At the A1 level, you can think of 宫殿 (gōngdiàn) as a 'very, very big house' for a King or Queen. You don't need to know the complex history yet. Just remember that it is a place where royal people live. In simple stories, you might see a picture of a palace and say, '这是宫殿' (This is a palace). You can use it when talking about traveling to Beijing to see the Forbidden City. It is a noun, and you can describe it as '大' (big) or '漂亮' (beautiful). Focus on the basic sound 'gōng-diàn' and associate it with fairy tales like Cinderella. Even at this early stage, knowing this word helps you describe famous landmarks during your first trips to China.
At the A2 level, you should start using 宫殿 (gōngdiàn) with its proper measure word, 座 (zuò). You can use it in sentences about your travel plans, such as '我想去北京参观宫殿' (I want to go to Beijing to visit palaces). You should also be able to distinguish it from a regular house (房子) or a hotel (酒店). At this level, you might learn that the Forbidden City is a famous 宫殿. You can also start to use simple adjectives like '古老' (ancient) or '有名' (famous) to describe them. Understanding that 宫殿 represents historical culture is a key part of the A2 curriculum, especially when discussing Chinese landmarks and sightseeing activities.
By B1, you can use 宫殿 (gōngdiàn) to discuss history and culture in more detail. You should be able to describe what a palace looks like using words like '建筑' (architecture) and '装饰' (decoration). You might encounter this word in reading passages about Chinese dynasties or the life of emperors. You can also use it metaphorically, for example, '图书馆是知识的宫殿' (The library is a palace of knowledge). At this level, you should be able to compare 宫殿 with other types of buildings like 寺庙 (temples) or 园林 (gardens), explaining the differences in their functions. Your sentences should become more complex, using connectors like '因为...所以...' to explain why palaces were built in certain ways.
At the B2 level, 宫殿 (gōngdiàn) appears in more formal contexts, such as documentaries, news reports about heritage sites, or literature. You should understand the nuances between 宫殿, 皇宫, and 府邸. You can discuss the social and political significance of palaces—how they represented the power of the state. You should be comfortable using the word in discussions about architectural styles (e.g., '中式宫殿' vs '西式宫殿'). You might also learn specific vocabulary related to palaces, such as '大殿' (main hall) or '宫廷' (court). At B2, you are expected to read and write about cultural heritage protection, where 宫殿 is a frequent topic of discussion regarding preservation and history.
At the C1 level, you will encounter 宫殿 (gōngdiàn) in classical literature and academic essays. You should understand its symbolic meanings in Chinese poetry and prose, where it often represents the transience of power or the height of human achievement. You can analyze the layout of a 宫殿 in terms of '礼' (ritual) and '序' (order). You should be able to use the word in sophisticated metaphors and idioms. Your understanding of the word should include its etymological roots (the evolution of the characters 宫 and 殿) and how its usage has changed from ancient times to the present day. You can participate in deep discussions about the aesthetic values embodied in palace architecture and their influence on modern Chinese design.
At the C2 level, your mastery of 宫殿 (gōngdiàn) is near-native. You can appreciate the subtle differences in how the word is used in different historical periods—for instance, how a 宫殿 in the Tang Dynasty differed in concept from one in the Qing Dynasty. You can discuss the word's role in the 'Grand Narrative' of Chinese history. You are able to interpret complex literary works where the 宫殿 serves as a central setting or motif, often carrying heavy emotional or philosophical weight. You can also use the term in highly specialized fields like architectural history, archaeology, or political philosophy, utilizing it to describe the spatial manifestation of imperial authority and the cosmic order.

宫殿 en 30 secondes

  • 宫殿 (gōngdiàn) means 'palace'. It is used for grand, historical royal residences.
  • It is a formal noun, often paired with the measure word '座' (zuò).
  • It appears frequently in history, tourism, and 'palace drama' TV shows.
  • Metaphorically, it can represent a grand domain like art or knowledge.

The term 宫殿 (gōngdiàn) is a formal Chinese noun that translates directly to 'palace' in English. It is a compound word where 宫 (gōng) originally referred to a cluster of rooms or a dwelling, but eventually became reserved exclusively for imperial residences. The second character, 殿 (diàn), refers to a grand hall or a large building, specifically those used for official ceremonies or religious purposes. Together, they describe the vast, ornate, and structurally complex residences of monarchs, emperors, or high-level royalty. In modern Chinese, you will most frequently encounter this word when discussing history, architecture, or tourism, particularly when referring to China's rich imperial past.

