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A2 verb 9 min de lecture

叫作

jiàozuò

Entraîne-toi Exemples Notes et astuces 叫作 en 30 secondes

Explication 叫作 in your Level:

At the A1 level, think of 叫作 (jiàozuò) as a slightly longer version of the word '叫' (jiào). You already know '叫' from the sentence '我叫...' (My name is...). 叫作 is used when you want to talk about the names of things you see around you. For example, if you see a big building and you want to tell someone it's a library, you can say '这个建筑叫作图书馆' (This building is called a library). It is a very helpful word because it helps you learn new Chinese words. You can point at anything and ask '这个叫作什么？' (What is this called?). At this stage, don't worry about the formal rules too much. Just remember that it connects a thing to its name. It's like putting a name tag on an object. You will mostly use it for simple nouns like fruits, animals, and common household items. It's a great way to build your vocabulary by constantly identifying the world in Chinese.

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At the A2 level, you can start using 叫作 (jiàozuò) to give more specific information and definitions. You are moving beyond just 'this is an apple' to 'this specific type of apple is called a Fuji apple.' You will notice that 叫作 is often used in books and by teachers to introduce new topics. It sounds a bit more 'correct' and 'formal' than just using '叫' when you are talking about objects or places. You can also use it to describe movie titles or book names. For example, '这本电影叫作《流浪地球》' (This movie is called 'The Wandering Earth'). A key tip for A2 learners: notice how the name usually comes right after the word 叫作. You don't need to add any other words like 'is' or 'was' in between. It's a direct link. This level is also where you should start distinguishing between naming a person (use 叫) and naming a thing (use 叫作).

By the B1 level, you should be comfortable using 叫作 (jiàozuò) for abstract concepts and more complex definitions. You aren't just naming physical objects anymore; you are naming feelings, social phenomena, and technical processes. For instance, you might explain a grammar rule or a social custom: '这种礼仪叫作“作揖”' (This kind of etiquette is called 'zuoyi'). You will also see 叫作 used in more complex sentence structures, such as using it within a relative clause. For example, '那个被叫作“小上海”的城市' (That city which is called 'Little Shanghai'). At this level, you should also be aware of the variation '叫做,' which is pronounced the same and has the same meaning but is sometimes written with the character '做.' However, in formal writing, '叫作' is still the standard. You can use it to clarify your meaning if you use a slang term and then want to provide the standard name.

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At the B2 level, 叫作 (jiàozuò) becomes a tool for precise communication and rhetorical flair. You will encounter it in news reports, academic articles, and literature. You should be able to distinguish it from more formal synonyms like '称为' (chēngwéi) or '命名为' (mìngmíng wéi). Use 叫作 when you want to provide a definition that is widely accepted but perhaps slightly less 'grand' than '称为.' It is also used to introduce metaphorical names. For example, '这种经济模式叫作“共享经济”' (This economic model is called the 'sharing economy'). You should also pay attention to how 叫作 is used in the '有一种...叫作...' structure, which is very common in modern Chinese essays and social media to define unique experiences or emotions (e.g., '有一种勇气叫作放弃' - There is a kind of courage called giving up). This level requires you to understand the nuance of register and choose 叫作 when you want to sound educated but not overly pedantic.

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For C1 learners, 叫作 (jiàozuò) is used to dissect and analyze terminology. You will see it in academic debates where different scholars might disagree on what a particular phenomenon should be 叫作. It is used to establish the boundaries of a definition. For example, '在本文中，这种现象将被叫作“文化折射”' (In this article, this phenomenon will be called 'cultural refraction'). You should also be familiar with its use in classical-style modern prose, where it might be replaced by even more formal terms like '谓之' (wèi zhī) or '名曰' (míng yuē), and understand that 叫作 is the modern equivalent. Your usage should be flawless, reflecting an understanding of when the word provides the necessary 'definitional weight' to a sentence. You might also use it to contrast common names with scientific ones: '虽然俗称“地瓜”，但在植物学上它叫作“番薯”' (Although commonly called 'digua', in botany it is called 'fanshu').

