At the A1 level, '抵触' (dǐchù) is a bit advanced, but you can think of it as a 'big' word for 'disagree' or 'not fitting together.' Imagine two toy blocks that don't fit. They 'push' each other away. That pushing is '抵触.' You might not use it every day, but you might hear it when people talk about rules that don't match. For beginners, just remember: it's like two things hitting each other and saying 'No!' It is usually used for ideas or rules, not for people fighting with hands. Even if you don't use it yet, knowing it helps you understand more formal Chinese later on.
For A2 learners, '抵触' is a useful word to describe when things don't go well together. It's often used when you feel like you don't want to do something because it feels wrong or annoying. For example, if your teacher gives you too much homework, you might have a '抵触情绪' (dǐchù qíngxù) – a feeling of resistance. In grammar, you usually see it with '与' (yǔ), which means 'with.' So, 'A 与 B 抵触' means 'A conflicts with B.' It's a step up from '不喜欢' (don't like) because it explains *why*—because the two things are clashing.
At the B1 level, you should start using '抵触' in professional or academic contexts. This word is perfect for describing conflicts between regulations, ideas, or personal values. It's not just a simple disagreement; it's a structural incompatibility. You will often see it in the news when discussing laws. For example, 'This local rule conflicts with the national law.' You should also learn the common phrase '抵触情绪' (resistance/negative feelings). It’s very common in workplace discussions. Remember that '抵触' is more formal than '矛盾' (contradiction) when talking about active clashes between two different systems or sets of rules.
At the B2 level, you need to distinguish '抵触' from similar words like '冲突' (conflict) and '违背' (violate). '抵触' specifically implies that two things are in a state of opposition where they cannot both be true or valid at the same time. It is a key term in legal and formal writing. You should be comfortable using the '与...相抵触' structure in your writing. Also, understand its psychological use: '抵触心理' refers to the subconscious resistance a person has towards something. In your speaking, using '抵触' instead of '不合' shows a higher level of vocabulary and a better grasp of formal Chinese register.
For C1 learners, '抵触' is an essential tool for nuanced analysis in essays and debates. You should understand its etymological roots—the idea of animals butting horns—to appreciate the 'force' the word carries. It’s used to describe the friction between systemic forces, such as 'cultural resistance' (文化抵触) or 'institutional conflict.' You should be able to identify when '抵触' is a more appropriate choice than '相悖' (contrary) or '摩擦' (friction). At this level, you should also be aware of its rare literal uses in classical or technical literature, though the abstract sense remains dominant in modern Mandarin.
At the C2 level, you should have a native-like intuition for the 'weight' of '抵触.' It is the definitive term for constitutional or statutory conflict in legal hermeneutics. You should be able to use it fluently in complex sentences involving multiple layers of conflict, such as the '抵触' between individual autonomy and collective social norms. You might also explore how the word is used in specialized fields like psychology or sociology to describe the fundamental 'clash' of paradigms. Your mastery should include not just the word itself, but the ability to use it to create a tone of objective, formal, and authoritative analysis.

抵触 in 30 Seconds

  • 抵触 (dǐchù) means to conflict or clash, primarily used for laws, ideas, or internal feelings of resistance.
  • Commonly used in the structure 'A 与 B 抵触' (A conflicts with B) or describing '抵触情绪' (resistant feelings).
  • It is more formal than '矛盾' (contradiction) and less violent than '冲突' (physical conflict/clash).
  • Essential for legal contexts and describing workplace or psychological resistance to change.

The Chinese verb 抵触 (dǐchù) is a sophisticated term that captures the essence of collision, both in a literal, physical sense and, more frequently, in abstract, conceptual, or emotional realms. At its core, the character 抵 (dǐ) means to resist, sustain, or push back, while 触 (chù) means to touch, butt, or come into contact with. Historically, the term evoked the image of two animals, like rams or bulls, butting heads—a physical manifestation of opposition. In modern Mandarin, while you might occasionally see it used for physical contact, its primary domain is the clashing of ideas, the contradiction of laws, and the internal psychological resistance one feels when forced to do something against their will.