Historical Context
In ancient China, the 宫殿 was not just a home but a symbol of the cosmic order and the Emperor's mandate from heaven. The layout was strictly governed by feng shui and Confucian hierarchy.
Architectural Majesty
A typical Chinese 宫殿 features yellow glazed roof tiles (symbolizing royalty), red walls, and intricate dougong brackets. The scale is designed to make the individual feel small and the state feel eternal.

这座宫殿见证了数百年的王朝兴衰。 (This palace has witnessed hundreds of years of dynastic rise and fall.)

Beyond the physical structures of Beijing or Xi'an, 宫殿 is also used to describe European palaces like Versailles or Buckingham Palace. While English might distinguish between a 'castle' (a fortified residence) and a 'palace' (a grand residence), Chinese often uses 宫殿 for the latter and 城堡 (chéngbǎo) for the former. However, for the most magnificent royal dwellings that combine both residential and administrative functions, 宫殿 remains the gold standard. It evokes a sense of awe, luxury, and historical weight that words like 'house' (房子) or 'building' (大楼) simply cannot convey.

走进宫殿,你会被它的华丽装饰所震撼。 (Entering the palace, you will be shocked by its magnificent decorations.)

In a metaphorical sense, 宫殿 can appear in literature to describe a 'palace of art' (艺术的宫殿) or a 'palace of knowledge' (知识的宫殿). This elevates the subject matter, suggesting that art or knowledge is something sacred, grand, and worthy of deep respect. It implies a structured, beautiful, and vast domain that one can enter and explore. For a learner at the A2 level, understanding 宫殿 is essential for travel-related conversations and for appreciating the scale of Chinese history. It is a word that carries the 'scent' of incense, the sight of gold, and the echoes of ancient rituals.

Common Usage
Used when describing travel destinations, historical dramas, or fairy tales involving kings and queens.

Using 宫殿 (gōngdiàn) correctly requires an understanding of its weight as a noun. Because it refers to such a large and significant structure, it is often paired with measure words like 座 (zuò), which is used for mountains, large buildings, and permanent structures. You wouldn't use 个 (gè) unless in very informal, imprecise speech. For example, '一座宫殿' (a palace) sounds much more natural and grammatically correct than '一个宫殿'.

国王住在一座巨大的宫殿里。 (The king lives in a huge palace.)

When describing the attributes of a palace, common adjectives include 宏伟 (hóngwěi - magnificent), 华丽 (huálì - gorgeous), and 古老 (gǔlǎo - ancient). These adjectives help paint a picture of the 宫殿's scale and age. In sentences, 宫殿 usually acts as the object of verbs like 参观 (cānguān - to visit/tour), 建造 (jiànzào - to build), or 保护 (bǎohù - to protect). For instance, '政府正在努力保护这些古老的宫殿' (The government is working hard to protect these ancient palaces).

In complex sentences, 宫殿 can be the subject that performs an action, though this is often metaphorical. '宫殿的大门缓缓打开' (The palace gates slowly opened). Here, it sets a dramatic scene. You can also use it in comparisons. '他的房子大得像个宫殿' (His house is so big it's like a palace). This is a common way to use hyperbole in everyday Chinese to describe someone's luxurious or spacious home.

这个博物馆以前是一座皇室宫殿。 (This museum used to be a royal palace.)

Finally, remember that 宫殿 is a collective term for the whole complex. If you are referring to a specific hall within the palace, you might use 大殿 (dàdiàn). If you are referring to the private living quarters, you might use 后宫 (hòugōng). But for general conversation about the majestic buildings of the past, 宫殿 is your most reliable and versatile term.

Sentence Structure
Subject + [Verb] + [Measure Word: 座] + 宫殿. Example: 我参观了一座宫殿。

If you are a fan of Chinese television, you will hear 宫殿 (gōngdiàn) constantly. It is a staple of 'Palace Dramas' (宫廷剧 - gōngtíng jù), a massive genre in China. These shows, like 'Story of Yanxi Palace' or 'Empresses in the Palace,' revolve around the lives, intrigues, and romances of the imperial family and their consorts living within the palace walls. In these contexts, the word evokes a place of both extreme beauty and extreme danger.

在电视剧里,宫殿里总是充满了秘密。 (In TV dramas, palaces are always full of secrets.)

You will also hear this word frequently in the context of tourism. Tour guides at the Forbidden City in Beijing or the Potala Palace in Lhasa will use 宫殿 to describe the structures they are showing you. They might say, '这座宫殿建于明朝' (This palace was built during the Ming Dynasty). In news reports about state visits, if a leader is hosted in a historic royal building, the media will use 宫殿 to emphasize the prestige of the event.