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At the C2 level, you are exploring the philosophical and linguistic nuances of 叫作 (jiàozuò). You understand that the act of 'calling' something is a way of constructing reality. You can use 叫作 in high-level literary analysis to discuss how an author uses names to define their characters or themes. You might explore the etymological history of the phrase, noting how the character '作' (to act/to be) adds a layer of 'functioning as' or 'constituting' to the simple '叫' (to call). In your own writing, you use 叫作 to weave complex definitions into sophisticated narratives. You are also sensitive to the subtle differences in tone it brings to a text compared to its synonyms, using it to maintain a balance between accessibility and formal precision. You might even use it ironically to challenge established definitions, questioning whether something that is 叫作 'progress' is actually beneficial.

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Entraîne-toi Exemples Notes et astuces

叫作 en 30 secondes

Used to provide the formal name or definition of an object or concept.
More formal than the simple verb '叫' (jiào) and common in textbooks.
Links a thing to its label, often translated as 'is called' or 'is known as'.
Essential for learners to ask for and provide the correct terminology in Chinese.

The Chinese verb 叫作 (jiàozuò) is a fundamental building block for defining, identifying, and labeling the world around you. At its core, it translates to "to be called," "to be known as," or "to be termed." While it shares roots with the simpler verb 叫 (jiào), the addition of 作 (zuò) shifts the focus from a mere casual address to a more formal identification or a categorical definition. It acts almost like an equal sign in a sentence, linking an object or a concept to its specific name or title.

Formal Identification: Used when introducing a formal name of a place, a scientific term, or a specific title of a book or movie. For example, identifying a specific geographic landmark.

这种罕见的自然现象叫作“海市蜃楼”。 (This rare natural phenomenon is called a "mirage".)

In daily conversation, you'll encounter 叫作 when someone is explaining a new concept to you. If you point at a tool you've never seen, a native speaker might say, "这个叫作..." (This is called...). It implies a sense of "this is the standard name for this thing." It is less about what you *decide* to call someone (like a nickname) and more about the *established* name that exists in the lexicon. This makes it incredibly useful for students who are actively expanding their vocabulary, as it is the primary tool for asking "What is this called?" (这个叫作什么？).

Categorical Definition: Used to define what something is in a broader sense. For example, "This kind of behavior is called bravery."

在法律上，这种行为叫作正当防卫。 (In law, this behavior is called justifiable self-defense.)

The versatility of 叫作 extends into academic and professional settings. When a professor introduces a new theory or a technician describes a specific part of a machine, 叫作 is the verb of choice. It provides a bridge between the physical or conceptual reality and the linguistic label assigned to it. It is also synonymous with 叫做 (jiàozuò), though 叫作 is often preferred in formal writing to maintain a standard literary tone. Understanding this word allows you to navigate the "naming" aspect of Chinese culture, where titles and correct terminology carry significant weight.

Abstract Concepts: Used to label feelings or social trends that might not have a physical form but require a name to be discussed.

这种感觉就叫作幸福。 (This kind of feeling is exactly what is called happiness.)

Grammatically, 叫作 functions as a transitive verb that links a subject (the thing being named) with a complement (the name itself). The basic structure is [Subject] + 叫作 + [Name/Label]. Unlike English, where we might use a passive voice ("is called"), Chinese uses this active structure to express the same idea. It is a very stable structure and rarely requires complex particles like 了 (le) or 过 (guò) because the act of being called something is usually a permanent or state-like condition.

Simple Identification: This is the most common use for beginners. You see an object and you state its name.

那个红色的水果叫作苹果。 (That red fruit is called an apple.)

When using 叫作 for more complex sentences, you can add adverbs before the verb to change the nuance. For instance, using 被 (bèi) to emphasize a passive naming process (though 叫作 itself often implies the passive in English translation), or using 往往 (wǎngwǎng - often) or 通常 (tōngcháng - usually) to describe general conventions. You can also use it in a question format by replacing the name with 什么 (shénme - what).

Question Structure: To ask for the name of something unfamiliar.

在中文里，这个词叫作什么？ (In Chinese, what is this word called?)

One important distinction is the use of quotes. In written Chinese, the name or label following 叫作 is often enclosed in book title marks 《》 (for books/movies) or quotation marks “ ” (for specific terms or nicknames). This helps the reader distinguish the label from the rest of the sentence. Furthermore, 叫作 can be used to link two clauses where the second clause defines the first. For example, "Doing this is what people call 'wasting time'."

Defining Actions: Labeling a specific behavior or event.

你现在的这种态度叫作不负责任。 (This attitude of yours right now is called being irresponsible.)

