At the A1 level, you don't need to worry about the complex academic uses of 典型 (diǎnxíng). Just think of it as a way to say 'very standard' or 'just like the others.' You might hear it when people talk about food or weather. For example, '典型的中国菜' means 'Typical Chinese food'—the kind you imagine when you think of Chinese cuisine, like rice or dumplings. It's a bit like saying 'classic.' Even though this word is usually taught at higher levels, knowing it early helps you describe things that fit a certain image perfectly. Remember that it uses '的' (de) when describing a noun. So, '典型的' + [Thing]. It's a great word to use when you want to sound more natural than just using '好的' (good) or '常用的' (commonly used). If you see a red bus in London, you can say it's '典型的' because that's what London is known for. Just remember: 典型 = the perfect example of a type.
As an A2 learner, you can start using 典型 (diǎnxíng) to describe people's personalities and common situations. You might use it to describe a friend who is 'typically' busy or a 'typical' student life. It's more specific than '一般' (yībān - general/usual). When you use 典型, you are saying that something has all the features you expect. For example, if you describe a '典型的上海男人' (typical Shanghai man), you are referring to the stereotype or the common traits associated with men from Shanghai. In A2, you should also notice that 典型 can be used after '很' (hěn - very). '他的表现很典型' (His behavior is very typical). This is a useful way to comment on things you observe. It shows you are starting to recognize patterns in the world around you. Try to use it when you see something that looks exactly like a textbook example of a category, like a 'typical' rainy day in Seattle or a 'typical' busy street in Beijing.
At the B1 level, 典型 (diǎnxíng) becomes a very useful tool for discussion and explanation. You are now expected to understand that it can be both an adjective and a noun. As an adjective, it helps you categorize things accurately in essays or conversations. For instance, in a discussion about social issues, you might talk about a '典型案例' (typical case) to illustrate your point. This sounds much more professional than just saying '一个例子' (an example). As a noun, you might hear it in phrases like '树立典型' (to set up a model). This is common in Chinese culture, where a person is chosen to represent a good quality (like hard work) for others to follow. You should also be able to distinguish 典型 from '代表性' (representativeness). While '代表性' is often about numbers and statistics, '典型' is about the essence and characteristics. If you are describing a character in a movie who represents a whole generation, '典型' is the perfect word to use.
For B2 learners, 典型 (diǎnxíng) is essential for literary analysis and formal writing. You should be familiar with the concept of '典型人物' (typical characters) and '典型环境' (typical environments), which are key terms in Chinese literary theory. These terms describe how a writer uses a specific character or setting to represent broader social or historical truths. In business or legal contexts, you will see '典型' used to describe 'standard' or 'landmark' cases. You should also be comfortable using the word in its negative sense, such as describing a '典型错误' (typical error) in a technical process. At this level, you should also be aware of the noun form used to refer to 'model individuals' in social or political discourse. Using '典型' correctly shows that you understand not just the language, but the way Chinese speakers categorize and value examples. You should also start using '典型性' (typicality) as a noun in more abstract discussions about art, sociology, or science.
At the C1 level, your understanding of 典型 (diǎnxíng) should include its philosophical and ideological connotations. You should recognize its role in the 'Model' culture of the mid-20th century China and how that influences modern management and education. You will encounter the word in complex academic papers, where it might be used to discuss '典型相关分析' (Canonical Correlation Analysis) in statistics or '典型化' (typification) in sociology. You should be able to use the word with precision, distinguishing it from '典范' (paragon), '范例' (exemplar), and '原型' (archetype). In high-level debates, you might use '典型' to critique a generalization, arguing that a specific case is 'not typical' (不具有典型性) and therefore cannot be used to draw a broad conclusion. Your usage should reflect a deep awareness of the 'mold' (型) and 'canon' (典) roots of the word, using it to describe things that are not just common, but fundamentally representative of their category's structure.
At the C2 level, you should have a native-like grasp of 典型 (diǎnxíng), including its use in highly specialized fields like law, medicine, and linguistics. You should be able to use it effortlessly in spontaneous discussion to describe nuanced social phenomena. For example, you might discuss the 'typicality effect' in cognitive psychology using the term '典型性效应.' You should also understand the subtle irony or sarcasm that can be conveyed by calling someone a '典型' in certain social circles. In writing, you can use '典型' to build sophisticated arguments about representation in media or history. You should be able to navigate the word's history from classical meanings of 'standard laws' to its modern usage as 'representative type.' Whether you are analyzing a '典型病历' (typical medical record) or a '典型文学形象' (typical literary image), your use of the word should be precise, contextually appropriate, and enriched by an understanding of the cultural weight it carries in the Sinosphere.