In educational settings, history teachers use 宫殿 to discuss the centralization of power. It is a key vocabulary word in any lesson about the Qin, Han, Tang, or Qing dynasties. Children also encounter it in fairy tales—translated Western stories like 'Cinderella' or 'Sleeping Beauty' always feature a 宫殿 where the prince lives. This gives the word a magical, aspirational quality for younger speakers.

导游在向游客介绍宫殿的历史。 (The tour guide is introducing the history of the palace to the tourists.)

Lastly, in the world of high-end real estate or luxury design, marketers might use 宫殿-style (宫殿级) to describe something of the highest quality. A 'palace-level' service or apartment implies that it is fit for royalty. This usage shows how the word has shifted from a literal historical building to a symbol of peak luxury in modern consumer culture.

Media Frequency
High in historical fiction, documentaries, and tourism brochures; moderate in daily life.

One of the most common mistakes for English speakers is confusing 宫殿 (gōngdiàn) with 城堡 (chéngbǎo). In English, 'castle' and 'palace' are sometimes used interchangeably, but in Chinese, the distinction is sharper. A 城堡 (castle) is typically a fortified building with walls and towers designed for defense, often associated with European knights. A 宫殿 (palace) is a grand, unfortified residence focused on luxury and administration. Calling the Forbidden City a 城堡 would sound very strange to a native speaker.

错误:北京有许多古老的城堡。
正确:北京有许多古老的宫殿

Another mistake involves the measure word. As mentioned, using 个 (gè) instead of 座 (zuò) is a sign of a beginner level. While people will understand you, it lacks the descriptive power that Chinese measure words provide. implies a massive, grounded structure, which is exactly what a palace is. Always try to pair 宫殿 with 座.

Learners also sometimes over-use 宫殿 when a more specific word is needed. If you are talking about a specific building within the palace complex, use 殿 (diàn) or 厅 (tīng - hall). If you are talking about a rich person's mansion, use 豪宅 (háozhái) or 大宅 (dàzhái). Using 宫殿 for a modern mansion, unless you are using it as a deliberate metaphor, can sound like an exaggeration or a sarcasm.

不要把普通的豪宅称为宫殿,除非它真的有皇室历史。 (Don't call a normal mansion a palace unless it really has royal history.)

Finally, remember that in the names of specific palaces, the word '殿' is dropped or shortened. You say '颐和园' (Summer Palace - literally 'Garden of Nurturing Harmony') or '凡尔赛宫' (Palace of Versailles). You rarely include the full word '宫殿' inside the proper name of the building itself.

Summary of Errors
1. Confusing with 城堡 (castle). 2. Using the wrong measure word (个 vs 座). 3. Misusing in proper names.

While 宫殿 (gōngdiàn) is the most general term for a palace, several other words occupy nearby semantic space. Understanding the nuances between them will greatly improve your Chinese fluency and descriptive range.

皇宫 (huánggōng)
Specifically refers to an 'Imperial Palace' where an emperor lives. While all 皇宫 are 宫殿, not all 宫殿 (like those for princes or in fairy tales) are necessarily 皇宫.
城堡 (chéngbǎo)
A 'castle'. These are fortified and defensive. Think of medieval European knights. Chinese history has fewer 城堡 in the Western sense, though it has many walled cities.
府邸 (fǔdǐ)
A 'mansion' or 'official residence' for high-ranking officials or nobles. It is grand, but one step below a 宫殿 in the social hierarchy.

虽然他的家很大,但不能叫宫殿,只能叫府邸。 (Although his house is large, it cannot be called a palace, only a mansion.)

Another alternative is 行宫 (xínggōng), which refers to a 'temporary palace' or 'traveling palace' used by the emperor when away from the capital. The Summer Palace in Beijing was originally a form of 行宫. For religious contexts, you might hear 神殿 (shéndiàn), which means a 'temple' or 'shrine' that is built with the grandeur of a palace to honor a deity.

In modern contexts, 大厦 (dàshà) is used for skyscrapers or large office buildings. While they are grand, they lack the historical and royal connotations of 宫殿. If you want to describe a place that feels like a palace because of its beauty and peace, you might use 仙境 (xiānjìng - fairyland) or 世外桃源 (shìwài táoyuán - utopia). Choosing the right word depends on whether you are emphasizing the architecture (宫殿), the defense (城堡), the rank (府邸), or the feeling (仙境).

这座现代建筑的设计灵感来自古代宫殿。 (The design of this modern building was inspired by ancient palaces.)

How Formal Is It?

Le savais-tu ?

In the Forbidden City, there are said to be 9,999.5 rooms in the 宫殿, because only the God of Heaven could have 10,000 rooms.

