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B1 noun, verb #1,200 most common 14 min read

预算

yusuan Top 1,200

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips 预算 in 30 Seconds

Explanation 预算 in your Level:

At the A1 level, you can think of 预算 (yùsuàn) as a simple word for 'money plan.' Even though it's a B1 word, you might hear it when people talk about shopping or traveling. It is made of two parts: 预 (yù) which means 'before' and 算 (suàn) which means 'to count' or 'to calculate.' So, it literally means 'counting before you spend.' At this level, you only need to know how to ask a simple question like '你的预算是多少？' (Nǐ de yùsuàn shì duōshǎo?) which means 'How much is your budget?' or 'How much money do you have to spend?' You can use it when you go to a market or a store. It's a very useful word because it helps people understand how much you want to pay. Just remember that 预算 is about the future—it's what you *plan* to spend, not what you already spent. If you are buying a phone, your 预算 might be 2000 yuan. If the phone costs 3000 yuan, it is 'too much' for your 预算. This word is the first step in learning how to talk about money and planning in Chinese. You don't need to worry about complex grammar yet; just focus on the noun 'budget.'

At the A2 level, you can start using 预算 (yùsuàn) in more complete sentences. You should know that it can be a noun (a budget) and sometimes a verb (to budget/estimate). You can use it with simple verbs like 有 (yǒu - to have) or 没有 (méiyǒu - to not have). For example, '我没有预算买新衣服' (I don't have the budget to buy new clothes). You can also use it to describe a trip or a small project. A common phrase is '做预算' (zuò yùsuàn), which means 'to make a budget.' For example, '我们要为旅行做个预算' (We need to make a budget for the trip). At this level, you should also understand that 预算 is usually followed by a number or an adjective like 多 (duō - much) or 少 (shǎo - little). You might hear a friend say, '我的预算很少' (My budget is very small). This is a polite way to say you are trying to save money. You are moving beyond just asking for a price to actually discussing a financial plan. Understanding 预算 helps you participate in basic planning conversations with friends and family, such as deciding where to eat or what gift to buy for someone.

As a B1 learner, you should be comfortable using 预算 (yùsuàn) in both daily life and professional contexts. This is the level where you start to use specific collocations. You should know phrases like 超出预算 (chāochū yùsuàn - to exceed the budget) and 在预算之内 (zài yùsuàn zhī nèi - within budget). These are essential for discussing projects or shopping. You should also understand how to use 预算 as a verb meaning 'to estimate.' For example, '我预算这次装修要花五万块' (I estimate/budget that this renovation will cost 50,000 yuan). At B1, you are expected to handle more complex sentence structures, such as '由于预算有限，我们不得不取消计划' (Due to a limited budget, we had to cancel the plan). You should also be able to distinguish 预算 from similar words like 开支 (expenditure) and 费用 (costs). 预算 is the plan, while the others are the reality. You might also encounter the word in news articles about government spending or company reports. This level requires you to not only know the meaning but to use the word accurately in a variety of 'if/then' or 'because/so' logical structures. It is a key word for demonstrating that you can manage practical affairs in a Chinese-speaking environment.

At the B2 level, your use of 预算 (yùsuàn) should become more sophisticated and formal. You should be familiar with professional verbs like 制定 (zhìdìng - to formulate), 编制 (biānzhì - to compile), and 审核 (shěnhé - to audit/review) in relation to budgets. For example, '财务部正在审核各部门的年度预算' (The finance department is reviewing the annual budgets of each department). You should also understand compound terms like 预算赤字 (yùsuàn chìzì - budget deficit), 预算盈余 (yùsuàn yíngyú - budget surplus), and 预算控制 (yùsuàn kòngzhì - budget control). At this level, you can discuss the implications of budget decisions on a larger scale, such as how a government's 预算 affects the national economy. You should also be able to use the word in more abstract or metaphorical ways, though financial contexts remain primary. Your ability to use 预算 in passive structures or complex modifier-noun chains (e.g., '被大幅削减的教育预算' - the significantly cut education budget) is a hallmark of B2 proficiency. You are no longer just talking about your own money; you are discussing organizational and societal financial structures with nuance and precision.

For C1 learners, 预算 (yùsuàn) is a word you use with complete native-like flexibility. You understand its role in formal economic discourse and can use it in high-level debates or academic writing. You are familiar with terms like 零基预算 (língjī yùsuàn - zero-based budgeting), 弹性预算 (tánxìng yùsuàn - flexible budget), and 预算执行 (yùsuàn zhíxíng - budget execution). You can discuss the nuances of fiscal policy, such as the difference between 预算内资金 (budgetary funds) and 预算外资金 (extra-budgetary funds). At this level, you can also appreciate the word's use in literature or high-level journalism to describe the 'economy of means' or the strategic allocation of non-financial resources like political capital or social influence. You should be able to critique a budget proposal, pointing out flaws in its 估算 (estimation) or its 分配 (allocation). Your vocabulary includes idioms and formal expressions that might surround budget discussions, such as 量入为出 (liàng rù wéi chū - spend within one's means). You can switch effortlessly between casual, business, and academic registers when using this word, understanding exactly which collocations fit the specific social context.

