精通
jing tong
To be proficient
Literally: 精 (Essence/Refined) + 通 (Thorough/To pass through)
In 15 Seconds
- Used to describe high-level mastery of a skill or subject.
- Commonly found in professional contexts like resumes and introductions.
- Implies both deep knowledge and practical, smooth application.
Meaning
This phrase describes someone who is a total pro or an expert in a specific skill or field. It means you don't just know how to do something; you have mastered it deeply.
Key Examples
3 of 6Introducing a new colleague
王先生精通多种语言。
Mr. Wang is proficient in many languages.
Bragging about a friend's cooking
我朋友精通川菜，做得非常好吃！
My friend is an expert in Sichuan cuisine; it's delicious!
Writing a resume
本人精通办公软件和数据分析。
I am proficient in office software and data analysis.
Cultural Background
The character `精` originally referred to high-quality, polished rice, symbolizing something refined. Combined with `通`, which means to flow or connect, it represents a mind that moves through a subject without any obstacles. It reflects the Confucian ideal of lifelong mastery and intellectual depth.
The Humility Trap
If someone says you are `精通` in Chinese, the polite response is usually `哪里哪里` (Not at all) or `还在学习` (Still learning). Accepting the praise too quickly can seem a bit bold!
Resume Gold
In Chinese job markets, `精通` is the standard keyword for 'Expert' or 'Proficient.' Use `熟悉` (shúxī) if you only 'know' it, but use `精通` if you can do it in your sleep.
In 15 Seconds
- Used to describe high-level mastery of a skill or subject.
- Commonly found in professional contexts like resumes and introductions.
- Implies both deep knowledge and practical, smooth application.
What It Means
精通 is the ultimate compliment for a skill. It implies you have moved past the 'learning' phase. You are now a master. It combines 'refined essence' with 'thorough understanding.' Think of it as having a 360-degree view of a subject. You aren't just a user; you are an authority.
How To Use It
Put the person first, then 精通, then the skill. For example: 他精通电脑 (He is proficient with computers). It functions like a strong verb. You can use it for languages, arts, or technical crafts. Don't use it for simple tasks like eating or sleeping. That would sound very strange! Use it for things that require years of practice.
When To Use It
Use this during job interviews to impress recruiters. It works great when introducing a talented friend. You might see it in biographies of famous scholars. Use it when you want to show deep respect for someone's hard work. It sounds polished and impressive in a professional email. It’s the word you want on your LinkedIn profile.
When NOT To Use It
Avoid using it for yourself if you want to stay humble. Chinese culture often values modesty. Saying 我精通中文 might sound a bit arrogant to some. Instead, let others say it about you. Don't use it for basic hobbies you just started. If you only know three chords on guitar, you aren't 精通 yet. It’s too heavy for casual, low-effort activities.
Cultural Background
In Chinese history, being a 'polymath' was the gold standard. Scholars aimed to be 精通 in the 'Four Arts': qin, chess, calligraphy, and painting. This word carries that weight of traditional excellence. It suggests a person who has 'pierced through' the surface of a craft. It’s about the journey from a novice to a sage.
Common Variations
If you want to sound even more formal, try 博大精深. This describes knowledge that is both wide and deep. For a more casual 'expert' vibe, people might just say 高手 (master). But 精通 remains the most versatile bridge between formal and daily speech. It is the 'goldilocks' word for expertise.
Usage Notes
Mainly used in formal or semi-formal contexts. It is the standard term for professional mastery. Avoid using it for trivial or basic activities to prevent sounding unnatural.
The Humility Trap
If someone says you are `精通` in Chinese, the polite response is usually `哪里哪里` (Not at all) or `还在学习` (Still learning). Accepting the praise too quickly can seem a bit bold!
Resume Gold
In Chinese job markets, `精通` is the standard keyword for 'Expert' or 'Proficient.' Use `熟悉` (shúxī) if you only 'know' it, but use `精通` if you can do it in your sleep.
Don't Overuse
Don't use `精通` for simple daily actions like `精通喝水` (proficient at drinking water). It makes you sound like a robot or someone trying too hard to be funny.
Examples
6王先生精通多种语言。
Mr. Wang is proficient in many languages.
Standard professional introduction showing respect.
我朋友精通川菜，做得非常好吃！
My friend is an expert in Sichuan cuisine; it's delicious!
Using a formal word for a hobby makes the compliment stronger.
本人精通办公软件和数据分析。
I am proficient in office software and data analysis.
The most common way to list skills on a CV.
你不是精通电脑吗？快帮帮我！
Aren't you a computer whiz? Help me out!
Slightly playful use of a big word for a small favor.
我不精通数学，但我精通睡觉。
I'm not an expert in math, but I'm a pro at sleeping.
Using a serious word for a silly activity creates humor.
这位老艺术家精通书法。
This old artist has mastered calligraphy.
Expresses deep reverence for lifelong dedication.
Test Yourself
Choose the best word to describe a professional translator's skill.
她___英语和法语，翻译得很快。
For a professional level of skill, '精通' is the most appropriate choice.
Complete the sentence to talk about a tech expert.
我的哥哥是程序员，他___各种编程语言。
Programming languages are a classic subject for '精通'.
🎉 Score: /2
Visual Learning Aids
Formality of 'Mastery' Terms
Using '厉害' (Lìhai) for general coolness.
你真厉害！
Using '擅长' (Shàncháng) for being good at something.
他擅长运动。
Using '精通' (Jīngtōng) for professional mastery.
精通业务。
Where to use 精通
Job Interview
Listing skills on a CV
Academic Intro
Describing a professor's field
Expert Advice
Asking a 'tech whiz' for help
Artistic Praise
Complimenting a musician
Practice Bank
2 exercises她___英语和法语，翻译得很快。
For a professional level of skill, '精通' is the most appropriate choice.
我的哥哥是程序员，他___各种编程语言。
Programming languages are a classic subject for '精通'.
🎉 Score: /2
Frequently Asked Questions
10 questions擅长 means you are good at something or have a talent for it, like 擅长唱歌. 精通 is a higher level, implying professional-grade mastery and deep theoretical knowledge.
Yes, but it sounds very formal. For sports, people usually say 打得很好 or 专业. Using 精通网球 sounds like you know the history and every technical rule of tennis.
Absolutely! It is the most common word to describe professional skills like 精通Java or 精通会计.
It functions as a verb in Chinese. You can say 他精通历史, where it acts directly on the object 'history'.
It's grammatically okay, but usually, you need to specify what you are proficient in. For example, 我很精通这门技术.
Not at all. It is a timeless, standard word used in both modern business and classical literature.
You can use 高手 (gāoshǒu) or 牛 (niú). For example, 他是电脑高手 (He's a computer pro).
No, you 精通 a subject or a skill, not a person. You can't say 我精通我朋友.
Not directly. You would just say 不精通 (not proficient) or 外行 (an outsider/amateur).
It is 'jīngtōng'. Both characters are first tone, so keep your voice high and level like a flat line.
Related Phrases
擅长 (be good at)
专业 (professional)
高手 (expert/master)
博学 (learned/knowledgeable)
熟悉 (familiar with)
