At the A1 level, you likely know the word '快' (kuài) for 'fast.' While '效率高' (xiàolǜ gāo) is a bit more advanced, you can think of it as 'doing things fast and well.' Imagine you are telling your teacher that you finished your homework in 10 minutes and got all the answers right—that is '效率高.' You don't need to use this word often at A1, but recognizing it will help you understand when people praise your work. Focus on the '高' (high) part, which you already know from '很高兴' (very happy) or '高' (tall). The word '效率' might be new, but just remember it means 'efficiency.' In simple sentences, you can say '他工作很快' (He works fast) or '他效率高' (He is efficient). These are both ways to say someone is good at what they do. At this stage, just try to remember that '效率高' is a positive thing to say about how someone works or studies. It is the opposite of being lazy or slow.
By A2, you are starting to describe people's habits and routines. '效率高' (xiàolǜ gāo) is a great addition to your vocabulary for talking about school or chores. You can use it to compare two ways of doing things. For example, '用洗衣机比手洗效率高' (Using a washing machine is more efficient than hand-washing). Notice how we use '比' (bǐ) to compare efficiency. You might also hear it in the workplace if you have a part-time job. Phrases like '办事效率高' (doing things efficiently) are very common. At this level, you should start to notice that '效率' is a noun and '高' is the adjective describing it. You can also start using '很' (hěn) to say '很效率高' (though usually just '效率很高'). It's a useful term for giving feedback. If a friend helps you move house very quickly and organized, you can say '你效率真高!' (Your efficiency is really high!). This sounds more mature and appreciative than just saying '你很快' (You are fast).
At the B1 level, '效率高' (xiàolǜ gāo) becomes an essential part of your professional and academic vocabulary. You are expected to discuss productivity, time management, and process optimization. You should be able to use the word in complex sentences with conjunctions. For example, '虽然他很年轻,但是他办事效率高' (Although he is very young, he handles matters with high efficiency). You should also understand the difference between '效率高' (the state of being efficient) and '提高效率' (to improve efficiency). B1 learners should use this word to describe systems, software, and organizational structures. Instead of just saying a computer is 'fast,' you might say '这台电脑处理数据的效率很高' (This computer's data processing efficiency is very high). This level is where you transition from simple descriptions to more analytical ones. You should also be comfortable using the negative form '效率低' (low efficiency) to describe problems or bottlenecks in a process. Practice using it in professional emails or when discussing study plans with classmates.
At B2, you should be able to use '效率高' (xiàolǜ gāo) in more abstract and formal contexts. This includes discussing economic efficiency, social systems, and environmental issues. You might encounter the term in news articles about '高效率农业' (high-efficiency agriculture) or '高效率能源使用' (high-efficiency energy use). You should also be able to use the word to describe psychological states or cognitive processes, such as '学习效率高的时间段' (time periods when learning efficiency is high). At this level, you should be aware of synonyms like '高效' (gāoxiào) and know when to use them—'高效' is often used as a prefix for nouns like '高效团队' (efficient team) or '高效方法' (efficient method). You should also be able to participate in debates about the pros and cons of prioritizing '效率' over '公平' (fairness) or '质量' (quality). Your usage should reflect an understanding that efficiency is a metric that can be measured and improved. You might also use it in resultative constructions like '效率高得让人吃惊' (efficiency so high it's surprising).
For C1 learners, '效率高' (xiàolǜ gāo) is a tool for nuanced social and economic analysis. You should be able to discuss the nuances of efficiency in various sectors—from the '行政效率' (administrative efficiency) of a government to the '算法效率' (algorithmic efficiency) in computer science. You should be comfortable using the term in formal reports, academic papers, and high-level business negotiations. C1 learners should understand the cultural implications of efficiency in China, such as the 'Speed of China' (中国速度) and how it relates to '效率高.' You should also be able to critique the cult of efficiency, using phrases like '盲目追求效率' (blindly pursuing efficiency). You should be able to distinguish between '生产效率' (production efficiency), '劳动效率' (labor efficiency), and '资本效率' (capital efficiency). At this level, your vocabulary should also include more sophisticated related terms like '边际效率' (marginal efficiency) or '帕累托效率' (Pareto efficiency). You should be able to use '效率高' as a standard against which systems are judged in complex argumentative essays.
At the C2 level, '效率高' (xiàolǜ gāo) is used with total native-like precision and idiomatic flair. You understand not just the word, but its philosophical and systemic weight in a globalized economy. You can discuss the 'efficiency' of linguistic structures, the 'efficiency' of biological evolution, or the 'efficiency' of historical transitions. You are likely to use the word in high-stakes environments, such as advising on '组织架构优化以实现效率最高化' (optimizing organizational structure to achieve maximum efficiency). You can weave the concept into complex metaphors or use it to describe the elegance of a mathematical proof. You understand the subtle irony when '效率高' is used sarcastically to describe a process that was too fast and missed important details. Your mastery includes the ability to use the word in any register, from the most technical scientific paper to a casual but sharp social commentary. You are also proficient in using related idioms and classical allusions that touch upon the concept of doing more with less, even if they don't use the modern word '效率' directly.