At the C2 level, you have a masterly command of 预算 (yùsuàn) and its entire semantic field. You can use the word in the most complex legal, financial, and political contexts. You understand the historical evolution of the term in Chinese economic thought and its specific applications in the Chinese socialist market economy. You can engage in professional-level auditing or financial analysis in Chinese, using 预算 as a key metric for evaluating organizational performance. You are sensitive to the subtle rhetorical uses of the word—for example, how a politician might use the term 预算 to frame a policy as 'fiscally responsible' or how a CEO might use it to justify difficult cuts. You can write comprehensive reports on '预算管理体系' (budget management systems) and offer expert opinions on '预算改革' (budget reform). Your understanding extends to the philosophical level—viewing 预算 as a manifestation of human intent and the quantification of future uncertainty. You can use the word with such precision and cultural awareness that your speech is indistinguishable from that of a highly educated native professional in finance or public administration.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

预算 in 30 Seconds

预算 (yùsuàn) means 'budget' (noun) or 'to budget/estimate' (verb). It is essential for financial planning in personal, business, and government contexts.
The word is composed of 预 (advance) and 算 (calculate), literally meaning to calculate in advance. It is a key term for CEFR B1 learners.
Common phrases include '超出预算' (over budget), '在预算之内' (within budget), and '做预算' (to make a budget). It implies foresight and responsibility.
While primarily financial, it can occasionally refer to time or resources. It is used formally in government reports and casually in daily shopping.

The Chinese word 预算 (yùsuàn) is a fundamental term in both daily life and professional environments, serving as both a noun and a verb. At its core, it represents the act of 'calculating in advance.' To understand this word deeply, we must look at its constituent characters: 预 (yù), meaning 'in advance' or 'beforehand,' and 算 (suàn), meaning 'to calculate,' 'to count,' or 'to plan.' When these two characters combine, they form a concept that is indispensable in modern society—the budget. Whether you are a student managing a monthly allowance, a traveler planning a trip to Shanghai, or a government official allocating billions for infrastructure, 预算 is the word you will use to describe the financial roadmap of your endeavors.

Financial Planning: In a financial context, 预算 refers to the systematic estimation of income and expenses over a specified future period. It is the primary tool used by individuals and organizations to ensure they do not spend more than they earn.

我们需要为明年的旅行制定一个详细的预算。(Wǒmen xūyào wèi míngnián de lǚxíng zhìdìng yīgè xiángxì de yùsuàn.) - We need to create a detailed budget for next year's trip.

Beyond simple money management, 预算 carries a connotation of foresight and responsibility. In Chinese culture, being 'budget-conscious' is often viewed as a virtue of prudence and wisdom. It is not just about being frugal; it is about the strategic allocation of resources. You will hear this word frequently in corporate settings during 'Budget Season' (预算季), where departments fight for their share of the company's capital. In these high-stakes environments, 预算 is not just a number; it is a reflection of a department's priorities and power.

The Verb Form: As a verb, 预算 means 'to budget' or 'to estimate.' It describes the active process of crunching numbers before a project begins. For example, '预算成本' (to budget the costs).

装修这套房子，你预算要花多少钱？(Zhuāngxiù zhè tào fángzi, nǐ yùsuàn yào huā duōshǎo qián?) - How much do you budget/estimate it will cost to renovate this house?

The word is also used in government and public policy. The 'National Budget' (国家预算) is a major topic of discussion during the 'Two Sessions' (两会) in China. It involves complex calculations of tax revenue, social security spending, and defense allocations. In this context, the word takes on a very formal and serious tone, representing the economic direction of the entire nation. Understanding 预算 is therefore not just a linguistic exercise, but a window into how Chinese society organizes its economic life.

政府已经批准了教育部门的新预算。(Zhèngfǔ yǐjīng pīzhǔnle jiàoyù bùmén de xīn yùsuàn.) - The government has already approved the education department's new budget.

Metaphorical Use: While primarily financial, 预算 can occasionally be used metaphorically to refer to a 'budget' of time or energy, though this is less common than in English. Usually, '时间安排' (time arrangement) is preferred for time, but '时间预算' is understood in planning contexts.

在有限的时间预算内，我们必须完成任务。(Zài yǒuxiàn de shíjiān yùsuàn nèi, wǒmen bìxū wánchéng rènwu.) - Within the limited time budget, we must complete the task.

In summary, 预算 is a versatile and essential word. It covers everything from the pennies in a child's piggy bank to the trillions in a superpower's treasury. By mastering its use as both a noun (the plan itself) and a verb (the act of planning), you gain a critical tool for navigating the Chinese-speaking world's economic and social landscapes. Whether you are negotiating a business deal or just buying a souvenir, knowing how to talk about your 预算 will serve you well.

Using 预算 (yùsuàn) correctly involves understanding its grammatical flexibility and the specific verbs it frequently pairs with. In Chinese, nouns often require specific 'collocations'—words that naturally go together—to sound authentic. For 预算, these collocations describe the lifecycle of a budget: from creation to implementation and, eventually, to being exceeded or cut.

Creating a Budget: When you are in the planning phase, you use verbs like 做 (zuò - to do/make), 制定 (zhìdìng - to formulate), or 编制 (biānzhì - to compile/draw up). '做预算' is the most common and casual way to say 'to make a budget.'

在买车之前，你得先做个预算。(Zài mǎi chē zhīqián, nǐ děi xiān zuò gè yùsuàn.) - Before buying a car, you have to make a budget first.

In more formal or professional settings, 制定预算 or 编制预算 is preferred. For example, a company's finance department will '编制年度预算' (compile the annual budget). This sounds more structured and official than simply 'doing' a budget.