Legal Contradiction
In a legal context, 抵触 is the standard term used to describe when a lower-level law or regulation is inconsistent with a higher-level law, such as the Constitution. For example, if a local ordinance forbids something the national law allows, we say the local law 与上位法抵触 (conflicts with the higher law).
Psychological Resistance
When an individual feels an internal aversion or a 'push-back' against a suggestion, a task, or a new policy, they experience 抵触情绪 (dǐchù qíngxù). This is a very common phrase in workplace environments when employees are unhappy about changes.
Conceptual Clash
It describes theories, viewpoints, or values that cannot coexist harmoniously. If your personal values clash with your company's ethics, you are in a state of 抵触.

地方政府的规定不得与国家法律相抵触。(Local government regulations must not conflict with national laws.)

Understanding the nuance of 抵触 requires recognizing its 'hard' nature. Unlike 矛盾 (máodùn), which can imply a general paradox or inconsistency, 抵触 implies an active 'hitting against' something. It is often used in the structure 'A 与 B 抵触' or 'A 和 B 相抵触'. It is less about a quiet disagreement and more about a fundamental incompatibility that creates friction.

他心里对这个决定有些抵触。(He felt some internal resistance to this decision.)

Furthermore, the word is frequently used in academic and formal writing to discuss systemic issues. For instance, in social science, one might discuss the 抵触 between traditional values and modern lifestyles. In these cases, the word highlights the friction caused by social change. It suggests that the two forces are not just different, but are actively pushing against each other, making a smooth transition difficult.

Physical Collision
While rare in daily speech, in technical or classical texts, it can refer to objects hitting each other. However, for a car crash, you would use 相撞, not 抵触.

Mastering the usage of 抵触 involves understanding its typical grammatical patterns. It is almost always used to describe the relationship between two entities that are in opposition. The most common structure is A 与/和 B (相)抵触, where A and B are the conflicting elements. These elements can be laws, ideas, emotions, or interests.

Pattern: Subject + 抵触
This pattern is often used when the 'resistance' is an internal feeling.
Example: “由于不理解,他产生了抵触。” (Because he didn't understand, he developed resistance.)
Pattern: A 与 B 相抵触
This is the standard way to express a conflict between two external things.
Example: “你的言行与公司的宗旨相抵触。” (Your words and actions conflict with the company's mission.)
Pattern: 抵触 + Noun
It commonly modifies 'emotion' (情绪) or 'psychology' (心理).
Example: “我们要消除学生的抵触心理。” (We need to eliminate the students' psychological resistance.)

这两项政策之间存在明显的抵触。(There is an obvious conflict between these two policies.)

In formal legal writing, the word is indispensable. It functions as a precise technical term. If you are reading a contract or a legal document, you will frequently see clauses stating that any terms that 抵触 higher regulations will be considered void. This usage is very specific and carries significant weight; it's not just a 'disagreement' but a legal invalidity caused by contradiction.

新旧观念的抵触在这次辩论中表现得很激烈。(The clash between new and old concepts was very intense in this debate.)

When describing interpersonal relations, 抵触 can describe a state where two people's personalities or interests clash so much that they cannot work together. It's more formal than saying they 'don't get along' (不合). It implies a structural or fundamental reason for the friction. For example, if a creative person is forced to follow very rigid rules, their nature 抵触 the environment.

Advanced Usage: Compound Verbs
Sometimes paired with 矛盾 as 抵触矛盾, though this is less common than using them separately to describe different facets of a problem.

You will encounter 抵触 in several specific environments. While it's not a word used for casual banter about what to eat for dinner, it is a staple of 'serious' conversation in China.

1. The News and Legal Reports
When the National People's Congress reviews local laws, the news will report whether these laws 抵触 the Constitution. This is perhaps the most frequent use of the word in public media.
2. Corporate and Workplace Meetings
Human Resources (HR) or management might use this word when discussing employee morale. If a new overtime policy is introduced, they might say, “员工对加班制度有抵触情绪。” (Employees have feelings of resistance toward the overtime system.)
3. Academic and Intellectual Discourse
In university lectures or books about sociology or philosophy, 抵触 is used to describe the clash between different schools of thought or cultural values. It describes a theoretical 'clash' that is more active than just a difference.

这种做法与我个人的原则相抵触。(This practice conflicts with my personal principles.)

In a psychological context, you might hear it in therapy or self-help discussions. People talk about their 抵触心理 (resistance psychology) when they find themselves subconsciously avoiding a task they know they should do. It's a way of saying 'I have a mental block' or 'I am pushing back against this internally.'