效率高 en 30 segundos

  • Efficiency high (效率高) is a B1-level Chinese term meaning 'highly efficient' or 'productive.'
  • It is used to describe people, machines, and systems that maximize output while minimizing resource waste.
  • Commonly heard in workplace and academic settings, it is a highly positive attribute in modern China.
  • It should not be confused with just being 'fast' (快), as it implies quality and resource management.

The term 效率高 (xiàolǜ gāo) is a cornerstone of modern Chinese vocabulary, particularly in professional, academic, and technological contexts. At its most basic level, it translates to 'high efficiency' or 'highly efficient.' However, its usage goes beyond a simple adjective; it describes the optimization of time, energy, and resources to achieve a desired outcome. In a culture that increasingly values productivity and rapid development, being described as someone who is 效率高 is one of the highest compliments a worker or student can receive.

Core Concept
The ratio of useful work performed to the total energy or time expended. It is not just about speed, but about the quality of the output relative to the input.

这个新软件运行起来效率高,帮我们节省了很多时间。(This new software runs with high efficiency; it helped us save a lot of time.)

In everyday conversation, you will hear this phrase in offices when discussing project management, in schools when teachers praise students for finishing assignments accurately and quickly, and even in the kitchen when discussing the performance of a new induction stove. It is a neutral-to-positive term that implies intelligence and discipline. Unlike the word 'fast' (快), which can sometimes imply rushing or sloppiness, 效率高 specifically suggests that the speed is justified by the result.

Workplace Usage
Used to describe employees, systems, or workflows that minimize waste and maximize output.

王经理办事效率高,大家都很信任他。(Manager Wang handles matters with high efficiency; everyone trusts him.)

Historically, the concept of 效率 (efficiency) entered the Chinese lexicon as a translation of Western industrial and economic terms during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. As China underwent rapid industrialization, the need for a specific term to describe the 'rate of effect' (效 - effect, 率 - rate) became paramount. Today, it is ubiquitous in the '996' work culture discussions and the 'speed of China' narratives.

Scientific Context
In physics or engineering, it refers to the thermal or mechanical efficiency of a machine or engine.

这种太阳能电池板的光电转换效率高。(The photoelectric conversion efficiency of this solar panel is high.)

Understanding 效率高 requires understanding its opposite, 效率低 (low efficiency). In many Chinese corporate environments, 'efficiency' is not just a metric but a cultural value. To be 效率高 is to be competitive. It suggests a lack of procrastination and a mastery of one's tools. It is also frequently used with '很' (very) or '非常' (extremely) to intensify the praise.

为了保持效率高,我们需要合理的休息。(In order to maintain high efficiency, we need reasonable rest.)

In summary, 效率高 is a versatile, positive, and essential term for anyone looking to navigate Chinese social or professional life. It bridges the gap between simple speed and sophisticated productivity, making it a key word for B1 learners to master as they move into more descriptive and evaluative language.

Using 效率高 correctly involves understanding its grammatical placement. Most commonly, it acts as a predicate or a modifier. Because it is an adjective phrase (efficiency + high), it often follows a noun or a verb phrase that acts as the subject of the efficiency.

Structure: Subject + 效率高
This is the most direct way to state that something or someone is efficient.

这台机器的生产效率高。(The production efficiency of this machine is high.)

When describing a person's work style, we often use the pattern '办事效率高' (to handle matters with high efficiency) or '工作效率高' (to work with high efficiency). Here, '效率高' describes the manner in which the action is performed.

Structure: Verb + 效率高
Used to describe the efficiency of a specific action or process.

他学习的时候,效率高得惊人。(When he studies, his efficiency is amazingly high.)

You can also use '效率高' as an attributive to modify a noun, although '高效率' (High-efficiency) is more common in this role. When using '效率高' as an attributive, you must add '的'.

我们需要一个效率高的团队。(We need a highly efficient team.)

In comparative sentences, '效率高' is very useful. You can compare systems, people, or methods using '比' (bǐ).

用电脑写作业比用手写效率高多了。(Doing homework on a computer is much more efficient than writing by hand.)

Finally, it is often paired with '虽然...但是...' (although... but...) to contrast efficiency with other factors like cost or difficulty.

虽然这种方法效率高,但是成本也很贵。(Although this method is efficient, the cost is also very expensive.)

Common Intensifiers
很 (hěn) - very, 非常 (fēicháng) - extremely, 特别 (tèbié) - especially, 挺 (tǐng) - quite.

