At the A1 level, you should recognize '禁止拍照' as a single unit meaning 'No Photos.' You don't need to worry about the complex grammar yet. Just remember that '禁' (jìn) looks like a sign and '拍照' (pāizhào) involves a camera. If you see this on a sign in a park or a small museum, it simply means you should put your phone away. You might also learn '不' (bù - no) and '照片' (zhàopiàn - photo), which are the building blocks of this phrase. At this stage, focus on visual recognition of the characters on signs. Think of it as a red traffic light for your camera.
At the A2 level, you begin to understand the structure of the phrase. You know that '禁止' (jìnzhǐ) is a verb meaning 'to prohibit' and '拍照' (pāizhào) is the action of taking a photo. You can now use this in simple sentences like '这里禁止拍照' (Photography is prohibited here). You are also learning other '禁止' phrases like '禁止吸烟' (No smoking). You should be able to ask for clarification, such as '这里可以拍照吗?' (Can I take photos here?) and understand if the answer is '不行,这里禁止拍照' (No, photography is prohibited here). This level focuses on practical navigation of public rules.
At the B1 level, you can understand the reasons behind the prohibition. You might read a sign that says '为了安全,禁止拍照' (For safety, photography is prohibited). You can also distinguish between different levels of formality, such as '请勿拍照' (Please do not take photos) versus the standard '禁止拍照.' You should be able to explain the rule to someone else in Chinese, saying things like '那个牌子写着禁止拍照' (That sign says photography is prohibited). You are also becoming more familiar with the verb-object structure of '拍照' and how it can be modified.
At the B2 level, you can handle more complex scenarios involving this phrase. You might encounter it in news reports about privacy laws or intellectual property rights. You understand the nuances between '禁止拍照' and '严禁摄影' (Strictly prohibited cinematography). You can discuss the cultural reasons why certain places, like temples or government offices, have these rules. You are also able to use the phrase in formal writing, such as an email complaining about someone violating the '禁止拍照' policy in a private gallery. Your vocabulary is expanding to include related legal terms like '侵权' (infringement) and '规定' (regulation).
At the C1 level, you have a deep understanding of the authoritative tone of '禁止拍照.' You can analyze the linguistic choice of using '禁止' over other prohibitive verbs in various contexts. You might explore the history of the characters and how the concept of '禁' (taboo/prohibition) has evolved in Chinese society. You are comfortable reading official legal documents or museum policies that detail the specific consequences of '禁止拍照' violations. You can also use the phrase metaphorically or in high-level debates about the balance between public surveillance and personal privacy in the digital age.
At the C2 level, you have native-like command of the phrase and its implications. You can appreciate the aesthetic and rhythmic balance of the four-character structure in signage. You are aware of regional variations in how such prohibitions are phrased across mainland China, Taiwan, and Hong Kong. You can engage in sophisticated academic discussions about the semiotics of '禁止' signs in urban environments. You understand the most obscure synonyms and can use the phrase with perfect pragmatic precision, whether you are drafting a formal policy, writing a legal brief, or translating complex literature where photography serves as a metaphor for observation and control.

禁止拍照 in 30 Sekunden

  • 禁止拍照 (jìnzhǐ pāizhào) is the formal Chinese phrase for 'No Photography Allowed,' commonly found on signs in sensitive or public areas.
  • The phrase combines '禁止' (prohibit) and '拍照' (take photo), creating a clear and authoritative command used by institutions and security personnel.
  • It is essential for travelers to recognize these characters to avoid fines, legal trouble, or disrespecting local customs in temples and museums.
  • While formal, it can be modified to be more polite (请勿拍照) or more strict (严禁拍照) depending on the environment and the severity of the rule.

The phrase 禁止拍照 (jìnzhǐ pāizhào) is a standard, formal command used throughout the Chinese-speaking world to indicate that photography is strictly prohibited in a specific area. It is composed of two primary parts: 禁止 (jìnzhǐ), which means 'to prohibit' or 'to ban,' and 拍照 (pāizhào), which means 'to take a picture' or 'to photograph.' When you see these four characters together, it is not a suggestion; it is a formal rule often backed by local regulations or institutional policies. You will most frequently encounter this on red-and-white signs, at the entrances of museums, inside sensitive government buildings, or in religious sites like temples where capturing images is considered disrespectful to the deities or the sanctity of the space. Understanding this phrase is crucial for any traveler or student of Chinese, as ignoring it can lead to awkward confrontations with security personnel, fines, or even the confiscation of your equipment.

Etymological Breakdown
The character 禁 (jìn) originally referred to a ritual restriction or a sacred grove where entry was restricted, while 止 (zhǐ) depicts a foot, meaning to stop or halt. Together, 禁止 creates a powerful sense of an authoritative 'stop.' 拍 (pāi) means to clap or strike, mimicking the sound of early camera shutters, and 照 (zhào) refers to a reflection or a light shining upon something, which evolved to mean a photograph.
Social Context
In modern China, the prevalence of smartphones has made this sign more common than ever. In high-end shopping malls, art galleries, and even certain 'Instagrammable' cafes that want to maintain exclusivity, you will see this phrase used to protect intellectual property or the privacy of other patrons. It carries a heavy tone of formality compared to the colloquial '别拍照' (bié pāizhào - don't take photos).

