At the A1 level, the word '起草' (qǐcǎo) might seem a bit advanced because it is used in formal situations. However, you can understand it by looking at its parts. '起' (qǐ) means 'to start.' You know this from '起床' (qǐchuáng - get out of bed). '草' (cǎo) means 'grass,' but here it means 'rough' or 'not finished.' So, '起草' means to start writing something that is not finished yet, like a first version. Imagine you are writing a letter to a friend. The first time you write it, you might make mistakes. That first version is a 'draft.' In A1, you mostly use the word '写' (xiě - write). But if you want to sound very smart in an office, you can say '起草.' For example, if your teacher asks you to write a story, you can say you are '起草' the story. It shows you know that you will change it later. Remember: '起' = start, '草' = draft. It is a very useful word for the future!
At the A2 level, you are beginning to learn more specific verbs for different types of writing. '起草' (qǐcǎo) is a verb that means 'to draft.' While '写' (xiě) is general, '起草' is more professional. You use it when you are preparing a document that will be checked by someone else. For example, in an office, you might '起草一份邮件' (draft an email) or '起草一个计划' (draft a plan). The structure is simple: [Person] + 起草 + [Document]. You can also use '正在' (zhèngzài) to say you are doing it right now: '我正在起草报告' (I am drafting the report). At this level, you should start noticing '起草' in news headlines or formal announcements. It tells you that the document mentioned is new and still being worked on. It is a 'Level 2' writing word that makes your Chinese sound more formal than just using '写' all the time.
As a B1 learner, you should be comfortable using '起草' (qǐcǎo) in business and formal contexts. This is the level where the word becomes truly useful. '起草' is specifically for formal documents like contracts (合同 - hétong), speeches (发言稿 - fāyángǎo), or proposals (提议 - tíyì). At this level, you should also learn the word '草案' (cǎo'àn), which is the noun for 'draft bill' or 'draft proposal.' You will often see '起草小组' (drafting group) in company news. One important nuance for B1 learners is the difference between '起草' and '打草稿.' '打草稿' is for rough notes or math working, while '起草' is for structured documents. You should also be able to use the '由...起草' construction, which is common in formal writing: '这个合同由我起草' (This contract was drafted by me). This passive-like structure is very common in professional Chinese and will help you sound more like a native speaker in a work environment.
At the B2 level, you need to understand '起草' (qǐcǎo) within the context of administrative and legal procedures. Drafting is not just writing; it's a phase in a larger process that includes '修改' (xiūgǎi - revision), '审核' (shěnhé - auditing/reviewing), and '批准' (pīzhǔn - approval). You should be able to discuss the '起草过程' (drafting process) and explain who the '起草人' (drafter) is. In B2, you should also distinguish '起草' from synonyms like '拟定' (nǐdìng). While '起草' focuses on the textual creation, '拟定' focuses on the formulation of policies or plans. For example, you '拟定' a strategy but '起草' the document that outlines it. You will also encounter '起草' in more abstract formal settings, such as drafting a '声明' (shēngmíng - statement) or a '公约' (gōngyuē - convention). Your ability to use this word correctly in these high-stakes contexts demonstrates that you have moved beyond basic communication into professional-level proficiency.
For C1 learners, '起草' (qǐcǎo) should be understood as a key term in legal and political discourse. You should analyze how '起草' is used in the context of legislative history. For instance, when studying the '起草背景' (drafting background) of a law, you are looking at the social and political reasons why the law was written in a certain way. At this level, you should also be familiar with the historical etymology of '草' as it relates to '草书' (grass script) and how this concept of 'speed and lack of finality' evolved into the modern administrative term. You should be able to use '起草' in complex sentences with multiple clauses, such as: '在广泛征求各方意见的基础上,起草小组对初稿进行了多次修改' (On the basis of extensively seeking opinions from all parties, the drafting group made multiple revisions to the first draft). This level of precision shows you understand not just the word, but the entire professional ecosystem in which it exists.
At the C2 level, you possess a native-like grasp of '起草' (qǐcǎo) and its role in the highest levels of rhetoric and diplomacy. You can appreciate the weight of the word when it appears in international treaties or constitutional amendments. You understand that the '起草权' (the right/power to draft) is a significant political tool, as the person who drafts the document often sets the agenda. You can use the word in nuanced discussions about ghostwriting, legal authorship, and the evolution of bureaucratic language in China. You can also distinguish between the '起草' of a document and its '润色' (rùnsè - polishing/refining), recognizing that '起草' is the foundational act of creation. At this level, you might even use the word metaphorically in high-level literature or academic critiques. Your usage is indistinguishable from that of a highly educated native speaker, correctly placing '起草' in the exact social and professional register required by the context.

起草 في 30 ثانية

  • 起草 (qǐcǎo) means 'to draft' formal documents like contracts or reports.
  • It is a professional verb, more formal than the general word '写' (to write).
  • The word literally means 'initiating a rough version' (起 + 草).
  • Commonly used in business, law, and government contexts for preliminary versions.

