体质 in 30 Seconds
- Physique, constitution, physical condition.
- Refers to inherent bodily makeup and health resilience.
- Used in health, fitness, and traditional medicine contexts.
- Distinct from current health state; describes long-term tendencies.
- English Meaning
- Physique; constitution; physical condition.
- Usage Context
- This word refers to a person's overall physical makeup, including their health, strength, and susceptibility to illness. It's often used in discussions about health, fitness, traditional medicine, and even general well-being. It's more about the inherent physical characteristics of a person rather than just their current state of health. For example, someone might say they have a 'weak constitution' (体质虚弱) if they tend to get sick easily, or a 'strong constitution' (体质强壮) if they are generally healthy and robust. It can also be used in a broader sense to describe the physical characteristics of a group or even a nation, though this is less common in everyday conversation.
她的体质很好，很少生病。
- Related Concept
- In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), '体质' is a crucial concept. TCM practitioners often categorize individuals into different '体质' types (e.g., yin deficiency, yang excess, phlegm-dampness) to tailor treatments and dietary recommendations. This highlights the deep-rooted importance of a person's constitution in understanding their health.
中医认为，每个人的体质都是不同的。
他体质偏寒，需要多吃温补的食物。
- Describing Health
- You can use '体质' to describe someone's general health and how their body functions. For instance, '体质虚弱' (tǐzhì xūruò) means a weak constitution, implying someone is prone to illness. Conversely, '体质强壮' (tǐzhì qiángzhuàng) means a strong constitution, suggesting good health and resilience. This is a common way to discuss personal health, especially in more traditional contexts or when seeking advice on improving one's physical condition.
经过一段时间的锻炼，他的体质有了明显改善。
- In Medical Contexts
- In medical discussions, particularly within Traditional Chinese Medicine, '体质' is fundamental. Doctors might ask about your '体质' to understand your underlying health patterns. For example, a doctor might say, 'Your '体质' is suitable for acupuncture' (你的体质适合针灸). This emphasizes the personalized approach to healthcare based on an individual's constitution.
运动可以增强人们的体质。
- General Well-being
- Beyond specific medical conditions, '体质' is used to talk about overall physical resilience and energy levels. Someone might complain about having a 'poor constitution' (体质不好) if they feel generally run-down or lack stamina. Conversely, good '体质' implies a robust body that can handle stress and demands well. It's a holistic way to refer to one's physical makeup.
保持健康的生活方式对改善体质很重要。
- Doctor's Offices (Especially TCM)
- You will frequently hear '体质' in medical consultations, particularly when discussing your overall health status or when a doctor is trying to understand your predispositions. In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) clinics, it's a core concept. A TCM doctor might ask, '您是什么体质?' (What is your constitution?) to guide their diagnosis and treatment plan. This could lead to discussions about whether you have a '湿热体质' (shīrè tǐzhì - damp-heat constitution) or a '气虚体质' (qìxū tǐzhì - qi deficiency constitution).
医生问我最近的体质怎么样。
- Health and Wellness Discussions
- Conversations about fitness, diet, and general well-being often involve '体质'. People might share advice on how to improve their '体质' through exercise, nutrition, or lifestyle changes. For example, someone might say, '我听说运动能增强体质。' (I heard that exercise can strengthen one's physique.) This is common among friends, family, or in health-related articles and forums.
为了改善体质，我开始每天跑步。
- Discussions about Children's Health
- Parents often discuss their children's health, and '体质' is frequently used. They might express concern if a child has a weak '体质' (体质虚弱) and is often sick, or praise a child for having a strong '体质' (体质好). This is especially true when considering diet or whether a child needs extra supplements or rest.