Managing and Controlling: Once a budget is set, it must be managed. Common verbs here include 控制 (kòngzhì - to control), 削减 (xuējiǎn - to cut/reduce), and 批准 (pīzhǔn - to approve). If you are trying to save money, you might say you need to '控制预算'.

由于经济不景气，公司决定削减广告预算。(Yóuyú jīngjì bù jǐngqì, gōngsī juédìng xuējiǎn guǎnggào yùsuàn.) - Due to the economic downturn, the company decided to cut the advertising budget.

Another crucial set of terms involves what happens when reality meets the plan. If you spend more than planned, you have 超出预算 (chāochū yùsuàn - to exceed the budget). If you stay within the limits, you are 在预算之内 (zài yùsuàn zhī nèi - within budget). If you have money left over, you might say there is a 预算盈余 (yùsuàn yíngyú - budget surplus), though in casual speech, people just say '剩了点钱' (left some money).

Describing the Budget: You can use adjectives to describe the nature of the budget. Common ones include 有限的 (yǒuxiàn de - limited), 充足的 (chōngzú de - ample), 紧的 (jǐn de - tight), and 庞大的 (pángdà de - huge).

我们的预算非常紧，所以不能买太贵的东西。(Wǒmen de yùsuàn fēicháng jǐn, suǒyǐ bùnéng mǎi tài guì de dōngxi.) - Our budget is very tight, so we can't buy things that are too expensive.

Finally, consider the word order. In Chinese, the 'budget for [something]' is usually expressed as '[Something]的预算'. For example, '婚礼的预算' (wedding budget), '研发的预算' (R&D budget), or '午饭的预算' (lunch budget). This modifier-noun structure is very consistent. By combining these patterns, you can express complex financial ideas clearly and naturally.

这个项目的预算已经超支了百分之二十。(Zhège xiàngmù de yùsuàn yǐjīng chāozhīle bǎifēn zhī èrshí.) - This project's budget has already been overspent by 20%.

The word 预算 (yùsuàn) is ubiquitous in Chinese life, appearing in contexts ranging from the most mundane personal decisions to the highest levels of state governance. If you are living in China or interacting with Chinese speakers, you will encounter this word in several key environments. Understanding these contexts will help you grasp the 'flavor' of the word in different situations.

In the Workplace: This is perhaps the most common place to hear 预算. In any Chinese office, discussions about 'departmental budgets' (部门预算) are constant. You'll hear managers saying, 'We don't have the budget for that' (我们没有这笔预算) or 'We need to apply for more budget' (我们需要申请更多预算). It is the language of corporate survival and growth.

老板，市场部的预算申请被财务部退回了。(Lǎobǎn, shìchǎng bù de yùsuàn shēnqǐng bèi cáiwù bù tuìhuíle.) - Boss, the marketing department's budget application was sent back by the finance department.

In business negotiations, 预算 is a tactical word. A buyer might say, 'That's over my budget' (这超出了我的预算) to negotiate a lower price. Conversely, a seller might ask, 'What is your budget range?' (您的预算范围是多少？) to determine which products to pitch. It is a polite way to discuss money without being overly blunt.

In Shopping and Real Estate: When buying a house (买房) or a car (买车), 预算 is the first thing discussed. Real estate agents will ask, '您的购房预算是多少？' (What is your home-buying budget?). In this context, the word carries the weight of a major life decision. It’s also common in home renovation (装修), where costs notoriously spiral out of control.

按照目前的预算，我们只能买郊区的房子。(Ànzhào mùqián de yùsuàn, wǒmen zhǐnéng mǎi jiāoqū de fángzi.) - According to our current budget, we can only buy a house in the suburbs.

You will also hear 预算 in the context of travel. Travel bloggers on platforms like Xiaohongshu (小红书) or Bilibili often post 'Low-budget travel guides' (穷游攻略 or 低预算旅行指南). Here, 预算 is used to help people plan affordable adventures. It’s a very practical, helpful context where the word is associated with smart spending and 'getting the most bang for your buck.'

In News and Media: Economic news is full of 预算. You'll hear about 'budget deficits' (预算赤字) or 'budget cuts' (预算削减) in the context of global economics. During the annual meetings of the National People's Congress, the 'Budget Report' (预算报告) is a key document that outlines how the country's money will be spent on everything from high-speed rail to poverty alleviation.

新闻报道说，今年的国防预算将增长百分之七。(Xīnwén bàodào shuō, jīnnián de guófáng yùsuàn jiāng zēngzhǎng bǎifēn zhī qī.) - News reports say that this year's defense budget will increase by 7%.

Finally, in daily life, friends might use it when planning a dinner or a party. '咱们今晚聚餐的预算是多少？' (What's our budget for dinner tonight?). It’s a way to ensure everyone is on the same page regarding costs, avoiding the awkwardness of one person wanting a five-star meal while another wants street food. In all these places, 预算 acts as the bridge between desire and reality.

While 预算 (yùsuàn) is a relatively straightforward word, English speakers often make subtle mistakes when translating it directly or using it in specific Chinese grammatical structures. Understanding these pitfalls will help you sound more like a native speaker and avoid confusion in professional or personal financial discussions.