如果法律法规相抵触,应当以法律为准。(If laws and regulations conflict, the law shall prevail.)

In movies or TV dramas, especially those involving legal battles or intense family conflicts, 抵触 might be used to describe the tension between a child and a strict parent. A teenager might have 抵触 toward their father's rigid expectations. This adds a layer of formal analysis to a personal struggle, making the conflict seem more fundamental and less about a single argument.

While 抵触 is a useful word, learners often confuse it with other terms that mean 'conflict' or 'disagree.' Avoiding these mistakes will make your Chinese sound more natural and precise.

Mistake 1: Confusing 抵触 with 冲突 (chōngtū)
While both mean conflict, 冲突 is broader and often refers to an active, often violent or loud, confrontation. A 'border conflict' is 边境冲突. 抵触 is more about incompatibility or internal resistance. You wouldn't use 抵触 to describe a physical fight between two people.
Mistake 2: Confusing 抵触 with 矛盾 (máodùn)
矛盾 means 'contradiction' or 'paradox' and can be a noun or an adjective. 抵触 is primarily a verb describing the act of clashing. If you want to say 'Your words are contradictory,' you'd use 矛盾. If you want to say 'Your words clash with the rules,' you'd use 抵触.
Mistake 3: Using it for simple 'dislike'
If you don't like broccoli, you don't have a 抵触 with it. You just 不喜欢 it. 抵触 requires a clash of wills, principles, or regulations. It’s a much more significant word than simple preference.

Correct: 他的建议与我的计划抵触。(His suggestion conflicts with my plan.)
Incorrect: 我对他这个人很抵触。(While understandable, it's better to say you have 抵触情绪 or simply don't get along.)

Another common error is the grammatical structure. Learners sometimes forget the 与...相... construction. Saying “他抵触法律” is acceptable in some contexts but less formal and precise than “他的行为与法律相抵触”. The '相' (xiāng) adds a sense of mutual or relative conflict that is stylistically preferred in formal Chinese.

To truly master 抵触, you should understand where it sits in the landscape of similar Chinese terms. Choosing the right word depends on the 'flavor' of the conflict you are describing.

抵触 vs. 矛盾 (máodùn)
矛盾 is 'contradiction.' It is often internal or logical (e.g., a self-contradictory statement). 抵触 is 'conflict.' It is often external or systemic (e.g., a law hitting against another law). 矛盾 is the state; 抵触 is the clash.
抵触 vs. 冲突 (chōngtū)
冲突 is a much 'noisier' word. It can refer to physical fights, military battles, or loud arguments. 抵触 is 'quieter'—it's about incompatibility. A law doesn't 'fight' another law with fists; it 抵触s it.
抵触 vs. 违背 (wéibèi)
违背 means 'to go against' or 'to violate' (like a promise or a principle). While 抵触 describes the relationship of conflict, 违背 describes the action of breaking a rule. You 违背 a promise, and that action 抵触s your principles.

Comparison:
1. 逻辑矛盾 (Logical contradiction)
2. 利益冲突 (Conflict of interest)
3. 法律抵触 (Legal conflict)

If you want to sound more formal, you might use 相悖 (xiāngbèi), which is a literary way of saying 'contrary to.' If you are talking about someone being stubborn and resisting an idea, you might use 排斥 (páichì), which means 'to repel' or 'to exclude.' 抵触 is the perfect middle-ground word for professional and serious contexts.

他的说法与事实完全相违背 (His statement is completely contrary to the facts) - Here, 违背 or 相悖 might be stronger than 抵触.

How Formal Is It?

Fun Fact

The character '触' (chù) contains the radical for 'horn' (角), which directly links back to the word's ancient origins of animals butting heads.

Pronunciation Guide

UK /dǐ tʂʰû/
US /di3 chu4/
First syllable 'dǐ' is dipping, second syllable 'chù' is sharp and falling.
Rhymes With
取 (qǔ) 去 (qù) 曲 (qǔ) 聚 (jù) 句 (jù) 部 (bù) 路 (lù) 住 (zhù)
Common Errors
  • Pronouncing 'chù' as 'shù'.
  • Using the wrong tone for 'dǐ' (making it 2nd tone).
  • Mixing up the 'u' sound with 'ü'.
  • Failing to curl the tongue for the 'ch' sound.
  • Stressing both syllables equally like in English.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 3/5

Common in news and formal texts; requires understanding of '与' structure.