典型 in 30 Sekunden

  • Typical or representative example.
  • Can be used as an adjective or a noun.
  • Common in news, medicine, and literature.
  • Implies a 'textbook' or archetypal quality.
The Chinese word 典型 (diǎnxíng) is a sophisticated yet essential term that functions as both an adjective and a noun. At its core, it describes something that embodies the essential characteristics of a group, category, or phenomenon so perfectly that it serves as a standard or a representative specimen. When you call something 典型, you are not just saying it is common; you are saying it is the 'quintessence' or the 'archetype' of its kind. In English, we often translate it as 'typical,' 'classic,' 'model,' or 'representative.' However, the nuance in Chinese carries a weight of 'standardization' because of the first character 典 (diǎn), which refers to canons, classics, or laws. The second character 型 (xíng) refers to a mold, pattern, or type. Together, they create a concept of a 'canonical mold.'
The Nuance of Representation
Unlike the word '普通' (pǔtōng), which simply means common or ordinary, 典型 implies that the subject possesses all the defining traits that make that category what it is. For example, a 'typical' symptom of a cold isn't just common; it is what defines the cold in a medical context.
People use this word in a variety of contexts, ranging from academic discussions about literature—where a '典型人物' (diǎnxíng rénwù) is a character that represents a whole social class—to everyday complaints about someone's behavior. If a friend is always late, you might sigh and say, '这太典型了' (This is so typical).

他的这种反应是典型的应激表现。(His reaction is a typical manifestation of stress.)

In professional settings, 典型 is used to identify case studies. A '典型案例' (diǎnxíng ànlì) is a case that is chosen specifically because it illustrates a broader problem or a successful strategy perfectly. It is also used in political and social discourse to highlight 'model individuals' who others should emulate. When used as a noun, it refers to the person or thing itself that serves as the model. For instance, '树立典型' (shùlì diǎnxíng) means to set up a model or an example for others to follow. This usage is very common in Chinese organizational culture, where specific workers or students are singled out as 'typical' examples of excellence.

这件作品是该艺术风格的典型。(This work is a classic example of that artistic style.)

Cultural Weight
In Chinese history, the concept of 'models' (典型) has been central to moral education. Confucius emphasized following the examples of ancient sages. In modern times, this translated into the state identifying 'model workers' to inspire the populace.
Understanding this word requires recognizing its dual nature: it can be a neutral descriptive term in science, a critical term in social interactions, or a laudatory term in organizational management.

他那种典型的拖延症又犯了。(His typical procrastination has kicked in again.)

Technical Application
In statistics and research, '典型样本' (diǎnxíng yàngběn) refers to a representative sample that accurately reflects the characteristics of the whole population being studied.

这种建筑是南方农村的典型。(This kind of architecture is typical of southern rural areas.)

我们应该向这些先进典型学习。(We should learn from these advanced models/examples.)

Using 典型 correctly involves understanding its placement as either an attributive adjective (modifying a noun) or a predicative adjective (following a subject). When it modifies a noun, it almost always takes the particle 的 (de). For example, '典型的例子' (a typical example) or '典型的表现' (a typical manifestation). In this role, it helps categorize the noun by its most prominent features.
Adjectival Placement
Subject + 是 + 典型的 + Noun. Example: 这是一个典型的误会 (This is a typical misunderstanding). This structure is used to classify a specific event into a broader category.
When used as a predicate, it is often preceded by intensifiers like 很 (hěn - very), 非常 (fēicháng - extremely), or 十分 (shífēn - fully). For instance, '他的性格很典型' (His personality is very typical). This implies that his traits are exactly what one would expect from someone in his position or background.

这种气候是该地区最典型的特征。(This climate is the most typical feature of the region.)

In literary criticism, the phrase '典型环境中的典型人物' (typical characters in typical environments) is a famous concept from Engels that is widely taught in Chinese schools. It refers to characters that are not just individuals but represent the historical forces of their time. This shows how the word can scale from a simple description of a rainy day to complex sociological theory.
Noun Usage
Noun + 是 + 典型. Example: 雷锋是助人为乐的典型 (Lei Feng is a model of finding joy in helping others). Here, the word refers to the person as the embodiment of a trait.
You will also see 典型 in compound phrases like '典型性' (diǎnxíngxìng), which means 'representativeness' or 'typicality.' This is used in formal writing to discuss the validity of data or the strength of an example.

这个案例具有很强的典型性。(This case has strong representativeness.)

他是一个典型的上海男人。(He is a typical Shanghai man.)

Comparative Structures
Compared to '代表性' (representative), '典型' is more vivid and often implies a perfect, textbook-like quality. '代表性' is more neutral and statistical.

这是典型的因小失大。(This is a classic case of losing the big for the small.)