她担心孩子的体质太弱，容易感冒。
- Confusing with Current Health Status
- A common mistake is to use '体质' when you simply mean how someone is feeling *right now*, like being sick or tired. '体质' refers to your inherent, long-term physical makeup. If you have a cold today, you are '生病了' (shēng bìng le) or '感冒了' (gǎnmào le), not that your '体质' has changed. However, if you *frequently* get colds because of your body's tendency, then you might say you have a '体质虚弱' (tǐzhì xūruò - weak constitution).
Incorrect: 他今天体质不好。
- Overuse in Casual Conversation
- While '体质' is common in health-related chats, using it for very general descriptions of someone's appearance or strength might be an overreach. For example, saying '他体质很强壮' (tā tǐzhì hěn qiángzhuàng - his physique is very strong) is fine, but using it to describe someone who is simply tall or muscular without implying a deeper constitution might be less natural than other words. It's best reserved for discussions where the underlying physical makeup is relevant.
Less Natural: 那个演员体质很高。
- Direct Translation of 'Constitution' in Non-Health Contexts
- 'Constitution' can also refer to a set of fundamental principles or established precedents, such as a country's constitution. '体质' is specifically for the human body's physical makeup. Do not use '体质' when talking about legal or governmental constitutions; for that, you would use '宪法' (xiànfǎ) or '章程' (zhāngchéng).
Incorrect: 这本书解释了国家的体质。
- 身体 (shēntǐ)
- '身体' is the general word for 'body'. It's much broader than '体质'. You use '身体' to refer to any part of the body or the body as a whole in a neutral sense. For example, '我的身体不舒服' (wǒ de shēntǐ bù shūfú - I don't feel well) refers to your current physical state. '体质' refers to the inherent quality or constitution of that body. So, while '身体' is the physical entity, '体质' describes its inherent characteristics and resilience.
- Comparison: '身体' is the noun for 'body'; '体质' is the noun for 'physique' or 'constitution'.
他身体很好，体质也强。
- 健康 (jiànkāng)
- '健康' means 'health' or 'healthy'. It describes a state of well-being, free from illness. You can have good health ('健康') due to a good constitution ('体质'). '体质' is a more inherent quality that contributes to one's overall '健康'. For example, a strong '体质' often leads to good '健康'. '健康' can be a noun or an adjective, whereas '体质' is primarily a noun referring to the constitution itself.
- Comparison: '健康' is the state of being well; '体质' is the underlying physical makeup that influences that state.
良好的体质是保持健康的基础。
- 体格 (tǐgé)
- '体格' refers more to the build or stature of a person – their physical frame, size, and shape. It's about the outward appearance of one's physique. While '体质' is about the internal functional aspects and resilience, '体格' is more about the external physical form. Someone might have a strong '体格' (体格强壮) meaning they look robust, and this might be due to their good '体质' (体质好).
- Comparison: '体格' is about the physical build/stature; '体质' is about the internal constitution and resilience.
他有良好的体质和健壮的体格。
How Formal Is It?
"对个体体质的精准评估有助于制定个性化的健康干预方案。"
"运动可以帮助改善和增强人的体质。"
"我这体质不太好，老是容易生病。"
"你的身体很棒，体质很好！"
Fun Fact
In Traditional Chinese Medicine, '体质' is not just about physical strength but also about a person's emotional and energetic balance. Different '体质' types are believed to have specific tendencies in terms of emotions, diet preferences, and even how they react to seasons and weather.
Pronunciation Guide
- Pronouncing '体' (tǐ) too softly, without aspiration.
- Confusing the 'zhì' sound with 'shi' or 'si'.
- Incorrect tone for either character, especially the third tone for '体' and the fourth tone for '质'.
Difficulty Rating
The word is relatively common in health-related contexts. Understanding its nuances, especially in relation to TCM, might require some background knowledge or further explanation. The character components are straightforward.
What to Learn Next
Prerequisites
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Advanced
Grammar to Know
Adjectives modifying nouns (e.g., 强壮的体质)
他有一个强壮的体质。
Using '的' to indicate possession or attribute (e.g., 他的体质)
他的体质很好。
Using verbs with '体质' (e.g., 改善体质)
我需要改善体质。
Using '是' to define or describe (e.g., 体质是...)