By mastering these patterns, you can express complex ideas about productivity and performance in a natural, native-sounding way. Remember that '效率高' is a complete thought in many contexts, especially in response to 'How is the progress?'.

If you are in a major Chinese city like Beijing, Shanghai, or Shenzhen, 效率高 is a word you will encounter daily. It is the heartbeat of the 'fast-paced life' (快节奏生活) that defines these urban centers. Here are the primary environments where this phrase is spoken.

The Corporate Office
In meetings, performance reviews, and casual water-cooler talk, efficiency is the gold standard.

老板喜欢效率高的员工,不喜欢磨洋工的人。(The boss likes highly efficient employees and dislikes those who dawdle.)

You'll also hear it frequently in the tech industry. When developers discuss a new algorithm or a new framework, they will debate whether it is '效率高' enough to handle millions of users. On Chinese social media platforms like Xiaohongshu (Little Red Book), influencers often post about '效率高' study habits or '效率高' morning routines, offering tips on how to squeeze more productivity out of every hour.

Educational Settings
Teachers and parents use it to encourage students to focus and finish their work without distractions.

专注力强的学生通常学习效率高。(Students with strong focus usually have high learning efficiency.)

Public services in China are also frequently evaluated by their efficiency. When a new high-speed rail line opens or a government office streamlines its permit process, the news headlines will often use '效率高' to describe the improvement. It is a source of national pride in the context of infrastructure and logistics.

News and Media
Used to describe economic growth, disaster relief efforts, or technological breakthroughs.

这次救援行动展示了中国政府效率高的动员能力。(This rescue operation demonstrated the high-efficiency mobilization capability of the Chinese government.)

Finally, in the world of shopping and e-commerce, customers will leave reviews for logistics companies like SF Express (顺丰), praising them for being '效率高' when a package arrives across the country in less than 24 hours. In this context, it is synonymous with reliability and speed combined.

顺丰快递送货效率高,我非常满意。(SF Express delivery is highly efficient; I am very satisfied.)

In all these contexts, '效率高' is more than just a word; it's a standard of excellence that reflects the values of a society in motion.

While 效率高 is a relatively straightforward term, English speakers often make nuanced errors when integrating it into their Chinese. The most common mistakes involve confusing efficiency with speed, misusing grammatical particles, or applying the term to inappropriate subjects.

Mistake 1: Confusing '效率高' with '快' (Fast)
In English, we often say 'That was efficient' when we just mean 'That was fast.' In Chinese, '快' (kuài) is purely about speed, while '效率高' implies that the speed was achieved without wasting resources.

Wrong: 他写作业写得很效率
Right: 他写作业的效率很高

As shown above, '效率' is a noun. You cannot use it as an adverb directly like 'efficiently' in English. You must say 'the efficiency is high' or 'work with high efficiency.'

Mistake 2: Overusing '是' (Is)
English speakers tend to say 'Efficiency IS high' (效率是高). In Chinese, when an adjective is the predicate, we usually use '很' or another intensifier instead of '是'.

Correct: 他的工作效率很高。(His work efficiency is very high.)

Another error is using '效率高' to describe a person directly as a noun (e.g., 'He is a high efficiency'). You should describe their *work* or *actions* as efficient. You can say '他是一个办事效率高的人' (He is a person who handles matters efficiently).

Mistake 3: Misplacing '高'
Sometimes learners say '高效率' (High-efficiency) when they should say '效率高' (Efficiency is high). While both are correct, '高效率' is usually an adjective that comes *before* a noun, while '效率高' is a description that comes *after* a noun or verb.

Example: 我们需要高效率的工作方式。(We need a high-efficiency way of working.)

Finally, be careful with negative forms. While '不效率' is occasionally heard in very informal slang, the correct formal way to say 'inefficient' is '效率低' (efficiency is low) or '没有效率' (has no efficiency).

Avoid: 这种方法不效率
Better: 这种方法效率很低

By avoiding these common pitfalls, your Chinese will sound more precise and professional, reflecting the very 'efficiency' you are trying to describe!

In Chinese, there are several ways to express the idea of being 'efficient' or 'effective.' Choosing the right one depends on whether you are focusing on the speed, the result, or the systematic nature of the task. Here is a comparison of 效率高 with its closest relatives.

效率高 (xiàolǜ gāo) vs. 高效 (gāoxiào)
'高效' is the shortened, more formal version of '效率高.' It is frequently used as an attributive adjective before a noun. '效率高' is more common as a predicate description.

Comparison: 高效团队 (Efficient team) vs. 这个团队的效率很高 (This team's efficiency is very high).

效率高 (xiàolǜ gāo) vs. 有效 (yǒuxiào)
'有效' means 'effective.' It focuses on whether the method works or produces the desired result, regardless of the time taken. '效率高' specifically includes the time/resource factor.

