首都 30秒で
- Capital city: The main administrative center of a country or region.
- Used for national and provincial capitals. Essential for geography and politics.
- Beijing is China's capital: 北京是中国的首都。
- Distinguish from largest city; always a noun.
The Chinese word 首都 (shǒu dū) directly translates to 'capital city' in English. It refers to the principal city of a country or region, usually where the seat of government is located. This term is fundamental when discussing geography, politics, and international relations.
- Core Meaning
- The primary city of a nation or province, serving as its administrative and political center.
- Usage Contexts
- You'll encounter 首都 when talking about:
- National capitals: For example, Beijing is the capital of China.
- Provincial capitals: For instance, Guangzhou is the capital of Guangdong province.
- International news and travel: Discussing where government functions are based or where major events take place.
- Historical contexts: Referring to former capitals of empires or dynasties.
北京是中国的首都。
这个国家有很多重要的城市，但首都只有一座。
Understanding 首都 is essential for comprehending news reports, travel guides, and general knowledge about China and other countries. It's a concrete noun that refers to a specific type of important city.
- Etymological Insight
- The characters themselves offer a clue: 首 (shǒu) means 'head' or 'first', and 都 (dū) means 'metropolis' or 'capital'. So, it literally means 'head metropolis' or 'first city'.
上海不是中国的首都，但它是一个非常重要的城市。
The concept of a capital city is universal, and 首都 is the standard term used in Mandarin Chinese to refer to it. Whether you're discussing Beijing, Tokyo, Paris, or Washington D.C., this word allows you to accurately identify their status as capitals.
Using 首都 (shǒu dū) in a sentence is straightforward, as it functions as a noun. It typically appears as the subject or object of a sentence, often modified by possessive pronouns or descriptive adjectives. Here are common sentence structures and examples:
- Identifying a Capital
- This is the most common usage, stating which city is the capital of a country or region.
- Sentence Structure: [City Name] 是 [Country/Region Name] 的 首都。 ([City Name] shì [Country/Region Name] de shǒu dū.)
- Example: 东京 是 日本 的 首都。 (Dōngjīng shì Rìběn de shǒu dū.) - Tokyo is the capital of Japan.
- Example: 巴黎 是 法国 的 首都。 (Bālí shì Fǎguó de shǒu dū.) - Paris is the capital of France.
- Example: 广州 是 广东省 的 首都。 (Guǎngzhōu shì Guǎngdōng shěng de shǒu dū.) - Guangzhou is the capital of Guangdong Province.
- Referring to 'The Capital' Generally
- When the context is clear, you can simply refer to 'the capital'.
- Sentence Structure: [Sentence about the capital city].
- Example: 首都 交通很发达。 (Shǒu dū jiāotōng hěn fādá.) - The capital's transportation is very developed.
- Example: 我想去首都旅游。 (Wǒ xiǎng qù shǒu dū lǚyóu.) - I want to travel to the capital.
- Example: 首都的人口很多。 (Shǒu dū de rénkǒu hěn duō.) - The population of the capital is large.
- Distinguishing from Other Cities
- You can use 首都 to contrast it with other important cities.
- Example: 上海不是中国的首都，但它是中国的经济中心。 (Shànghǎi bùshì Zhōngguó de shǒu dū, dàn tā shì Zhōngguó de jīngjì zhōngxīn.) - Shanghai is not the capital of China, but it is China's economic center.
- Example: 纽约是美国最大的城市，但首都是华盛顿。 (Niǔyuē shì Měiguó zuì dà de chéngshì, dàn shǒu dū shì Huáshèngdùn.) - New York is America's largest city, but the capital is Washington D.C.
- In Questions
- Asking about a capital city.
- Example: 泰国首都是哪里？ (Tàiguó shǒu dū shì nǎlǐ?) - Where is the capital of Thailand?
- Example: 你们国家的首都叫什么名字？ (Nǐmen guójiā de shǒu dū jiào shénme míngzì?) - What is the name of your country's capital?
我们下个星期要去首都参观。
By practicing these sentence structures, you'll quickly become comfortable using 首都 in your Mandarin conversations and writings.
You'll frequently encounter 首都 (shǒu dū) in various real-world contexts, especially when engaging with information related to China and the wider world. Here's where you're likely to hear or read it:
- News and Current Events
- News reports are a prime source. When discussing political events, government announcements, or major happenings in a country, the capital city is often mentioned. For instance, news about international summits held in Beijing, or discussions about policy changes originating from the capital.
首都的官员正在讨论新的经济政策。
The capital's officials are discussing new economic policies.
- Geography and Travel
- When people talk about visiting a country, planning trips, or describing its geography, the capital is a key landmark. Travel guides, blogs, and conversations among travelers will often use this term.
你上次去首都是什么时候？
When was the last time you visited the capital?
- Education and Learning
- In language learning materials, textbooks, and geography classes, 首都 is a common vocabulary word. You'll see it in exercises and example sentences designed to teach learners about Chinese geography and culture.