Confusing 'Budget' with 'Expense': A common mistake is using 预算 when you actually mean 开支 (kāizhī - expenditure) or 费用 (fèiyòng - cost/fee). Remember: 预算 is the *plan* for the future, while 开支 is the *actual money spent*. You don't 'spend your budget' in the same way you 'spend your money.' You spend *within* a budget.

Incorrect: 我昨天的预算很多。(I had a lot of budget yesterday - meaning I spent a lot.)
Correct: 我昨天的开支很大。(My expenditures yesterday were very large.)

Another frequent error involves the measure word. In English, we say 'a budget.' In Chinese, the general measure word 个 (gè) is often used (一个预算), but in professional contexts, 笔 (bǐ) is used for a 'sum' of money or a specific budget allocation. For example, '这笔预算' (this budget/sum of money). Using 笔 makes you sound much more professional.

Misusing 'Budget' as a Verb: In English, 'to budget' can mean 'to be frugal' (e.g., 'I'm budgeting this month'). In Chinese, 预算 as a verb strictly means 'to estimate' or 'to plan the cost.' It doesn't inherently mean 'to save money.' If you want to say you are being frugal, use 省钱 (shěngqián) or 节约 (jiéyuē).

Incorrect: 为了买房，我正在预算。(In order to buy a house, I am budgeting - meaning saving.)
Correct: 为了买房，我正在省钱。(In order to buy a house, I am saving money.)

There is also the issue of 'Over Budget.' English speakers often try to say '在预算之上' (above the budget), which is a literal translation. While understandable, the natural Chinese way to say this is 超出预算 (chāochū yùsuàn) or 超支 (chāozhī). Similarly, 'Under Budget' is not '在预算之下' but 在预算之内 (zài yùsuàn zhī nèi - within budget) or 低于预算 (dīyú yùsuàn).

The 'Budget for' Structure: In English, we say 'budget for [something].' In Chinese, the 'for' is often expressed using ...的预算 or 给...的预算. A common mistake is using the preposition 为 (wèi) incorrectly. While '为...做预算' (make a budget for...) is correct, you cannot simply say '预算为旅行' (budget for travel).

Incorrect: 我的预算为旅行是两千块。(My budget for travel is 2000.)
Correct: 我旅行的预算是两千块。(My travel budget is 2000.)

By paying attention to these nuances—distinguishing planning from spending, using the correct measure words, and following Chinese-specific structures for 'over/under budget'—you will avoid the most common errors made by learners and communicate your financial plans with precision.

In Chinese, several words share a semantic space with 预算 (yùsuàn). Depending on the context—whether you are talking about government funds, company expenses, or personal estimates—choosing the right word is key to sounding natural and professional. Here, we compare 预算 with its most common alternatives.

预算 (yùsuàn) vs. 经费 (jīngfèi): 预算 is the *plan* or the *limit* of money. 经费 refers to the *actual funds* or 'operating expenses' allocated for a specific purpose, usually for an organization, project, or department. You 'make' a 预算 to get the 经费.

我们的科研经费非常充足。(Our research funds are very ample.) vs. 我们的科研预算是十万元。(Our research budget is 100,000 yuan.)

Notice that 经费 sounds more like the 'pot of money' you have available to spend right now, whereas 预算 is the calculated amount you *expect* to spend.

预算 (yùsuàn) vs. 估算 (gūsuàn): 预算 is specifically for financial planning. 估算 is a more general term for 'estimation' or 'calculation.' You can 估算 distance, time, or weight. While you can 估算 a cost, 预算 implies a more formal or structured plan.

工程师正在估算工程所需的材料。(The engineer is estimating the materials needed for the project.)

Use 估算 when the calculation is a rough guess or a technical estimate, and 预算 when it's a financial limit you intend to stick to.

预算 (yùsuàn) vs. 开支 (kāizhī): As mentioned in the common mistakes section, 开支 refers to 'expenditure' or 'outgoings.' It is what actually leaves your wallet. 预算 is what you *hope* will leave your wallet. If your 开支 is higher than your 预算, you have a problem.

为了平衡预算，我们必须减少日常开支。(To balance the budget, we must reduce daily expenditures.)

Other related words include 成本 (chéngběn - cost), which refers to the price of producing something, and 资金 (zījīn - capital/funds), which refers to the large-scale money available for investment. While a 预算 might include 成本 and 资金, it is the overarching plan that ties them together.

Summary Table

预算 (yùsuàn): The plan/limit (Noun/Verb).
经费 (jīngfèi): The allocated funds for a project (Noun).
估算 (gūsuàn): A rough estimate of anything (Verb/Noun).
开支 (kāizhī): Actual money spent (Noun/Verb).

Choosing between these words depends on whether you are emphasizing the *planning* (预算), the *money itself* (经费/资金), or the *act of spending* (开支). Mastering these distinctions will significantly elevate your Chinese financial vocabulary.

How Formal Is It?

Fun Fact

The character '算' (suàn) has the bamboo radical at the top because ancient Chinese people used bamboo sticks, called 'chóu' (筹), to perform mathematical calculations. So, every time you talk about a budget, you are linguistically referencing ancient bamboo calculators!

Pronunciation Guide

UK /ˈbʌdʒɪt/

US /ˈbʌdʒɪt/

In the Chinese word '预算' (yùsuàn), both syllables carry a fourth tone (falling tone). The stress is relatively even, but the falling nature of both tones makes it sound emphatic.