In the real world, 叫作 is a staple of educational environments, media, and formal explanations. If you are watching a Chinese nature documentary, such as those produced by CCTV, you will hear the narrator use 叫作 to introduce various species of plants and animals. It provides a sense of authority and scientific accuracy. Similarly, in a classroom setting, a teacher explaining a new mathematical formula or a historical event will frequently use this term to ensure students know the proper terminology.

Documentaries & Media: Narrators use it to provide the official names of phenomena.

这片森林中的特殊树种叫作银杏。 (The special tree species in this forest is called Ginkgo.)

You will also encounter 叫作 in museums and art galleries. The plaques next to paintings or artifacts will use it to describe the title of the work or the name of the period it belongs to. In the tech world, when a new app or feature is launched, the introductory video will likely say something like, "我们的新功能叫作..." (Our new feature is called...). It creates a bridge between the user's experience and the brand's identity.

Professional Presentations: Used when introducing new products, features, or internal company initiatives.

这个新项目被叫作“未来之城”。 (This new project is called "City of the Future".)

In literature and songs, 叫作 is often used to add a poetic or philosophical layer to a definition. A songwriter might use it to define love, pain, or a certain moment in time. It sounds more deliberate and profound than the simple 叫. For instance, in a romantic ballad, a singer might say, "有一种爱叫作放手" (There is a kind of love called letting go) – a very famous song title that uses the word to elevate the emotional weight of the concept.

Literature & Pop Culture: Used in song titles and book chapters to create a strong, definitive statement.

有一种思念叫作沉默。 (There is a kind of longing called silence.)

One of the most frequent errors for English speakers learning 叫作 is overusing it in personal introductions. In English, we use "is called" for almost everything. However, in Chinese, if you say "我叫作大卫" (Wǒ jiàozuò Dàwèi) instead of "我叫大卫" (Wǒ jiào Dàwèi), it sounds extremely stiff and unnatural, as if you are referring to yourself as an object or a formal entity rather than a person. Save 叫作 for things, titles, and abstract concepts.

Mistake 1: Personal Names: Using 叫作 for a first-person or second-person introduction.

Incorrect: 你叫作什么名字？
Correct: 你叫什么名字？ (What is your name?)

Another common mistake is confusing 叫作 with 称为 (chēngwéi). While they are similar, 称为 is even more formal and is often used for titles bestowed upon someone or something (e.g., "He is known as the Father of Modern Art"). Using 叫作 in these highly honorific contexts might sound a bit too plain. Conversely, using 称为 for a simple object like a pencil would sound overly dramatic.

Mistake 2: Register Mismatch: Using 叫作 when a more formal term like 称为 or a simpler term like 叫 would be more appropriate.

Overly formal: 这支笔称为铅笔。
Better: 这支笔叫作铅笔。 (This pen is called a pencil.)

Learners also sometimes forget that 叫作 is a complete verb unit. They might try to add 是 (shì - to be) before it, creating a redundant "is is called" structure. For example, saying "这个是叫作苹果" is technically understandable but clunky. The verb 叫作 already carries the meaning of "is called," so you don't need the extra copula. Simply say "这个叫作苹果."

Mistake 3: Redundant 'To Be': Adding '是' (shì) before '叫作'.

Redundant: 这个是叫作电脑。
Better: 这个叫作电脑。 (This is called a computer.)

To truly master the concept of "naming" in Chinese, you need to understand where 叫作 sits among its synonyms. The most common alternative is the simple 叫 (jiào). While 叫 is versatile and used for everything from ordering food to shouting, when used for naming, it is the most casual option. It is the go-to for people's names and everyday objects in a relaxed setting.

叫 (jiào) vs. 叫作 (jiàozuò): 叫 is casual and used for people; 叫作 is slightly more formal and used for objects/concepts.

Then there is 称为 (chēngwéi). This word is higher up on the formality scale. It is often translated as "to be termed" or "to be known as." It is frequently used in scientific, historical, or honorific contexts. If someone is famous and has a specific title, you would use 称为. For example, "鲁迅被称为现代文学之父" (Lu Xun is known as the father of modern literature).

称为 (chēngwéi) vs. 叫作 (jiàozuò): 称为 is more formal and used for titles or honors; 叫作 is for standard names.

Another interesting alternative is 名为 (míngwéi). This literally means "named as" and is very common in literature or news reports when introducing the title of a book, a project, or a person's formal given name. It feels more literary and written than 叫作. For example, "这本名为《活着》的书" (This book titled 'To Live').