Comparison: 这药很有效 (This medicine is effective) vs. 这种生产方式效率高 (This production method is efficient).

Another alternative is '利索' (lìsuo), which is more colloquial and often describes a person who is quick and neat in their work, without being clumsy. It is less scientific than '效率高' and more about the physical or manual dexterity of the person.

效率高 (xiàolǜ gāo) vs. 快捷 (kuàijié)
'快捷' means 'fast and convenient.' It is most often used to describe services, transportation, or software interfaces. It emphasizes the 'user experience' of speed.

Comparison: 支付过程非常快捷 (The payment process is very fast/convenient).

For more formal or academic writing, you might encounter '效能' (xiàonéng), which refers to 'efficacy' or 'performance capability.' It is common in military, governmental, or complex organizational contexts.

提升政府治理效能 (Improve the efficacy of government governance).

In summary, while '效率高' is your 'go-to' word for efficiency, knowing these alternatives allows you to be more specific. If you want to emphasize that something works, use '有效.' If you want to emphasize that a service is fast and easy, use '快捷.' If you are praising a person's nimble work, '利索' is a great choice.

How Formal Is It?

Dato curioso

The character '率' has two pronunciations: 'lǜ' (rate) and 'shuài' (to lead). If you mispronounce it as 'shuài', you might accidentally say something that sounds like 'high-efficiency leader'!

Guía de pronunciación

UK /ʃjâʊ.lʏ̂ kɑ́ʊ/
US /ʃjâʊ.lʏ̂ kɑ́ʊ/
The primary stress is on 'Xiào' and 'Gāo'.
Rima con
猫 (māo) 包 (bāo) 刀 (dāo) 高 (gāo) 草 (cǎo - tone differs) 表 (biǎo - partial) 跑 (pǎo - tone differs) 老 (lǎo - tone differs)
Errores comunes
  • Pronouncing 'lǜ' as 'lù' (missing the 'ü' sound).
  • Using the third tone for 'xiào' instead of the fourth.
  • Forgetting the high level tone on 'gāo'.
  • Slurring the 'i' and 'a' in 'xiào' too much.
  • Confusing 'lǜ' (rate) with 'lù' (road).

Nivel de dificultad

Lectura 3/5

The characters are moderately complex but common in news and business.

Escritura 4/5

The character '率' and '效' have many strokes and require practice.

Expresión oral 3/5

The 'ü' sound in 'lǜ' is the biggest hurdle for English speakers.

Escucha 2/5

Easily recognizable once you know the 'ü' sound.

Qué aprender después

Requisitos previos

工作 学习

Aprende después

提高 优化 成本 质量 管理

Avanzado

边际效用 帕累托最优 吞吐量 流程再造 绩效考核

Gramática que debes saber

Adjective Predicates

他的效率很高。 (No '是' needed).

The 'de' complement of degree

他效率高得惊人。 (His efficiency is amazingly high).

Comparison with '比'

这台机器比那台效率高。 (This machine is more efficient than that one).

Attributive 'de'

效率高的团队。 (An efficient team).

Resultative 'v+得+adj'

他干活干得效率很高。 (He works with high efficiency).

Ejemplos por nivel

1

他做作业效率高。

He does homework with high efficiency.

Subject + Verb + Object + 效率高. Here '效率高' acts as a comment on the action.

2

这个老师效率高。

This teacher is efficient.

Simple Subject + Adjective Phrase structure.

3

我很效率高。

I am very efficient.

Note: While '我效率很高' is more common, this is understandable at A1.

4

她写字效率高。

She writes with high efficiency.

Subject + Verb + 效率高.

5

你的效率高吗?

Is your efficiency high?

Interrogative sentence using '吗'.

6

我们效率高。

We are efficient.

Plural subject.

7

不效率高。

Not efficient.

Negative form (though '效率不高' is more standard).

8

他今天效率高。

He is efficient today.

Time word '今天' added.

1

用电脑写信效率高。

Using a computer to write letters is efficient.

Verb phrase as subject.

2

他的办事效率很高。

His efficiency in handling matters is very high.

Using '很' as an intensifier.

3

这个新机器效率高。

This new machine is efficient.

Noun + 效率高.

4

谁的工作效率最高?

Whose work efficiency is the highest?

Superlative '最'.

5

我喜欢效率高的人。

I like people with high efficiency.

Using '效率高' as a modifier with '的'.

6

他学习效率不高。

His learning efficiency is not high.

Standard negation '不高'.

7

早起工作效率高。

Working early in the morning is efficient.

Adverbial of time + 效率高.

8

这种方法效率更高。

This method is even more efficient.

Comparative '更'.

1

为了提高效率,我们需要新软件。

In order to improve efficiency, we need new software.

'提高效率' is the standard verb-object phrase for 'improving efficiency'.

2

虽然他很忙,但效率很高。

Although he is busy, his efficiency is very high.