Rhymes With

计算 (jìsuàn) 核算 (hésuàn) 估算 (gūsuàn) 打算 (dǎsuàn) 胜算 (shèngsuàn) 总算 (zǒngsuàn) 划算 (huásuàn) 失算 (shīsuàn)

Common Errors

Pronouncing '预' (yù) as 'yǔ' (third tone).
Pronouncing '算' (suàn) as 'shuàn' (adding an 'h').
Failing to make the tones sharp enough, making it sound like 'yusuān'.
Confusing '预' (yù) with '语' (yǔ) or '雨' (yǔ).
Pronouncing 'suàn' with a soft 's' instead of a crisp 's' sound.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 3/5

The characters are common, but in financial texts, the surrounding vocabulary can be difficult.

Writing 4/5

The character '算' has many strokes and requires practice to write neatly.

Speaking 2/5

Easy to pronounce once the fourth tones are mastered.

Listening 3/5

Often spoken quickly in business contexts; sounds similar to '打算' (plan).

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

钱 (Money) 算 (Calculate) 计划 (Plan) 多少 (How much) 买 (Buy)

Learn Next

决算 (Final accounts) 赤字 (Deficit) 盈余 (Surplus) 投资 (Investment) 税务 (Taxation)

Advanced

宏观经济 (Macroeconomics) 财政政策 (Fiscal policy) 审计 (Audit) 资产负债表 (Balance sheet) 现金流 (Cash flow)

Grammar to Know

The '把' construction with 预算

请把预算控制在五千元以内。(Please control the budget within 5000 yuan.)

Using '由于' to state a reason for budget changes

由于预算削减，项目停止了。(Due to budget cuts, the project stopped.)

The '...之内/之外' structure

这笔开支在预算之外。(This expenditure is outside the budget.)

Verb duplication (预算预算)

你先预算预算要花多少钱。(You first estimate/budget a bit how much it will cost.)

Resultative complements with 预算

预算好了吗？(Is the budget ready/finished?)

Examples by Level

你的预算是多少？

What is your budget?

Simple question structure: [Subject] + 是 + [Question Word]?

我的预算是五百块。

My budget is five hundred yuan.

Simple declarative sentence: [Subject] + 是 + [Amount].

这个太贵了，超出我的预算。

This is too expensive, it exceeds my budget.

Use of '超出' (exceed) as a verb before the noun.

你有买书的预算吗？

Do you have a budget for buying books?

Using '...的' to modify the noun '预算'.

我们要给晚饭做一个预算。

We need to make a budget for dinner.

The structure '给...做预算' (make a budget for...).

他的预算不多。

His budget is not much.

Using '不多' (not much) to describe the budget.

这个手机在我的预算之内。

This phone is within my budget.

The phrase '在...之内' (within...).

买这个礼物需要多少预算？

How much budget is needed to buy this gift?

Using '需要' (need) with '预算'.

去上海旅游，你预算花多少钱？

Traveling to Shanghai, how much do you budget to spend?

Here '预算' is used as a verb meaning 'to plan/estimate'.

因为预算有限，我们住便宜的酒店。

Because the budget is limited, we stay in a cheap hotel.

Using '因为...所以' (because...so) logic with '预算有限'.

每个月我都会做一个生活费预算。

Every month I make a budget for living expenses.

Using '每个月' (every month) to show habit.

这个项目的预算已经用完了。

The budget for this project has already been used up.

Using '用完了' (used up) as a resultative complement.

请给我看你的装修预算表。

Please show me your renovation budget sheet.

Compound noun: '预算表' (budget sheet/table).

如果超出预算，我就不买了。

If it exceeds the budget, I won't buy it.

Conditional structure: '如果...就...'.

他的新车预算是二十万人民币。

His budget for a new car is 200,000 RMB.

Specific amount used as a predicate.

我们必须严格执行预算。

We must strictly follow the budget.

Using the adverb '严格' (strictly) with the verb '执行' (execute).

由于市场变化，我们需要调整预算。

Due to market changes, we need to adjust the budget.

Using '由于' (due to) and '调整' (adjust).

这笔预算是专门拨给教育部门的。

This budget is specifically allocated to the education department.

Using '拨给' (allocate to) and the measure word '笔'.

我预算明年的销售额会增长百分之十。

I estimate that next year's sales will increase by 10%.

Verb '预算' followed by a clause (object).

在制定预算时，要考虑到所有的潜在开支。

When formulating a budget, all potential expenditures must be considered.

The structure '在...时' (when...) and '考虑到' (take into account).

公司今年的广告预算被削减了一半。

The company's advertising budget for this year was cut by half.

Passive voice using '被' (bèi).

如果没有充足的预算，这个项目很难启动。

Without an ample budget, it's hard to start this project.

Using '充足' (ample) and '启动' (start/launch).

我们的目标是把开支控制在预算之内。

Our goal is to keep expenditures within the budget.

The '把' structure used for control/result.

这份预算报告写得非常详细。

This budget report is written very in detail.

Using '得' (de) to describe the result of writing.

政府通过增加预算来刺激经济增长。

The government stimulates economic growth by increasing the budget.

Using '通过...来...' (by means of... to...).

财务总监对各部门提交的预算进行了审核。

The CFO conducted an audit of the budgets submitted by each department.

Formal structure '对...进行...' (conduct... on...).

由于预算赤字严重，政府不得不削减福利开支。

Due to a serious budget deficit, the government had to cut welfare spending.

Using the professional term '预算赤字' (budget deficit).