名为 (míngwéi) vs. 叫作 (jiàozuò): 名为 is literary and specific to titles/names; 叫作 is more general-purpose.

Finally, we have 称呼 (chēnghu). Unlike the others, this is often used as a verb meaning "to address someone as." It focuses on the social interaction of using a name. For example, "我该怎么称呼您？" (How should I address you?). It is about the act of addressing, whereas 叫作 is about the fact of the name itself.

称呼 (chēnghu) vs. 叫作 (jiàozuò): 称呼 is the act of addressing someone; 叫作 is the label of the thing.

How Formal Is It?

Le savais-tu ?

In ancient Chinese, a single character like '名' (míng) or '谓' (wèi) was enough to mean 'to call' or 'to name'. The two-character compound '叫作' is a product of the linguistic shift towards disyllabic (two-syllable) words in Middle and Modern Chinese.

Guide de prononciation

UK jiào zuò

US jiào zuò

Both syllables carry equal stress as they are both fourth tones.

Rime avec

要 (yào) 报 (bào) 道 (dào) 错 (cuò) 过 (guò) 落 (luò) 坐 (zuò) 货 (huò)

Erreurs fréquentes

Pronouncing 'zuò' as 'zuó' (rising tone).
Pronouncing 'jiào' as 'jiǎo' (third tone).
Confusing 'zuò' with the neutral tone 'zhe'.
Slurring the two syllables together so they sound like 'jiào-o'.
Mixing up the character '作' with '做' in writing, though the pronunciation remains the same.

Niveau de difficulté

Lecture 2/5

The characters are common, but '作' can be confused with '做'.

Écriture 3/5

Requires remembering the stroke order for '叫' and '作'.

Expression orale 2/5

Fourth tones are easy to pronounce but must be clear.

Écoute 2/5

Easy to recognize in context.

Quoi apprendre ensuite

Prérequis

叫 (jiào) 做 (zuò) 名字 (míngzi) 什么 (shénme) 是 (shì)

Apprends ensuite

称为 (chēngwéi) 命名 (mìngmíng) 定义 (dìngyì) 称呼 (chēnghu) 称号 (chēnghào)

Avancé

谓之 (wèizhī) 名曰 (míngyuē) 冠以 (guànyǐ) 指代 (zhǐdài)

Grammaire à connaître

The Use of '作' vs '做'

In formal writing, '叫作' is preferred. In casual typing, '叫做' is common.

Passive Construction with '被'

他被叫作‘小天才’。 (He is called 'Little Genius'.)

Book Title Marks 《》

这本书叫作《红楼梦》。 (This book is called 'Dream of the Red Chamber'.)

Adverbs of Frequency

这种植物通常叫作‘发财树’。 (This plant is usually called 'Money Tree'.)

The '有一种...叫作...' Rhetorical Device

有一种幸福叫作团圆。 (There is a kind of happiness called reunion.)

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Exemples par niveau

这个东西叫作什么？

What is this thing called?

A simple question structure using 'what' (什么).

那个红色的水果叫作苹果。

That red fruit is called an apple.

Linking a description to a name.

我的猫叫作咪咪。

My cat is called Mimi.

Using '叫作' for a pet's name, which is common in A1.

这个地方叫作北京。

This place is called Beijing.

Naming a famous city.

这支笔叫作铅笔。

This pen is called a pencil.

Identifying a common school supply.

这种花叫作玫瑰。

This kind of flower is called a rose.

Naming a type of flower.

那个老师叫作王老师。

That teacher is called Teacher Wang.

Using a title and surname as the name.

这本书叫作《中文》。

This book is called 'Chinese'.

Naming a book title.

这种蓝色的鸟叫作翠鸟。

This kind of blue bird is called a kingfisher.

Specifying a type of animal.

这个新软件叫作“微信”。

This new software is called 'WeChat'.

Naming a digital product.

在英语里，这个词叫作“friend”。

In English, this word is called 'friend'.

Translating terms between languages.

这个好吃的菜叫作宫保鸡丁。

This delicious dish is called Kung Pao Chicken.

Naming a specific food item.

这首好听的歌叫作《茉莉花》。

This beautiful song is called 'Jasmine Flower'.

Naming a song title.

这种运动叫作太极拳。

This kind of exercise is called Tai Chi.