对不起,这里禁止拍照,请收起您的相机。(Duìbuqǐ, zhèlǐ jìnzhǐ pāizhào, qǐng shōuqǐ nín de xiàngjī.)

Translation: Sorry, photography is prohibited here; please put away your camera.

The phrase is highly versatile in its grammatical structure but almost always functions as a predicate describing a state of affairs or a direct command. It is important to note that the word '拍照' is a verb-object (VO) construction, where '拍' is the action and '照' is the result. This means you can occasionally see variations like '禁止拍照片' (jìnzhǐ pāi zhàopiàn), though the four-character version remains the standard for signage due to its rhythmic balance and historical preference for quadrisyllabic expressions in formal Chinese.

Using 禁止拍照 correctly involves understanding its role as a formal prohibition. In most cases, it follows a location or a subject that is being restricted. For example, '博物馆内禁止拍照' (Inside the museum, photography is prohibited). Here, the location '博物馆内' sets the scope of the rule. It is rarely used in casual conversation between friends unless one is playfully acting like an authority figure. Instead, it is the language of signs, security guards, and official announcements. When you use this phrase, you are invoking a sense of law and order.

根据规定,军事禁区禁止拍照。(Gēnjù guīdìng, jūnshì jìnqū jìnzhǐ pāizhào.)

Translation: According to regulations, photography is prohibited in military restricted zones.
Sentence Pattern: [Location] + 禁止拍照
This is the most common usage. Example: '展厅内禁止拍照' (Photography is prohibited in the exhibition hall). The location acts as the topic, and the prohibition acts as the comment.
Sentence Pattern: 禁止 + [Action]
While we are focusing on photography, '禁止' can be followed by other actions like '禁止吸烟' (No smoking) or '禁止停车' (No parking). Learning this pattern allows you to navigate public spaces in China with much greater ease.

Furthermore, you might encounter the phrase in a more explanatory sentence, such as '为了保护文物,这里禁止拍照' (In order to protect the cultural relics, photography is prohibited here). This adds a '为了' (wèile - in order to) clause to provide the rationale behind the rule. In high-stakes environments, you might see '严禁拍照' (yánjìn pāizhào), where '严' (yán) adds the meaning of 'strictly' or 'severely,' signaling that the consequences for breaking the rule are significant.

The environment in which you encounter 禁止拍照 is almost always one of public or institutional authority. If you are visiting the Forbidden City in Beijing, you will see these signs near specific delicate artifacts. In the Shanghai Metro, you might hear automated announcements reminding passengers that '禁止拍照' applies to certain security-sensitive areas or when using high-powered flash that could distract train drivers. It is a word of the 'public sphere.' You won't hear a mother telling her child '禁止拍照' at home; she would say '别拍了' (bié pāi le). Therefore, hearing this word immediately shifts your mindset into 'compliance mode.'

各位游客请注意,剧场内禁止拍照和录像。(Gèwèi yóukè qǐng zhùyì, jùchǎng nèi jìnzhǐ pāizhào hé lùxiàng.)

Translation: Attention tourists, photography and video recording are prohibited inside the theater.
The Museum Experience
Security guards are trained to spot cameras. If they see you lifting a lens, they will often point to a sign and say '这里禁止拍照' (zhèlǐ jìnzhǐ pāizhào). Their tone is usually firm but professional. In some cases, they might add '请配合' (qǐng pèihé), meaning 'please cooperate.'
Government and Military Sites
This is where the phrase carries the most weight. Signs near military bases or sensitive government compounds will often have '禁止拍照' in large, bold characters, sometimes accompanied by '后果自负' (hòuguǒ zìfù), which means 'bear the consequences yourself.'

In the digital age, you might also see this phrase on websites or in apps that prevent screenshots. For instance, some banking apps or private gallery apps in China might display a pop-up saying '由于安全原因,禁止拍照/截屏' (Due to security reasons, photography/screenshotting is prohibited). This shows how the phrase has successfully transitioned from physical signage to the digital user interface, maintaining its core meaning of structural or legal restriction.

One of the most common mistakes learners make with 禁止拍照 is using it in the wrong register. Because it is a formal term, using it with friends can sound overly dramatic or robotic. If a friend is taking an embarrassing photo of you, don't say '禁止拍照!' unless you are joking. Instead, use '别拍!' (Bié pāi!) or '不要拍我' (Búyào pāi wǒ). Another mistake is confusing '禁止' (prohibit) with '不准' (not allowed). While '不准拍照' (bùzhǔn pāizhào) is also common, '不准' is slightly more colloquial and is often used by someone with personal authority, like a teacher to a student, whereas '禁止' is the authority of the law or an institution.