在目前的预算框架下，我们无法增加人手。

Under the current budget framework, we cannot increase headcount.

Using '在...框架下' (under the framework of...).

为了确保项目的顺利进行，我们需要预留一部分预算。

To ensure the smooth progress of the project, we need to set aside part of the budget.

Using '预留' (reserve/set aside) and '确保' (ensure).

预算的编制必须遵循科学、合理的原则。

The compilation of the budget must follow scientific and rational principles.

Using '遵循' (follow/adhere to) and '原则' (principle).

该项目的实际支出远超最初的预算。

The actual expenditure of the project far exceeded the initial budget.

Using '远超' (far exceed) and '最初' (initial).

我们需要建立一套完善的预算管理体系。

We need to establish a complete budget management system.

Using '建立' (establish) and '体系' (system).

零基预算要求每个部门从零开始重新评估所有开支。

Zero-based budgeting requires every department to re-evaluate all expenses starting from zero.

Technical term '零基预算' (zero-based budgeting).

预算执行过程中的透明度是反腐败的关键。

Transparency in the process of budget execution is key to anti-corruption.

Abstract noun '透明度' (transparency) and '执行' (execution).

财政预算的分配反映了政府的政策导向。

The allocation of the fiscal budget reflects the government's policy orientation.

Using '反映' (reflect) and '政策导向' (policy orientation).

我们必须警惕预算软约束带来的资源浪费。

We must be wary of the waste of resources caused by soft budget constraints.

Economic term '预算软约束' (soft budget constraint).

通过优化预算结构，我们可以提高资金的使用效率。

By optimizing the budget structure, we can improve the efficiency of fund utilization.

Using '优化' (optimize) and '使用效率' (utilization efficiency).

该议案在预算委员会讨论时引发了激烈的争论。

The proposal sparked heated debate when discussed in the budget committee.

Using '引发' (spark/trigger) and '激烈' (heated).

预算盈余为未来的不确定性提供了缓冲。

A budget surplus provides a buffer for future uncertainties.

Using '盈余' (surplus) and '缓冲' (buffer).

我们需要对预算偏差进行深入的归因分析。

We need to conduct an in-depth attribution analysis of budget deviations.

Technical terms '预算偏差' (budget deviation) and '归因分析' (attribution analysis).

预算不仅仅是财务数字的堆砌，更是权力博弈的体现。

A budget is not just a pile of financial figures, but an embodiment of power games.

Using '不仅仅是...更是...' (not just... but even more...).

在宏观经济调控中，预算政策扮演着举足轻重的角色。

In macroeconomic regulation, budget policy plays a pivotal role.

Idiom '举足轻重' (pivotal/influential).

预算制度的改革旨在建立一个现代化的公共财政体系。

The reform of the budget system aims to establish a modern public finance system.

Using '旨在' (aimed at) and '现代化' (modernization).

地方政府的预算外开支往往潜藏着巨大的债务风险。

Extra-budgetary expenditures of local governments often hide huge debt risks.

Using '潜藏' (be hidden) and '预算外' (extra-budgetary).

通过跨年度预算平衡机制，可以有效应对经济周期波动。

Through a multi-year budget balancing mechanism, economic cycle fluctuations can be effectively addressed.

Complex technical term '跨年度预算平衡机制'.

预算的约束力直接关系到政府治理的效能与公信力。

The binding force of the budget is directly related to the effectiveness and credibility of government governance.

Using '关系到' (relate to) and '公信力' (credibility).

我们需要从政治经济学的视角来审视预算分配的公平性。

We need to examine the fairness of budget allocation from the perspective of political economy.

Using '从...视角' (from the perspective of) and '审视' (examine).

预算绩效评价体系的建立，标志着财政管理进入了新阶段。

The establishment of the budget performance evaluation system marks the entry of fiscal management into a new stage.

Using '标志着' (marks/signifies) and '绩效评价' (performance evaluation).

Synonyms

开支计划经费估算

Common Collocations

制定预算

超出预算

在预算之内

预算有限

削减预算

批准预算

年度预算

预算赤字

预算报告

控制预算

Common Phrases

做预算

— To create or work on a budget. Used in casual and daily contexts.

买房前一定要先做预算。

预算范围

— Budget range. Used by salespeople to understand a customer's price limit.

您的预算范围是多少？

预算超支

— Budget overspend. A more formal way to say the budget was exceeded.

这个工程出现了严重的预算超支。

低预算

— Low budget. Often used for films, trips, or projects with little money.

这是一部低预算电影。

预算外

— Extra-budgetary. Referring to money not included in the original plan.

这笔开支属于预算外支出。

零预算

— Zero budget. Doing something without spending any money.

他靠零预算完成了这次创业。

预算分配

— Budget allocation. How the total budget is divided among different parts.

预算分配不均引发了矛盾。

预算约束

— Budget constraint. The limitation imposed by the available budget.

我们面临着硬性的预算约束。

预算盈余

— Budget surplus. When the income exceeds the planned spending.

该市今年实现了预算盈余。

预算管理

— Budget management. The process of overseeing and controlling a budget.

良好的预算管理对公司至关重要。

Often Confused With

预算 vs 打算 (dǎsuàn)

打算 is a general 'plan' or 'intention' (e.g., I plan to go). 预算 is specifically a 'financial plan'.

预算 vs 估算 (gūsuàn)

估算 is a technical 'estimate' of any value. 预算 is a 'budget' for spending.

