importance in business culture, where maintaining good relationships is seen as crucial for success.

🔄 Similar Words

和气 is similar to 和谐 (héxié, harmony) but focuses more on interpersonal harmony and attitude, while 和谐 is broader, describing harmony in society, music, or design. 友好 (yǒuhǎo, friendly) describes a friendly attitude or relationship, but 和气 specifically implies avoiding discord.

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