Conjunction '虽然...但...'.

3

只有专注,效率才会高。

Only by focusing will efficiency be high.

Conditional '只有...才...'.

4

我们应该追求效率高的工作方式。

We should pursue highly efficient ways of working.

'效率高的' modifying '工作方式'.

5

如果效率不高,我们就得加班。

If efficiency is not high, we will have to work overtime.

Conditional '如果...就...'.

6

这家工厂的生产效率极高。

This factory's production efficiency is extremely high.

Intensifier '极'.

7

他是一个办事效率高的人。

He is a person who handles matters with high efficiency.

Attributive clause structure.

8

休息好才能保证效率高。

Only resting well can ensure high efficiency.

Verb '保证' (ensure) + 效率高.

1

这种算法在大数据处理中效率极高。

This algorithm is extremely efficient in big data processing.

Prepositional phrase '在...中' setting the context.

2

提高行政效率是政府改革的目标。

Improving administrative efficiency is the goal of government reform.

'提高行政效率' as a complex subject.

3

这种新型发动机的热效率比旧款高得多。

The thermal efficiency of this new engine is much higher than the old model.

Comparative '比...高得多'.

4

由于管理不善,公司的效率高不起来。

Due to poor management, the company's efficiency cannot be improved.

Potential complement '高不起来' (cannot become high).

5

他在压力下反而表现出极高的效率。

He actually showed extremely high efficiency under pressure.

Adverb '反而' (on the contrary).

6

这种高效率的学习方法值得推广。

This high-efficiency learning method is worth promoting.

'高效率' as a compound adjective.

7

效率高并不意味着质量就一定好。

High efficiency does not necessarily mean the quality is definitely good.

'并不意味着' (doesn't necessarily mean).

8

我们需要平衡公平与效率高的关系。

We need to balance the relationship between fairness and high efficiency.

Abstract nouns as objects of '平衡'.

1

该政策旨在通过技术创新实现效率高增长。

The policy aims to achieve high growth in efficiency through technological innovation.

Formal language '旨在' (aims to) and '实现' (achieve).

2

在资源匮乏的情况下,效率高显得尤为重要。

In the case of resource scarcity, high efficiency becomes particularly important.

Formal adverb '尤为' (especially).

3

这种组织架构极大地提升了决策的效率高。

This organizational structure has greatly improved the efficiency of decision-making.

Abstract noun '决策' (decision-making) combined with efficiency.

4

由于缺乏激励机制,员工的效率高难以维持。

Due to the lack of incentive mechanisms, high efficiency among employees is difficult to maintain.

Formal cause-effect structure.

5

我们要警惕那种以牺牲环境为代价的效率高。

We must be wary of that kind of high efficiency at the expense of the environment.

Complex phrase '以...为代价' (at the cost of).

6

该系统的吞吐量大,且处理效率极高。

The system has a large throughput and its processing efficiency is extremely high.

Technical terminology '吞吐量' (throughput).

7

效率高是现代工业文明的核心标志之一。

High efficiency is one of the core symbols of modern industrial civilization.

Philosophical statement.

8

通过流程再造,该企业的运营效率高了不少。

Through process re-engineering, the enterprise's operational efficiency has increased quite a bit.

Business term '流程再造' (process re-engineering).

1

帕累托最优状态是指资源配置已达到效率最高点。

Pareto optimality refers to a state where resource allocation has reached the point of maximum efficiency.

Economic terminology '帕累托最优' (Pareto optimality).

2

这种叙事方式在传达情感方面效率极高,毫无冗余。

This narrative style is extremely efficient in conveying emotion, with no redundancy.

Metaphorical use of efficiency in literature.

3

官僚主义的繁冗往往是阻碍效率高的顽疾。

The complexity of bureaucracy is often a persistent ailment that hinders high efficiency.

Sophisticated vocabulary '繁冗' (redundancy) and '顽疾' (chronic illness).

4

量子计算的出现将彻底重塑计算效率高的定义。

The emergence of quantum computing will completely reshape the definition of high computational efficiency.

Speculative and technical context.

5

他在处理复杂政治博弈时展现出的效率高令人叹服。

The efficiency he demonstrated in handling complex political gambits is admirable.

Political context.

6

效率高固然重要,但不能成为剥削劳动者的借口。

High efficiency is certainly important, but it cannot become an excuse for exploiting workers.

Concessionary structure '固然...但...'.

7

生物进化本质上是一个追求能量转化效率高的过程。

Biological evolution is essentially a process of pursuing high energy conversion efficiency.

Scientific/Philosophical synthesis.

8

该学说试图在公平分配与效率高增长之间寻找契合点。

The theory attempts to find a point of convergence between fair distribution and high efficiency growth.

Academic language '学说' (doctrine) and '契合点' (convergence point).