体质是一个人身体的根本。
Using '有' to indicate possession or presence (e.g., 有好的体质)
她有很好的体质。
Examples by Level
我的体质很好。
My physique is very good.
他体质很弱。
His physique is very weak.
运动对体质有好处。
Exercise is good for the physique.
她体质不错。
Her physique is not bad.
吃这个对体质有影响。
Eating this affects the physique.
我爸爸体质好。
My dad has a good physique.
她体质虚弱。
Her physique is weak.
这个季节体质容易差。
The physique easily becomes poor in this season.
为了改善体质，我开始健身。
In order to improve my physique, I started working out.
'为了' (wèile) means 'in order to'.
医生说我的体质偏寒。
The doctor said my constitution tends to be cold.
'偏寒' (piān hán) implies a tendency towards coldness in constitution.
他的体质很好，很少生病。
His physique is very good; he rarely gets sick.
Connects good physique with infrequent illness.
保持健康的生活方式能增强体质。
Maintaining a healthy lifestyle can strengthen one's physique.
'能' (néng) means 'can' or 'is able to'.
孩子的体质需要好好调养。
A child's constitution needs to be carefully nurtured.
'调养' (tiáoyǎng) means to recuperate or nourish.
这种药对改善体质有帮助。
This medicine is helpful for improving one's physique.
'有帮助' (yǒu bāngzhù) means 'is helpful'.
他的体质比较好，不怕冷。
His constitution is relatively good; he's not afraid of the cold.
'不怕冷' (bù pà lěng) means 'not afraid of the cold'.
老年人的体质需要特别注意。
Elderly people's constitutions require special attention.
'特别注意' (tèbié zhùyì) means 'pay special attention'.
中医认为，每个人的体质都是独一无二的，需要根据具体情况进行调理。
Traditional Chinese Medicine believes that everyone's constitution is unique and needs to be regulated according to their specific situation.
'独一无二' (dú yī wú èr) means unique. '调理' (tiáolǐ) means regulate/condition.
长期熬夜会对身体的体质造成负面影响。
Staying up late for a long time can have a negative impact on one's physical constitution.
'长期熬夜' (chángqī áoyè) means long-term staying up late. '负面影响' (fùmiàn yǐngxiǎng) means negative impact.
她通过调整饮食和作息，成功改善了自己虚弱的体质。
By adjusting her diet and schedule, she successfully improved her weak constitution.
'调整饮食和作息' (tiáozhěng yǐnshí hé zuòxī) means adjust diet and schedule. '成功改善' (chénggōng gǎishàn) means successfully improved.
运动员的体质通常比普通人更强壮，以应对高强度的训练和比赛。
Athletes' physiques are usually stronger than ordinary people's to cope with high-intensity training and competitions.
'应对' (yìngduì) means to cope with. '高强度' (gāo qiángdù) means high-intensity.
有些人天生体质较好，不容易生病，而有些人则需要更多关注健康。
Some people are naturally born with better constitutions and don't get sick easily, while others need more attention to their health.
'天生' (tiānshēng) means naturally born. '不容易' (bù róngyì) means not easily.
了解自己的体质类型有助于选择最适合自己的养生方法。
Understanding one's own constitution type helps in choosing the most suitable health preservation methods.
'养生方法' (yǎngshēng fāngfǎ) means health preservation methods.
随着年龄的增长，大多数人的体质都会有所下降，需要积极调理。
As age increases, most people's constitutions will decline to some extent, requiring active conditioning.
'有所下降' (yǒusuǒ xiàjiàng) means decline to some extent. '积极调理' (jījí tiáolǐ) means actively condition.
这种气候变化对体质敏感的人来说是个挑战。
This climate change is a challenge for people with sensitive constitutions.