Guide de prononciation

UK /ɡɒŋ diæn/
US /ɡɔŋ diæn/
The stress is equal on both syllables, though the falling tone on 'diàn' gives it a natural sense of closure.
Rime avec
公 (gōng) 弓 (gōng) 工 (gōng) 店 (diàn) 电 (diàn) 面 (miàn) 线 (xiàn) 便 (biàn)
Erreurs fréquentes
  • Pronouncing 'gōng' with a rising tone (góng).
  • Pronouncing 'diàn' as 'diān' (missing the falling tone).
  • Confusing 'gōng' with 'gòng' (falling tone).
  • Merging the two syllables into one 'gong-dian' without clear tone distinction.
  • Vocalizing 'dian' like 'dean' (it should have an 'i-e' sound).

Niveau de difficulté

Lecture 2/5

Characters are somewhat complex but very common in signs and books.

Écriture 4/5

Writing '殿' requires careful attention to stroke order.

Expression orale 2/5

Easy to pronounce if you know the tones.

Écoute 2/5

Distinctive sound, easy to pick out in context.

Quoi apprendre ensuite

Prérequis

漂亮

Apprends ensuite

皇帝 历史 建筑 参观 旅游

Avancé

朝代 布局 祭祀 权力 象征

Grammaire à connaître

Measure Word '座'

一座宫殿 (A palace)

Location with '在...里'

他在宫殿里。 (He is in the palace.)

Attributive '的'

宫殿的颜色 (The color of the palace)

Similarity with '像...一样'

像宫殿一样大 (As big as a palace)

Passive voice with '被'

宫殿被修复了。 (The palace was restored.)

Exemples par niveau

1

这是宫殿。

This is a palace.

Basic 'Subject + 是 + Noun' structure.

2

宫殿很大。

The palace is very big.

Using '很' as a linking adverb for an adjective.

3

我看宫殿。

I look at the palace.

Simple Subject-Verb-Object.

4

宫殿很漂亮。

The palace is very beautiful.

Describing a noun with an adjective.

5

他在宫殿里。

He is in the palace.

Using '在...里' for location.

6

这里有宫殿。

There is a palace here.

Using '有' for existence.

7

我不去宫殿。

I am not going to the palace.

Negative sentence with '不'.

8

那是谁的宫殿?

Whose palace is that?

Interrogative sentence with '谁的'.

1

北京有一座很大的宫殿。

Beijing has a very large palace.

Using the measure word '座'.

2

我们明天去参观宫殿。

We are going to visit the palace tomorrow.

Using '参观' (to visit) for a place.

3

这座宫殿非常古老。

This palace is very ancient.

Using '非常' for emphasis.

4

国王住在宫殿里吗?

Does the king live in the palace?

Question with '吗'.

5

我喜欢宫殿的颜色。

I like the colors of the palace.

Using '的' for possession/attribute.

6

这里以前是一座宫殿。

This place used to be a palace.

Using '以前' to indicate the past.

7

宫殿里有很多漂亮的东西。

There are many beautiful things in the palace.

Using '很多' with '有'.

8

他们正在修理这座宫殿。

They are repairing this palace.

Present continuous with '正在'.

1

这座宫殿展现了中国古代的建筑艺术。

This palace showcases ancient Chinese architectural art.

Using '展现' (showcase) for abstract qualities.

2

为了保护这座宫殿,游客不能进入内部。

In order to protect this palace, tourists cannot enter the interior.

Using '为了' to show purpose.

3

虽然这座宫殿很旧,但它依然很宏伟。

Although this palace is old, it is still magnificent.

Conjunction '虽然...但...'.

4

在古代,普通人是不允许进入宫殿的。

In ancient times, ordinary people were not allowed to enter the palace.

Using '允许' (allow) in a passive sense.

5

这座宫殿是这个城市最著名的景点。

This palace is the most famous scenic spot in this city.

Superlative construction '最著名'.

6

他写了一本关于这座宫殿历史的书。

He wrote a book about the history of this palace.

Using '关于' (about) to introduce a topic.

7

走进宫殿,你会感觉到历史的气息。

Walking into the palace, you will feel the atmosphere of history.

Using '感觉到' (to feel) for an abstract sensation.

8

这座宫殿的设计非常独特。

The design of this palace is very unique.

Using '独特' (unique) as a predicate.

1

这座宫殿的规模宏大,令人叹为观止。

The scale of this palace is grand, making people marvel.

Using the idiom '叹为观止' (marvelous).

2

宫殿的布局严格遵循了对称的原则。

The layout of the palace strictly followed the principle of symmetry.