The Chinese term 起草 (qǐcǎo) is a formal verb primarily used in professional, legal, and administrative contexts. At its core, it means 'to draft' or 'to draw up' a document, plan, or proposal. The word is composed of two characters: 起 (qǐ), meaning 'to rise,' 'to start,' or 'to initiate,' and 草 (cǎo), which literally means 'grass.' However, in the context of writing, refers to a 'rough draft' or 'preliminary version,' derived from the concept of 'grass script' (草书), a fast and informal style of calligraphy. Therefore, 起草 literally translates to 'initiating the rough version.'

Formal Context
Used when creating official documents like contracts, laws, or government reports. It implies a level of seriousness and a structured process of refinement that follows the initial writing phase.
Business Application
In a corporate setting, one might 起草 a business proposal or a new company policy. It suggests that the document is not yet finalized and is subject to review and revision by superiors or legal teams.

秘书正在为经理起草下周会议的报告。(The secretary is currently drafting the report for next week's meeting for the manager.)

Understanding the nuance of 起草 requires recognizing that it is not simply 'writing' (写 - xiě). While 'writing' is a general action, 起草 specifically targets the creation of a foundational text that will serve as the basis for a final, polished version. It is a collaborative word; often, one person drafts, and another reviews. In historical contexts, the use of to mean 'draft' dates back to the Han Dynasty, where preliminary thoughts were jotted down quickly, much like the wild growth of grass. This metaphorical link emphasizes the raw, unrefined nature of a first version.

法律专家们花了三个月的时间来起草这部新法案。(Legal experts spent three months drafting this new bill.)

In modern Chinese, 起草 is almost exclusively a transitive verb, meaning it needs an object. You don't just 'draft'; you draft a 'document' (文件), a 'contract' (合同), or a 'speech' (演讲稿). It is rarely used for creative writing like poetry or novels, where words like 创作 (chuàngzuò) or 写 (xiě) are more appropriate. Using 起草 for a poem would sound overly bureaucratic, as if the poem were a government resolution. This distinction is crucial for learners who wish to sound natural in different social settings.

Colloquial vs. Formal
While formal, you will still hear it in offices. For example, '谁来起草这个通知?' (Who will draft this notice?) is a common workplace question. It bridges the gap between high-level diplomacy and everyday office administration.

我们需要先起草一个大纲,然后再填充内容。(We need to draft an outline first, and then fill in the content.)

Using 起草 (qǐcǎo) correctly involves understanding its grammatical role as a transitive verb. It typically follows the structure: [Subject] + [Adverbial/Time] + 起草 + [Object]. The objects are almost always formal documents. Let's break down the various ways this word appears in sentence structures to help you master its application in both spoken and written Chinese.

Standard Active Voice
This is the most common usage. The subject is the person or entity doing the drafting. Example: '委员会起草了新的章程。' (The committee drafted the new bylaws.) Here, the action is direct and clear.
Using '由' (By) for Passive/Formal Structure
In official settings, you often see '由...起草' (drafted by...). Example: '这份文件由法律部起草。' (This document was drafted by the legal department.) This structure is preferred in formal reports and academic writing.

他在电脑前坐了整晚,只为了起草那份重要的协议。(He sat in front of the computer all night just to draft that important agreement.)

When describing the process of drafting, you can use resultative complements or duration markers. For instance, 起草好 (qǐcǎo hǎo) means the draft is finished and ready. 起草完 (qǐcǎo wán) simply means the act of drafting is over. You can also say 正在起草 (zhèngzài qǐcǎo) to indicate the action is currently in progress. Because 起草 is a formal word, it is often paired with formal adverbs like 亲自 (qīnzì - personally) or 联合 (liánhé - jointly).

两国政府决定共同起草一份和平声明。(The governments of the two countries decided to jointly draft a peace statement.)

Another important aspect is the 'Drafting Committee' or 'Drafting Group,' which in Chinese is 起草小组 (qǐcǎo xiǎozǔ) or 起草委员会 (qǐcǎo wěiyuánhuì). These terms are ubiquitous in Chinese news reports regarding new legislation or major political reforms. If you are a student of Chinese politics or law, mastering these phrases is essential. The word also appears in the context of 'drafting a speech' for a leader, where the ghostwriter is the one 起草-ing.

Negative Sentences
To say someone hasn't drafted something yet, use '还没' (hái méi). Example: '他还没起草完那份合同。' (He hasn't finished drafting that contract yet.) This emphasizes the ongoing nature of the task.

经理要求我在下班前起草出一份初步的计划书。(The manager required me to draft a preliminary plan before the end of the day.)

You will encounter 起草 (qǐcǎo) in specific environments that prioritize formal communication. While you might not hear it at a casual dinner party, it is a staple of professional life in China. Understanding where it appears will help you recognize its social weight and the expectations of the speaker.