请写出中国首都的名称。
Please write the name of China's capital.
- Discussions about Governance and Politics
- When people discuss government functions, administrative centers, or the seat of power, 首都 is the appropriate term. This might arise in conversations about national development, infrastructure projects, or the location of major governmental bodies.
首都是国家政治活动的中心。
The capital is the center of the country's political activities.
Listening to Chinese media, interacting with native speakers, or engaging with educational resources will naturally expose you to 首都 in its most common and practical applications.
While 首都 (shǒu dū) is a relatively straightforward word, learners can sometimes make a few common mistakes. Being aware of these can help you use it more accurately.
- Confusing Capital with Largest City
- Mistake: Assuming that the largest or most famous city in a country is always its capital. For example, mistaking Shanghai for the capital of China, or New York for the capital of the United States.
Correction: Remember that the capital city is defined by its governmental function, not necessarily its size or economic importance. Beijing is China's capital, not Shanghai. Washington D.C. is the U.S. capital, not New York City.
错误：上海是中国的首都。
正确：北京是中国的首都。
Incorrect: Shanghai is the capital of China. Correct: Beijing is the capital of China.
- Incorrect Use of '的 (de)'
- Mistake: Omitting or misplacing the possessive particle '的 (de)' when linking a country/region to its capital.
Correction: The standard structure is '[Country/Region] 的 首都'. For example, '中国的首都' (China's capital) or '美国的首都' (America's capital).
错误：中国首都是北京。
正确：中国的首都是北京。
Incorrect: China capital is Beijing. Correct: China's capital is Beijing.
- Treating '首都' as a Verb or Adjective
- Mistake: Trying to use 首都 in ways that are grammatically incorrect for a noun, such as trying to modify another noun directly without '的' or using it in a verbal sense.
Correction: 首都 is a noun. It refers to the city itself. You describe the capital city using other adjectives or verbs. For example, '首都很大' (The capital is big), not '首都大' as if '首都' were an adjective.
错误：这个城市很首都。
正确：这个城市是首都。
正确：首都的建筑很特别。
Incorrect: This city is very capital. Correct: This city is a capital. Correct: The capital's architecture is very special.
By focusing on the grammatical role of 首都 as a noun and understanding the distinction between a capital city and other major cities, you can avoid these common pitfalls.
While 首都 (shǒu dū) is the standard and most common term for 'capital city', there are related concepts and sometimes alternative ways to refer to important cities, though they aren't direct synonyms for 'capital'.
- 都城 (dū chéng)
-
Meaning: Capital city, often with a more historical or literary connotation. It emphasizes the 'city' aspect more strongly.
Usage: More common in historical texts, literature, or when referring to ancient capitals. It can sound a bit formal or old-fashioned in modern everyday conversation compared to 首都.
Comparison: 首都 is the everyday, modern term. 都城 leans towards historical contexts or poetic language.
这个古老的都城见证了王朝的兴衰。
This ancient capital witnessed the rise and fall of dynasties.
- 省会 (shěng huì)
-
Meaning: Provincial capital. This term is specific to the capital of a province within a country.
Usage: Used when discussing administrative divisions within China or other countries that have provinces. It's a subset of the concept of 'capital'.
Comparison: 首都 refers to the national capital. 省会 refers to a regional capital (province capital). All national capitals are important cities, but not all important cities are national capitals. Similarly, a provincial capital is a specific type of capital city.
成都作为四川省会，非常繁华。
Chengdu, as the capital of Sichuan Province, is very prosperous.
- 大都市 (dà dū shì)
-
Meaning: Metropolis; large city.
Usage: This term describes the size and importance of a city in general, not its political status. Many capitals are metropolises, but not all metropolises are capitals.
Comparison: 首都 denotes a specific governmental role. 大都市 describes a city's scale and population. For example, Shanghai is a 大都市 but not a 首都.
东京是一个巨大的大都市。
Tokyo is a huge metropolis.
Understanding these distinctions helps you choose the most precise word for the context, ensuring clear communication about urban centers and their roles.
How Formal Is It?
豆知識
The character 都 (dū) itself can mean 'capital city' on its own in certain contexts, particularly in older or more formal usage (e.g., '古都' gǔdū - ancient capital). However, when combined with 首 (shǒu), it forms the most common and unambiguous term for 'capital city' in modern Mandarin.
発音ガイド
- Incorrect tones: Learners often struggle with the tones, pronouncing them flatly or incorrectly. The third tone (shǒu) dips and then rises, while the fourth tone (dū) falls sharply.
- Pronouncing 'ou' like 'o': The diphthong 'ou' in 'shǒu' needs to be pronounced distinctly, not just as a simple 'o'.
- Confusing 'u' with 'oo': The 'u' in 'dū' is pronounced like the 'oo' in 'moon'.
難易度
CEFR A2 level. The word itself is simple and frequently encountered in basic geographical and news contexts. Understanding its meaning is straightforward, but recognizing its nuances in more complex sentences requires practice.