Using '遵循' (follow) and '原则' (principle).

3

这座宫殿不仅是住所,更是权力的象征。

This palace is not only a residence but also a symbol of power.

Structure '不仅...更是...'.

4

许多珍贵的文物都在这座宫殿中被发现。

Many precious cultural relics were discovered in this palace.

Passive voice with '被'.

5

宫殿的维修工作需要极其精湛的工艺。

The maintenance of the palace requires extremely exquisite craftsmanship.

Using '精湛' (exquisite) and '工艺' (craftsmanship).

6

这座宫殿在战争中遭到了一定程度的破坏。

This palace suffered a certain degree of damage during the war.

Using '遭到' (suffer) for negative events.

7

导游详细地讲解了宫殿里每座建筑的用途。

The tour guide explained the use of every building in the palace in detail.

Adverbial construction with '地'.

8

这座宫殿融合了多种不同的建筑风格。

This palace blends many different architectural styles.

Using '融合' (blend/fusion).

1

宫殿的每一处细节都彰显了皇室的尊贵。

Every detail of the palace highlights the nobility of the royal family.

Using '彰显' (highlight/manifest) for prestige.

2

这座宫殿在历史的洪流中岿然不动。

This palace stands firm in the torrent of history.

Using the literary phrase '岿然不动'.

3

文学作品常将宫殿作为权力斗争的舞台。

Literary works often use the palace as a stage for power struggles.

Using '将...作为...' (take... as...).

4

这座宫殿的废墟诉说着往昔的辉煌。

The ruins of this palace tell of past glory.

Personification with '诉说' (tell/recount).

5

宫殿的营建耗费了巨大的人力和物力。

The construction of the palace consumed enormous manpower and material resources.

Using '营建' (construction) and '耗费' (consume).

6

他被这座宫殿所蕴含的历史深度所震撼。

He was shocked by the historical depth contained within this palace.

Using '蕴含' (contain/imply) and '震撼' (shock).

7

宫殿内部的陈设极尽奢华之能事。

The furnishings inside the palace were as luxurious as possible.

Using the formal phrase '极尽...之能事'.

8

这座宫殿是人类文明史上的一个奇迹。

This palace is a miracle in the history of human civilization.

Using '文明史' (history of civilization).

1

宫殿的兴废往往预示着王朝的更迭。

The rise and fall of palaces often portend the changing of dynasties.

Using formal binary words like '兴废' (rise/fall) and '更迭' (change).

2

这座宫殿的建筑语汇体现了天人合一的思想。

The architectural vocabulary of this palace embodies the thought of harmony between heaven and man.

Using '建筑语汇' (architectural vocabulary) and philosophical terms.

3

深宫大内,宫殿重重,锁住了多少红颜的青春。

Deep in the palace, layer upon layer of halls, how many beauties' youths were locked away.

Poetic structure with '重重' (layered) and '锁住' (lock).

4

宫殿不仅是物理空间,更是政治伦理的载体。

The palace is not only a physical space, but also a carrier of political ethics.

Using '载体' (carrier/vehicle) for abstract concepts.

5

即便宫殿已成残垣断壁,其威严感依然不减。

Even if the palace has become broken walls and debris, its sense of majesty remains undiminished.

Using '即便...依然...' and '残垣断壁' (ruins).

6

对这座宫殿的研究揭示了古代礼制对空间的塑造。

Research on this palace reveals the shaping of space by ancient ritual systems.

Using '揭示' (reveal) and '礼制' (ritual system).

7

宫殿的繁华与周遭的贫困形成了鲜明的对比。

The prosperity of the palace formed a sharp contrast with the surrounding poverty.

Using '鲜明' (sharp/distinct) for contrast.

8

这座宫殿在某种程度上是绝对权力的具体化。

To some extent, this palace is the embodiment of absolute power.

Using '具体化' (embodiment/concretization).

Collocations courantes

宏伟的宫殿
古老的宫殿
建造宫殿
参观宫殿
宫殿建筑
宫殿大门
宫殿内部
一座宫殿
皇室宫殿
地下宫殿

Phrases Courantes

艺术宫殿

— A place filled with art, or the world of art itself.

这个博物馆是艺术的宫殿。

知识宫殿

— A metaphor for a school or library where knowledge is found.

书籍是通往知识宫殿的阶梯。

地下宫殿

— An underground palace, often referring to a tomb.

秦始皇陵有一座巨大的地下宫殿。

水晶宫殿

— A crystal palace, often in fairy tales or myths.