The Modern Office (Corporate China)
In tech companies, banks, or manufacturing firms, 起草 is the standard term for preparing documents. When a manager says, '小王,你来起草一下这个项目的合作协议' (Xiao Wang, you draft the cooperation agreement for this project), they are assigning a task that requires precision and a formal tone. It suggests that Xiao Wang is trusted with the foundational language of the deal.
News and Media (CCTV/People's Daily)
If you watch Chinese news, you will frequently hear about the '起草过程' (drafting process) of national policies. For example, during the 'Two Sessions' (两会), reporters often discuss how various groups are 起草-ing amendments to the constitution or new environmental laws. It conveys a sense of national importance and meticulous labor.

新闻报道称,专家组已经完成了新规章的起草工作。(News reports state that the expert group has completed the drafting work for the new regulations.)

In legal settings, 起草 is the bread and butter of lawyers. Law firms offer '起草合同' (drafting contracts) as a primary service. Here, the word carries legal liability; a poorly 起草-ed document can lead to lawsuits. This is why the word is associated with high stakes. If you are signing a lease in China, the landlord might say, '合同已经起草好了,你看看' (The contract has been drafted, take a look).

在正式发布之前,这份声明还需要经过多次起草和修改。(Before being officially released, this statement still needs several rounds of drafting and revision.)

Finally, in academic circles, professors and researchers 起草 papers or grant proposals. While '写论文' (writing a paper) is common, '起草论文提纲' (drafting a paper outline) sounds more professional and systematic. It implies a phase of the research process where ideas are being crystallized into a formal structure. In all these contexts, 起草 remains a 'work-in-progress' word that commands respect for the effort involved in the writing process.

Diplomacy
The '起草人' (drafter) of a joint communiqué between nations is a role of significant influence, as the choice of words can shift international relations. This is the highest register of the word's use.

作为该项目的负责人,他亲自起草了所有的技术标准。(As the person in charge of the project, he personally drafted all the technical standards.)

While 起草 (qǐcǎo) is a straightforward verb, English speakers often misapply it by confusing it with other 'writing' or 'planning' verbs. Avoiding these common pitfalls will make your Chinese sound much more professional and precise.

Mistake 1: Using it for Creative Writing
You shouldn't say '我正在起草一部小说' (I am drafting a novel). While technically understandable, it sounds like you are treating your novel as a legal document. Use 写 (xiě) or 创作 (chuàngzuò) for creative endeavors. 起草 is reserved for documents with utility, like reports or contracts.
Mistake 2: Confusing with '打草稿' (dǎ cǎogǎo)
打草稿 means to make a rough sketch or a quick draft, often used for math problems or a quick note. 起草 is more formal and implies the creation of a structured document. You 打草稿 for a math test, but you 起草 a resolution.

错误:他正在起草他的日记。(Wrong: He is drafting his diary.)
正确:他正在他的日记。(Correct: He is writing his diary.)

Another mistake involves the register. Using 起草 in a very casual text message to a friend about a grocery list would be seen as a joke or 'mock-formal' (humorous). If you tell a friend, '我正在起草我们的购物清单' (I am drafting our shopping list), they might laugh and ask if you've become a government official. In casual contexts, simply use 写 (xiě) or 列 (liè - to list).

错误:这是我起草的。(This is my drafting.)
正确:这是我起草的文件。(This is the document I drafted.)

Finally, learners sometimes confuse 起草 with 拟定 (nǐdìng). While very similar, 拟定 often refers to formulating a plan or a set of rules (often conceptual), whereas 起草 focuses on the physical or digital act of writing the text. If you are deciding on the rules of a game, you 拟定 them; if you are writing them down in a formal handbook, you 起草 the handbook. This distinction is subtle but marks the difference between a mid-level learner and an advanced speaker.

Register Mismatch
Avoid using 起草 when the subject is a child or the object is something trivial. It requires a certain 'professional weight' to the subject matter.

错误:我起草他一封信。(I draft him a letter.)
正确:我为他起草了一封信。(I drafted a letter for him.)

To truly master 起草 (qǐcǎo), you must understand its synonyms and how they differ in nuance, register, and context. Chinese is a language of subtle distinctions, and choosing the right word for 'drafting' or 'writing' can change the entire tone of your sentence.

起草 (qǐcǎo) vs. 拟定 (nǐdìng)
起草 emphasizes the act of writing the first version of a text. 拟定 (to formulate/draw up) focuses more on the content and the decision-making process. You 拟定 a plan (focusing on the steps), but you 起草 the document that describes that plan.
起草 (qǐcǎo) vs. 撰写 (zhuànxiě)
撰写 is a very formal way to say 'write' or 'compose.' While 起草 implies it's a first version, 撰写 sounds more like the final, scholarly, or professional act of writing. A professor 撰写 a thesis; a secretary 起草 a memo.

比较:
1. 他正在起草合同。(He is drafting the contract - it's a first version.)
2. 他正在拟定计划。(He is formulating the plan - focusing on the strategy.)