❌ 我禁止拍照你。(Wǒ jìnzhǐ pāizhào nǐ.)

Note: This is grammatically incorrect. You cannot 'prohibit' a person as a direct object in this way. You should say '我不准你拍照' (I don't allow you to take photos).
Misunderstanding the Scope
Sometimes tourists think '禁止拍照' only means 'no flash.' This is incorrect. If the sign meant 'no flash,' it would say '禁止使用闪光灯' (jìnzhǐ shǐyòng shǎnguāngdēng). '禁止拍照' means no photos at all, with or without flash.
Character Confusion
Learners often confuse 禁 (jìn) with 林 (lín - forest) because they both contain the 'wood' radical. However, 禁 has the 'show' radical (示) at the bottom, which relates to rituals and prohibitions, while 林 is just two trees. Remember: the sign 'shows' (示) you what is forbidden.

Finally, ensure you don't confuse '拍照' (pāizhào) with '画画' (huàhuà - painting). In some ancient temples, you might be allowed to sketch or paint the scenery but '禁止拍照' because the light from photography is the concern. Always look for the specific icon on the sign—a camera with a red slash through it—to confirm the meaning of the characters.

While 禁止拍照 is the standard, there are several variations you might encounter depending on the level of formality and the specific context. Understanding these nuances will help you navigate different social settings in China. For example, '请勿拍照' (qǐng wù pāizhào) is a more polite way of saying the same thing, often found in high-end galleries. The '请勿' (qǐng wù) literally translates to 'please do not,' which feels less like a command and more like a respectful request.

严禁拍照 (Yánjìn pāizhào)
This adds the character '严' (yán - strict). You will see this in military zones, airports, or high-security areas. It implies that the prohibition is absolute and consequences for violation are severe.
禁止摄影 (Jìnzhǐ shèyǐng)
'摄影' (shèyǐng) is a more formal and professional term for photography and cinematography. While '拍照' is 'taking a snap,' '摄影' is 'the art/act of photography.' This is common in professional studios or film sets.
不准拍照 (Bùzhǔn pāizhào)
This is slightly less formal than '禁止' and is often heard in spoken commands. A security guard might shout '不准拍照!' if they see someone breaking the rules.

对比:
1. 禁止拍照 (Standard/Formal)
2. 请勿拍照 (Polite/Formal)
3. 严禁拍照 (Very Strict/Formal)

In summary, while '禁止拍照' is your 'go-to' phrase for identifying a ban on photography, being aware of '请勿,' '严禁,' and '摄影' will provide you with a fuller picture of the regulatory landscape in Chinese public spaces. Each of these terms carries a different 'weight' of authority and politeness, reflecting the complex social hierarchy and etiquette of Chinese culture.

How Formal Is It?

Wusstest du?

The character '禁' (jìn) contains two 'trees' (林) over the character for 'show/altar' (示). This suggests the original meaning of a sacred forest where one must show respect by not entering or acting out.

Aussprachehilfe

UK /t͡ɕin˥˩ ʈ͡ʂɨ˨˩˦ pʰaɪ˥ ʈ͡ʂɑʊ˥˩/
US /t͡ɕin˥˩ ʈ͡ʂɨ˨˩˦ pʰaɪ˥ ʈ͡ʂɑʊ˥˩/
The primary stress is often on the first character '禁' (jìn) to emphasize the prohibition, and the third character '拍' (pāi) to emphasize the action.
Reimt sich auf
告 (gào) 报 (bào) 帽 (mào) 道 (dào) 少 (shào) 笑 (xiào) 要 (yào) 到 (dào)
Häufige Fehler
  • Pronouncing 'jìn' as 'jīn' (first tone instead of fourth).
  • Confusing 'zhǐ' with 'zhī' (missing the third tone dip).
  • Pronouncing 'pāi' as 'bāi' (missing the aspiration).
  • Pronouncing 'zhào' as 'zào' (missing the retroflex 'h').
  • Merging the four characters into a mumble; each character needs distinct tonal clarity.

Schwierigkeitsgrad

Lesen 2/5

The characters are distinct but '禁' can be visually complex for beginners.

Schreiben 3/5

Writing '禁' and '照' requires attention to stroke order and radical placement.

Sprechen 2/5

The tones are straightforward but the retroflex 'zh' sounds need practice.

Hören 1/5

Very easy to hear in public announcements due to its rhythmic nature.

Was du als Nächstes lernen solltest

Voraussetzungen

不 (bù) 照片 (zhàopiàn) 看 (kàn) 这里 (zhèlǐ) 可以 (kěyǐ)

Als Nächstes lernen

禁止吸烟 (jìnzhǐ xīyān) 禁止停车 (jìnzhǐ tíngchē) 摄影 (shèyǐng) 录像 (lùxiàng) 规定 (guīdìng)

Fortgeschritten

版权 (bǎnquán) 肖像权 (xiàoxiàngquán) 违规 (wéiguī) 取证 (qǔzhèng) 保密 (bǎomì)

Wichtige Grammatik

The Verb-Object (VO) construction of '拍照'

拍照 (pāi-zhào) can be split: 拍了一张照 (took a photo).