次に学ぶべきこと
前提知識
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上級
知っておくべき文法
Possessive Particle '的 (de)': Used to show possession or attribute. For '首都', it's commonly used as '[Country/Region] 的 首都'.
中国的首都是北京。
Copula '是 (shì)': Used to equate two things, typically 'Subject 是 Object'.
北京是中国的首都。
Interrogative Pronouns '哪里 (nǎlǐ)' and '什么 (shénme)': Used in questions about location or identity.
泰国的首都是哪里？
Adjective + 的 (de) + Noun: Used to modify a noun with an adjective.
这是一个重要的首都。
Prepositional Phrases with '在 (zài)': Indicating location.
在首都的时候，我参观了博物馆。
レベル別の例文
北京是中国的首都。
Beijing is China's capital.
Standard Subject-Verb-Object structure with '是 (shì)' as the copula and '的 (de)' indicating possession.
我想去首都旅游。
I want to travel to the capital.
Uses '想 (xiǎng)' for desire, followed by a verb phrase '去首都旅游 (qù shǒu dū lǚyóu)' meaning 'to go to the capital to travel'.
这个国家的首都是哪里？
Where is this country's capital?
Interrogative sentence using '哪里 (nǎlǐ)' (where) at the end, with '的 (de)' connecting the country and its capital.
首都的人口很多。
The capital's population is large.
Subject-Verb structure. '首都的人口 (shǒu dū de rénkǒu)' acts as the compound subject.
巴黎是法国的首都。
Paris is the capital of France.
Similar to the first example, demonstrating the 'City is Country's Capital' structure.
你住在哪一个首都？
Which capital city do you live in?
Uses the interrogative '哪一个 (nǎ yī gè)' (which one) to specify the capital city.
首都的交通很方便。
The capital's transportation is very convenient.
Describes a characteristic of the capital using an adjective phrase '很方便 (hěn fāngbiàn)'.
这是一个重要的首都。
This is an important capital city.
Uses the adjective '重要的 (zhòngyào de)' to describe the capital.
许多游客都喜欢参观首都的著名景点。
Many tourists like to visit the capital's famous attractions.
Complex sentence with '都 (dōu)' for emphasis and '的 (de)' linking '首都' to '著名景点'.
由于交通拥堵，我们差点迟到首都的会议。
Due to traffic congestion, we were almost late for the capital's meeting.
Starts with a causal phrase '由于 (yóuyú)' and uses '差点 (chàdiǎn)' to express almost doing something.
作为国家的首都，它承担着重要的政治职能。
As the country's capital, it undertakes important political functions.
Uses '作为 (zuòwéi)' (as) to introduce the role of the capital.
这个国家在历史上曾多次更换首都。
This country has changed its capital multiple times throughout history.
Uses '在历史上 (zài lìshǐ shàng)' (in history) and '多次 (duō cì)' (multiple times).
虽然经济发达，但这座城市并非首都。
Although economically developed, this city is not the capital.
Uses '虽然...但...' (suīrán...dàn...) structure for contrast.
了解一个国家的首都，有助于理解其文化和历史。
Understanding a country's capital helps in understanding its culture and history.
Uses '有助于 (yǒu zhù yú)' (helps to) and '理解 (lǐjiě)' (understand).
他们计划将部分政府机构迁往新首都。
They plan to move some government agencies to the new capital.
Uses '计划 (jìhuà)' (plan) and '迁往 (qiān wǎng)' (move to).
这座城市因其作为首都的地位而闻名。
This city is famous for its status as the capital.
Uses '因...而...' (yīn...ér...) structure to express cause and effect.
为了促进区域均衡发展，政府考虑将部分职能部门迁出首都。
To promote balanced regional development, the government is considering moving some functional departments out of the capital.
Sophisticated sentence structure using '为了 (wèile)' (in order to), '促进 (cùjìn)' (promote), and '考虑 (kǎolǜ)' (consider).
历史上的首都往往是政治、经济和文化的中心。
Historical capitals were often centers of politics, economy, and culture.
Uses '往往 (wǎngwǎng)' (often) and lists multiple domains of influence.
尽管新首都的建设耗资巨大，但它被认为是国家未来的希望。
Although the construction of the new capital cost a huge sum, it is considered the hope for the country's future.
Complex sentence employing '尽管...但...' (jǐnguǎn...dàn...) for concession and '被认为 (bèi rènwéi)' (is considered).
每个国家都有其独特的首都，承载着不同的历史印记。
Every country has its unique capital, carrying different historical imprints.
Uses '其 (qí)' (its) and '承载着 (chéngzài zhe)' (carrying/bearing).
首都的国际影响力日益增强，吸引了全球的目光。
The capital's international influence is growing daily, attracting global attention.
Uses adverbs like '日益 (rìyì)' (increasingly) and phrases like '吸引了全球的目光 (xīyǐn le quánqiú de mùguāng)' (attracting global attention).