Another pair of words to consider is 编写 (biānxiě) and 编撰 (biānzhuàn). 编写 is often used for textbooks, manuals, or code (programming). It implies organizing existing information into a new format. 编撰 is even more formal, used for encyclopedias or historical chronicles. Neither carries the specific 'preliminary' nuance of 起草.

虽然他已经起草好了发言稿,但他还在不断修改。(Although he has finished drafting the speech, he is still constantly revising it.)

In a legal context, you might see 制定 (zhìdìng). While 起草 is the act of writing the law, 制定 is the act of establishing or enacting it. The drafting process (起草过程) is part of the enactment process (制定过程). Knowing when to use each shows a high level of linguistic sophistication. For example, '起草法案' (drafting a bill) leads to '制定法律' (establishing a law).

Summary of Alternatives
  • 打草稿: Casual, for sketches/math.
  • 拟定: Focus on planning/logic.
  • 撰写: Formal, focus on the act of scholarly writing.
  • 编写: Focus on compiling/editing.

这封感谢信是由我们团队共同起草的。(This thank-you letter was jointly drafted by our team.)

How Formal Is It?

حقيقة ممتعة

The '草' in '起草' is the same character for 'grass.' This is because early drafts were often written in 'cursive script' (草书), which looks like wild grass blowing in the wind.

دليل النطق

UK /tʃiː tsʰɑʊ/
US /tʃi tsʰaʊ/
Equal stress on both syllables, following the 3rd tone sandhi (the first 3rd tone becomes 2nd tone: qí cǎo).
يتقافى مع
早 (zǎo) 跑 (pǎo) 找 (zhǎo) 老 (lǎo) 表 (biǎo) 小 (xiǎo) 少 (shǎo) 好 (hǎo)
أخطاء شائعة
  • Pronouncing 'q' as 'k'.
  • Pronouncing 'c' as 's' instead of 'ts'.
  • Forgetting the tone sandhi (qǐ + cǎo becomes qí cǎo).
  • Mixing up 'qǐ' with 'qì' (4th tone).
  • Pronouncing 'ao' like 'oh'.

مستوى الصعوبة

القراءة 3/5

Characters are common, but context is formal.

الكتابة 4/5

Requires remembering the '草' character and professional context.

التحدث 3/5

Easy to pronounce if you know tone sandhi.

الاستماع 3/5

Common in news and office environments.

ماذا تتعلّم بعد ذلك

المتطلبات الأساسية

写 (xiě) 计划 (jìhuà) 文件 (wénjiàn) 开始 (kāishǐ) 工作 (gōngzuò)

تعلّم لاحقاً

拟定 (nǐdìng) 草案 (cǎo'àn) 合同 (hétong) 修改 (xiūgǎi) 定稿 (dìnggǎo)

متقدم

编纂 (biānzuǎn) 撰写 (zhuànxiě) 制定 (zhìdìng) 审议 (shěnyì)

قواعد يجب معرفتها

Transitive Verbs

起草 (Verb) + 合同 (Object)

Tone Sandhi (3-3 to 2-3)

qǐ (3) + cǎo (3) -> qí (2) cǎo (3)

The 'Shi...de' Construction for Emphasis

这份文件是由他起草的。

Resultative Complements

起草好 (finished drafting), 起草完 (done drafting)

Passive with '由' (By)

合同由律师起草。

أمثلة حسب المستوى

1

我要起草一封信。

I want to draft a letter.

Simple Subject + Verb + Object structure.

2

他在起草他的作业。

He is drafting his homework.

Using '在' for ongoing action.

3

请起草一个名单。

Please draft a list.

Imperative sentence starting with '请'.

4

老师起草了规则。

The teacher drafted the rules.

Using '了' to indicate completion of the draft.

5

我们要起草一个计划。

We need to draft a plan.

Using '要' to indicate intention.

6

谁在起草文件?

Who is drafting the document?

Question using '谁'.

7

他在起草简单的句子。

He is drafting simple sentences.

Adjective '简单' modifying the object.

8

起草这封信不难。

Drafting this letter is not hard.

The verb phrase '起草这封信' acts as the subject.

1

我正在为会议起草报告。

I am drafting a report for the meeting.

Using '为' to indicate for whom/what the drafting is done.

2

经理让他起草一份通知。

The manager asked him to draft a notice.

Pivotal sentence structure with '让'.

3

我们需要起草一个新的合同。

We need to draft a new contract.

Using '需要' for necessity.

4

他花了两个小时起草邮件。

He spent two hours drafting the email.

Time duration structure: [Time] + 起草 + [Object].

5

你可以帮我起草这个声明吗?

Can you help me draft this statement?

Using '帮' (help) in a request.

6

她起草了一份精美的邀请函。

She drafted a beautiful invitation.

Using '一份' as a classifier for the document.

7

起草完以后,请发给我。

After finishing the draft, please send it to me.

Using '...完以后' to mean 'after finishing'.