Using '禁止' as a formal imperative

禁止 [Verb Phrase] is the standard way to form public bans.

The use of '由于' for formal reasoning

由于安全原因,禁止拍照。

Placement of '内' and '外' for locations

博物馆内 (inside) vs 博物馆外 (outside).

The '为了' (purpose) clause

为了保护环境,禁止拍照。

Beispiele nach Niveau

1

这里禁止拍照。

No photography here.

Simple Subject + Verb phrase.

2

禁止拍照!

No photos!

Imperative use.

3

他禁止拍照。

He prohibits photography.

Subject + Verb + Object.

4

看,禁止拍照。

Look, no photography allowed.

Interjection + Phrase.

5

这里不准拍照。

Photography is not allowed here.

Synonym '不准' used in A1 context.

6

老师说禁止拍照。

The teacher said no photography.

Reported speech.

7

这个地方禁止拍照。

This place prohibits photography.

Demonstrative + Noun.

8

对不起,禁止拍照。

Sorry, no photography allowed.

Polite apology + Rule.

1

博物馆内禁止拍照。

Photography is prohibited inside the museum.

Location + 内 (inside) + Phrase.

2

为什么这里禁止拍照?

Why is photography prohibited here?

Question with '为什么' (why).

3

请注意,禁止拍照。

Please note, photography is prohibited.

Polite command '请注意'.

4

这里禁止拍照和录像。

Photography and video recording are prohibited here.

Compound object (拍照和录像).

5

如果禁止拍照,我就不拍。

If photography is prohibited, I won't take photos.

Conditional '如果...就...'.

6

很多寺庙都禁止拍照。

Many temples prohibit photography.

Quantifier '很多' + '都'.

7

那张告示写着禁止拍照。

That notice says no photography.

Verb '写着' (is written).

8

虽然这里禁止拍照,但风景很美。

Although photography is prohibited here, the scenery is beautiful.

Conjunction '虽然...但...'.

1

由于版权原因,该展区禁止拍照。

Due to copyright reasons, photography is prohibited in this exhibition area.

Reasoning with '由于' (due to).

2

如果不遵守禁止拍照的规定,你会被罚款。

If you don't follow the no-photography rule, you will be fined.

Complex conditional + Passive '被'.

3

工作人员再次提醒大家禁止拍照。

The staff reminded everyone again that photography is prohibited.

Adverb '再次' (again) + Verb '提醒' (remind).

4

这个区域被标记为禁止拍照区。

This area is marked as a no-photography zone.

Passive structure '被标记为'.

5

虽然没有标语,但一般默认禁止拍照。

Although there is no sign, photography is generally prohibited by default.

Abstract concept '默认' (default).

6

禁止拍照是为了保护这些古老的壁画。

Prohibiting photography is to protect these ancient murals.

Purpose clause '是为了'.

7

他在禁止拍照的地方偷拍了一张。

He took a secret photo in a place where photography is prohibited.

Relative clause '...的地方'.

8

请配合我们的工作,这里禁止拍照。

Please cooperate with our work; photography is prohibited here.

Formal request '请配合'.

1

该法律明确规定,在法庭内禁止拍照。

The law explicitly states that photography is prohibited in the courtroom.

Formal verb '规定' (stipulate).

2

即便没有明显的提示,进入此类场所也应禁止拍照。

Even without obvious prompts, photography should be prohibited upon entering such places.

Conjunction '即便...也...' (even if).

3

严禁拍照的告示牌随处可见,但仍有人违规。

Signs strictly prohibiting photography are everywhere, but some people still break the rules.

Idiom '随处可见' (can be seen everywhere).

4

针对禁止拍照的争议,馆方做出了回应。

Regarding the controversy over the photography ban, the museum issued a response.

Preposition '针对' (regarding/aimed at).

5

该项政策旨在通过禁止拍照来维护场内秩序。

This policy aims to maintain order within the venue by prohibiting photography.

Structure '旨在...来...' (aims to... by...).

6

禁止拍照的范围扩大到了整个园区。

The scope of the photography ban has expanded to the entire park.

Verb '扩大' (expand) + '到'.

7

有些艺术家甚至要求在演出期间禁止拍照。

Some artists even request that photography be prohibited during performances.

Adverb '甚至' (even) + '要求' (request).

8

违反禁止拍照规定的人将被取消参观资格。

Those who violate the no-photography rule will have their visiting privileges revoked.

Complex subject with '将被' (will be).

1

在某些敏感领域,禁止拍照是出于国家安全的考量。

In certain sensitive areas, prohibiting photography is out of national security considerations.