龙王住在海底的水晶宫殿里。

冷宫

— A 'cold palace' where neglected consorts were sent; now means 'sidelined'.

他被老板打入了‘冷宫’。

宫殿式

— Palace-style; used for architecture or design.

这座酒店是宫殿式的设计。

故宫

— The Former Palace, specifically the Forbidden City in Beijing.

故宫是世界上保存最完整的宫殿。

天宫

— The Heavenly Palace, where gods live in Chinese mythology.

孙悟空大闹天宫。

龙宫

— The Dragon Palace under the sea.

龙宫里有很多珍珠。

白宫

— The White House (USA), literally 'White Palace'.

美国总统住在白宫。

Souvent confondu avec

宫殿 vs 城堡

A castle (fortified). 宫殿 is a palace (luxurious residence).

宫殿 vs 寺庙

A temple for worship. While grand, it serves a religious function, not royal.

宫殿 vs 府邸

A mansion for officials. One level below a 宫殿 in rank.

Expressions idiomatiques

"琼楼玉宇"

— Magnificent buildings made of jade; often refers to a heavenly palace.

天上的琼楼玉宇真美啊。

Literary
"金碧辉煌"

— Splendid and magnificent; often used to describe palaces.

宫殿内部装饰得金碧辉煌。

Common
"深宫内院"

— Deep and secluded inner palace, suggesting mystery or isolation.

她从小在深宫内院中长大。

Literary
"勾心斗角"

— Originally architectural term for interlocking eaves; now means internal strife.

宫殿里的妃子们整天勾心斗角。

Common
"雕梁画栋"

— Carved beams and painted pillars; describes exquisite architecture.

这座宫殿处处是雕梁画栋。

Literary
"高台厚榭"

— High platforms and thick pavilions; grand ancient buildings.

这里曾是高台厚榭的宫殿区。

Archaic
"富丽堂皇"

— Sumptuous and magnificent; fit for a palace.

宴会厅布置得富丽堂皇。

Common
"珠围翠绕"

— Surrounded by pearls and emeralds; describes a palace lifestyle.

她在宫殿里过着珠围翠绕的生活。

Literary
"燕雀处堂"

— Swallows and sparrows living in a grand hall; unaware of danger.

宫殿快塌了,他们还燕雀处堂。

Archaic
"贝阙珠宫"

— Palace made of shells and pearls; usually a water deity's home.

传说海底有贝阙珠宫。

Literary

Facile à confondre

宫殿 vs 宫廷

Both relate to palaces.

宫殿 is the physical building; 宫廷 is the 'court' or the social system within.

他在宫廷里工作,住在宫殿里。

宫殿 vs 大殿

Both have '殿'.

大殿 is a single main hall; 宫殿 is the whole complex.

这座宫殿里有很多大殿。

宫殿 vs 故宫

Often used for 'palace'.

故宫 is the proper name for the Forbidden City; 宫殿 is the generic noun.

故宫是一座宏伟的宫殿。

宫殿 vs 王宫

Very similar meaning.

王宫 is specifically a 'royal palace' for a king; 宫殿 is more general.

英国女王住在王宫里。

宫殿 vs 神殿

Both are grand buildings.

神殿 is for gods (temple/shrine); 宫殿 is for humans (emperors).

希腊有很多古老的神殿。

Structures de phrases

A1

这是[Noun]。

这是宫殿。

A2

[Place]有一座[Adjective]的宫殿。

北京有一座古老的宫殿。

B1

为了[Purpose],我们去[Action]宫殿。

为了了解历史,我们去参观宫殿。

B1

虽然宫殿很[Adj1],但是很[Adj2]。

虽然宫殿很旧,但是很宏伟。

B2

宫殿不仅是[A],还是[B]。

宫殿不仅是住所,还是权力的象征。

B2

[Subject]被宫殿的[Noun]所震撼。

游客被宫殿的华丽所震撼。

C1

[Noun]彰显了宫殿的[Quality]。

细节彰显了宫殿的尊贵。

C2

即便[Condition],宫殿依然[State]。

即便岁月流逝,宫殿依然威严。

Famille de mots

Noms

宫廷 (court)
宫女 (palace maid)
太监 (eunuch)
大殿 (main hall)

Verbes

进宫 (enter the palace)
出宫 (leave the palace)
逼宫 (force a monarch to abdicate)

Adjectifs

宫廷式 (palace-style)
宏伟 (magnificent)
华丽 (gorgeous)

Apparenté

皇帝 (emperor)
皇后 (empress)
王宫 (royal palace)
故宫 (Forbidden City)
城堡 (castle)

Comment l'utiliser

frequency

Common in historical and travel contexts.