8

这个小组负责起草项目书。

This group is responsible for drafting the project proposal.

Using '负责' (responsible for) + verb phrase.

1

律师正在起草一份法律协议。

The lawyer is drafting a legal agreement.

Professional context with specific object '法律协议'.

2

我们需要联合起草这份声明。

We need to jointly draft this statement.

Using '联合' (jointly) as an adverb.

3

他在起草过程中发现了一些错误。

He found some errors during the drafting process.

'起草过程' used as a noun phrase for 'drafting process'.

4

谁负责起草这次会议的纪要?

Who is responsible for drafting the minutes of this meeting?

'会议纪要' is a common professional object for '起草'.

5

这份草案是由专家组起草的。

This draft was drafted by the expert group.

The '是...的' construction for emphasis on the agent.

6

他亲自起草了这封感谢信。

He personally drafted this thank-you letter.

Using '亲自' (personally) to add formal weight.

7

在起草之前,我们要先讨论大纲。

Before drafting, we need to discuss the outline first.

'在...之前' (before...) structure.

8

起草一份好的提议需要时间。

Drafting a good proposal takes time.

The entire phrase '起草一份好的提议' is the subject.

1

委员会已经完成了新章程的起草工作。

The committee has completed the drafting of the new bylaws.

'起草工作' is a formal way to say 'the work of drafting'.

2

这部法律的起草历时三年之久。

The drafting of this law lasted for as long as three years.

Using '历时' (lasted) with '起草'.

3

他受命起草一份关于市场趋势的报告。

He was commissioned to draft a report on market trends.

'受命' (be ordered/commissioned to) + verb.

4

起草合同时必须字斟句酌。

When drafting a contract, one must weigh every word.

Using the idiom '字斟句酌' (weigh every word) with '起草'.

5

该文件的起草旨在规范行业行为。

The drafting of this document aims to regulate industry behavior.

'旨在' (aim to) explaining the purpose of the drafting.

6

政府邀请了多位学者参与起草工作。

The government invited several scholars to participate in the drafting work.

'参与' (participate in) + '起草工作'.

7

这份协议的起草体现了双方的诚意。

The drafting of this agreement reflects the sincerity of both parties.

'体现' (reflect/embody) as the main verb.

8

他在起草发言稿时参考了大量的文献。

He referred to a large amount of literature while drafting the speech.

'参考' (refer to) as a supporting action.

1

起草委员会对草案进行了逐条审议。

The drafting committee conducted a clause-by-clause review of the draft.

'逐条审议' (clause-by-clause review) is high-level legal terminology.

2

该宪法修正案的起草过程极其严谨。

The drafting process of this constitutional amendment was extremely rigorous.

'极其严谨' (extremely rigorous) describes the quality of the process.

3

起草人必须具备深厚的法律功底。

The drafter must possess a profound legal foundation.

'起草人' (drafter) and '法律功底' (legal foundation).

4

在起草声明时,外交辞令的使用至关重要。

When drafting a statement, the use of diplomatic language is crucial.

'外交辞令' (diplomatic parlance) and '至关重要' (crucial).

5

这份报告的起草标志着项目进入了新阶段。

The drafting of this report marks the project's entry into a new phase.

'标志着' (marks/signifies) used to show impact.

6

起草小组广泛征求了社会各界的意见。

The drafting group extensively sought opinions from all sectors of society.

'征求意见' (seek opinions) is a key part of the drafting process in China.

7

他因起草了那份著名的宣言而载入史册。

He went down in history for drafting that famous manifesto.

'载入史册' (go down in history) as the result.

8

起草过程中要充分考虑到各种潜在的风险。

Various potential risks must be fully considered during the drafting process.

'充分考虑到' (fully take into account).

1

该条约的起草权成为了各方博弈的焦点。

The right to draft the treaty became the focus of the parties' maneuvering.

'起草权' (drafting right) and '博弈' (game theory/maneuvering).

2

起草者巧妙地利用了措辞的模糊性来达成共识。

The drafter skillfully used the ambiguity of phrasing to reach a consensus.

'措辞的模糊性' (ambiguity of phrasing) is a high-level concept.

3

这份文献的起草风格深受古典散文的影响。

The drafting style of this document is deeply influenced by classical prose.

Discussing '起草风格' (drafting style) in a literary context.

4

起草不仅是文字的堆砌,更是逻辑的重构。

Drafting is not just a stacking of words, but a reconstruction of logic.

'不仅是...更是...' (not only... but even more...) structure.

5

他在起草这篇檄文时,笔力雄健,气势磅礴。

When drafting this call to arms, his writing was powerful and vigorous.

Using high-level literary descriptors like '笔力雄健'.

6

起草过程中的每一次删减都经过了深思熟虑。

Every deletion during the drafting process underwent deliberate consideration.

'深思熟虑' (deliberate consideration/thoughtful).

7

该政纲的起草旨在回应民众对社会公平的诉求。

The drafting of this political program aims to respond to the public's demands for social justice.