'气候变化' (qìhòu biànhuà) means climate change. '敏感' (mǐngǎn) means sensitive.
现代医学虽然在治疗疾病方面取得了巨大进步，但中医对体质的认识仍然具有重要的参考价值。
Although modern medicine has made great progress in treating diseases, the understanding of constitution in Traditional Chinese Medicine still holds significant reference value.
'巨大进步' (jùdà jìnbù) means huge progress. '参考价值' (cānkǎo jiàzhí) means reference value.
某些遗传因素会直接影响个体的体质，使其更容易罹患某些疾病。
Certain genetic factors directly influence an individual's constitution, making them more prone to certain diseases.
'遗传因素' (yíchuán yīnsù) means genetic factors. '罹患' (líhuàn) means to contract (an illness).
通过长期坚持科学的锻炼和均衡的饮食，可以显著地改善和优化个体的体质。
Through long-term adherence to scientific exercise and a balanced diet, an individual's constitution can be significantly improved and optimized.
'长期坚持' (chángqī jiānchí) means long-term adherence. '显著地' (xiǎnzhù de) means significantly. '优化' (yōuhuà) means optimize.
对于体质虚弱的人群，应避免过度劳累，并辅以适当的滋补品。
For people with weak constitutions, excessive fatigue should be avoided, and supplemented with appropriate tonics.
'过度劳累' (guòdù láolèi) means excessive fatigue. '辅以' (fǔ yǐ) means supplemented with. '滋补品' (zībǔpǐn) means tonics.
不同地域的气候和生活习惯也会潜移默化地影响当地居民的整体体质。
The climate and living habits of different regions also subtly influence the overall constitution of the local residents.
'潜移默化' (qiányímòhuà) means to influence subtly. '整体' (zhěngtǐ) means overall.
在评估一个人是否适合从事高风险职业时，其体质状况是需要考虑的重要因素之一。
When assessing whether a person is suitable for a high-risk occupation, their physical constitution is one of the important factors to consider.
'评估' (pínggū) means to assess. '高风险职业' (gāo fēngxiǎn zhíyè) means high-risk occupation.
他坦言自己年轻时体质并不理想，常常饱受疾病的困扰。
He frankly admitted that his constitution was not ideal when he was young, and he was often troubled by illnesses.
'坦言' (tǎnyán) means to frankly admit. '饱受...困扰' (bǎoshòu...kùnrǎo) means to be troubled by.
现代科学正在努力解析不同体质类型背后的生理机制。
Modern science is striving to analyze the physiological mechanisms behind different constitution types.
'解析' (jiěxī) means to analyze. '生理机制' (shēnglǐ jīzhì) means physiological mechanisms.
对个体体质的精准分类有助于制定更具针对性的个性化健康管理方案。
Precise classification of individual constitutions helps in formulating more targeted and personalized health management plans.
'精准分类' (jīngzhǔn fēnlèi) means precise classification. '针对性' (zhēnduìxìng) means targeted. '个性化' (gèxìnghuà) means personalized.
环境污染和生活方式的剧变，无疑加剧了现代人因体质差异而产生的健康风险。
Environmental pollution and drastic changes in lifestyle have undoubtedly exacerbated the health risks arising from differences in constitution among modern people.
'剧变' (jùbiàn) means drastic change. '无疑' (wúyí) means undoubtedly. '加剧' (jiājù) means to exacerbate.
深入研究不同体质人群对药物的反应差异，对于优化药物疗效和减少不良反应至关重要。
In-depth research into the differences in drug responses among people with different constitutions is crucial for optimizing therapeutic efficacy and reducing adverse reactions.
'深入研究' (shēnrù yánjiū) means in-depth research. '优化药物疗效' (yōuhuà yàowù liáoxiào) means optimize drug efficacy. '不良反应' (bùliáng fǎnyìng) means adverse reactions.