Identifying a specific cultural activity.

那个有名的山叫作黄山。

That famous mountain is called Huangshan.

Naming a geographical landmark.

这种衣服叫作旗袍。

This kind of clothing is called a Qipao.

Naming traditional attire.

植物制造食物的过程叫作光合作用。

The process by which plants make food is called photosynthesis.

Defining a scientific process.

在电脑上，这个图标叫作“回收站”。

On a computer, this icon is called the 'Recycle Bin'.

Identifying technical interface elements.

这种社会现象叫作“空巢老人”。

This social phenomenon is called 'empty-nest elderly'.

Naming a complex social issue.

这种写作风格叫作现实主义。

This style of writing is called realism.

Identifying an artistic or literary movement.

这个数学公式叫作勾股定理。

This mathematical formula is called the Pythagorean theorem.

Naming a specific academic concept.

这种对未来的担心叫作焦虑。

This kind of worry about the future is called anxiety.

Defining an abstract psychological state.

这种传统的手工艺叫作剪纸。

This traditional handicraft is called paper-cutting.

Labeling a cultural craft.

在法律中，他的行为叫作违约。

In law, his behavior is called breach of contract.

Using legal terminology.

这种通过网络分享资源的行为叫作共享经济。

This behavior of sharing resources via the internet is called the sharing economy.

Defining a modern economic concept.

有一种爱叫作放手，这是为了对方的幸福。

There is a kind of love called letting go; it is for the other person's happiness.

Using a poetic structure to define an emotion.

这种不切实际的想法被叫作“白日梦”。

This impractical idea is called a 'daydream'.

Naming a metaphorical concept.

在生态学中，这种平衡叫作生物多样性。

In ecology, this balance is called biodiversity.

Using specialized scientific terminology.

由于这种独特性，它被叫作“东方的威尼斯”。

Due to its uniqueness, it is called the 'Venice of the East'.

Using a nickname or honorary title.

这种为了短期利益而损害长远发展的做法叫作杀鸡取卵。

This practice of damaging long-term development for short-term gain is called 'killing the hen to get the eggs'.

Explaining the meaning of an idiom.

这种心理上的排斥感叫作“文化休克”。

This psychological feeling of rejection is called 'culture shock'.

Defining a sociological term.

那个项目在内部被叫作“阿波罗计划”。

That project was internally called 'Project Apollo'.

Referring to an internal code name.

这种在文学作品中隐含的深层意义叫作隐喻。

The hidden deep meaning in literary works is called metaphor.

Discussing literary devices.

虽然它在民间被称为神药，但在医学上它叫作安慰剂。

Although it's called a miracle drug among the people, in medicine it's called a placebo.

Contrasting common and professional terms.

这种在短时间内迅速流行的事物叫作“快餐文化”。

Things that become rapidly popular in a short time are called 'fast-food culture'.

Analyzing cultural trends.

这种通过暗示而非明说的表达方式叫作委婉语。

This way of expressing through hint rather than direct speech is called euphemism.

Defining linguistic concepts.

这种在艺术创作中刻意留下的空白叫作“留白”。

The intentional blank space left in artistic creation is called 'Liu Bai' (empty space).

Explaining aesthetic principles.

在政治学中，这种权力结构叫作多头政治。

In political science, this power structure is called polyarchy.

Using academic political terminology.

这种对历史事件的重新解释叫作“历史修正主义”。

This reinterpretation of historical events is called 'historical revisionism'.

Discussing historiographical terms.

这种在工作中由于过度疲劳而产生的状态叫作“职业倦怠”。

The state resulting from over-exhaustion at work is called 'burnout'.

Defining professional psychological conditions.

这种在哲学讨论中关于“存在”的探讨叫作本体论。

The exploration regarding 'being' in philosophical discussion is called ontology.

Using high-level philosophical terminology.

这种在语言学中研究词语起源的学科叫作词源学。

The discipline in linguistics that studies the origin of words is called etymology.

Referring to specific academic fields.

这种在复杂的社会关系中维持的微妙平衡叫作“中庸之道”。

The delicate balance maintained in complex social relations is called the 'Doctrine of the Mean'.

Analyzing classical philosophical concepts.

这种在后现代主义视角下对宏大叙事的解构叫作“去中心化”。

The deconstruction of grand narratives from a postmodern perspective is called 'decentralization'.

Using critical theory terminology.