Writing 4/5

The characters are somewhat complex to write by hand.

Speaking 3/5

Useful for expressing resistance in a professional way.

Listening 3/5

Distinctive sound, often heard in serious discussions.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

冲突 矛盾 法律 情绪 反对

Learn Next

违背 相悖 协调 机制 原则

Advanced

效力位阶 法律解释 范式 认知失调

Grammar to Know

Using 与/和...相抵触

你的言论与事实相抵触。

Adverbial usage with 产生

由于不理解,他产生了抵触。

Negation with 不得

规章不得与法律抵触。

Using 抵触 as an attributive (modifying a noun)

我们要解决抵触情绪。

Mutual conflict with 互相

两者的说法互相抵触。

Examples by Level

1

这两个规则有抵触。

These two rules have a conflict.

Simple Subject + 抵触

2

我不喜欢这个,我有抵触。

I don't like this, I have resistance.

Using as a noun/feeling

3

法律不能有抵触。

Laws cannot have conflicts.

Basic negation

4

他和我的想法抵触。

His and my ideas conflict.

A and B + 抵触

5

不要有抵触心理。

Don't have a resistant mind.

Negative command

6

这里的规定相抵触。

The rules here conflict with each other.

Using 相 (mutual)

7

他的话与事实抵触。

His words conflict with the facts.

与...抵触

8

这让我感到抵触。

This makes me feel resistance.

Feeling + 抵触

1

员工对新规定感到很抵触。

Employees feel very resistant to the new regulations.

对...感到抵触

2

他的建议和我的计划相抵触。

His suggestion and my plan conflict.

A 和 B 相抵触

3

我们必须消除这种抵触情绪。

We must eliminate this feeling of resistance.

消除 (eliminate) + Object

4

如果意见抵触,我们再谈谈。

If opinions conflict, let's talk again.

Conditional 'if' clause

5

这种颜色与背景相抵触。

This color clashes with the background.

Visual conflict

6

你的做法与法律抵触了。

Your way of doing things has conflicted with the law.

Past action with 'le'

7

孩子对学习有抵触心理。

The child has a psychological resistance to studying.

Topic-Comment structure

8

这两篇报道的内容互相抵触。

The contents of these two reports conflict with each other.

互相 (mutually)

1

任何地方法规都不得与宪法相抵触。

No local regulation may conflict with the Constitution.

Formal '不得' (must not)

2

这种管理方式让员工产生了严重的抵触情绪。

This management style has caused serious resistance among employees.

产生 (produce/cause) + 抵触情绪

3

我的个人价值观与公司的文化产生了抵触。

My personal values have come into conflict with the company culture.

Abstract subject

4

在执行任务时,他表现出明显的抵触心理。

He showed obvious psychological resistance while performing the task.

表现出 (to show/manifest)

5

这个理论与现有的科学证据相抵触。

This theory conflicts with existing scientific evidence.

Academic context

6

为了减少抵触,我们需要更好的沟通。

To reduce resistance, we need better communication.

Purpose clause with '为了'

7

他的言论与他之前的承诺相抵触。

His remarks conflict with his previous promises.

Comparison of time

8

面对变革,人们往往会有一定的抵触心理。

Faced with change, people often have a certain level of resistance.

General truth statement

1

该项行政命令因与上位法抵触而被废止。

The executive order was abolished because it conflicted with a higher law.

Passive construction with '被'

2

双方的利益存在根本性的抵触,难以达成共识。

There is a fundamental conflict of interest between the two parties, making it difficult to reach a consensus.

根本性 (fundamental)

3

他在处理这件事情时,内心充满了抵触和矛盾。

When dealing with this matter, his heart was full of resistance and contradiction.

Complex emotional state

4

新政策的推行遇到了一些来自基层的抵触。

The implementation of the new policy met with some resistance from the grassroots.

来自 (coming from)

5

这种审美观念与传统文化有着强烈的抵触。

This aesthetic concept has a strong conflict with traditional culture.

Strong adjective '强烈'

6

辩方律师指出,证人的证词与物证相抵触。

The defense lawyer pointed out that the witness's testimony conflicted with the physical evidence.