我们要抓好典型,以点带面。(We must grasp the model examples well to drive the overall work.)

You will encounter 典型 in various spheres of Chinese life, each with a slightly different flavor. In the news and media, it is frequently used in reports concerning legal cases or social trends. A news anchor might say, '这是一起典型的诈骗案' (This is a typical case of fraud), signaling to the audience that the methods used by the criminals are standard and recognizable. In this context, 典型 serves as a warning or a categorization tool.
In the News
Journalists use '典型' to frame a story as part of a larger pattern. It helps the audience understand that the specific event is not an isolated incident but part of a 'typical' societal issue.
In academic and medical circles, the word is indispensable. Doctors will talk about '典型症状' (typical symptoms) to distinguish between a standard presentation of a disease and an 'atypical' one (非典型 - fēidiǎnxíng). The word '非典型肺炎' (Atypical Pneumonia) became globally known during the SARS outbreak in 2003.

患者表现出了肺炎的典型特征。(The patient showed typical characteristics of pneumonia.)

In the workplace, you might hear managers talk about '典型经验' (typical experience/best practices). This refers to successful methods used by one department that are representative of 'what works' and should be copied by others. If you are a student, your teacher might point out a '典型错误' (typical mistake) that many students make on an exam.
Classroom Context
Teachers use '典型' to highlight common pitfalls. When a teacher says '这是一个典型的错别字' (This is a typical typo), they are telling the class that this error is common and representative of a specific linguistic confusion.
In social life, the word is used to stereotype or categorize behavior, often with a hint of humor or criticism. If you are eating a very traditional breakfast, a Chinese friend might say, '你吃得很典型啊' (You're eating very typically/traditionally). It acknowledges that you are following the cultural 'mold' perfectly.

这种性格在年轻人中非常典型。(This personality is very typical among young people.)

他就是那个时代的典型人物。(He is the archetypal figure of that era.)

Art and Literature
In art history, '典型' is used to describe works that define a period, such as '典型的唐代风格' (typical Tang Dynasty style).

这是一种典型的职场心理。(This is a typical workplace psychology.)

One of the most frequent mistakes learners make is confusing 典型 (diǎnxíng) with 普通 (pǔtōng) or 一般 (yībān). While all three can be translated as 'typical' or 'common' in certain English contexts, their meanings in Chinese are distinct. 普通 means 'ordinary' or 'not special,' while 典型 means 'representative' or 'archetypal.' If you say a person is '普通,' you mean they are just like everyone else. If you say they are '典型,' you mean they are a perfect example of a specific category (e.g., a typical scientist).
Typical vs. Ordinary
Mistake: '这是一个普通的例子' (This is an ordinary example) vs. '这是一个典型的例子' (This is a typical/representative example). Use 典型 when the example proves a point or illustrates a rule.
Another common error is using 典型 to mean 'usual' in terms of frequency, like the word '经常' (jīngcháng). You cannot say '我典型去公园' to mean 'I typically go to the park.' 典型 is an adjective or noun, not a frequency adverb. To express 'typically' as an adverb, you should use '通常' (tōngcháng) or '一般' (yībān).

错误用法:我典型在六点起床。(Incorrect: I typically wake up at six.) Correct: 我通常在六点起床。

Learners also sometimes confuse 典型 with 代表 (dàibiǎo). While both relate to representation, 代表 is usually a verb (to represent) or a noun for a person (a representative/delegate). 典型 is used to describe the qualities that make someone representative. You might say '他是工人的代表' (He is the representative of the workers—perhaps elected), but '他是典型的工人' (He is a typical worker—he looks and acts exactly like what you imagine a worker to be).
典型 vs. 代表
典型 focuses on the 'essence' or 'traits.' 代表 focuses on the 'function' or 'role' of representing others.
Finally, be careful with the noun form. In English, we say 'He is a typical [noun].' In Chinese, you can say '他是一个典型的[noun]' or '他是一个典型.' The latter implies he is the 'model example' for others. Using it as a noun in a negative context (e.g., 'He is a model of bad behavior') requires the listener to understand your sarcastic tone, or you might sound like you are praising him.

不要把他当成典型。(Don't take him as a model/standard example.)

这并不是一个典型的案例,不能说明问题。(This isn't a typical case; it doesn't prove the point.)

Phonetic Confusion
Don't confuse '典型' (diǎnxíng) with '点型' (diǎnxíng), which might rarely be used in technical geometry to mean 'point-type,' but is not a standard vocabulary word.

这种错误非常典型,大家要注意。(This mistake is very typical; everyone should pay attention.)