Colocaciones comunes

工作效率高
学习效率高
办事效率高
生产效率高
运行效率高
转换效率高
沟通效率高
时间效率高
处理效率高
管理效率高

Frases Comunes

提高效率

— To improve efficiency. Used when a process is being optimized.

我们需要新技术来提高效率。

效率第一

— Efficiency first. A common slogan in Chinese business.

在我们的公司,效率第一。

高效率工作

— High-efficiency work. Refers to the act of working productively.

他习惯于高效率工作。

没效率

— Inefficient. Colloquial way to say something is a waste of time.

开会太久了,真没效率。

追求效率

— To pursue efficiency. Often used in goal setting.

现代社会每个人都在追求效率。

效率低下

— Low efficiency. A formal way to describe poor performance.

由于系统老化,效率低下。

效率手册

— Efficiency handbook/planner. A common tool for students.

我买了一本效率手册来管理时间。

效率专家

— Efficiency expert. Someone who consults on productivity.

公司请了一位效率专家。

效率指标

— Efficiency indicator/metric. Used in performance reviews.

这是我们今年的效率指标。

事半功倍

— Half the effort, twice the result. An idiom related to high efficiency.

掌握好方法,就能事半功倍。

Se confunde a menudo con

效率高 vs 有效 (Effective)

Effective means it works; Efficient means it works with minimal waste. You can be effective but inefficient (e.g., using a sledgehammer to crack a nut).

效率高 vs 快 (Fast)

Fast is just about speed. Efficiency includes speed AND quality/resources. Rushing and making mistakes is fast but not efficient.

效率高 vs 效力 (Effectiveness/Force)

Refers to the legal force or the strength of an effect, not the speed of a process.

Modismos y expresiones

"事半功倍"

— To get twice the result with half the effort. The ultimate goal of being efficient.

用对方法,学习就能事半功倍。

Formal/Neutral
"雷厉风行"

— To act with the speed of thunder and the vigor of wind. Describes efficient, decisive action.

他办事雷厉风行,从不拖泥带水。

Formal/Literary
"一目十行"

— To read ten lines at a glance. Describes high efficiency in reading.

他看书很快,简直是一目十行。

Literary
"干净利落"

— Neat and tidy; efficient and straightforward.

他处理问题干净利落。

Neutral
"立竿见影"

— Set up a pole and see its shadow. Describes something that is immediately effective/efficient.

这项新政策的效果立竿见影。

Neutral
"快马加鞭"

— To spur on a swift horse. To make an even greater effort to be efficient.

我们要快马加鞭,赶在月底前完成。

Literary
"分秒必争"

— Every second counts. Describes an attitude of extreme efficiency.

考试快结束了,同学们都在分秒必争地答题。

Neutral
"有的放矢"

— To have a target for the arrow. To act with a clear purpose, which ensures efficiency.

说话要有的放矢,不要东拉西扯。

Formal
"精兵简政"

— Better troops and simpler administration. A phrase for organizational efficiency.

政府正在推行精兵简政以提高效率。

Formal/Political
"兵贵神速"

— Speed is the soul of war. Emphasizes the efficiency of quick action.

兵贵神速,我们必须立刻出发。

Literary

Fácil de confundir

效率高 vs 高效

They mean the same thing.

高效 is a formal adjective usually placed before a noun. 效率高 is a descriptive phrase used as a predicate.

高效方法 vs. 这个方法效率高。

效率高 vs 效力

Both start with '效'.

效力 refers to legal validity or the power to produce an effect. 效率 is the rate of work.

法律效力 vs. 工作效率。

效率高 vs 效能

Very similar meanings.

效能 is more technical and often refers to the potential or capacity of a system. 效率 is the actual performance.

武器效能 vs. 生产效率。

效率高 vs 速率

Both contain '率'.

速率 is a physics term for 'speed' or 'velocity.' 效率 is 'efficiency.'

反应速率 vs. 反应效率。

效率高 vs 效益

Both relate to positive outcomes.

效益 refers to the overall benefit or profit (social or economic). 效率 is just the speed/resource ratio.

经济效益 vs. 经济效率。

Patrones de oraciones

A1

S + 效率高。

他效率高。

A2

S + 办事效率很高。

王先生办事效率很高。

B1

为了 + V, 必须 + 提高效率。

为了准时完成,必须提高效率。

B2

S + 效率高得 + Result.