Abstract noun '考量' (consideration).

2

这种禁止拍照的举措,引发了公众关于知情权的讨论。

This measure of prohibiting photography has sparked public discussion regarding the right to know.

Abstract noun '举措' (measure) + '引发' (trigger).

3

馆方重申了禁止拍照的必要性,以防止强光对古物造成不可逆的损害。

The museum reaffirmed the necessity of prohibiting photography to prevent irreversible damage to antiquities caused by strong light.

Formal verb '重申' (reaffirm) + '不可逆' (irreversible).

4

尽管禁止拍照,但社交媒体上依然流传着大量的现场照片。

Despite the prohibition on photography, a large number of live photos are still circulating on social media.

Conjunction '尽管...但...' + '流传' (circulate).

5

这种选择性地禁止拍照,往往带有商业垄断的嫌疑。

This selective prohibition of photography often carries the suspicion of commercial monopoly.

Adverb '选择性地' (selectively) + '嫌疑' (suspicion).

6

在数字化时代,如何界定‘禁止拍照’的边界变得愈发复杂。

In the digital age, defining the boundaries of 'no photography' has become increasingly complex.

Verb '界定' (define/delimit) + '愈发' (increasingly).

7

禁止拍照的告示不仅是规则,更是一种文化礼仪的体现。

The 'no photography' sign is not only a rule but also an embodiment of cultural etiquette.

Structure '不仅是...更是...' (not only... but also...).

8

通过禁止拍照,机构得以维持其内容的稀缺性与权威性。

By prohibiting photography, institutions are able to maintain the scarcity and authority of their content.

Verb '维持' (maintain) + '稀缺性' (scarcity).

1

禁止拍照的律令,在某种程度上是对视觉霸权的抵制。

The decree prohibiting photography is, to some extent, a resistance against visual hegemony.

Formal noun '律令' (decree) + '霸权' (hegemony).

2

从法律哲学角度看,禁止拍照触及了私人空间与公共利益的博弈。

From the perspective of legal philosophy, prohibiting photography touches upon the game between private space and public interest.

Phrase '触及了...的博弈' (touches upon the game/struggle of).

3

在此语境下,禁止拍照不仅仅是物理层面的阻断,更是对意义生成的把控。

In this context, prohibiting photography is not merely a physical blocking, but a control over the generation of meaning.

Abstract structure '不仅仅是...更是...'.

4

禁止拍照的泛滥,或许折射出现代社会中‘被观看’的焦虑。

The proliferation of photography bans perhaps reflects the anxiety of 'being watched' in modern society.

Noun '泛滥' (proliferation) + '折射出' (reflects).

5

该契约条款中,禁止拍照被列为不可撤销的保密义务之一。

In the contract terms, prohibiting photography is listed as one of the irrevocable confidentiality obligations.

Legal term '不可撤销' (irrevocable).

6

禁止拍照的强制性,在不同法系之间存在显著的阐释差异。

The mandatory nature of photography bans has significant interpretive differences between different legal systems.

Noun '强制性' (mandatory nature) + '阐释' (interpretation).

7

禁止拍照的象征意义,往往大于其防范泄密的实际功用。

The symbolic significance of prohibiting photography often outweighs its practical function of preventing leaks.

Comparative '大于' (greater than).

8

通过禁止拍照,我们得以在瞬息万变的世界中保留一丝不可言说的神秘感。

By prohibiting photography, we are able to preserve a hint of unspeakable mystery in an ever-changing world.

Idiom '瞬息万变' (fast-changing) + '不可言说' (unspeakable).

Synonyme

请勿拍照 严禁拍照 禁止摄影 不准拍照 不得拍照 莫拍照 禁止照相 谢绝拍照

Gegenteile

允许拍照 欢迎拍照 可以拍照 开放拍照

Häufige Kollokationen

由于安全原因禁止拍照
全馆禁止拍照
严禁拍照录像
违反规定禁止拍照
明确禁止拍照
暂时禁止拍照
室内禁止拍照
再次强调禁止拍照
禁止拍照区域
依法禁止拍照

Häufige Phrasen

这里禁止拍照吗?

— Is photography prohibited here? A common question for tourists.

请问,这里禁止拍照吗?

告示上写着禁止拍照。

— The notice says photography is prohibited. Used to point out a rule.

你看,告示上写着禁止拍照。

虽然禁止拍照,但...

— Although photography is prohibited, but... Used to describe a conflict or exception.

虽然禁止拍照,但他还是偷偷拍了。

为什么禁止拍照?

— Why is photography prohibited? Asking for the rationale.

我想知道为什么这里禁止拍照。

绝对禁止拍照。

— Absolutely no photography. Emphasizing the strictness of the rule.

这间办公室绝对禁止拍照。

违反禁止拍照的后果。

— The consequences of violating the photography ban.