我们必须认识到，首都的规划和发展对整个国家都至关重要。
We must recognize that the planning and development of the capital are crucial for the entire country.
Uses '必须认识到 (bìxū rènshí dào)' (must recognize) and '至关重要 (zhì guān zhòngyào)' (crucial).
许多人认为，首都的房价过高，已超出普通民众的承受能力。
Many people believe that the capital's housing prices are too high, exceeding the affordability of ordinary citizens.
Uses '认为 (rènwéi)' (believe/think), '过高 (guò gāo)' (too high), and '超出...承受能力 (chāochū...chéngshòu nénglì)' (exceed ability to bear/affordability).
在讨论国家战略时，首都的地理位置是一个不可忽视的因素。
When discussing national strategy, the capital's geographical location is a factor that cannot be ignored.
Uses '在讨论...时 (zài tǎolùn...shí)' (when discussing) and '不可忽视 (bù kě hūshì)' (cannot be ignored).
该国政府正致力于将首都打造成一个集政治、文化和科技创新于一体的现代化国际大都市。
The country's government is committed to building the capital into a modern international metropolis integrating politics, culture, and technological innovation.
Complex verb phrase '致力于将...打造成...' (zhìlì yú jiāng...dǎzào chéng...) and the structure '集...于一体' (jí...yú yī tǐ) for integration.
历史变迁中，首都的选址往往受到地缘政治、经济命脉及文化象征等多重因素的考量。
In historical changes, the selection of capitals was often influenced by multiple factors such as geopolitics, economic lifelines, and cultural symbolism.
Uses abstract nouns and complex phrasing like '地缘政治 (dìyuán zhèngzhì)' (geopolitics), '经济命脉 (jīngjì mìngmài)' (economic lifeline), and '多重因素的考量 (duōchóng yīnsù de kǎolǜ)' (consideration of multiple factors).
面对日益增长的人口压力和环境挑战，首都的可持续发展模式亟待探索与实践。
Facing increasing population pressure and environmental challenges, the sustainable development model for the capital urgently needs exploration and practice.
Employs advanced vocabulary like '日益增长 (rìyì zēngzhǎng)' (increasingly growing), '环境挑战 (huánjìng tiǎozhàn)' (environmental challenges), and '亟待探索与实践 (jídài tànsuǒ yǔ shíjiàn)' (urgently awaits exploration and practice).
作为国家的心脏，首都的稳定与繁荣直接关系到其在全球舞台上的地位。
As the heart of the nation, the stability and prosperity of the capital are directly related to its position on the global stage.
Uses metaphor ('国家的心脏' - heart of the nation) and expresses direct correlation '直接关系到 (zhíjiē guānxì dào)'.
一些批评者认为，首都的过度集中化可能导致区域发展失衡。
Some critics believe that the over-centralization of the capital may lead to imbalanced regional development.
Incorporates critical perspectives using '一些批评者认为 (yīxiē pīpíng zhě rènwéi)' and abstract concepts like '过度集中化 (guòdù jízhōng huà)' (over-centralization) and '发展失衡 (fāzhǎn shīhéng)' (developmental imbalance).
对首都历史建筑的保护与现代化改造之间的平衡，是城市规划者面临的一大难题。
The balance between the preservation of the capital's historical buildings and modernization is a major challenge faced by urban planners.
Highlights a dilemma using '之间的平衡 (zhī jiān de pínghéng)' (the balance between) and '一大难题 (yī dà nántí)' (a major difficulty).
首都的公共交通系统不仅是市民出行的主要方式，也是展示城市形象的重要窗口。
The capital's public transportation system is not only the primary means of commuting for citizens but also an important window for showcasing the city's image.
Uses '不仅...也是...' (bùjǐn...yě shì...) structure for dual roles and metaphorical language ('重要窗口' - important window).
随着全球化进程的加速，首都作为国家对外交流的门户作用愈发凸显。
With the acceleration of the globalization process, the role of the capital as the gateway for the country's external communication is becoming increasingly prominent.
Employs advanced vocabulary like '全球化进程 (quánqiú huà jìnchéng)' (globalization process), '门户作用 (ménhù zuòyòng)' (gateway role), and '愈发凸显 (yùfā tūxiǎn)' (increasingly prominent).
在审视国家发展蓝图时，首都作为枢纽的战略地位及其对周边区域的辐射效应不容忽视。
When examining the nation's development blueprint, the capital's strategic position as a hub and its radiating effect on surrounding areas cannot be overlooked.
Highly sophisticated phrasing, including '审视 (shěnshì)' (examine), '蓝图 (lántú)' (blueprint), '枢纽 (shūniǔ)' (hub), and '辐射效应 (fúshè xiàoyìng)' (radiating effect).
历史上的许多都城，其选址决策往往凝聚了当时最前沿的哲学思想、天文学观测与工程技术。
The site selection decisions for many historical capitals often embodied the most cutting-edge philosophical ideas, astronomical observations, and engineering technologies of their time.