To truly master 典型 (diǎnxíng), it is helpful to compare it with its synonyms and related terms. The most common alternative is 代表性 (dàibiǎoxìng), which means 'representativeness.' While 典型 often carries a qualitative judgment (this is the *best* or *most* representative), 代表性 is more of a neutral, quantitative description. You would use 代表性 when talking about data or a survey sample.
典型 vs. 代表性
典型: Archetypal, classic, often used for characters or specific behaviors. 代表性: Representative, often used for statistics, samples, or opinions.
Another word is 榜样 (bǎngyàng), which means 'role model' or 'example to follow.' This is strictly positive. You can be a '典型' of a bad habit, but you can only be a '榜样' for something good. If you want to encourage someone to be like a great person, use 榜样. If you are analyzing why a person is the way they are, use 典型.

他是我们学习的榜样。(He is a role model for us to learn from.)

In formal or literary contexts, you might see 范例 (fànlì), which means 'example' or 'instance,' often used in textbooks or legal documents to provide a standard case. While 典型 is the quality of being representative, 范例 is the actual example itself.
典型 vs. 普遍
普遍 (pǔbiàn) means 'universal' or 'widespread.' Something can be '典型' without being '普遍.' For instance, a rare disease might have a '典型' set of symptoms even if the disease itself is not '普遍.'

这虽然不是普遍现象,但很典型。(Although this isn't a widespread phenomenon, it is very typical/representative.)

Summary Table
典型: Representative/Archetypal. 代表性: Statistical representation. 榜样: Positive role model. 典范: Formal paragon. 经典: Classic/Timeless.

这本小说是现实主义文学的典型作品。(This novel is a typical work of realist literature.)

这种行为是典型的自私自利。(This behavior is a classic example of selfishness.)

How Formal Is It?

Wusstest du?

In modern literary theory, the concept of the 'typical' was heavily influenced by Soviet realism and Engels' theories, which were widely adopted in 20th-century Chinese education.

Aussprachehilfe

UK /diːæn ʃɪŋ/
US /diæn ʃɪŋ/
In Chinese, both syllables carry equal weight, but the tones are the primary focus.
Reimt sich auf
经典 (jīngdiǎn) 庆幸 (qìngxìng) 类型 (lèixíng) 模型 (móxíng) 字典 (zìdiǎn) 流行 (liúxíng) 图形 (túxíng) 形成 (xíngchéng)
Häufige Fehler
  • Pronouncing 'xíng' as first tone (xīng) which changes the meaning.
  • Pronouncing 'diǎn' as fourth tone (diàn) which sounds like 'electric'.
  • Failing to rise enough on the second tone of 'xíng'.
  • Mumbling the 'i' in 'diǎn'.
  • Confusing 'xíng' with 'xìng' (fourth tone).

Schwierigkeitsgrad

Lesen 3/5

The characters are common but the abstract usage in literature or politics can be tricky.

Schreiben 4/5

Writing '典' requires attention to stroke order and balance.

Sprechen 3/5

Tones are important to distinguish it from other 'dian' and 'xing' words.

Hören 3/5

Easily recognized in context due to its frequent use in news and education.

Was du als Nächstes lernen solltest

Voraussetzungen

例子 (Example) 样子 (Appearance/Manner) 类型 (Type) 代表 (Represent) 普通 (Ordinary)

Als Nächstes lernen

典范 (Paragon) 原型 (Archetype) 特征 (Characteristic) 示范 (Demonstrate) 规范 (Standard/Norm)

Fortgeschritten

典型化 (Typification) 范式 (Paradigm) 刻板印象 (Stereotype) 普遍性 (Universality) 特殊性 (Particularity)

Wichtige Grammatik

Using '的' with Adjectives

典型的例子 (Typical example)

Predicative Adjectives with '很'

他的性格很典型 (His personality is very typical)

Noun usage as an object

树立典型 (Set up a model)

Negative form '不具有...性'

不具有典型性 (Does not have typicality)

Adverbial usage with '地'

典型地表现了 (Typically manifested - less common)

Beispiele nach Niveau

1

这是典型的中国菜。

This is typical Chinese food.

典型的 (Adjective) + Noun.

2

他是一个典型的学生。

He is a typical student.

Use '一个' to quantify the person.

3

那里的天气很典型。

The weather there is very typical.

很 + 典型 (Predicative adjective).

4

这是一个典型的例子。

This is a typical example.

Standard 'This is a...' structure.

5

典型的红色苹果。

A typical red apple.

Used as a simple modifier.

6

这是典型的北京早餐。

This is a typical Beijing breakfast.

Combining location and noun.

7

他是典型的这种人。

He is typically this kind of person.

这种人 (this kind of person).

8

这个颜色很典型。

This color is very typical.

Describing a quality.