'回应...诉求' (respond to... demands/appeals).

8

起草工作在秘密状态下进行,以防信息泄露。

The drafting work was carried out in secret to prevent information leakage.

'在...状态下进行' (carried out under... state).

تلازمات شائعة

起草合同
起草报告
起草法案
起草发言稿
起草小组
起草过程
亲自起草
联合起草
起草大纲
受命起草

العبارات الشائعة

起草人

— The person who drafts a document.

他是这份文件的主要起草人。

起草单位

— The organization or department responsible for drafting.

该标准的起草单位是清华大学。

起草阶段

— The drafting stage of a project.

目前项目还处于起草阶段。

起草说明

— An explanatory note accompanying a draft document.

请阅读随附的起草说明。

起草委员会

— A formal committee formed to draft legislation or rules.

宪法起草委员会召开了会议。

起草初稿

— To draft the very first version.

他已经起草好了初稿。

起草协议

— To draft an agreement.

双方正在起草合作协议。

起草通知

— To draft a notice or announcement.

秘书正在起草放假通知。

起草章程

— To draft bylaws or a constitution.

协会正在起草新的章程。

起草文件

— A general term for drafting any formal document.

他在办公室起草文件。

يُخلط عادةً مع

起草 vs 打草稿

Used for rough notes or math; '起草' is for structured formal documents.

起草 vs 拟定

Focuses on the plan/idea; '起草' focuses on the act of writing the text.

起草 vs 创作

Used for artistic/creative works; '起草' is for functional documents.

تعبيرات اصطلاحية

"草创时期"

— The initial, 'rough' period of starting an organization.

公司在草创时期非常艰辛。

Formal
"字斟句酌"

— To weigh every word; often used when drafting important documents.

起草合同时要字斟句酌。

Literary
"一字千金"

— Every word is worth a thousand pieces of gold; used for high-quality drafting.

这篇起草的宣言真是一字千金。

Literary
"推敲"

— To weigh and polish words (originally about a poem), often done after drafting.

起草完后还需要反复推敲。

Literary
"纸上谈兵"

— Theoretical talk on paper; sometimes used to criticize a draft with no practical value.

这份起草的计划只是纸上谈兵。

Common
"笔耕不辍"

— To write/draft incessantly.

他几十年来起草文件,笔耕不辍。

Formal
"文不加点"

— To write a draft in one go without needing corrections (very high praise).

他起草这份报告,简直是文不加点。

Literary
"落笔成文"

— To write a draft as soon as the pen hits the paper.

他才思敏捷,落笔成文。

Literary
"千锤百炼"

— Thoroughly tempered; used for a draft that has been revised many times.

这份起草的法案经过了千锤百炼。

Common
"锦绣文章"

— A beautiful piece of writing; used to praise a finished draft.

他起草了一篇锦绣文章。

Literary

سهل الخلط

起草 vs 写作

Both mean writing.

'写作' is a general noun or verb for the act of writing; '起草' is the specific act of drafting a formal document.

他的写作水平很高,正在起草一份报告。

起草 vs 编写

Both involve creating a document.

'编写' usually involves compiling or organizing information (like a textbook); '起草' is creating a first version.

他在编写教材,同时在起草教学计划。

起草 vs 制定

Both used for laws/rules.

'制定' is the whole process of establishing a law; '起草' is just the writing part.

政府在制定法律之前,先要起草法案。

起草 vs 撰写

Both are formal.

'撰写' is the act of scholarly composition; '起草' implies a draft that will be revised.

他撰写了一篇论文,并起草了一份摘要。

起草 vs 草拟

Very similar meaning.

Almost identical, but '起草' is more commonly used as a standard administrative term.

他草拟了一个大纲,然后开始起草全文。

أنماط الجُمل

A2

我正在起草[Object]。

我正在起草报告。

B1

请帮我起草一份[Object]。

请帮我起草一份合同。

B1

[Subject]负责起草[Object]。

经理负责起草计划。

B2

这份[Object]是由[Person]起草的。

这份文件是由我起草的。

B2

[Subject]亲自起草了[Object]。

他亲自起草了演讲稿。

C1

在起草[Object]的过程中,[Action]。

在起草合同的过程中,我们讨论了很多次。

C1

[Subject]受命起草[Object]。

他受命起草新规章。

C2

[Object]的起草旨在[Purpose]。

该法案的起草旨在保护环境。

عائلة الكلمة

الأسماء

草案 (cǎo'àn - draft bill)
初稿 (chūgǎo - first draft)
起草人 (qǐcǎorén - drafter)

الأفعال

草拟 (cǎonǐ - to draft/sketch out)
起 (qǐ - to start)
草 (cǎo - to draft roughly)

الصفات

草率 (cǎoshuài - careless/hasty)
初步 (chūbù - preliminary)

مرتبط

写 (xiě)
订 (dìng)
拟 (nǐ)
编写 (biānxiě)
定稿 (dìnggǎo)

كيفية الاستخدام

frequency

Very high in professional and media contexts; low in daily casual conversation.