这种在司法实践中遵循先例的原则叫作“遵循先例原则”。

The principle of following precedents in judicial practice is called 'stare decisis'.

Discussing advanced legal principles.

这种在量子力学中两个粒子之间跨越空间的关联叫作量子纠缠。

The connection between two particles across space in quantum mechanics is called quantum entanglement.

Describing advanced physics phenomena.

这种在经济危机中出现的物价持续下跌的现象叫作通货紧缩。

The phenomenon of continuously falling prices during an economic crisis is called deflation.

Using macro-economic terms.

这种在文学批评中对文本多义性的追求叫作“复义”。

The pursuit of textual ambiguity in literary criticism is called 'ambiguity' or 'multiple meaning'.

Analyzing complex literary theory.

Collocations courantes

被叫作

通常叫作

俗称叫作

正式叫作

被人们叫作

一直叫作

在法律上叫作

学术上叫作

这种感觉叫作

那个地方叫作

Phrases Courantes

有一种爱叫作放手

— A famous song title meaning true love sometimes involves letting go.

有一种爱叫作放手，为爱放弃天长地久。

这个叫作什么？

— A standard question to ask for the name of an object.

请问，这个叫作什么？

被叫作“...”

— Used to describe a nickname or common title.

他因为跑得快，被叫作“飞人”。

这种现象叫作...

— Used to introduce a definition for a trend or occurrence.

这种现象叫作“温室效应”。

在中文里叫作

— Specifying the name of something in the Chinese language.

‘Computer’在中文里叫作‘电脑’。

正式的名称叫作

— Providing the official or scientific name.

它的正式名称叫作二氧化碳。

被大家叫作

— Referring to a name used by the general public.

这只猫被大家叫作“大肥”。

这个词叫作

— Identifying a specific word or term.

这个词叫作“努力”。

这种行为叫作

— Labeling a specific type of action.

这种行为叫作勇敢。

那本书叫作

— Identifying the title of a book.

那本书叫作《西游记》。

Souvent confondu avec

叫作 vs 叫

叫 is for people's names and casual talk; 叫作 is for definitions and objects.

叫作 vs 称为

称为 is more formal, often used for honors or big titles.

叫作 vs 称呼

称呼 is the verb for 'to address someone', not just naming.

Expressions idiomatiques

"名副其实"

— The name matches the reality. Related to how things are 'called'.

他是名副其实的英雄。

Formal

"名不虚传"

— A reputation that is well-deserved. Literally, the name isn't spread in vain.

这里的风景真是名不虚传。

Formal

"有名无实"

— Having the name but not the reality. Being a figurehead.

他这个经理只是有名无实。

Neutral

"莫名其妙"

— Unable to name or explain the reason. Baffling.

他莫名其妙地发火了。

Common

"指桑骂槐"

— Pointing at the mulberry tree but cursing the locust tree. Indirect naming.

他在那里指桑骂槐，其实是在说我。

Neutral

"顾名思义"

— Seeing the name and thinking of the meaning. Self-explanatory.

顾名思义，洗发水就是洗头发的水。

Formal

"大名鼎鼎"

— To be very famous. Having a 'great name'.

他是大名鼎鼎的科学家。

Neutral

"赫赫有名"

— Very famous; distinguished. Having a brilliant name.

他在这一带赫赫有名。

Formal

"师出有名"

— To have a legitimate reason for one's actions. Literally, the army has a name (cause).

我们这次抗议是师出有名。

Formal

"实至名归"

— Fame follows merit. When the reality arrives, the name follows.

他获得这个奖项是实至名归。

Formal

Facile à confondre

叫作 vs 做 (zuò)

Same pronunciation as 作.

做 usually means 'to do' or 'to make' a physical thing. 作 is used in '叫作' to mean 'to be' or 'to function as'.

我做饭 (I cook); 这个叫作苹果 (This is called an apple).

叫作 vs 称 (chēng)

Both involve naming.

称 is often a single-character verb meaning 'to weigh' or 'to state'. 叫作 is a compound verb specifically for identification.

称重 (weigh); 叫作英雄 (called a hero).

叫作 vs 名 (míng)

Both refer to names.

名 is usually a noun (name). 叫作 is the verb (is called).

他的名字 (his name); 他叫作小明 (he is called Xiao Ming - though stiff).

叫作 vs 谓 (wèi)

Both mean 'to call'.