1

他的性格非常典型。

His personality is very typical.

非常 + 典型.

2

这是典型的职场问题。

This is a typical workplace problem.

Describing a situational category.

3

这种错误很典型。

This kind of mistake is very typical.

Focusing on common errors.

4

他是一个典型的北方人。

He is a typical Northerner.

Referring to regional stereotypes.

5

典型的周末生活。

Typical weekend life.

Describing a lifestyle.

6

这种反应太典型了。

This reaction is so typical.

太...了 for emphasis.

7

这是一个典型的误解。

This is a typical misunderstanding.

Categorizing a social interaction.

8

典型的夏天天气。

Typical summer weather.

Describing a season.

1

我们应该树立先进典型。

We should set up advanced models.

典型 as a noun (model/example).

2

这个案例具有典型意义。

This case has typical significance.

典型意义 (typical significance/importance).

3

这是典型的消费心理。

This is typical consumer psychology.

Abstract noun modification.

4

他是一个助人为乐的典型。

He is a model of finding joy in helping others.

Noun form meaning 'exemplar'.

5

这本小说刻画了典型的商人形象。

This novel portrays a typical businessman image.

Literary context.

6

这种病有典型的临床表现。

This disease has typical clinical manifestations.

Medical context.

7

通过典型调查,我们发现了问题。

Through a typical investigation, we found the problem.

Typical investigation (representative survey).

8

这是一个典型的因公负伤案例。

This is a typical case of injury in the line of duty.

Formal categorization.

1

典型环境塑造典型人物。

Typical environments shape typical characters.

A famous literary theory phrase.

2

这种做法在当时非常典型。

This practice was very typical at that time.

Historical context.

3

我们要抓好典型,推广经验。

We must grasp the models well and promote their experience.

Management terminology.

4

这是典型的官僚主义作风。

This is a typical bureaucratic style.

Political/Administrative criticism.

5

该地区的建筑风格十分典型。

The architectural style of this region is quite typical.

Describing cultural heritage.

6

这个样本不具有典型性。

This sample does not have typicality (representativeness).

典型性 (Noun: typicality).

7

这起案件是典型的合同纠纷。

This case is a typical contract dispute.

Legal terminology.

8

他表现出一种典型的文人气质。

He shows a typical scholarly temperament.

Describing abstract qualities.

1

文学创作要求对生活进行典型化处理。

Literary creation requires the typification of life.

典型化 (Verb: to typify/typification).

2

这是典型的二元经济结构。

This is a typical dual economic structure.

Economic terminology.

3

该理论在典型案例分析中得到了验证。

The theory was verified in the analysis of typical cases.

Research context.

4

这种现象反映了典型的文化冲突。

This phenomenon reflects a typical cultural conflict.

Sociological analysis.

5

我们不能以偏概全,要看典型。

We shouldn't generalize from a part; we must look at the typical examples.

Logical argument.

6

这是典型的后现代主义建筑。

This is typical postmodern architecture.

Artistic classification.

7

该患者是典型性肺炎的受害者。

The patient was a victim of typical pneumonia.

Medical precision.

8

这种论调是典型的民粹主义。

This tone is typical populism.

Political science context.

1

这种话语体系构建了典型的他者形象。

This discourse system constructs a typical image of the 'Other'.

Critical theory context.

2

该研究采用了典型相关分析的方法。

The study adopted the method of canonical correlation analysis.

Statistical terminology (Canonical).

3

这一发现具有典型的范式转换意义。

This discovery has the significance of a typical paradigm shift.

Philosophical/Scientific context.

4

他并非典型的英雄,而是一个反英雄。

He is not a typical hero, but an anti-hero.

Literary nuance.

5

这种典型性在跨文化研究中尤为重要。

This typicality is particularly important in cross-cultural studies.

Academic abstraction.

6

文章深入探讨了典型化与个性化的关系。

The article deeply explored the relationship between typification and individualization.

Advanced literary criticism.

7

这是典型的博弈论模型。

This is a typical game theory model.

Specialized academic field.

8

该政策是典型的新自由主义产物。

This policy is a typical product of neoliberalism.

Political economy.

Häufige Kollokationen

典型案例
典型症状
典型人物
典型表现
树立典型
典型特征
典型意义
典型经验
典型错误
典型环境

Häufige Phrasen

很典型

— Very typical. Used to describe a person's behavior or a situation.

他的反应很典型。

太典型了

— So typical. Often used sarcastically or to express recognition of a pattern.

你又迟到了,真是太典型了。

非典型

— Atypical. Used primarily in medical or scientific contexts.

这是一种非典型症状。

典型性

— Typicality or representativeness. Used as a noun in formal contexts.