Uses advanced vocabulary like '凝聚了 (níngjù le)' (embodied/condensed), '最前沿的 (zuì qiányán de)' (most cutting-edge), and lists sophisticated fields of knowledge.
面对全球城市竞争日益白热化的格局，首都的独特性格塑造与差异化发展战略显得尤为关键。
In the face of the increasingly fierce global urban competition, the shaping of the capital's unique character and its differentiated development strategy are particularly crucial.
Employs terms like '日益白热化 (rìyì báirè huà)' (increasingly fierce/heated), '格局 (géjú)' (pattern/situation), '独特性格塑造 (dútè xìnggé sùzào)' (shaping of unique character), and '差异化发展战略 (chāyì huà fāzhǎn zhànlüè)' (differentiated development strategy).
首都的城市更新并非仅仅是物理空间的重塑，更是社会结构、文化认同与生活方式的深度重构。
The urban renewal of the capital is not merely the reshaping of physical space, but also a profound reconstruction of social structure, cultural identity, and lifestyle.
Uses parallel structures and abstract concepts like '物理空间 (wùlǐ kōngjiān)' (physical space), '社会结构 (shèhuì jiégòu)' (social structure), '文化认同 (wénhuà rèntóng)' (cultural identity), and '深度重构 (shēndù chónggòu)' (profound reconstruction).
在考量首都的长期发展潜力时，必须审慎评估其在应对气候变化、资源枯竭等全球性挑战中的韧性。
When considering the long-term development potential of the capital, its resilience in addressing global challenges such as climate change and resource depletion must be prudently assessed.
Focuses on foresight and risk assessment using '长期发展潜力 (chángqī fāzhǎn qiánlì)' (long-term development potential), '审慎评估 (shěnshèn pínggū)' (prudently assess), and '韧性 (rènxìng)' (resilience).
一个成功的首都不仅是行政中心，更应是激发创新、汇聚人才、引领时代潮流的文化高地。
A successful capital is not only an administrative center but should also be a cultural highland that stimulates innovation, attracts talent, and leads the trends of the times.
Expands the definition of a capital's role using evocative language like '激发创新 (jīfā chuàngxīn)' (stimulate innovation), '汇聚人才 (huìjù réncái)' (attract talent), and '文化高地 (wénhuà gāodì)' (cultural highland).
首都的城市规划必须兼顾历史传承与未来发展，在保留城市肌理的同时，注入新的活力。
The capital's urban planning must balance historical inheritance with future development, injecting new vitality while preserving the city's fabric.
Highlights the challenge of balancing competing needs using '兼顾 (jiāngù)' (balance/take into account) and '城市肌理 (chéngshì jīlǐ)' (city fabric).
从地缘政治学的角度分析，首都的战略位置对其国家安全和国际影响力具有决定性作用。
From the perspective of geopolitics, the capital's strategic location plays a decisive role in its national security and international influence.
Applies a specific academic discipline ('地缘政治学 (dìyuán zhèngzhì xué)' - geopolitics) and emphasizes decisiveness ('决定性作用' - decisive role).
よく使う組み合わせ
よく使うフレーズ
— China's capital city.
中国的首都叫北京。
— To go to the capital city.
我要去首都出差。
— The [noun] of the capital city.
首都的风景很美。
— Is not the capital city.
上海不是中国的首都。
— Which one is the capital city?
你知道哪个是巴西的首都吗？
よく混同される語
While many capitals are metropolises, '大都市' simply means a large, important city and does not necessarily imply it's the capital. For example, Shanghai is a '大都市' but not China's '首都'.
'省会' specifically refers to a provincial capital, which is a capital of a sub-national administrative region, not the national capital ('首都').
'都城' is an older, more literary term for capital city, often used for historical capitals. '首都' is the modern, standard term.
慣用句と表現
— Literally 'under the Son of Heaven's feet'. Refers to being in the capital city, implying proximity to power and authority. It can also suggest being under close watch or scrutiny.
他住在天子脚下，做生意很方便，但也得小心行事。
Literary, colloquial— Dragon vein. Refers to a concept in geomancy (feng shui) concerning auspicious geographical formations believed to influence the fortune of a place, often associated with the location of capitals or imperial tombs.
据说这座古都的选址就遵循了龙脉的原则。
Historical, cultural, geomancy-related— Nine gates. Historically refers to the nine main gates of Beijing's inner and outer city walls. It can metaphorically refer to the capital city itself or the areas within its walls.
当年在九门之外，战火纷飞。
Historical, literary— Royal aura; imperial prestige. Refers to the atmosphere or perceived aura of a capital city that signifies its status as the seat of imperial power.
这座城市曾经王气鼎盛，如今已是历史的尘埃。
Historical, literary— Emperor's Capital. While technically a synonym for capital, it carries a strong historical and imperial connotation. It's often used in literature or discussions about imperial China.