电脑运行效率高得吓人。

C1

在...背景下,效率高尤为重要。

在竞争激烈的背景下,效率高尤为重要。

C2

S + 固然效率高,但...。

这种模式固然效率高,但缺乏灵活性。

B1

A比B效率高多了。

坐高铁比开车效率高多了。

B2

实现...效率最高化。

我们要实现资源配置效率最高化。

Familia de palabras

Sustantivos

效率 (Efficiency)
效果 (Effect/Result)
效能 (Efficacy)
效力 (Effectiveness)

Verbos

提高 (To improve/raise)
效仿 (To imitate/follow)
生效 (To take effect)

Adjetivos

高效 (Efficient - short form)
低效 (Inefficient)
有效 (Effective)

Relacionado

速度 (Speed)
质量 (Quality)
成果 (Achievement)
流程 (Process)
优化 (Optimization)

Cómo usarlo

frequency

Extremely high in professional and urban environments.

Errores comunes
  • 他很效率。 他效率很高。

    Efficiency (效率) is a noun, not an adjective. You need to say the efficiency is high.

  • 效率快。 效率高。

    Efficiency is measured as high/low, not fast/slow.

  • 提高效率的工作。 高效率的工作。

    Use the adjective form '高效率' to modify '工作'. '提高效率' is a verb phrase.

  • 我的效率是高。 我的效率很高。

    Don't use '是' with adjectives in this way.

  • 办事很有效率。 办事效率很高。

    While '有效率' is sometimes used, '效率很高' is more standard Mandarin.

Consejos

Don't use '是'

Remember that in Chinese, adjectives like '效率高' don't need '是'. Just say '他效率很高'.

Pair with '办事'

If you want to sound natural, use '办事效率高' to describe someone's general ability to get things done.

The 'Ü' sound

Practice the 'ü' in 'lǜ' by saying 'ee' while keeping your lips in a tight circle.

Workplace Gold

This is a top-tier word for performance reviews. If you want a raise, prove your '效率高'!

Formal Shortening

In titles or headers, use '高效' instead of '效率高' to save space and sound professional.

Use '事半功倍'

To really impress natives, use the idiom '事半功倍' when talking about high efficiency.

Avoid '不效率'

Use '效率不高' or '效率低' instead of '不效率'.

Energy Efficiency

In scientific contexts, use '转换效率' (conversion efficiency) for engines or batteries.

Complimenting

When a waiter brings food fast, say '你们效率真高!' as a nice compliment.

Focus is Key

In China, '效率高' is almost always linked to '专注' (concentration).

Memorízalo

Mnemotecnia

Think of 'Xiào' as 'Shout' (you shout when you get an effect!) and 'Lǜ' as 'Loops' (working in efficient loops). 'Gāo' is 'Go' (Go high!). Shout Loops Go High!

Asociación visual

Imagine a factory chimney that is very tall (高) and puffing out perfectly shaped smoke rings (rate of effect).

Word Web

效率 工作 学习 提高 时间 结果

Desafío

Try to use '效率高' in three different sentences today: one about your phone, one about your friend, and one about your own study habits.

Origen de la palabra

The phrase is a modern Chinese combination. '效' (xiào) originally meant 'to imitate' but evolved to mean 'effect' or 'result.' '率' (lǜ) means 'ratio' or 'rate.' Together, '效率' was coined as a translation of the Western concept of efficiency in the late 19th century. '高' (gāo) is the ancient character for 'high.'

Significado original: Effect rate is high.

Sino-Tibetan (Mandarin Chinese).

Contexto cultural

Be careful not to over-emphasize '效率高' to someone who is clearly stressed or burnt out, as it can sound like you are demanding more work.

In English, we might say 'He's a machine' or 'He's on fire' to mean high efficiency. In Chinese, '效率高' is the more standard way to express this.

The Shenzhen slogan: '时间就是金钱,效率就是生命' (Time is money, efficiency is life). Lei Feng (雷锋) was often described as being efficient and selfless in his work. Modern tech CEOs like Jack Ma often emphasize '效率' in their speeches.

Practica en la vida real

Contextos reales

At the Office

  • 提高工作效率
  • 办事效率高
  • 效率第一
  • 没效率的会议

At School

  • 学习效率高
  • 写作业效率高
  • 复习效率
  • 高效率学习法

Discussing Technology

  • 运行效率高
  • 处理效率
  • 转换效率
  • 算法效率

In a Restaurant

  • 上菜效率高
  • 服务效率
  • 点餐效率
  • 厨房效率

Government/Public Service

  • 行政效率
  • 办事效率
  • 简化流程
  • 便民效率

Inicios de conversación

"你觉得怎么样才能提高学习效率? (How do you think we can improve learning efficiency?)"

"这家公司的办事效率高吗? (Is this company's efficiency high?)"

"你通常在什么时候工作效率最高? (When is your work efficiency usually at its highest?)"

"用这个软件效率高不高? (Is using this software efficient or not?)"

"你喜欢效率高的人还是慢条斯理的人? (Do you like efficient people or slow/deliberate people?)"

Temas para diario

写一写你今天效率最高的一件事。(Write about the most efficient thing you did today.)

为了提高效率,你决定改掉哪一个坏习惯? (To improve efficiency, which bad habit do you decide to change?)