谓 is classical and very formal. 叫作 is modern and standard.

所谓 (the so-called); 叫作定义 (called a definition).

叫作 vs 喊 (hǎn)

Both can mean 'to call'.

喊 means to shout or yell loudly. 叫作 is for naming.

大声喊 (shout loudly); 叫作北京 (called Beijing).

Structures de phrases

这个叫作 [Noun]。

这个叫作电脑。

这种 [Noun] 叫作 [Name]。

这种花叫作牡丹。

[Process/Action] 叫作 [Term]。

每天跑步叫作锻炼。

在 [Language/Context] 里叫作 [Name]。

在法语里叫作 'Bonjour'。

有一种 [Concept] 叫作 [Definition]。

有一种生活叫作平淡。

[Subject] 被人(们)叫作 [Nickname]。

他被人叫作‘大胡子’。

学术上/正式名称叫作 [Technical Term]。

学术上叫作‘认知失调’。

[Complex Description] 谓之/即叫作 [Abstract Term]。

这种对真理的追求即叫作哲学。

Famille de mots

Noms

名字 (míngzi) - Name

名称 (míngchēng) - Title/Formal Name

作者 (zuòzhě) - Author

作品 (zuòpǐn) - Work (of art/literature)

Verbes

叫 (jiào) - To call/To cry out

作 (zuò) - To do/To act/To be

叫做 (jiàozuò) - Variant of 叫作

称为 (chēngwéi) - To be called/known as

Apparenté

称呼 (chēnghu) - To address

命名 (mìngmíng) - To name officially

号称 (hàochēng) - To claim to be

谓之 (wèizhī) - Classical 'to be called'

名曰 (míngyuē) - Classical 'named as'

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Comment l'utiliser

frequency

Extremely high in educational and descriptive contexts.

Erreurs courantes

Using it for yourself in a casual way. → 我叫大卫。
Using '我叫作大卫' sounds like you are reading from a technical manual about yourself.
Adding '是' before '叫作' unnecessarily. → 这个叫作桌子。
While '这个是叫作桌子' is sometimes heard for emphasis, it is usually redundant and clunky.
Writing '叫做' in a formal academic paper. → 叫作
Although common in casual text, '叫作' is the standard orthography for formal Chinese.
Using '叫作' when a title of honor is required. → 他被称为‘英雄’。
'称为' carries more weight and respect than the general '叫作'.
Confusing '叫作' with '称呼'. → 我该怎么称呼您？
'称呼' is the action of addressing someone; '叫作' is the state of having a name.

Astuces

Direct Link

Remember that '叫作' acts as a direct link between the object and the name. You don't need prepositions or extra verbs.

Learning Tool

Use '这个叫作什么？' as your 'magic phrase' to learn new Chinese words from native speakers.

Formal Choice

In essays, always choose '叫作' over '叫做' to show you have a high level of literacy.

Tones Matter

Don't rush the pronunciation. Two fourth tones in a row need to be distinct to be understood clearly.

Respect the Name

In China, using the correct term (叫作) shows you are educated and respect the subject matter.

Context Clues

When you hear '叫作', the word immediately following it is likely a noun you need to learn.

Call and Act

Think of it as 'Called to Act as'. This helps you remember both characters: 叫 and 作.

Spot the Quotes

Names following '叫作' often have quotation marks. This helps you identify the name even if you don't know the characters yet.

Business Context

In business meetings, use '叫作' to introduce project names or new departments.

Poetic Definitions

Use the '有一种...叫作...' pattern to add a touch of Chinese social media style to your writing.

Mémorise-le

Moyen mnémotechnique

Think of '叫' (jiào) as a person yelling a name, and '作' (zuò) as someone 'acting' like that name. Together, they 'act out' the name of the object.

Association visuelle

Imagine a giant label sticker (作) being slapped onto an object while a loudspeaker (叫) shouts the name. This is the process of '叫作'.

Word Web

叫 (Call) 作 (Work/Act) 名字 (Name) 定义 (Definition) 称为 (Termed) 叫做 (Variant) 称号 (Title) 俗称 (Commonly called)

Défi

Try to name 10 objects in your room using the structure '这个叫作...'. Then, find 3 abstract feelings and name them '这种感觉叫作...'. Finally, look up the scientific names of 2 plants and say '它的正式名称叫作...'.