长安作为曾经的帝都，留下了无数的文化遗迹。
Historical, literary— Literally 'capital splendor'. A poetic and elegant term for the capital city, often used in classical Chinese literature.
多少文人墨客曾在此京华留下他们的足迹。
Literary, classical— Metropolis. While not strictly an idiom, it's a formal term for a large, important city, often used to describe capitals that are also major economic and cultural centers.
这座都会的夜晚灯火辉煌。
Formal, literary— The place where the dragon rises. Refers to the origin place of a dynasty or a significant leader, often the location of the first capital.
这个小城曾是开国皇帝的龙兴之地。
Historical, literary— Golden Throne Hall. Refers to the main hall in imperial palaces where the emperor held court. Metaphorically, it can represent the center of power or the highest authority, often located in the capital.
所有重大决策都在金銮殿上做出。
Historical, metaphorical— Kings, lords, generals, and ministers. Refers to high-ranking officials. Historically, these figures would be concentrated in the capital city.
在古代，王侯将相大多居住在京城。
Historical, general間違えやすい
The character '都' can appear in '首都' and also means 'all' or 'both' when used as an adverb.
'都 (dū)' as a noun means 'capital city' or 'metropolis'. When used as an adverb, it means 'all' or 'already' and is often pronounced 'dōu'. For example, '我们都来了' (Wǒmen dōu lái le - We all came). In '首都', '都' means 'capital city'.
北京是中国的<strong>首都</strong>。(Běijīng shì Zhōngguó de <strong>shǒu dū</strong>.) vs. 我们<strong>都</strong>来了。(Wǒmen <strong>dōu</strong> lái le.)
The character '首' is the first part of '首都' and means 'head' or 'first'. It can be confusing if learners try to directly apply its meaning of 'head' to the entire word.
'首 (shǒu)' means 'head', 'first', or 'chief'. In '首都', it signifies the primary or leading city. However, '首都' as a whole word specifically means 'capital city' and should not be broken down too literally in everyday usage.
他是班长，是<strong>首</strong>先发言的。(Tā shì bānzhǎng, shì <strong>shǒu</strong> xiān fāyán de. - He is the class monitor, the first to speak.) vs. 北京是中国的<strong>首都</strong>。(Běijīng shì Zhōngguó de <strong>shǒu dū</strong>.)
The character '京' is often associated with capitals, especially Beijing (北京 - Běijīng). It appears in words like '京城' (jīng chéng - capital city) and '京华' (jīng huá - capital splendor).
'京 (jīng)' is a character that specifically refers to the capital, particularly Beijing. '首都 (shǒu dū)' is a more general and standard term for any capital city, whether it's Beijing or Paris. While Beijing is a 首都, not all 首都 are '京'.
北京是中国的<strong>首都</strong>。(Běijīng shì Zhōngguó de <strong>shǒu dū</strong>.) vs. 西安也曾是古<strong>京</strong>。(Xī'ān yě céng shì gǔ <strong>jīng</strong>. - Xi'an was also an ancient capital.)
Both mean 'capital city'.
'首都 (shǒu dū)' is the modern, standard, and most common term for a capital city. '都城 (dū chéng)' is more literary and historical, often referring to ancient capitals. While they overlap, '首都' is preferred in contemporary contexts.
北京是中国的<strong>首都</strong>。(Běijīng shì Zhōngguó de <strong>shǒu dū</strong>.) vs. 长安是唐朝的<strong>都城</strong>。(Cháng'ān shì Táng cháo de <strong>dū chéng</strong>.)
Both involve the character '都' and refer to cities.
'都会 (dū shì)' means 'metropolis' or 'large city'. It emphasizes the size, population, and economic/cultural importance of a city. '首都 (shǒu dū)' specifically refers to the seat of government. A capital can be a metropolis, but a metropolis is not necessarily a capital.
东京是一个巨大的<strong>都会</strong>。(Dōngjīng shì yī gè jùdà de <strong>dū shì</strong>.) vs. 东京是日本的<strong>首都</strong>。(Dōngjīng shì Rìběn de <strong>shǒu dū</strong>.)
文型パターン
[City Name] 是 [Country/Region] 的 首都。
北京是中国的首都。
我想去 首都。
我想去首都。
[Country/Region] 的 首都 是 哪里？
美国的首都 是 哪里？
首都 的 [Noun] 很 [Adjective]。
首都的交通很方便。
作为 [Country/Region] 的 首都，[City Name] ...
作为法国的首都，巴黎有很多博物馆。
虽然 [City Name] 很发达，但它不是 首都。
虽然上海很发达，但它不是首都。
为了 [Purpose]，政府考虑将部分职能迁出 首都。
为了缓解拥堵，政府考虑将部分职能迁出首都。
首都 作为 [Role] 的 地位 ...
首都作为国家心脏的地位越来越重要。
語族
名詞
関連
使い方
High
-
Confusing capital with largest city.