Erreurs courantes
  • 一个宫殿 一座宫殿

    The measure word '个' is too general; '座' is the correct measure word for large buildings.

  • 北京城堡 北京宫殿

    Chinese imperial buildings are palaces, not castles.

  • gōng diān gōng diàn

    The second syllable must be the 4th tone (falling), not the 1st tone.

  • Using 宫殿 for a temple. 使用 寺庙 (sìmiào)

    Temples are for gods; palaces are for emperors.

  • Writing '口' instead of '宀' at the top of 宫. 宫 (with 宀 radical)

    The '宀' radical represents a roof, essential for a building name.

Astuces

Using Measure Words

Always use '座' (zuò) for palaces. Using '个' (gè) sounds childish and uneducated.

Color Symbolism

Remember that yellow roof tiles are a hallmark of a Chinese 宫殿, signifying imperial power.

Metaphorical Use

Use 宫殿 to describe things that are grand and impressive, like '艺术的宫殿' (Palace of Art).

Tone Accuracy

The flat high tone of 'gōng' and the sharp drop of 'diàn' are crucial for being understood.

Signs in China

When traveling, look for '宫' or '殿' on maps to find historical landmarks.

Stroke Order

Pay attention to the '尸' radical in '殿'; it's a common place for mistakes.

Palace Dramas

Watch 'Palace Dramas' (宫廷剧) to hear the word 宫殿 used in historical contexts.

Palace vs Castle

Don't call a palace a 城堡 (castle) unless it has clear defensive fortifications.

Imperial Exclusivity

Remember that the word '宫' was once illegal for commoners to use for their own homes.

Audio Cues

Listen for 'gōngdiàn' in news reports about the White House (白宫) or royal visits.

Mémorise-le

Moyen mnémotechnique

Think of a 'Gong' sounding in the 'Dian' (den) of a king. Gōng-Diàn.

Association visuelle

Imagine a red wall with a golden roof (宫) and a massive hall inside (殿).

Word Web

皇帝 皇后 金子 红色 北京 历史 旅游

Défi

Try to describe your dream house using the word 宫殿 as a comparison.

Origine du mot

The character '宫' (gōng) originally depicted a house with multiple rooms under a roof. In ancient times, anyone's house could be called a '宫'. After the Qin Dynasty, it became a term reserved exclusively for the Emperor's residence. '殿' (diàn) refers to a large building on a high platform.

Sens originel : A dwelling with multiple rooms.

Sino-Tibetan (Chinese)

Contexte culturel

Be respectful when visiting 宫殿 in China; they are national treasures and often sacred sites.

Westerners often think of European castles (fortified), whereas Chinese palaces are vast complexes of courtyards and halls.

The Forbidden City (故宫) The Summer Palace (颐和园) The Potala Palace (布达拉宫)

Pratique dans la vie réelle

Contextes réels

Tourism

  • 参观宫殿
  • 门票多少钱?
  • 导游在哪里?
  • 这是什么时代的宫殿?

History Class

  • 宫殿的历史
  • 谁建造了这座宫殿?
  • 宫殿的用途
  • 王朝的中心

Fairy Tales

  • 住在宫殿里
  • 漂亮的公主
  • 金色的宫殿
  • 魔法宫殿

Architecture

  • 宫殿建筑风格
  • 对称的布局
  • 红墙黄瓦
  • 雕梁画栋

Daily Metaphor

  • 大得像宫殿
  • 豪华的宫殿
  • 知识的宫殿
  • 艺术的宫殿

Amorces de conversation

"你去过北京的宫殿吗? (Have you been to the palaces in Beijing?)"

"你觉得哪座宫殿最漂亮? (Which palace do you think is the most beautiful?)"

"如果你有一座宫殿,你会做什么? (If you had a palace, what would you do?)"

"你知道为什么中国宫殿的屋顶是黄色的吗? (Do you know why Chinese palace roofs are yellow?)"

"你喜欢看关于宫殿的电视剧吗? (Do you like watching TV dramas about palaces?)"

Sujets d'écriture

描述一下你参观过的一座宫殿。 (Describe a palace you have visited.)

想象你住在古代的宫殿里,你的一天是什么样的? (Imagine living in an ancient palace, what is your day like?)

为什么保护古老的宫殿很重要? (Why is it important to protect ancient palaces?)

比较一下中国的宫殿和欧洲的城堡。 (Compare Chinese palaces and European castles.)

写一个关于住在地下宫殿里的龙的故事。 (Write a story about a dragon living in an underground palace.)