预算 vs 计算 (jìsuàn)

计算 is the mathematical act of 'calculating'. 预算 is the 'pre-calculation' for a plan.

Idioms & Expressions

"量入为出"

— To spend within one's means; to base one's spending on one's income.

我们应该量入为出，不要过度借贷。

Formal/Idiomatic

"精打细算"

— Careful calculation and strict budgeting; very frugal.

奶奶一辈子精打细算，攒下了不少钱。

Commendatory/Daily

"缩减开支"

— To cut back on spending; to tighten one's belt.

公司最近在缩减开支，取消了免费零食。

Neutral

"入不敷出"

— Income cannot cover expenses; to live beyond one's means.

他花钱大手大脚，结果入不敷出。

Literary/Formal

"绰绰有余"

— More than enough; plenty to spare (often used for budgets).

这些钱用来买书绰绰有余。

Neutral

"捉襟见肘"

— To be in straightened circumstances; to have a very tight budget (literally: pulling down the jacket to hide the elbow).

由于开支太大，他的生活变得捉襟见肘。

Literary

"开源节流"

— To increase income and reduce expenditure.

企业要想盈利，必须开源节流。

Formal/Business

"大手大脚"

— To spend money lavishly or wastefully (the opposite of budgeting).

他花钱大手大脚，从不看预算。

Informal/Derogatory

"省吃俭用"

— To live frugally; to save on food and other expenses.

父母省吃俭用供我上大学。

Commendatory

"一掷千金"

— To throw away money like dirt; to spend money recklessly.

他在赌场一掷千金，完全没有预算概念。

Literary/Derogatory

Easily Confused

预算 vs 经费

Both involve money for a project.

预算 is the plan/limit; 经费 is the actual money available to be spent.

预算是五万，但经费还没到账。(The budget is 50k, but the funds haven't arrived.)

预算 vs 开支

Both relate to spending.

预算 is future/planned; 开支 is past/actual.

实际开支超过了预算。(Actual spending exceeded the budget.)

预算 vs 成本

Both are financial limits.

成本 is the cost to produce; 预算 is the total allowed spend.

我们要在预算内降低成本。(We need to lower costs within the budget.)

预算 vs 资金

Both refer to money.

资金 is the capital/resource; 预算 is the plan for that resource.

资金充足，但预算分配有问题。(Capital is ample, but there's a problem with budget allocation.)

预算 vs 费用

Both refer to costs.

费用 is a general term for any fee; 预算 is a structured plan.

这笔费用没在预算里。(This fee wasn't in the budget.)

Sentence Patterns

我的预算是 [Amount]。

我的预算是三千块。

为 [Activity] 做预算。

为婚礼做预算。

由于 [Reason]，预算 [Action]。

由于超支，预算被削减了。

把 [Expenditure] 控制在预算之内。

把装修费控制在预算之内。

在 [Context] 框架下，预算为 [Amount]。

在年度计划框架下，预算为五百万。

预算的 [Noun] 反映了 [Concept]。

预算的分配反映了公司的重点。

针对 [Issue]，我们需要调整预算结构。

针对亏损，我们需要调整预算结构。

预算约束的 [Adjective] 性直接影响 [Result]。

预算约束的硬性直接影响了执行力。

Word Family

Nouns

预算员 (yùsuànyuán - budgeter/estimator)

预算法 (yùsuànfǎ - budget law)

预算案 (yùsuàn'àn - budget proposal/bill)

Verbs

预估 (yùgū - to predict/estimate)

预判 (yùpàn - to prejudge/predict)

算账 (suànzhàng - to settle accounts/calculate)

Adjectives

预算内的 (yùsuàn nèi de - budgetary)

预算外的 (yùsuàn wài de - extra-budgetary)

财务 (cáiwù - finance)

会计 (kuàijì - accounting)

支出 (zhīchū - expenditure)

收入 (shōurù - income)

计划 (jìhuà - plan)

How to Use It

frequency

Extremely high in business, news, and adult daily life.

Common Mistakes

Using '预算' to mean 'saving money'. → 我正在省钱 (I am saving money).
预算 is the plan, not the act of saving. Use '省钱' or '节约' for the action.
Saying '在预算之上' for over budget. → 超出预算 (Exceed the budget).
In Chinese, we use '超出' (exceed) rather than '之上' (above) for budgets.
Using '预算' for a general plan like 'I budget to go to the gym'. → 我打算去健身房 (I plan to go to the gym).
预算 is strictly financial. Use '打算' for general intentions.
Confusing '预算' with '开支'. → 我的开支很大 (My spending is high).
预算 is what you plan to spend; 开支 is what you actually spent.
Incorrect word order: '预算为旅行'. → 旅行的预算 (Travel budget).
The thing being budgeted for must come before '的预算'.

Tips

Verb-Object Structure

Remember that '做预算' is a verb-object phrase. You can insert a measure word: '做一个预算' or '做个预算'.

Budget vs. Actual

Always distinguish between '预算' (plan) and '决算' (final result) in business Chinese.

Saving Face

If someone's budget is low, use '预算有限' (limited budget) as a polite, face-saving way to describe it.

Negotiation Tip

Use '这超出了我的预算' to negotiate prices at markets for high-end items like silk or tea.

Measure Words

Use '笔' (bǐ) for budgets in writing to sound more professional and precise.