这个样本的典型性不够。

抓典型

— To focus on specific model cases to influence the whole group.

领导要求抓典型,促工作。

典型调查

— A survey of representative cases rather than the whole population.

我们做了一次典型调查。

典型范例

— A classic or representative example.

这是成功的典型范例。

典型性格

— A personality that perfectly fits a certain stereotype or group.

他具有典型的艺术家性格。

典型作品

— A work that defines a style or era.

这是他的典型作品。

典型户

— A typical household (often used in rural economic surveys).

调查组访问了几个典型户。

Wird oft verwechselt mit

典型 vs 代表性

代表性 is statistical/neutral; 典型 is archetypal/vivid.

典型 vs 榜样

榜样 is always a positive role model; 典型 can be positive or negative.

典型 vs 普通

普通 means ordinary; 典型 means a perfect representative specimen.

Redewendungen & Ausdrücke

"以点带面"

— To use a single point (typical example) to lead or influence the whole area.

通过树立先进典型,达到以点带面的效果。

Formal/Political
"因小失大"

— To lose something big for the sake of something small (often called a 'typical' mistake).

这是典型的因小失大。

General
"名不虚传"

— To have a well-deserved reputation (often said of a typical classic).

这里的风景真是名不虚传,是典型的江南水乡。

Literary
"司空见惯"

— A common sight (related to typical occurrences).

这种典型的问题在城市里司空见惯。

General
"家喻户晓"

— Known to every household (often said of a typical hero).

雷锋是家喻户晓的先进典型。

General
"千篇一律"

— All the same (the negative side of being too typical).

他的作品太典型了,甚至有些千篇一律。

Critical
"举一反三"

— To learn by analogy (using a typical example to understand others).

通过这个典型的案例,我们可以举一反三。

Education
"众所周知"

— As everyone knows (used when introducing a typical fact).

众所周知,这是典型的过敏反应。

Formal
"见怪不怪"

— To become accustomed to something strange (when it becomes typical).

这种典型现象看多了也就见怪不怪了。

Colloquial
"一针见血"

— To hit the nail on the head (describing a typical trait perfectly).

他的评价一针见血,指出了典型的核心问题。

General

Leicht verwechselbar

典型 vs 经典

Both translate to 'classic' in some contexts.

经典 refers to high-quality, timeless masterpieces. 典型 refers to being representative of a type.

《西游记》是经典文学,唐僧是典型的僧人形象。

典型 vs 通常

Both translate to 'typical' or 'usually'.

通常 is a frequency adverb (usually). 典型 is an adjective (representative).

我通常六点起床,这是典型的早起习惯。

典型 vs 示范

Both involve showing an example.

示范 is the act of demonstrating. 典型 is the state of being an example.

他通过示范,向我们展示了典型的操作流程。

典型 vs 范例

Both mean 'example'.

范例 is a specific instance/case used for teaching. 典型 is the quality of that instance.

这是一个成功的范例,因为它非常典型。

典型 vs 类型

Both share the character '型'.

类型 is the category itself (noun). 典型 is an example that represents that category.

这种类型的电影,他是典型的代表。

Satzmuster

A1

这是典型的 + [Noun]

这是典型的中国菜。

A2

[Subject] + 很典型

他的反应很典型。

B1

[Subject] + 是一个 + [Characteristic] + 的典型

他是一个勤奋工作的典型。

B2

[Subject] + 具有 + [Adjective] + 的典型性

这个案例具有极强的典型性。

C1

通过对 + [Noun] + 的典型化处理...

通过对人物的典型化处理,小说更具张力。

C2

[Subject] + 构成了 + [Noun] + 的典型范式

这一发现构成了该学科的典型范式。

B1

树立 + [Person] + 为典型

公司树立他为典型。

B2

典型的 + [Noun] + 莫过于 + [Example]

典型的例子莫过于此。

Wortfamilie

Substantive

典型性 (typicality)
典型化 (typification)
典型人物 (typical character)
典型案例 (typical case)

Verben

典型化 (to typify)
树立典型 (to set up a model)

Adjektive

典型的 (typical)
非典型的 (atypical)

Verwandt

典礼 (ceremony)
类型 (type)
标准 (standard)
榜样 (role model)
模型 (model)

So verwendest du es

frequency

Common in all registers, especially high in education, news, and medicine.

Häufige Fehler
  • Using 典型 as an adverb for 'usually'. 使用通常 (tōngcháng).

    典型 is an adjective/noun, not an adverb of frequency.

  • Confusing 典型 with 经典. 经典 is for 'classics'; 典型 is for 'representative'.

    A 'typical' movie is one that fits a genre; a 'classic' movie is a masterpiece.