传统养生学强调顺应自然，根据个体的体质特点来调整生活起居，以达到身心和谐。
Traditional wellness studies emphasize conforming to nature, adjusting daily life according to individual constitutional characteristics to achieve harmony between body and mind.
'顺应自然' (shùnyìng zìrán) means to conform to nature. '生活起居' (shēnghuó qǐjū) means daily life and living arrangements. '身心和谐' (shēnxīn héxié) means harmony between body and mind.
鉴于现代社会生活节奏加快，如何通过科学手段提升大众的整体体质，已成为一个亟待解决的公共卫生议题。
Given the accelerated pace of life in modern society, how to enhance the overall constitution of the general public through scientific means has become an urgent public health issue to be addressed.
'鉴于' (jiànyú) means given/in view of. '亟待解决' (jídài jiějué) means urgently needs to be solved. '公共卫生议题' (gōnggòng wèishēng yìtí) means public health issue.
尽管个体体质千差万别，但通过规律作息和适度运动，绝大多数人都能在一定程度上改善其健康状况。
Although individual constitutions vary greatly, through regular routines and moderate exercise, the vast majority of people can improve their health status to a certain extent.
'千差万别' (qiānchā wànbié) means vary greatly. '规律作息' (guīlǜ zuòxī) means regular routines. '绝大多数' (juédà duōshù) means the vast majority.
对体质进行科学的评估和分类，不仅有助于疾病的预防，还能指导个体进行更有效的健康管理。
Scientific assessment and classification of constitution not only aid in disease prevention but also guide individuals in more effective health management.
'评估和分类' (pínggū hé fēnlèi) means assessment and classification. '指导' (zhǐdǎo) means to guide.
某些民族的传统医学体系中，对体质的独到见解深刻影响了其独特的医疗实践。
In the traditional medical systems of certain ethnic groups, unique insights into constitution have profoundly influenced their distinctive medical practices.
'独到见解' (dúdào jiànjiě) means unique insights. '深刻影响' (shēnkè yǐngxiǎng) means profoundly influence.
现代基因组学的发展，为理解人类体质的遗传基础及其在疾病易感性中的作用提供了前所未有的视角。
The development of modern genomics provides an unprecedented perspective for understanding the genetic basis of human constitution and its role in disease susceptibility.
'基因组学' (jīyīnzǔxué) means genomics. '遗传基础' (yíchuán jīchǔ) means genetic basis. '疾病易感性' (jíbìng yìgǎnxìng) means disease susceptibility. '前所未有' (qiánsuǒwèiyǒu) means unprecedented.
尽管存在个体体质的巨大差异，但通过社会层面的干预，例如改善环境质量和推广健康生活方式，可以有效地提升整体人群的健康水平。
Despite significant differences in individual constitutions, through societal-level interventions, such as improving environmental quality and promoting healthy lifestyles, the health level of the overall population can be effectively elevated.
'社会层面' (shèhuì céngmiàn) means societal level. '干预' (gānyù) means intervention. '推广' (tuīguǎng) means to promote. '提升' (tíshēng) means to elevate.
对体质进行精细化的分类与研究，不仅有助于揭示疾病发生的复杂病理生理学机制，也为精准医疗的实施奠定了基础。
The refined classification and study of constitution not only help to reveal the complex pathophysiological mechanisms of disease occurrence but also lay the foundation for the implementation of precision medicine.
'精细化' (jīngxìhuà) means refined. '揭示' (jiēshì) means to reveal. '病理生理学' (bìnglǐ shēnglǐxué) means pathophysiology. '精准医疗' (jīngzhǔn yīliáo) means precision medicine. '奠定基础' (diàndìng jīchǔ) means to lay the foundation.
跨文化的研究表明，不同文化背景下对体质的理解和实践存在显著差异，但追求健康长寿的愿望却是共通的。
Cross-cultural studies indicate significant differences in the understanding and practice of constitution across different cultural backgrounds, yet the desire for health and longevity is a common thread.