→
Correctly identifying the capital based on its governmental function.
Learners often assume the largest or most economically important city is the capital. For example, Shanghai is a major metropolis but not the capital of China; Beijing is. Always verify the capital city's status.
-
Incorrect use of '的 (de)'.
→
Using '的 (de)' correctly to link a country/region to its capital.
The standard structure is '[Country/Region] 的 首都'. Omitting '的' (e.g., '中国首都') or using it incorrectly can lead to grammatical errors. Remember '中国的首都' (China's capital).
-
Treating 首都 as a verb or adjective.
→
Using 首都 as a noun.
首都 is a noun referring to the city itself. It cannot be used as a verb (e.g., 'to capital-ize') or directly as an adjective modifying another noun without '的'. You describe the capital city using adjectives.
-
Confusing national capital with provincial capital.
→
Differentiating between 首都 (national capital) and 省会 (provincial capital).
While 首都 can sometimes refer to a provincial capital, the term 省会 is more specific and common for sub-national administrative centers. Using 首都 for a provincial capital might be understood but is less precise.
-
Incorrect tones.
→
Pronouncing 首都 (shǒu dū) with the correct tones.
The tones are crucial for meaning in Mandarin. 'Shǒu' is 3rd tone (falling-rising), and 'dū' is 4th tone (falling). Incorrect tones can lead to misunderstanding or sound unnatural.
ヒント
Mastering the Tones
The tones for 首都 (shǒu dū) are crucial. 'Shǒu' is the 3rd tone (falling-rising), and 'dū' is the 4th tone (falling). Practice saying 'shǒu dū' slowly and clearly, focusing on the pitch changes. Listening to native speakers and repeating is key.
The Role of '的'
When linking a country or region to its capital, always use the possessive particle '的' (de). For example, '中国的首都' (China's capital), not '中国首都'.
Visual Association
Imagine a large 'head' (首) wearing a crown, sitting on top of a city (都). This visual helps remember that the capital is the 'head city' or the most important city.
Related Terms
Learn related terms like 省会 (shěng huì - provincial capital) and 都城 (dū chéng - historical capital) to broaden your understanding of city classifications in Chinese.
Active Listening
Listen to Chinese news or documentaries about different countries. Try to identify when the word 首都 is used and in what context. This will help you internalize its meaning and usage naturally.
Symbolic Importance
Understand that in many cultures, the capital city holds significant symbolic weight as the heart of the nation's history, culture, and governance. This context can enrich your understanding of the word.
Basic Patterns
Master the basic sentence structure: '[City Name] 是 [Country/Region] 的 首都。' (e.g., 北京是中国的首都。) This is a fundamental pattern for using the word.
Don't Confuse with Largest City
A common mistake is assuming the largest city is always the capital. Remember that the capital is defined by its governmental role, not just its size. Beijing is China's capital, not Shanghai.
Use it in Conversation
Actively try to use 首都 when discussing geography or travel with Chinese speakers. Even simple sentences like '我想去首都' (I want to go to the capital) will help solidify your learning.
暗記しよう
記憶術
Imagine a giant 'head' (首) wearing a crown, sitting atop a huge 'city' (都). This visual represents the capital as the 'head city' or the most important city.
視覚的連想
Picture a map of China with Beijing prominently marked with a large crown or a 'head' icon. This reinforces that Beijing is the head city, the capital.
Word Web
チャレンジ
Try to list the capitals of five different countries using the word 首都 in a sentence for each. For example: '东京是日本的首都。'
語源
The word 首都 (shǒu dū) is a compound word formed from two characters: 首 (shǒu) and 都 (dū). Both characters have long histories in the Chinese language and have evolved in meaning over time. The combination specifically denotes the primary city.
元の意味： 首 (shǒu) originally meant 'head', 'first', or 'leader'. 都 (dū) originally meant 'metropolis', 'capital', or 'city'. Together, they literally mean 'head city' or 'first city'.
Sino-Tibetan文化的な背景
When discussing capitals, especially in international contexts, it's important to be respectful of the country's chosen seat of government. Avoid making generalizations or politically charged statements unless appropriate for the context.
In English-speaking countries, the term 'capital city' is standard. Concepts like 'seat of government' or 'political center' are also used. The cultural weight of a capital can vary; for instance, Washington D.C. is strongly associated with political power, while London has a broader historical and cultural significance.