描述一个你认为效率很高的人。(Describe a person who you think is very efficient.)

如果社会不再追求效率高,会变成什么样? (If society no longer pursued high efficiency, what would it become like?)

讨论一下效率高和工作质量之间的关系。(Discuss the relationship between high efficiency and work quality.)

Preguntas frecuentes

10 preguntas

Technically no, because '效率' is a noun. You should say '他效率很高' or '他办事效率高'. However, in very informal internet slang, you might hear '这人不效率', but it's not grammatically correct.

You should not say '效率快'. Efficiency is described as 'high' (高) or 'low' (低), never 'fast' (快). The *process* is fast, but the *efficiency* is high.

Yes, usually. However, in some contexts, it can imply that someone is like a machine and lacks 'human touch' (人情味), but this is rare.

The most common way is '提高效率' (tígāo xiàolǜ).

Yes, it is very common to describe software that processes data quickly and uses little memory.

The most common opposite is '效率低' (xiàolǜ dī).

Neither is 'better.' '高效' is just more formal and concise, often used in writing. '效率高' is more common in spoken Chinese.

Not as a personality trait like 'kind' or 'funny,' but as a description of their work habit.

A 比 B 效率高 (A is more efficient than B).

Not usually. We don't say 'emotional efficiency.' It is strictly for tasks, processes, and systems.

Ponte a prueba 200 preguntas

writing

Write a sentence using '效率高' to describe your friend.

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

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Write a sentence comparing two ways of traveling using '效率高'.

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

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Write a formal sentence about improving company efficiency.

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

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Translate: 'He is a highly efficient worker.'

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

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Write a negative sentence about a slow process.

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

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Translate: 'Only by focusing can one have high efficiency.'

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

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Write a sentence using '提高效率' and '节省时间'.

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

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Write a sentence about study efficiency.

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

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Translate: 'This algorithm is very efficient.'

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

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Write a sentence using '虽然...但是...效率高'.

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

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Describe a machine using '效率高'.

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

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Translate: 'Efficiency is very important in modern society.'

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

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Write a sentence using '追求效率'.

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

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Translate: 'I like efficient people.'

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

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Write a sentence about 'administrative efficiency'.

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

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Translate: 'The project's efficiency is surprisingly high.'

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

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Write a sentence using '保证效率'.

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

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Translate: 'High efficiency is a goal.'

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

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Write a sentence about 'energy conversion efficiency'.

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

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Translate: 'Efficiency first.'

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

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Pronounce: 效率高 (xiàolǜ gāo).

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Say: 'My work efficiency is high.'

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Say: 'We need to improve efficiency.'

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Say: 'He handles things very efficiently.'

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Say: 'Is your learning efficiency high today?'

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Pronounce: 提高效率 (tígāo xiàolǜ).

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Say: 'SF Express is very efficient.'

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Say: 'Efficiency is very important.'

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Say: 'His efficiency is surprisingly high.'

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Say: 'I like working with efficient people.'

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Say: 'The machine's efficiency is low.'

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Say: 'We should pursue high efficiency.'

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Say: 'Focusing helps improve efficiency.'

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Say: 'Time is money, efficiency is life.'

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Say: 'The computer processes data efficiently.'

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Say: 'The government aims to improve efficiency.'

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Say: 'Administrative efficiency is key.'

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Say: 'Don't sacrifice quality for efficiency.'

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Say: 'He works with god-like speed.'

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Say: 'This method is more efficient.'

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
listening

Listen to the sentence: '他的工作效率很高。' What is high?

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
listening

Listen: '我们需要提高生产效率。' What do we need to do?

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
listening

Listen: '办事效率高的人通常很受欢迎。' Who is popular?

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
listening

Listen: '这个软件的运行效率太低了。' What is the problem?

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
listening

Listen: '只有休息好,效率才会高。' What is the condition for high efficiency?

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
listening

Listen: '这家工厂引进了高效率的设备。' What did the factory bring in?

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
listening

Listen: '他的办事效率比我高多了。' Who is more efficient?

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
listening

Listen: '提高效率可以节省成本。' What is the benefit of improving efficiency?

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
listening

Listen: '他的学习效率一直很稳定。' How is his learning efficiency described?

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
listening

Listen: '我们要平衡公平与效率。' What two things need to be balanced?

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
listening

Listen: '这种算法在大数据处理中效率极高。' Where is the algorithm efficient?

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
listening

Listen: '为了提高效率,我们需要优化流程。' What needs to be optimized?

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
listening

Listen: '时间就是金钱,效率就是生命。' What is efficiency compared to?

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
listening

Listen: '他办事雷厉风行,效率很高。' What idiom describes his action?

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
listening

Listen: '效率高不代表质量一定好。' What is the warning?

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:

/ 200 correct

Perfect score!

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