  • Saying '典型的' without a noun when it's the subject. 这是一个典型.

    When used as a noun, you don't need '的'.

  • Using 典型 for 'common' in every situation. Use 常见 (chángjiàn) for things that just happen often.

    典型 implies it defines the category, not just that it's seen a lot.

  • Confusing 典型 with 代表. 代表 is a delegate; 典型 is an archetype.

    A representative at a meeting is a 代表; a typical student is a 典型.

Tipps

Adjective vs. Noun

Remember that as an adjective it needs '的', but as a noun meaning 'a model,' it does not.

Medical Use

In medical Chinese, always use '典型症状' for standard symptoms of a disease.

Sarcasm

Saying '太典型了' can be a gentle way to tease a friend about their predictable habits.

Academic Tone

Use '具有典型性' to make your arguments sound more professional in writing.

Synonym Choice

If you are praising someone as a perfect hero, '典范' is even stronger than '典型'.

Literary Theory

If you study Chinese literature, '典型人物' is a term you must know for exams.

Typical vs. Ordinary

Don't use 典型 for 'boring' or 'ordinary'; use it for 'representative'.

Tone Mastery

Practice the third-second tone combination (diǎn-xíng) to sound natural.

Common Pairs

Memorize '典型案例' as a single block; it's used everywhere from news to law.

Atypical

Remember '非典型' for anything that breaks the expected pattern.

Einprägen

Eselsbrücke

Think of a 'Classic' (典) 'Model' (型). If you have a classic mold, every item it produces will be a 'typical' example of that mold.

Visuelle Assoziation

Imagine a cookie cutter (the '型') and a famous recipe book (the '典'). Any cookie made with that cutter from that book is a 'typical' cookie.

Word Web

典 (Canon) 型 (Mold) 标准 (Standard) 代表 (Represent) 榜样 (Role Model) 案例 (Case) 特征 (Feature) 类型 (Type)

Herausforderung

Try to find three things in your room today and describe them using '典型的'. For example, '这是一个典型的笔记本' (This is a typical notebook).

Wortherkunft

The term 典型 originates from classical Chinese texts. 典 (diǎn) originally referred to a 'standard' or 'canon,' often depicted as a book on a pedestal. 型 (xíng) referred to a 'mold' used for casting bronze or making pottery. Together, they describe something that comes from a standard mold.

Ursprüngliche Bedeutung: A standard mold or a canonical law/rule.

Sino-Tibetan (Chinese)

Kultureller Kontext

Be careful when using 典型 to describe people from specific regions or ethnic groups, as it can sound like you are reinforcing stereotypes.

In English, 'typical' is often slightly negative ('That's so typical!'), whereas in Chinese, it is more often neutral or positive in formal settings.

Lei Feng (雷锋) - The ultimate '典型' of selflessness in Chinese culture. Engels' 'Typical characters in typical environments' - A cornerstone of Chinese literary education. SARS (非典) - The most famous use of the antonym '非典型'.

Im Alltag üben

Kontexte aus dem Alltag

Medical Diagnosis

  • 典型症状 (Typical symptoms)
  • 典型表现 (Typical manifestation)
  • 非典型肺炎 (SARS)
  • 临床典型案例 (Clinical typical case)

Literary Criticism

  • 典型人物 (Typical character)
  • 典型环境 (Typical environment)
  • 典型化手法 (Typification technique)
  • 形象典型 (Typical image)

Business/Management

  • 典型经验 (Typical experience)
  • 树立典型 (Set up a model)
  • 典型案例分析 (Typical case analysis)
  • 典型用户 (Typical user)

Daily Conversation

  • 太典型了 (So typical)
  • 典型的... (Typical...)
  • 很典型 (Very typical)
  • 不是典型的 (Not typical)

Legal/Social News

  • 典型诈骗案 (Typical fraud case)
  • 典型纠纷 (Typical dispute)
  • 具有典型意义 (Has typical significance)
  • 通报典型案例 (Report typical cases)

Gesprächseinstiege

"你觉得什么是典型的中国文化? (What do you think is typical Chinese culture?)"

"这是一个很典型的例子,你以前见过吗? (This is a very typical example, have you seen it before?)"

"你认为一个典型的学生应该是什么样的? (What do you think a typical student should be like?)"

"这种天气在你家乡典型吗? (Is this kind of weather typical in your hometown?)"

"你能给我举一个典型的职场误会吗? (Can you give me a typical workplace misunderstanding?)"

Tagebuch-Impulse

写一写你认为的一个典型的周末是什么样的。(Write about what you think a typical weekend looks like.)

描述一个你认识的典型人物(例如典型的老师或典型的朋友)。(Describe a typical person you know, e.g., a typical teacher or friend.)