Legal terminology

7

我们应当分析产生抵触的深层原因。

We should analyze the deep-seated reasons for the resistance.

Deep-seated (深层)

8

如果合同条款与法律抵触,则该条款无效。

If a contract clause conflicts with the law, then that clause is invalid.

Conditional '如果...则...'

1

这种激进的改革方案必然会引起保守势力的强烈抵触。

Such a radical reform plan will inevitably provoke strong resistance from conservative forces.

Inevitability (必然)

2

在跨文化交流中,价值观的抵触是不可避免的。

In cross-cultural communication, a clash of values is inevitable.

Inevitability (不可避免)

3

该法案的某些条款被认为与国际人权准则相抵触。

Certain provisions of the bill are considered to conflict with international human rights standards.

Formal '被认为' (is considered)

4

他那种傲慢的态度让所有人都在心理上产生了一种抵触感。

His arrogant attitude made everyone feel a psychological sense of resistance.

Psychological suffix '感' (sense of)

5

我们需要在不同利益团体的抵触中寻求一种平衡。

We need to seek a balance amidst the conflicts of different interest groups.

Abstract balancing

6

新旧范式的抵触往往标志着科学革命的开始。

The clash of new and old paradigms often marks the beginning of a scientific revolution.

Scientific paradigm shift

7

作者在书中探讨了个人自由与社会契约之间的抵触。

The author explores the conflict between individual freedom and the social contract in the book.

Philosophical discussion

8

这种情绪上的抵触源于他童年时期的不愉快经历。

This emotional resistance stems from his unpleasant childhood experiences.

Origin (源于)

1

法官判定,地方法规因实质性抵触上位法而归于无效。

The judge ruled that the local regulation was void due to a substantive conflict with higher law.

Substantive conflict (实质性抵触)

2

在全球化背景下,本土文化与外来文化的抵触愈发凸显。

In the context of globalization, the clash between indigenous and foreign cultures has become increasingly prominent.

Contextual phrasing (在...背景下)

3

他的这种行为模式与其所宣称的道德准则构成了严重的抵触。

This behavioral pattern of his constitutes a serious conflict with his professed moral standards.

Constitute (构成)

4

这种心理上的抵触机制在一定程度上起到了一种自我保护的作用。

This psychological resistance mechanism plays a role in self-protection to a certain extent.

Mechanism (机制)

5

由于缺乏透明度,该计划在实施之初便遭遇了广泛的抵触。

Due to a lack of transparency, the plan encountered widespread resistance at the very beginning of its implementation.

Widespread resistance (广泛的抵触)

6

在处理此类法律抵触时,应遵循效力位阶原则。

In handling such legal conflicts, the principle of hierarchy of legal effect should be followed.

Legal principle (效力位阶)

7

这种艺术风格与主流审美的抵触正是其独特魅力的来源。

The conflict between this artistic style and mainstream aesthetics is precisely the source of its unique charm.

Nuanced analysis

8

他试图调和两种截然抵触的哲学观点。

He attempted to reconcile two diametrically opposed philosophical viewpoints.

Reconcile (调和)

Synonyms

Antonyms

Common Collocations

抵触情绪
相抵触
法律抵触
抵触心理
产生抵触
严重抵触
利益抵触
观念抵触
实质抵触
消除抵触

Common Phrases

抵触法律

— To conflict with the law.

这种行为抵触法律。

抵触情绪

— Feelings of resistance or resentment.

他有很大的抵触情绪。

利益抵触

— Conflict of interests (more formal than 利益冲突).

这涉及到利益抵触。

心理抵触

— Psychological resistance.

打破心理抵触很困难。

原则抵触

— Conflict of principles.

这与我的原则抵触。

互相抵触

— Mutually conflicting.

这两个证词互相抵触。

由于抵触

— Because of conflict/resistance.

由于抵触,计划失败了。

产生抵触

— To develop resistance.

不要让他产生抵触。

完全抵触

— Completely in conflict.

这与事实完全抵触。

减少抵触

— To reduce resistance.

沟通可以减少抵触。

Often Confused With

抵触 vs 冲突

冲突 is more active/violent; 抵触 is more about incompatibility.

抵触 vs 矛盾

矛盾 is a contradiction (state); 抵触 is a clash (action/relationship).