你应该了解违反禁止拍照的后果。

禁止拍照的警示牌。

— A warning sign for no photography.

门口立着一个禁止拍照的警示牌。

全区域禁止拍照。

— Photography is prohibited in the entire area.

工厂全区域禁止拍照。

禁止拍照,违者必究。

— No photography; violators will be prosecuted. A very formal legal warning.

此处禁止拍照,违者必究。

请自觉遵守禁止拍照规定。

— Please consciously abide by the no-photography rule.

请大家自觉遵守禁止拍照规定。

Wird oft verwechselt mit

禁止拍照 vs 禁止摄影

Photography (拍照) is a subset of cinematography (摄影). Often used interchangeably, but 摄影 is more formal.

禁止拍照 vs 禁止照相

照相 is an older term for taking photos. Both mean the same thing in this context.

禁止拍照 vs 禁止录像

This specifically refers to video recording, though signs often ban both.

Redewendungen & Ausdrücke

"禁令如山"

— The prohibition is as heavy as a mountain. Used to describe a very strict ban that cannot be moved or ignored.

这里的禁止拍照规定真的是禁令如山,没人敢违反。

Formal/Literary
"明令禁止"

— Explicitly prohibited by official order.

法庭内是明令禁止拍照的。

Formal
"屡禁不止"

— Despite repeated bans, it cannot be stopped. Used when people keep taking photos despite signs.

虽然这里禁止拍照,但偷拍现象依然屡禁不止。

Formal/Common
"令行禁止"

— When an order is given, it is followed; when a ban is issued, the action stops. Describes high discipline.

这支团队纪律严明,做到了令行禁止,说禁止拍照就没人拿手机。

Formal
"严加禁绝"

— To strictly prohibit and completely stop something.

对于在保密场所拍照的行为,必须严加禁绝。

Very Formal
"不可逾越"

— Insurmountable; cannot be crossed. Often used for rules like '禁止拍照'.

禁止拍照是这里不可逾越的红线。

Formal
"守口如瓶"

— To keep one's mouth shut like a bottle. Metaphorically related to keeping secrets where '禁止拍照' is enforced.

在禁止拍照的基地,每个人都要守口如瓶。

Common
"视而不见"

— To look but not see. Used when people ignore the '禁止拍照' sign.

他竟然对禁止拍照的牌子视而不见。

Common
"有言在先"

— To have stated beforehand. Used when a warning was given.

我已经有言在先,这里禁止拍照,你怎么还拍?

Common
"触犯禁忌"

— To violate a taboo. Used in religious contexts where '禁止拍照' is a sacred rule.

在神庙里拍照是触犯禁忌的行为。

Formal/Cultural

Leicht verwechselbar

禁止拍照 vs 不准

Both mean 'not allowed.'

禁止 is formal/institutional; 不准 is more personal/direct.

禁止吸烟 (Sign) vs 我不准你走 (Mother to child).

禁止拍照 vs 严禁

Both mean 'prohibit.'

严禁 is 'strictly prohibit' and implies harsher consequences.

严禁烟火 (Strictly no fireworks).

禁止拍照 vs 请勿

Both are used on signs.

请勿 is 'please do not' (polite); 禁止 is 'prohibit' (authoritative).

请勿大声喧哗 (Please don't be loud).

禁止拍照 vs 停止

Both have '止' (stop).

停止 means 'to stop an ongoing action'; 禁止 means 'to ban an action from happening.'

停止呼吸 (Stop breathing) vs 禁止拍照 (No photos).

禁止拍照 vs 拒绝

Both involve saying 'no.'

拒绝 means 'to refuse/reject' (a request); 禁止 is a rule.

他拒绝了我的请求 (He rejected my request).

Satzmuster

A1

这里禁止拍照。

这里禁止拍照。

A2

[Place] 禁止拍照。

电影院禁止拍照。

B1

由于 [Reason],这里禁止拍照。

由于版权原因,这里禁止拍照。

B1

禁止拍照是为了 [Purpose]。

禁止拍照是为了保护文物。

B2

严禁在 [Place] 拍照。

严禁在实验室拍照。

B2

凡是 [Condition] 者,禁止拍照。

凡是进入此区域者,禁止拍照。

C1

鉴于 [Situation],馆方决定禁止拍照。

鉴于人流量过大,馆方决定禁止拍照。

C2

禁止拍照之举,实为 [Reason]。

禁止拍照之举,实为维护学术严谨。

Wortfamilie

Substantive

禁令 (jìnlìng - prohibition order)
照片 (zhàopiàn - photograph)
照相机 (zhàoxiàngjī - camera)
禁区 (jìnqū - restricted zone)

Verben

禁 (jìn - to forbid)
拍 (pāi - to shoot/snap)
照 (zhào - to reflect/shine)
阻止 (zǔzhǐ - to stop/prevent)

Adjektive

禁忌的 (jìnjì de - taboo/forbidden)
严禁的 (yánjìn de - strictly prohibited)

Verwandt

摄影 (shèyǐng - photography)
录像 (lùxiàng - video recording)
闪光灯 (shǎnguāngdēng - flash)
自拍 (zìpāi - selfie)
偷拍 (tōupāi - sneak a photo)

So verwendest du es

frequency

Extremely high in urban environments, tourist spots, and public transit.