News Keywords

When you hear '财政' (cáizhèng), '预算' is almost always coming next in news reports.

Pre-Calculate

Think of '预' as 'Pre' and '算' as 'Calculate'. Budgeting is just pre-calculating!

Budget Season

In Chinese companies, the end of the year is '预算季' (yùsuàn jì). Expect lots of meetings!

Range Matters

When asked '您的预算是多少？', give a range (e.g., 两千到三千) to get better options.

Live within means

Learn '量入为出' (liàng rù wéi chū) to describe the philosophy of good budgeting.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of '预' (yù) as 'You're' preparing, and '算' (suàn) as 'Soon' you'll calculate. You're soon calculating your money! Or, remember 'Pre-Calculate'.

Visual Association

Imagine a crystal ball (预 - foresight) looking at a calculator (算 - calculation). That is your budget.

Word Web

财务 (Finance) 金钱 (Money) 计划 (Plan) 数字 (Numbers) 未来 (Future) 控制 (Control) 开支 (Spending) 收入 (Income)

Challenge

Try to write down your daily 预算 for tomorrow in Chinese. Include '早饭' (breakfast), '午饭' (lunch), and '交通' (transportation).

Word Origin

The term '预算' is a modern compound. '预' (yù) dates back to ancient Chinese, meaning 'beforehand' or 'prepared.' '算' (suàn) originally referred to counting with bamboo sticks (the top radical ⺮ represents bamboo). Together, they represent the modern economic concept of a budget, likely popularized during the late Qing Dynasty or early Republic era as Western economic terms were translated into Chinese.

Original meaning: To calculate or count in advance.

Sino-Tibetan (Chinese)

Cultural Context

When discussing someone's personal budget, it's better to be indirect. Instead of 'Your budget is too low,' say 'This might be a bit expensive' (这可能有点贵).

In English-speaking cultures, 'budget' can be an adjective (e.g., a budget hotel), but in Chinese, '预算' is almost always a noun or verb. You would say '便宜的酒店' (cheap hotel) or '经济型酒店' (economy hotel) instead of '预算酒店'.

The National Budget Report of China (annual). Financial columns in 'Caixin' or 'Economic Daily'. Personal finance apps like 'Alipay' (which has a 预算 feature).

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Business Meeting

我们需要增加预算。
预算被驳回了。
请说明预算用途。
控制成本在预算内。

Shopping for a Car/House

我的最高预算是...
这超出了我的预算。
在这个预算范围内有什么推荐？
预算包括税费吗？

Travel Planning

做一个旅行预算。
预算每天花两百块。
为了省钱，我们要严格执行预算。
预算不够，只能住青旅。

Government/News

年度财政预算报告。
预算赤字扩大。
教育预算增长。
预算公开透明。

Personal Finance

记账和做预算。
我的预算很紧。
下个月要削减预算。
没有预算买奢侈品。

Conversation Starters

"你买这台电脑的预算是多少？ (What's your budget for this computer?)"

"咱们这次去日本旅游，你觉得多少预算比较合适？ (How much budget do you think is appropriate for our trip to Japan?)"

"你们公司的年度预算通常在什么时候制定？ (When does your company usually formulate its annual budget?)"

"如果装修预算超支了，你会怎么办？ (What would you do if the renovation budget exceeded the limit?)"

"你觉得政府应该增加在医疗方面的预算吗？ (Do you think the government should increase the budget for healthcare?)"

Journal Prompts

写一写你上个月的预算执行情况。你超支了吗？ (Write about your budget execution last month. Did you overspend?)

如果你有一笔一百万人民币的预算去创业，你会做什么？ (If you had a budget of one million RMB to start a business, what would you do?)

讨论一下为什么制定预算对年轻人很重要。 (Discuss why making a budget is important for young people.)

描述一次你因为预算有限而不得不放弃购买某样东西的经历。 (Describe a time when you had to give up buying something because of a limited budget.)

你认为一个理想的家庭预算应该包括哪些部分？ (What parts do you think an ideal family budget should include?)

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

Yes, but it's less common than in English. You can say '时间预算' (shíjiān yùsuàn), but '时间安排' (shíjiān ānpái - time arrangement) is more natural for daily life. It's mostly used in project management.

'打算' means 'to plan' or 'to intend' in a general sense (e.g., I plan to sleep). '预算' is strictly about financial planning or estimating costs. You can't use '预算' to say you plan to go to the park unless you're talking about the cost of the trip.

There isn't a direct one-to-one translation. You can say '我的预算很紧' (My budget is very tight) or '我最近在省钱' (I am saving money lately).

It is both. As a noun, it means 'a budget.' As a verb, it means 'to budget' or 'to estimate' (e.g., 我预算要花一千块).

Use '个' (gè) for general use (一个预算) and '笔' (bǐ) for more formal or specific financial sums (这笔预算).

The most common way is '超出预算' (chāochū yùsuàn). In a more formal context, you can use '超支' (chāozhī).

It means 'Zero-based budgeting.' It's a method where every expense must be justified for each new period, starting from a 'zero base' rather than adjusting the previous budget.

It sounds a bit too formal for a coffee. Usually, '预算' is used for larger plans like trips, monthly living, or business projects. For a coffee, just talk about the '价格' (price).

It means 'budget deficit,' which occurs when expenses exceed income in a government or organizational budget.

'做预算' is neutral to informal. In a professional report, use '制定预算' or '编制预算' for a more formal tone.