抵触 vs 反对

反对 is to actively oppose; 抵触 can be a passive feeling of resistance.

Idioms & Expressions

"格格不入"

— Incompatible; like a square peg in a round hole.

他的思想与时代格格不入。

Literary
"针锋相对"

— To be diametrically opposed; sharp point against sharp point.

两人的观点针锋相对。

Common
"自相矛盾"

— To contradict oneself.

你的话自相矛盾。

Common
"水火不容"

— Incompatible as water and fire.

他们两人水火不容。

Common
"背道而驰"

— To run in the opposite direction; to be contrary to.

这与我们的目标背道而驰。

Formal
"截然不同"

— Completely different.

两者的结果截然不同。

Common
"势不两立"

— Unwilling to coexist; irreconcilable.

正义与邪恶势不两立。

Formal
"南辕北辙"

— To act in a way that defeats one's purpose.

你的做法简直是南辕北辙。

Literary
"大相径庭"

— To be widely different.

事实与传闻大相径庭。

Formal
"冰炭不洽"

— As incompatible as ice and charcoal.

两人的性格冰炭不洽。

Archaic

Easily Confused

抵触 vs 冲突

Both mean conflict.

冲突 (chōngtū) often involves physical or loud confrontation. 抵触 (dǐchù) is for systemic or internal incompatibility.

边境冲突 (Border conflict) vs. 法律抵触 (Legal conflict).

抵触 vs 矛盾

Both imply things don't match.

矛盾 (máodùn) is a logical paradox. 抵触 (dǐchù) is a functional or legal clash.

自相矛盾 (Self-contradictory) vs. 与法抵触 (Conflict with law).

抵触 vs 摩擦

Both imply friction.

摩擦 (mócā) is often interpersonal tension. 抵触 (dǐchù) is more formal or psychological.

同事间的摩擦 (Friction between colleagues) vs. 抵触情绪 (Resistant feelings).

抵触 vs 违背

Both mean going against something.

违背 (wéibèi) is the act of breaking a rule. 抵触 (dǐchù) is the state of the rule being in conflict.

违背原则 (Violate principles) vs. 与原则抵触 (Conflict with principles).

抵触 vs 相悖

Both mean contrary.

相悖 (xiāngbèi) is very formal/literary. 抵触 (dǐchù) is more common in legal and psychological contexts.

背道而驰 (Run counter to) vs. 利益抵触 (Conflict of interest).

Sentence Patterns

A2

A 和 B 抵触

我的想法和他的抵触。

B1

产生...抵触情绪

他产生了抵触情绪。

B1

与...相抵触

这与法律相抵触。

B2

不得与...抵触

规定不得与法律抵触。

B2

存在...抵触

两项政策之间存在抵触。

C1

消除...抵触感

消除这种心理上的抵触感。

C1

实质性抵触

这构成了实质性抵触。

C2

调和...抵触

调和截然抵触的观点。

Word Family

Nouns

抵触情绪
抵触心理

Verbs

抵触
触碰
抵抗
抵挡

Adjectives

抵触的

Related

冲突
矛盾
违背
抵抗
接触

How to Use It

frequency

High in professional/legal/academic settings; Medium in daily life.

Common Mistakes
  • Using 抵触 for a physical fight. 使用‘冲突’或‘打架’。

    抵触 is for abstract clashing, not physical brawling.

  • Saying '我抵触这个主意' directly. 我对这个主意有抵触情绪。

    While the first is okay, adding '情绪' or using '与...抵触' is more natural.

  • Confusing 抵触 with 矛盾 in logical sentences. 你的话自相矛盾。

    For self-contradiction, '矛盾' is the correct term.

  • Forgetting the '与' or '和' in 'A 与 B 抵触'. A 与 B 相抵触。

    The relationship needs a preposition to show what is being conflicted with.

  • Using it for simple dislikes (e.g., I conflict with apples). 我不喜欢苹果。

    It's too heavy a word for simple food preferences.

Tips

The 'With' Particle

Always remember to use '与' (yǔ) or '和' (hé) when comparing two conflicting things.

Pair with Emotion

If you are talking about people, '抵触情绪' is the most natural-sounding collocation.

Legal Use

In a legal exam or document, this is the only word to use for 'statutory conflict'.