أخطاء شائعة
  • 我起草我的日记。 我写我的日记。

    Diaries are personal and informal; '起草' is too formal.

  • 他起草了一个苹果。 他画了一个苹果。

    '起草' is for writing documents, not drawing objects.

  • 我起草他一份信。 我为他起草了一封信。

    You cannot have an indirect object directly after '起草'. Use '为' (for).

  • 这个起草很好。 这个草案很好。

    '起草' is a verb. Use '草案' or '初稿' for the noun 'draft'.

  • 他在起草数学题。 他在打草稿做数学题。

    For math or rough notes, use '打草稿'.

نصائح

Use with Classifier

When drafting one document, use '一份' (yí fèn). Example: '起草一份合同'.

Office Talk

Use '起草' to sound more professional in meetings when discussing reports or proposals.

Think of Grass

Remember that '草' means grass. A draft is like the first growth before the garden is finished.

Pair with '修改'

Drafting (起草) and revising (修改) go hand-in-hand. Use them together to describe the full process.

Tone Sandhi

Don't forget that the first 'qǐ' changes to 'qí' when spoken.

Legal Use

In legal contexts, '起草' is the standard term. Avoid using '写' for contracts.

Government News

Look for '起草' in Chinese news to see how new policies are introduced.

起草 vs. 拟定

Draft the text (起草), but formulate the plan (拟定).

Not for Novels

Don't use '起草' for creative stories unless it's a formal project.

Start the Rough

起 (Start) + 草 (Rough) = To Draft.

احفظها

وسيلة تذكّر

Think of 'qǐ' as 'starting' and 'cǎo' as 'grass.' Before you build a formal garden (the final document), you start with the wild grass (the draft). You 'start the grass' (起草).

ربط بصري

Imagine a person in a suit sitting in a field of tall grass, holding a pen and starting to write on a large piece of paper. The grass represents the raw ideas being organized.

Word Web

合同 (Contract) 报告 (Report) 计划 (Plan) 法案 (Bill) 声明 (Statement) 通知 (Notice) 章程 (Bylaws) 发言稿 (Speech)

تحدٍّ

Try to use '起草' in a sentence about your next work project instead of just saying 'I will write it.'

أصل الكلمة

The term '起草' combines '起' (to rise/initiate) and '草' (grass/draft). In ancient China, '草' became synonymous with 'rough' or 'preliminary' writing because it resembled the quick, flowing, and sometimes messy nature of grass, leading to the term '草书' (grass script).

المعنى الأصلي: To begin a rough version of a text.

Sino-Tibetan (Mandarin Chinese).

السياق الثقافي

No specific sensitivities, but ensure you don't use it for personal creative writing like diaries unless you are being intentionally humorous.

Equivalent to the formal 'to draft' or 'to draw up' in legal or business English.

The drafting of the PRC Constitution Drafting of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (Chinese version) Famous historical '檄文' (calls to arms)

تدرّب في الحياة الواقعية

سياقات واقعية

Legal

  • 起草合同
  • 起草协议
  • 起草法案
  • 起草人

Business

  • 起草报告
  • 起草计划书
  • 起草邮件
  • 起草通知

Government

  • 起草文件
  • 起草章程
  • 起草小组
  • 起草工作

Academic

  • 起草论文提纲
  • 起草研究计划
  • 起草声明
  • 起草说明

Social/Formal

  • 起草邀请函
  • 起草发言稿
  • 起草感谢信
  • 起草规则

بدايات محادثة

"你能不能帮我起草这份合同? (Can you help me draft this contract?)"

"谁负责起草这次项目的计划书? (Who is responsible for drafting the project proposal?)"

"你起草好明天的发言稿了吗? (Have you finished drafting tomorrow's speech?)"

"这份文件是由哪个部门起草的? (Which department drafted this document?)"

"我们需要花多少时间来起草这个协议? (How much time do we need to draft this agreement?)"

مواضيع للكتابة اليومية

描述一次你为公司或学校起草重要文件的经历。 (Describe an experience drafting an important document for work or school.)

如果你要起草一份新的班级规则,你会写什么? (If you were to draft a new set of class rules, what would you write?)

为什么在起草合同时需要非常仔细? (Why do you need to be very careful when drafting a contract?)

谈谈你对‘起草’和‘写’这两个词区别的理解。 (Talk about your understanding of the difference between 'drafting' and 'writing'.)

想象你正在为联合国起草一份和平宣言,你会如何开头? (Imagine you are drafting a peace declaration for the UN, how would you start?)

الأسئلة الشائعة

10 أسئلة

Mostly, yes. It is used for anything that requires a formal written version, such as contracts, reports, speeches, or laws. It is not used for drawing or building.

Yes, especially if the email is formal or important, like a business proposal. For a casual email to a friend, just use '写'.