実生活で練習する
実際の使用場面
Discussing geography and country facts
- 中国的首都
- 首都 是 哪里？
- 访问 首都
News reports about government and politics
- 首都 的 官员
- 首都 的 政策
- 国家 首都
Travel planning and descriptions
- 去 首都 旅游
- 首都 的 风景
- 首都 的 交通
Comparing cities
- 不是 首都
- 比 首都
- 首都 和 [city name]
Historical discussions
- 古代 首都
- 历史 首都
- 曾经 的 首都
会話のきっかけ
"你最想去哪个国家的首都旅游？为什么？"
"你认为一个国家的首都应该具备哪些特点？"
"除了北京，你还知道中国的哪些城市曾经是首都？"
"你觉得首都的生活节奏和家乡相比怎么样？"
"如果让你重新选择一个国家的首都，你会选哪里？"
日記のテーマ
写下你对某个首都城市的第一印象，以及你为什么会有这样的印象。
描述一次你去往或居住在某个首都城市的经历，重点关注你观察到的与众不同之处。
比较你所了解的两个不同国家的首都，它们在文化、建筑或政治氛围上有什么异同？
想象一下，如果你的家乡成为了一个国家的首都，它会发生哪些变化？
探讨首都作为国家象征的重要性，以及它如何影响国民的身份认同。
よくある質問
10 問No, 首都 (shǒu dū) can refer to the capital of a country or the capital of a province/state within a country. For example, Beijing is the capital of China (中国的首都), and Guangzhou is the capital of Guangdong Province (广东省的首都). However, to be more specific for provincial capitals, the term 省会 (shěng huì) is often used.
首都 (shǒu dū) is the modern, standard, and most frequently used term for 'capital city'. 都城 (dū chéng) is a more literary and historical term, often used when referring to ancient capitals or in more formal writing. While they both mean capital city, 首都 is preferred in everyday contemporary Chinese.
No, 首都 (shǒu dū) specifically means 'capital city' – the seat of government. For large, important cities that are not capitals, you would use terms like 大都市 (dà dū shì - metropolis) or 经济中心 (jīngjì zhōngxīn - economic center).
The most common and standard way to say 'capital city' in Chinese is 首都 (shǒu dū). You can also use 都城 (dū chéng) for historical contexts.
Here are a few examples: 北京是中国的首都。(Beijing is the capital of China.) 我想去首都旅游。(I want to travel to the capital.) 泰国的首都叫曼谷。(The capital of Thailand is called Bangkok.)
首都 (shǒu dū) is a noun. It refers to the capital city itself.
The pronunciation is shǒu (third tone, falling-rising) followed by dū (fourth tone, falling). So, it sounds like 'show-doo' with specific tones.
Yes, the character 京 (jīng) is strongly associated with capitals, especially Beijing (北京). It appears in terms like 京城 (jīng chéng - capital city, historical) and 京华 (jīng huá - capital splendor).
首都 (shǒu dū) refers to the capital of a country or a major administrative region. 省会 (shěng huì) specifically refers to the capital of a province within a country. So, Beijing is China's 首都, while Guangzhou is Guangdong's 省会.
The capital city is important because it is usually the seat of government, where major political decisions are made, and often where national symbols and key institutions are located. It serves as the administrative, political, and sometimes cultural heart of a country or region.
自分をテスト 10 問
/ 10 correct
Perfect score!
Summary
首都 (shǒu dū) is the standard Chinese term for 'capital city', referring to the primary administrative center of a country or region. It's crucial for discussing geography, politics, and travel, and is used in straightforward sentence structures like '[City Name] 是 [Country/Region] 的 首都'.
- Capital city: The main administrative center of a country or region.
- Used for national and provincial capitals. Essential for geography and politics.
- Beijing is China's capital: 北京是中国的首都。
- Distinguish from largest city; always a noun.
Mastering the Tones
The tones for 首都 (shǒu dū) are crucial. 'Shǒu' is the 3rd tone (falling-rising), and 'dū' is the 4th tone (falling). Practice saying 'shǒu dū' slowly and clearly, focusing on the pitch changes. Listening to native speakers and repeating is key.
Context is Key
Remember that 首都 refers specifically to the capital city. Avoid using it for other large cities like Shanghai or New York, which are '大都市' (metropolises) but not national capitals.
The Role of '的'
When linking a country or region to its capital, always use the possessive particle '的' (de). For example, '中国的首都' (China's capital), not '中国首都'.
Visual Association
Imagine a large 'head' (首) wearing a crown, sitting on top of a city (都). This visual helps remember that the capital is the 'head city' or the most important city.
関連コンテンツ
travelの関連語
几天
A2何日間（疑問）または数日間（不定量）。
国外
A2国外; 海外; 外国.
转换插头
A2海外旅行には変換プラグが欠かせません。
转换器
A2コンバーター
地址卡
A2住所カードは、氏名、電話番号、メールアドレスなどの連絡先情報が記載された小さなカードです。連絡先情報を簡単に共有するために使用されます。
冒险
A2彼は冒険が好きで、よく一人で旅行します。
冒险家
A2冒険家は、刺激的で危険な経験を求める人のことです。
非洲
A2アフリカは、ヨーロッパの南、アジアの南西に位置する広大な大陸です。多様な文化とユニークな野生生物で知られています。「非洲」(Fēizhōu) は、この大陸の中国語名です。
前方
A2Ahead, in front.
飞机票
A1航空券（こうくうけん）は、飛行機に乗るために必要なチケットです。