Professional Tone

Use this word to explain why you disagree with a proposal in a meeting to sound more analytical.

Formal Essays

It's a great word for high-level writing (HSK 4-6) to describe social or conceptual clashes.

Resistance vs. Conflict

Understand that '抵触' can mean both the state of conflict and the feeling of resistance.

Visualizing Horns

Remember the 'horn' radical in 触 to keep the image of butting heads in mind.

Harmony

Note that '抵触' is something to be managed or solved in Chinese collective culture.

Not for Preference

Avoid using it for simple things you don't like, like food or weather.

Substantive Conflict

Use '实质性抵触' to describe a deep, non-negotiable conflict in formal writing.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of a 'D' (dǐ) for 'Disagreeing' and 'Chu' (chù) as the sound of two horns hitting: 'CHU!'. D-CHU: Disagreeing Clatter.

Visual Association

Imagine two rams with large horns butting heads. One ram is labeled 'Old Law' and the other is 'New Law.' They are in a state of '抵触'.

Word Web

法律 (Law) 冲突 (Conflict) 情绪 (Emotion) 规则 (Rule) 矛盾 (Contradiction) 拒绝 (Reject) 抵抗 (Resist) 反对 (Oppose)

Challenge

Try to use '抵触' in a sentence about a time you had to do something you didn't want to do. Use the phrase '抵触情绪'.

Word Origin

The term originates from ancient Chinese texts where '抵' (dǐ) meant to push or resist and '触' (chù) meant to butt with horns. The original imagery was of two horned animals like goats or bulls clashing in a fight.

Original meaning: To butt with horns; physical collision between animals.

Sino-Tibetan

Cultural Context

Be careful when accusing someone of having '抵触情绪' in a workplace; it can sound like you are blaming them for being uncooperative.

In English, we might say 'clash' or 'conflict.' 'Clash' can be visual (colors), while 'conflict' is broader. '抵触' covers both but leans toward formal/structural conflict.

Chinese Constitution Article 5 (mentioning laws must not conflict). Psychological studies on 'Resistance' (often translated as 抵触). Traditional idioms about 'Water and Fire' (水火不容) which describe a state of 抵触.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Legal/Government

  • 与法律抵触
  • 宪法地位
  • 效力无效
  • 上位法

Workplace/Management

  • 抵触情绪
  • 员工反馈
  • 政策推行
  • 沟通协调

Psychology/Self-help

  • 心理抵触
  • 克服障碍
  • 内在冲突
  • 自我保护

Academic/Debate

  • 理论抵触
  • 逻辑矛盾
  • 观点相左
  • 证据冲突

Daily Life

  • 感到抵触
  • 性格不合
  • 想法抵触
  • 意见抵触

Conversation Starters

"你对公司的新规定有抵触情绪吗? (Do you have any resistance to the new company rules?)"

"如果你的想法和老板的抵触,你会怎么办? (If your ideas conflict with your boss's, what would you do?)"

"你觉得传统文化和现代生活有抵触吗? (Do you think traditional culture and modern life conflict?)"

"我们该如何消除团队里的抵触心理? (How should we eliminate the psychological resistance in the team?)"

"法律之间如果产生抵触,应该听谁的? (If laws conflict, who should be listened to?)"

Journal Prompts

描述一次你感到强烈抵触情绪的经历。 (Describe an experience where you felt strong resistance.)

讨论个人利益与集体利益发生抵触时,应该如何选择。 (Discuss how to choose when personal and collective interests conflict.)

分析为什么人们在面对变革时总会有抵触心理。 (Analyze why people always have resistance when facing change.)

写一段话,解释为什么法律不能互相抵触。 (Write a paragraph explaining why laws cannot conflict with each other.)

反思你自己的价值观是否曾经与你的工作环境产生过抵触。 (Reflect on whether your values have ever conflicted with your work environment.)

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

No. For a physical collision like a car crash, use '相撞' (xiāngzhuàng). 抵触 is for abstract things like laws and feelings.

It is primarily a verb (to conflict), but it is often used in noun phrases like '抵触情绪' (resistant emotion).

It refers to the negative feelings or psychological resistance someone has when they are forced to do something they don't like or agree with.

反对 (fǎnduì) is an active 'No'. 抵触 (dǐchù) is the 'clash' that happens because of the opposition.