They are nearly synonyms. '起草' is slightly more common in official government and business contexts, while '草拟' can feel slightly more tentative or informal.

In modern Mandarin, no. You should treat it as one word. Don't say '起了一个草'.

A child can '起草' a classroom rule or a formal letter, but usually, children just '写' their homework.

You can use '初稿' (chūgǎo) or '草案' (cǎo'àn).

Usually, '编写' (biānxiě) is used for code. However, you might '起草' a technical specification for the code.

Yes, it implies that this is a preliminary version subject to review, revision, or approval.

Yes, the '草' in both comes from the idea of something quick, rough, and not yet finalized.

Yes, '起草发言稿' is a very common phrase.

اختبر نفسك 180 أسئلة

writing

Translate: 'I am drafting a report.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
writing

Translate: 'The lawyer drafted the contract.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
writing

Translate: 'Who is responsible for drafting the plan?'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
writing

Translate: 'He personally drafted the speech.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
writing

Translate: 'The drafting process was very long.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
writing

Translate: 'This document was drafted by our team.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
writing

Translate: 'Please help me draft a letter of recommendation.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
writing

Translate: 'We need to draft a new set of rules.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
writing

Translate: 'The committee is drafting the constitution.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
writing

Translate: 'He hasn't finished drafting the agreement yet.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
writing

Translate: 'The drafting group met yesterday.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
writing

Translate: 'Drafting a good proposal takes time.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
writing

Translate: 'They jointly drafted the statement.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
writing

Translate: 'The drafting stage is almost over.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
writing

Translate: 'The drafter made several mistakes.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
writing

Translate: 'I need to draft an outline first.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
writing

Translate: 'This law was drafted in 1990.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
writing

Translate: 'The manager asked him to draft a notice.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
writing

Translate: 'We are currently drafting the annual report.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
writing

Translate: 'The drafting work is very important.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
speaking

Use '起草' to describe what you are doing at work today.

Read this aloud:

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
speaking

Ask a colleague if they have finished drafting the report.

Read this aloud:

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
speaking

Tell your boss you will personally draft the contract.

Read this aloud:

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
speaking

Explain why drafting a law takes a long time.

Read this aloud:

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
speaking

Ask who is responsible for drafting the meeting minutes.

Read this aloud:

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
speaking

Suggest starting with an outline before drafting.

Read this aloud:

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
speaking

Say that you are currently in the drafting stage of a project.

Read this aloud:

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
speaking

Request a friend's help to draft a formal email.

Read this aloud:

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
speaking

Discuss the importance of the drafting group.

Read this aloud:

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
speaking

Express that you found an error in the draft.

Read this aloud:

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
speaking

Explain the difference between '起草' and '写'.

Read this aloud:

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
speaking

Say that the document was drafted by the legal department.

Read this aloud:

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
speaking

State that you are drafting a thank-you letter to a client.

Read this aloud:

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
speaking

Ask for the drafting explanation of a new rule.

Read this aloud:

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
speaking

Mention that you spent all night drafting a proposal.

Read this aloud:

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
speaking

Say that the drafting style needs to be more professional.

Read this aloud:

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
speaking

Explain that the drafter is very experienced.

Read this aloud:

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
speaking

Suggest that two departments should jointly draft the policy.

Read this aloud:

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
speaking

Tell someone that the drafting work is finished.

Read this aloud:

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
speaking

Ask how many people are in the drafting group.

Read this aloud:

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
listening

Listen to the sentence: '他在起草合同时非常认真。' What is he drafting?

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
listening

Listen to the sentence: '这份文件是由起草小组共同完成的。' Who completed the document?

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
listening

Listen to the sentence: '起草说明里提到了三个重点。' How many key points are in the explanation?

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
listening

Listen to the sentence: '谁是这份声明的起草人?' What is the speaker asking for?

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
listening

Listen to the sentence: '起草过程经历了多次修改。' Did the process involve changes?

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
listening

Listen to the sentence: '我们正在起草一份关于环保的倡议书。' What is the topic of the draft?

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
listening

Listen to the sentence: '起草工作必须在周五前结束。' When must the work end?

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
listening

Listen to the sentence: '经理亲自起草了这封邮件。' Who wrote the email?

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
listening

Listen to the sentence: '起草委员会正在讨论新的章程。' What is the committee discussing?

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
listening

Listen to the sentence: '在起草之前,先跟我谈谈你的想法。' What should happen before drafting?

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
listening

Listen to the sentence: '这份草案还需要法律部的审核。' Who needs to review the draft?

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
listening

Listen to the sentence: '由于他是起草人,他最了解细节。' Why does he know the details best?

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
listening

Listen to the sentence: '起草这份报告花了我一个星期。' How long did it take?

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
listening

Listen to the sentence: '联合起草可以减少分歧。' What can joint drafting reduce?

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
listening

Listen to the sentence: '起草风格要简洁明了。' What should the style be like?

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:

/ 180 correct

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