'跨文化' (kuà wénhuà) means cross-cultural. '共通' (gòngtōng) means common/shared.
随着对生命科学认识的不断深化，我们有望通过调控个体体质相关的基因表达，从而实现对多种慢性疾病的根本性预防。
With the continuous deepening of our understanding of life sciences, we can expect to achieve fundamental prevention of various chronic diseases by regulating the gene expression related to individual constitutions.
'生命科学' (shēngmìng kēxué) means life sciences. '调控' (tiáokòng) means to regulate. '基因表达' (jīyīn biǎodá) means gene expression. '根本性预防' (gēnběnxìng yùfáng) means fundamental prevention.
历史上的医学典籍，无不蕴含着古人对人体体质复杂性的深刻洞察，为后世的医学发展提供了宝贵的借鉴。
Historical medical classics invariably contain profound insights from ancient people into the complexity of the human constitution, providing valuable references for the medical development of later generations.
'医学典籍' (yīxué diǎnjí) means medical classics. '蕴含' (yùnhán) means to contain. '深刻洞察' (shēnkè dòngchá) means profound insight. '借鉴' (jièjiàn) means reference/learning from.
对于那些体质极为特殊或对常规疗法反应不佳的患者，探索和理解其独特的体质特征成为制定替代性治疗方案的关键。
For patients with extremely unique constitutions or poor response to conventional therapies, exploring and understanding their distinct constitutional characteristics becomes key to formulating alternative treatment plans.
'极为特殊' (jíwéi tèshū) means extremely unique. '常规疗法' (chángguī liáofǎ) means conventional therapies. '替代性治疗方案' (tìdàixìng zhìliáo fāng'àn) means alternative treatment plans.
未来的健康管理将更加依赖于对个体体质的动态监测和基于生物标记物的精准预测。
Future health management will rely more on dynamic monitoring of individual constitutions and precise prediction based on biomarkers.
'动态监测' (dòngtài jiāncè) means dynamic monitoring. '生物标记物' (shēngwù biāojìwù) means biomarkers. '精准预测' (jīngzhǔn yùcè) means precise prediction.
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
Often Confused With
'身体' is the general word for 'body'. '体质' refers to the inherent quality or constitution of that body. You can have a healthy '身体' today, but your '体质' might be weak long-term.
'健康' means 'health' or 'healthy'. '体质' is the underlying physical makeup that influences health. Good '体质' usually leads to good '健康'.
'体格' refers to physical build or stature (how someone looks). '体质' refers to the internal resilience and functional quality of the body.
Idioms & Expressions
— Physically weak and prone to illness. This idiom directly describes someone with a weak constitution.
他从小体弱多病，父母一直很担心他的健康。
Descriptive— Strong body and powerful physique. This idiom describes someone with a very robust constitution.
经过艰苦的训练，他已经变得身强力壮，能够承担重任。
Descriptive— Immune to all illnesses; very healthy. This describes the ideal outcome of a very strong constitution.
他坚持锻炼，饮食健康，简直是百病不侵。
Figurative— Congenital deficiency; lacking in innate strength or constitution from birth.
有些孩子先天不足，需要特别的照顾和营养。
Medical/Formal— Illness enters through the mouth. This proverb highlights the importance of diet for health and constitution.
我们常说病由口入，所以吃东西一定要注意卫生。
Proverbial— To live in comfort and luxury, often leading to a weakened constitution due to lack of hardship or physical exertion.
长期养尊处优的生活方式，可能会让人的体质变得娇弱。
Descriptive/Critical— Balancing work and rest. This is essential for maintaining a good constitution.
要想保持健康的体质，一定要注意劳逸结合。
Advisory— The five solid organs (liver, heart, spleen, lungs, kidneys) and six hollow organs (gallbladder, stomach, large intestine, small intestine, bladder, triple burner) of the body, representing the internal systems. A healthy constitution implies healthy internal organs.