It's better to say '我对你有些抵触' or '我的想法跟你抵触'. Direct 'I conflict you' sounds awkward in Chinese.

Yes, it is a B1/B2 level word and is very common in formal documents and professional settings.

The '相' means 'mutually' or 'with each other'. It's a standard formal way to say 'conflict with'.

Yes, this is the most common legal use. A local law cannot 抵触 the Constitution.

In Chinese, you use the verb '消除' (xiāochú). Example: 消除抵触情绪.

It's common in work or serious discussions, but not for casual talk like 'I don't want to go to the movies'.

Test Yourself 180 questions

writing

Translate to Chinese: 'His actions conflict with the law.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
writing

Translate to Chinese: 'We must eliminate feelings of resistance.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
writing

Translate to Chinese: 'This decision caused a lot of resistance.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
writing

Translate to Chinese: 'His words conflict with the facts.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
writing

Translate to Chinese: 'Local rules cannot conflict with the Constitution.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
writing

Translate to Chinese: 'The child has psychological resistance to studying.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
writing

Translate to Chinese: 'There is a conflict of interest between us.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
writing

Translate to Chinese: 'I feel a bit of resistance to this task.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
writing

Translate to Chinese: 'These two theories conflict with each other.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
writing

Translate to Chinese: 'We need to analyze the reasons for the resistance.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
writing

Write a sentence using '抵触情绪'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
writing

Write a sentence using '与...相抵触'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
writing

Translate: 'Fundamental conflict.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
writing

Translate: 'To develop resistance.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
writing

Translate: 'Inconsistent regulations.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
writing

Translate: 'Eliminate internal resistance.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
writing

Translate: 'A clash of values.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
writing

Translate: 'This clashes with my principles.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
writing

Translate: 'The witness's testimony is conflicting.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
writing

Translate: 'Don't be resistant.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking

Pronounce '抵触' correctly with 3rd and 4th tones.

Read this aloud:

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking

Explain '抵触情绪' in your own words in Chinese.

Read this aloud:

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking

Use '与...相抵触' in a sentence about a rule.

Read this aloud:

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking

Describe a time you felt '抵触' (in Chinese).

Read this aloud:

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking

How would you tell a boss that employees are resistant? (Politely)

Read this aloud:

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking

Say: 'Local laws cannot conflict with the Constitution.'

Read this aloud:

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking

Say: 'We need to eliminate psychological resistance.'

Read this aloud:

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking

Say: 'These two opinions conflict.'

Read this aloud:

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking

Ask: 'Do you feel any resistance to this?'

Read this aloud:

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking

Say: 'His words conflict with the facts.'

Read this aloud:

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking

Say: 'There is a conflict of interest.'

Read this aloud:

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking

Say: 'Don't have resistant feelings.'

Read this aloud:

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking

Explain why '抵触' is used for laws.

Read this aloud:

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking

Say: 'The clash of new and old ideas.'

Read this aloud:

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking

Say: 'I am very resistant to this change.'

Read this aloud:

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening

Listen and transcribe: '他的行为与法律相抵触。'

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening

Listen and transcribe: '我们要消除员工的抵触情绪。'

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening

Listen and transcribe: '这两个规定互相抵触。'

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening

Listen and identify the word: 'dǐ chù'

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening

Listen and answer: '地方法规不得与宪法相抵触。' What is the topic?

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening

Listen and answer: '他对此表现出明显的抵触心理。' How does he feel?

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening

Listen and transcribe: '产生抵触的原因。'

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening

Listen and answer: '如果利益抵触,合作就很难。' What makes cooperation hard?

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening

Listen and transcribe: '心理上的抵触。'

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening

Listen and answer: '这种审美与传统抵触。' What is it clashing with?

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening

Listen and transcribe: '严重的抵触情绪。'

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening

Listen and identify the tone of 'chù'.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening

Listen and transcribe: '消除抵触感。'

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening

Listen and answer: '合同条款与法律抵触。' Is the contract okay?

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening

Listen and transcribe: '内心充满了抵触。'

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:

/ 180 correct

Perfect score!

Related Content

This Word in Other Languages

Was this helpful?

Comments (0)

Login to Comment
No comments yet. Be the first to share your thoughts!