Questions fréquentes

10 questions

宫 is a single character often used in proper names (e.g., 故宫) or as a prefix. 宫殿 is the full, formal noun for a palace. In daily speech, 宫殿 is used more as a general description.

Only metaphorically. If you say '他的家像个宫殿', it means his house is very big and luxurious. Calling a modern house a 宫殿 literally would be incorrect.

Yes, the Forbidden City is the most famous example of a 宫殿 in China. Its official name is 故宫 (Gùgōng).

The measure word is 座 (zuò), used for large, immovable objects like mountains and big buildings.

No, it can refer to any palace in the world, like the Palace of Versailles (凡尔赛宫) or Buckingham Palace.

Red and yellow. Yellow roofs were reserved for the emperor, and red walls symbolize luck and joy.

It's common in tourism and media, but you wouldn't use it to describe your own home unless you're joking.

宫 has 9 strokes (宀 + 口 + 口). 殿 has 13 strokes. It's a bit difficult for beginners to write.

Words like 民宅 (ordinary house) or 陋室 (shabby room) are opposites in terms of luxury and scale.

Chinese compound words have a fixed order based on historical usage. 宫殿 is the established term.

Teste-toi 180 questions

writing

Write 'I want to visit the palace' in Chinese.

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writing

Write 'The palace is very big' in Chinese.

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writing

Write 'This is an ancient palace' in Chinese.

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writing

Write 'The emperor lives in the palace' in Chinese.

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writing

Write 'The colors of the palace are beautiful' in Chinese.

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writing

Write 'There are many secrets in the palace' in Chinese.

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writing

Write 'His house is like a palace' in Chinese.

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writing

Write 'We are protecting the palace' in Chinese.

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writing

Write 'The palace has a long history' in Chinese.

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writing

Write 'The palace gates are closed' in Chinese.

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writing

Describe the Forbidden City using the word 宫殿.

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writing

Write a sentence using '一座宫殿'.

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writing

Write 'The library is the palace of knowledge' in Chinese.

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writing

Write 'The palace design is unique' in Chinese.

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writing

Write 'I saw the palace on TV' in Chinese.

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writing

Write 'The palace was built in the Ming Dynasty' in Chinese.

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writing

Write 'The palace garden is beautiful' in Chinese.

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writing

Write 'She works in the palace' in Chinese.

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writing

Write 'The palace is gold and red' in Chinese.

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writing

Write 'The palace was destroyed in a fire' in Chinese.

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speaking

Pronounce: 宫殿 (gōngdiàn)

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Say 'A magnificent palace' in Chinese.

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speaking

Say 'I want to see the palace' in Chinese.

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speaking

Say 'The palace is in Beijing' in Chinese.

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speaking

Say 'Is this a palace?' in Chinese.

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speaking

Say 'The Forbidden City is very famous' in Chinese.

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speaking

Say 'I like the architecture of the palace' in Chinese.

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speaking

Say 'The palace is yellow and red' in Chinese.

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speaking

Say 'The king lives there' in Chinese.

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speaking

Say 'The palace has many rooms' in Chinese.

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speaking

Say 'I am visiting the palace museum' in Chinese.

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speaking

Say 'The palace is very ancient' in Chinese.

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speaking

Say 'The palace is a symbol of power' in Chinese.

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speaking

Say 'The palace gates are open' in Chinese.

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speaking

Say 'There is a palace on the hill' in Chinese.

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speaking

Say 'The palace garden is big' in Chinese.

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speaking

Say 'I saw the palace in a movie' in Chinese.

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speaking

Say 'The palace is gold' in Chinese.

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speaking

Say 'The palace is a miracle' in Chinese.

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speaking

Say 'Welcome to the palace' in Chinese.

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listening

Listen and identify the word: 宫殿

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listening

Listen and translate: 故宫是一座宫殿。

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listening

Listen and translate: 宫殿很大很漂亮。

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listening

Listen and translate: 我们去参观宫殿吧。

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listening

Listen and translate: 皇帝住在宫殿里。

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listening

Listen and translate: 这座宫殿的历史很久。

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listening

Listen and translate: 宫殿的屋顶是黄色的。

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listening

Listen and translate: 宫殿里有很多秘密。

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listening

Listen and translate: 他的家像宫殿一样。

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listening

Listen and translate: 宫殿的大门关上了。

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listening

Listen and translate: 这里的宫殿很出名。

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listening

Listen and translate: 宫殿的建筑非常宏伟。

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listening

Listen and translate: 保护宫殿很重要。

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listening

Listen and translate: 宫殿被毁坏了。

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listening

Listen and translate: 走进这座古老的宫殿。

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/ 180 correct

Perfect score!

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