中医认为，五脏六腑的协调是身体健康的基础。
Medical/TCM— Essence, Qi, and Spirit. These are considered the three fundamental vital substances in TCM, and their balance is crucial for a strong constitution and overall vitality.
他看起来精神饱满，说明精气神都很足。
Medical/TCM— Dietary therapy; using food to nourish the body and improve health, often to strengthen one's constitution.
冬天是食补的好时节，可以多吃一些温补的食物来调养体质。
Medical/TCMEasily Confused
Both relate to the body.
'身体' is the physical entity itself, the entire organism. '体质' is the inherent quality or constitution of that body, its resilience and predisposition to health or illness. You can say '我的身体不舒服' (My body feels unwell) for a temporary issue, but you'd say '我的体质比较弱' (My constitution is rather weak) for a long-term tendency.
他<mark class='bg-orange-200 dark:bg-orange-800 px-0.5 rounded'>身体</mark>很好，但<mark class='bg-orange-200 dark:bg-orange-800 px-0.5 rounded'>体质</mark>还可以，不算特别强壮。
Both relate to well-being.
'健康' (health) is a state of being free from illness, a condition that can fluctuate. '体质' (constitution) is a more fundamental, inherent characteristic of a person's body that influences their overall health. A strong '体质' contributes to good '健康', but you can be healthy temporarily even with a weaker '体质', or vice versa.
虽然他<mark class='bg-orange-200 dark:bg-orange-800 px-0.5 rounded'>体质</mark>不错，但最近因为工作压力大，<mark class='bg-orange-200 dark:bg-orange-800 px-0.5 rounded'>健康</mark>状况有所下降。
Both describe physical attributes.
'体格' refers to the physical build, stature, or frame of a person – their outward appearance. '体质' refers to the internal constitution, the inherent quality of the body's functions and resilience. One can have a strong '体格' but a less robust '体质' if they don't take care of themselves, or vice versa.
他<mark class='bg-orange-200 dark:bg-orange-800 px-0.5 rounded'>体格</mark>看起来很强壮，但他的<mark class='bg-orange-200 dark:bg-orange-800 px-0.5 rounded'>体质</mark>并不算特别好。
This idiom describes a weak constitution.
'体弱多病' is an idiom that means 'physically weak and prone to illness'. It is a description of a state resulting from a weak '体质' (constitution). '体质' is the noun referring to the constitution itself, while '体弱多病' is a descriptive phrase about the consequence of a weak constitution.
她从小就<mark class='bg-orange-200 dark:bg-orange-800 px-0.5 rounded'>体弱多病</mark>，这是她<mark class='bg-orange-200 dark:bg-orange-800 px-0.5 rounded'>体质</mark>虚弱的表现。
Both refer to the body's constitution.
'身子骨' is a colloquial, often informal term for one's body or constitution, frequently used to express weakness or frailty. '体质' is a more standard and versatile term, used in both formal and informal contexts, and can refer to both strong and weak constitutions.