Häufige Fehler
  • Using '不拍照' (bù pāizhào) on a sign. 禁止拍照 (jìnzhǐ pāizhào)

    '不拍照' just means 'not taking photos.' It is not a command. '禁止' is the necessary word for a prohibition.

  • Confusing '禁止' with '停止' (tíngzhǐ). 禁止拍照

    '停止' means to stop an action already in progress. '禁止' is a pre-emptive ban.

  • Saying '我禁止拍照' to a friend. 我不准你拍照 (Wǒ bùzhǔn nǐ pāizhào)

    '禁止' is too formal for personal relationships. Use '不准' or '别'.

  • Thinking '禁止拍照' only applies to flash. 禁止使用闪光灯 (jìnzhǐ shǐyòng shǎnguāngdēng)

    '禁止拍照' is a total ban. If only flash is banned, the sign will specify '闪光灯'.

  • Writing '禁' as '林'.

    Make sure to include the '示' radical at the bottom. Without it, it's just a forest (林).

Tipps

Respect the Silence

In temples, '禁止拍照' is often about maintaining a sacred atmosphere. Respect the rule to avoid offending devotees.

Military Sensitivity

Never take photos near military bases or airports in China. '禁止拍照' signs there are enforced by law.

Look for the Icon

If you can't read the characters, look for the camera icon with a red strike. It always means '禁止拍照'.

Learn the Radical

The '示' radical in '禁' is related to 'showing' or 'spirit.' It helps you remember that signs 'show' the rules.

Museum Manners

Some museums allow photos in hallways but '禁止拍照' in specific exhibition rooms. Watch for signs in every room.

Ask First

If you are unsure, always ask a staff member. It shows respect and prevents awkward situations.

App Restrictions

Some Chinese apps will block your screen if you try to take a screenshot, displaying a '禁止拍照' message.

Verb-Object Split

Remember that '拍照' is a VO compound. You can say '拍完照' (finished taking photos) but the sign always uses the full compound.

Flash Hazards

Even if '禁止拍照' isn't there, avoid flash around ancient silks. Light damage is cumulative and permanent.

Private Shops

Many boutique shops in Shanghai or Beijing have '禁止拍照' signs to prevent design theft. Always ask before snapping.

Einprägen

Eselsbrücke

Think of the '禁' (jìn) as a 'G-In' (Giant In-between) two trees that says 'NO.' Then '拍照' (pāizhào) sounds like 'Pie-Chow'—imagine a pie getting its photo taken. You are forbidden from taking a photo of the pie!

Visuelle Assoziation

Visualize a red circle with a slash through a camera. The characters '禁止' look sturdy and square, like a fence blocking your path.

Word Web

禁止 拍照 博物馆 相机 照片 严禁 法律 规则

Herausforderung

Go to a local museum or a Chinese website and try to find the characters 禁止拍照. If you find them, write down the reason given (if any) using the grammar '因为...所以禁止拍照'.

Wortherkunft

The phrase is a modern compound. '禁止' (jìnzhǐ) appears in ancient texts like the 'Book of Rites' (礼记), referring to social and religious taboos. '拍照' (pāizhào) is a late 19th-century invention following the introduction of photography to China.

Ursprüngliche Bedeutung: 禁止 originally meant to 'stop a ritual violation.' 拍照 combined the action of 'striking' the shutter with 'capturing the reflection/light.'

Sino-Tibetan (Sinitic).

Kultureller Kontext

Always respect '禁止拍照' signs in religious sites; failing to do so is considered highly offensive to locals.

In the West, 'No Photography' is often seen as a minor nuisance. In China, it can be a serious legal matter, especially near infrastructure.

The Forbidden City (故宫) has many areas where '禁止拍照' is strictly enforced to protect silk and pigments. The Mogao Caves (莫高窟) are famous for their '禁止拍照' policy to preserve ancient murals. Many 'Old Towns' (古镇) now use these signs to keep their commercial secrets.

Im Alltag üben

Kontexte aus dem Alltag

Museum

  • 展厅内禁止拍照
  • 请不要使用闪光灯
  • 为了保护文物
  • 请收起相机

Temple

  • 大殿内禁止拍照
  • 请保持安静
  • 尊重神像
  • 禁止佛像拍照

Government Building

  • 办公区域禁止拍照
  • 严禁摄影
  • 请出示证件
  • 禁止靠近

Theater

  • 演出期间禁止拍照
  • 禁止手机录像
  • 请关闭电源
  • 尊重版权

Subway/Airport

  • 安检区域禁止拍照
  • 为了公共安全
  • 请配合检查
  • 禁止违规拍摄

Gesprächseinstiege

"请问,这个博物馆是不是禁止拍照?"