谈谈你遇到过的一个典型的文化冲突。(Talk about a typical cultural conflict you have encountered.)

你觉得自己在哪些方面是一个典型的[你的国籍]人?(In what ways do you think you are a typical [Your Nationality] person?)

分析一个你最近学到的典型案例。(Analyze a typical case you recently learned about.)

Häufig gestellte Fragen

10 Fragen

No, 典型 is an adjective or noun. To say 'usually,' use '通常' (tōngcháng) or '一般' (yībān). For example, 'I usually drink tea' is '我通常喝茶,' not '我典型喝茶.'

Not necessarily. It is neutral. You can have a '典型的好人' (typical good person) or a '典型的坏蛋' (typical villain). It just means they fit the mold perfectly.

典型 implies a 'perfect' or 'classic' example that captures the essence. 代表性 is more about whether a sample accurately reflects a larger group, often used in statistics.

As a noun, it means 'a model' or 'an exemplar.' You can say '他是我们学校的典型' (He is a model [student] of our school).

It means 'atypical.' It is most famous in the term '非典型肺炎' (Atypical Pneumonia), which refers to SARS.

Usually, yes, when it's an adjective. For example, '典型的症状.' But you can also say '他的表现很典型' where it acts as a predicate.

Yes, to describe a work that perfectly represents a certain style, like '典型的巴洛克风格' (typical Baroque style).

It is a common phrase meaning 'to set up a model.' It's used in schools and workplaces to highlight someone as an example for others to follow.

It is a mid-to-high level word. It sounds more precise and educated than just saying '常见的' (common).

Yes. '典型的英国天气' (typical British weather) is a very common way to describe rain and clouds.

Teste dich selbst 200 Fragen

writing

Write a sentence using '典型的' to describe a food.

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writing

Write a sentence using '很典型' to describe someone's reaction.

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writing

Write a sentence about a 'typical mistake'.

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writing

Explain why a case is typical (in Chinese).

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writing

Use 典型 as a noun in a sentence.

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writing

Describe a typical day in your life.

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writing

Use '具有典型意义' in a formal sentence.

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writing

Write about a typical symptom of a cold.

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writing

Compare 典型 and 普通 in a sentence.

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writing

Write a sentence using '树立典型'.

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writing

Describe a typical character in a movie you like.

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writing

Use '非典型' in a medical context.

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writing

Write: 'This is a typical case of fraud.'

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writing

Write: 'Your behavior is too typical.'

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writing

Use '典型环境' in a sentence about a story.

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writing

Write: 'We need to find a typical sample.'

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writing

Write about a typical feature of your city.

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writing

Use '典型地' (though rare) to describe an action.

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writing

Describe a 'typical model' in a factory.

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writing

Write: 'This represents a typical consumer psychology.'

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speaking

Say 'This is a typical example' in Chinese.

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speaking

Say 'His character is very typical' in Chinese.

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speaking

Say 'Typical symptoms' in Chinese.

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speaking

Describe a friend's habit as 'so typical'.

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speaking

Say 'We should learn from the model' in Chinese.

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speaking

Say 'This case is very typical' in Chinese.

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speaking

Say 'Typical Chinese food' in Chinese.

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speaking

Say 'Atypical pneumonia' in Chinese.

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speaking

Say 'Typical workplace problem' in Chinese.

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speaking

Say 'He is a typical student' in Chinese.

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speaking

Say 'Typical feature' in Chinese.

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speaking

Say 'Typical mistake' in Chinese.

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speaking

Say 'Typical reaction' in Chinese.

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speaking

Say 'Typical significance' in Chinese.

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speaking

Say 'Set up a model' in Chinese.

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speaking

Say 'Typical character' in Chinese.

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speaking

Say 'Typical environment' in Chinese.

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speaking

Say 'Typical experience' in Chinese.

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speaking

Say 'It has typicality' in Chinese.

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speaking

Say 'Typical user' in Chinese.

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listening

Listen and write the characters for 'diǎnxíng'.

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listening

Listen to '典型的例子' and translate.

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listening

Listen to '他的表现很典型' and translate.

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listening

Listen to '树立先进典型' and translate.

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listening

Listen to '非典型肺炎' and translate.

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listening

Listen to '典型案例分析' and translate.

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listening

Listen to '具有典型意义' and translate.

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listening

Listen to '典型人物形象' and translate.

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listening

Listen to '这是典型的误会' and translate.

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listening

Listen to '抓典型' and translate.

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listening

Listen to '典型特征' and translate.

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listening

Listen to '典型错误' and translate.

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listening

Listen to '典型症状' and translate.

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listening

Listen to '典型环境' and translate.

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listening

Listen to '典型经验' and translate.

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