Origine du mot

The phrase is a combination of '叫' (jiào), which originally meant 'to shout' or 'to cry out', and '作' (zuò), which means 'to do' or 'to act as'. Together, they literally mean 'to be called and act as' or 'to be identified as'. This structure emerged as Chinese became more analytical, requiring more specific compound verbs to differentiate between casual and formal actions.

Sens originel : To be addressed as or to function under the name of.

Sino-Tibetan

Contexte culturel

Avoid using '叫作' for people in a way that sounds like you are dehumanizing them or treating them as a specimen.

English speakers often use 'is called' for everything. Chinese speakers are more selective, using '叫' for people and '叫作' for things or concepts.

《有一种爱叫做放手》 (Song by Mu Rong Xiao Xiao) 《这个男人来自地球》 (Chinese title for 'The Man from Earth') CCTV Documentaries like 《舌尖上的中国》 frequently use '叫作' to introduce ingredients.

Pratique dans la vie réelle

Contextes réels

At a Museum

这件文物叫作什么？
这个朝代叫作唐朝。
这幅画叫作《清明上河图》。
这种艺术风格叫作写意。

In a Science Class

这个实验叫作电解水。
这种元素叫作氧气。
这个理论叫作相对论。
这种细胞叫作神经元。

Language Learning

这个汉字叫作什么？
这种语法结构叫作补语。
这个成语叫作‘画蛇添足’。
这种发音叫作儿化音。

Daily Shopping

这种水果叫作火龙果。
这个品牌叫作‘华为’。
这种布料叫作真丝。
这个型号叫作‘旗舰版’。

Discussing Emotions

这种心情叫作失落。
这种感觉叫作惊喜。
这在心理学上叫作‘共情’。
有一种友谊叫作‘患难与共’。

Amorces de conversation

"你知道这个在中文里叫作什么吗？ (Do you know what this is called in Chinese?)"

"你觉得这种行为可以被叫作“勇敢”吗？ (Do you think this behavior can be called 'brave'?)"

"这种新出的饮料叫作什么名字？ (What is the name of this newly released drink?)"

"在你们国家，这种天气叫作什么？ (In your country, what is this weather called?)"

"你听说过一个叫作“元宇宙”的概念吗？ (Have you heard of a concept called the 'Metaverse'?)"

Sujets d'écriture

写一写你今天见到的三件新事物，并说明它们叫作什么。 (Write about three new things you saw today and state what they are called.)

描述一种你无法用语言表达的感觉，但你可以试着把它叫作什么。 (Describe a feeling you can't express in words, but try to name it.)

如果你发现了一个新星球，你会把它叫作什么？为什么？ (If you discovered a new planet, what would you call it? Why?)

讨论一个你认为被错误叫作“成功”的社会现象。 (Discuss a social phenomenon that you think is mistakenly called 'success'.)

介绍一本你喜欢的书，说明它叫作什么，以及为什么这个名字很有意义。 (Introduce a book you like, state what it is called, and why the name is meaningful.)

Questions fréquentes

10 questions

It is better not to. In casual situations, use '我叫 [Name]'. Using '我叫作 [Name]' sounds like you are a robot or a formal entity. However, if you are explaining your formal title in a speech, it might be acceptable, but still rare.

They are pronounced exactly the same. '叫作' is considered more formal and is the standard in dictionaries and textbooks. '叫做' is very common in casual writing and on the internet. For exams and formal papers, use '叫作'.

In Chinese grammar, it is an active verb. However, in English, we almost always translate it using the passive 'is called'. For example, '这个叫作苹果' literally means 'This calls-acts apple,' but we say 'This is called an apple'.

Yes, you can. For example, '他被叫作“小胖”' (He is called 'Little Fatty'). It works well for established nicknames used by a group of people.

Usually, no. '这个叫作电脑' is correct. Adding '是' (这个是叫作电脑) makes it sound like you are emphasizing 'is' or correcting someone, but it's often redundant.

The most natural way is '这个叫作什么？' or simply '这个叫什么？'.

Absolutely. It is one of the most common ways to introduce a book: '这本书叫作《西游记》'.

Yes, very frequently. It is used to define new terms, species, or chemical compounds.

Yes. '这个城市叫作上海' is perfectly correct, though in casual speech people often just say '这个城市是上海' or '这个城市叫上海'.

There isn't a single direct opposite verb, but you can use '不叫作' (is not called) or '误称为' (mistakenly called).

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