"你看到那个禁止拍照的牌子了吗?"

"为什么很多寺庙都禁止拍照呢?"

"如果我在这里拍照,会有什么后果?"

"除了禁止拍照,这里还有什么别的规定吗?"

Tagebuch-Impulse

描述一次你看到‘禁止拍照’标志但却很想拍照的经历。

你认为博物馆应该禁止拍照吗?为什么?

在你的国家,哪些地方通常会禁止拍照?

如果一个城市全城禁止拍照,生活会变成什么样?

写一段对话,关于一个保安阻止一个游客拍照的情景。

Häufig gestellte Fragen

10 Fragen

No. '禁止拍照' means no photography at all. If only flash were banned, it would say '禁止使用闪光灯'.

It can be. In military or government areas, it is a legal requirement. In museums, it is usually a policy, but breaking it can lead to removal.

拍照 is more casual (taking a snap). 摄影 is more professional (photography/cinematography). Signs use both.

It is often for religious respect and to protect ancient artworks from light damage.

Yes, any form of capturing an image with a camera is prohibited.

You should stop immediately. Verbal commands from staff carry authority in these venues.

In some places like subways or sensitive sites, yes. In museums, you are usually just asked to delete the photo or leave.

Usually yes, unless there is also a '禁止写生' (no sketching) sign. Sketching doesn't involve light damage.

Yes, the characters are the same (though in Traditional Chinese: 禁止拍照), and the meaning is identical.

You can say: '请问,这里可以拍照吗?' (Qǐngwèn, zhèlǐ kěyǐ pāizhào ma?)

Teste dich selbst 180 Fragen

writing

Write the Chinese characters for 'No photography'.

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate into Chinese: 'Photography is prohibited here.'

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate into Chinese: 'Photography is strictly prohibited.'

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Write a sentence using '禁止拍照' and '因为' (because).

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate into English: '博物馆内禁止拍照。'

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate into Chinese: 'Please do not take photos.'

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Write the pinyin for '禁止拍照'.

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate into Chinese: 'Photography and video recording are prohibited.'

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate into Chinese: 'According to the rules, photography is prohibited.'

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Write a short dialogue where a guard tells a tourist not to take photos.

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate into Chinese: 'This place is a no-photo zone.'

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate into Chinese: 'Why is photography prohibited here?'

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Write the character '禁' five times.

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate into Chinese: 'Although photography is prohibited, the view is nice.'

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate into Chinese: 'Violators of the no-photo rule will be fined.'

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Write a notice for a private party banning photos.

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate into Chinese: 'Photography is prohibited for safety reasons.'

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate into Chinese: 'No flash photography.'

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Write the word for 'camera' in Chinese.

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate into Chinese: 'The theater prohibits photography.'

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Pronounce '禁止拍照' clearly with correct tones.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say 'Photography is prohibited here' in Chinese.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Ask 'Is photography allowed here?' in Chinese.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Tell a friend 'Don't take photos' in Chinese.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say 'Strictly no photography' in Chinese.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say 'Please do not take photos' in Chinese.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Explain why photography is prohibited in a museum in Chinese.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say 'Photography and video are prohibited' in Chinese.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say 'Sorry, no photography' in Chinese.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say 'I didn't see the sign' in Chinese.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say 'Is it okay to take a photo without flash?'

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say 'Thank you for cooperating with our no-photo rule.'

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say 'The sign says no photography.'

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say 'Why is it strictly prohibited?'

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say 'Photography is prohibited for security reasons.'

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say 'You must follow the rules.'

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say 'I am looking for the no-photo sign.'

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say 'Can I take a photo outside?'

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say 'This is a sensitive area, no photos.'

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say 'Wait, no photos here!'

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen to the audio: '这里禁止拍照。' What is prohibited?

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen: '严禁拍照录像。' What two things are banned?

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen: '请收起您的相机,这里禁止拍照。' What should you do with your camera?

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen: '由于版权原因,禁止拍照。' Why is it banned?

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen: '这里可以拍照,但不能用闪光灯。' Is photography allowed?

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen: '对不起,博物馆内禁止拍照。' Where is it banned?

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen: '那个牌子写着禁止拍照。' What is on the sign?

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen: '如果您违反规定,将被罚款。' What is the consequence?

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen: '请勿拍照,谢谢合作。' Is this a polite request?

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen: '为什么大家都禁止拍照?' What is the speaker asking?

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen: '禁止拍照区在前面。' Where is the zone?

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen: '请注意,禁止拍照。' What should you do?

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen: '全馆禁止拍照。' Is it just one room?

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen: '安检处禁止拍照。' Where is it banned?

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen: '禁止拍照,违者必究。' Is this a formal warning?

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:

/ 180 correct

Perfect score!

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