我这<mark class='bg-orange-200 dark:bg-orange-800 px-0.5 rounded'>身子骨</mark>不太好，得注意<mark class='bg-orange-200 dark:bg-orange-800 px-0.5 rounded'>体质</mark>的调养。
Sentence Patterns
Subject + 体质 + Adjective
我的<mark class='bg-teal-200 dark:bg-teal-800 px-0.5 rounded'>体质</mark>很好。
Verb + 体质
运动<mark class='bg-teal-200 dark:bg-teal-800 px-0.5 rounded'>增强体质</mark>。
Subject + 体质 + Adjective/Phrase
他<mark class='bg-teal-200 dark:bg-teal-800 px-0.5 rounded'>体质</mark>有点虚弱。
为了 + Verb + 体质
为了<mark class='bg-teal-200 dark:bg-teal-800 px-0.5 rounded'>改善体质</mark>，我开始跑步。
Subject + 认为 + (Subject) + 体质 + Adjective/Phrase
中医认为，每个人的<mark class='bg-teal-200 dark:bg-teal-800 px-0.5 rounded'>体质</mark>都不同。
Adj + 体质 + 的 + Noun + (Phrase)
这是<mark class='bg-teal-200 dark:bg-teal-800 px-0.5 rounded'>偏寒体质</mark>的人需要注意的。
Subject + (通过) + Method + 改善/增强 + 体质
他<mark class='bg-teal-200 dark:bg-teal-800 px-0.5 rounded'>通过</mark>健康饮食<mark class='bg-teal-200 dark:bg-teal-800 px-0.5 rounded'>改善了体质</mark>。
Adj + 体质 + (导致/使得) + Consequence
<mark class='bg-teal-200 dark:bg-teal-800 px-0.5 rounded'>虚弱的体质</mark>使得他容易生病。
Word Family
Nouns
Verbs
Adjectives
Related
How to Use It
High in health-related discussions, medium in general conversation.
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Using '体质' to describe a temporary illness.
→
Use words like '感冒了' (gǎnmào le - have a cold) or '不舒服' (bù shūfú - not feeling well).
'体质' refers to long-term, inherent physical qualities, not short-term conditions. For example, saying '我今天体质不好' (My constitution is bad today) is incorrect if you just have a cold. It should be '我今天感冒了' (I have a cold today).
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Confusing '体质' with '身体'.
→
'身体' is the body; '体质' is the quality/constitution of the body.
You can say '我的身体很累' (My body is tired - temporary state), but '我的体质很好' (My constitution is very good - inherent quality).
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Using '体质' for non-biological constitutions.
→
Use '宪法' (xiànfǎ) for a country's constitution.
'体质' is strictly for the physical makeup of living beings. For example, you cannot say '国家的体质' (the country's physique); you must say '国家的宪法' (the country's constitution).
-
Using '体质' to describe mere physical appearance.
→
Use '体格' (tǐgé) for build/stature.
While a strong '体质' might lead to a strong '体格', they are different. '体格' is about how you look (tall, muscular), while '体质' is about your internal resilience and health tendencies. Saying '他体质很高' (He is very tall in physique) is incorrect; it should be '他体格很高' (He is very tall in build).
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Overusing '体质' for general health status.
→
Use '健康' (jiànkāng) for health status.
While '体质' influences health, '健康' is the state of being healthy. Saying '我的体质很好' (My constitution is good) is about your inherent quality. Saying '我的健康很好' (My health is good) is about your current state of well-being.
Tips
Think 'Body Quality'
To remember '体质' (tǐzhì), break it down: '体' means body, and '质' means quality. So, '体质' is your body's inherent quality – its strength, resilience, and general physical makeup.
Health Discussions
This word is very common in conversations about health, fitness, and especially Traditional Chinese Medicine. Listen for it when people discuss how to stay healthy or why they get sick.
Not Just Current Sickness
Avoid using '体质' to describe how you feel *right now* (e.g., 'I have a cold'). '体质' refers to your long-term, inherent physical tendencies and resilience, not a temporary ailment.
Traditional Chinese Medicine
In TCM, '体质' is a core concept. People are often classified into different '体质' types, which influences dietary and lifestyle recommendations for maintaining health.
Can Be Improved
While genetics play a role, your '体质' can be positively influenced by lifestyle choices like exercise, diet, and sleep. Phrases like '改善体质' (improve physique) and '增强体质' (strengthen physique) are common.
vs. 身体 (shēntǐ)
'身体' is the general word for 'body'. '体质' is the quality or constitution of that body. You might have a healthy '身体' today, but a weak '体质' if you often get sick.
vs. 健康 (jiànkāng)
'健康' means 'health' (a state). '体质' is the underlying characteristic that contributes to that health. Good '体质' often leads to good '健康'.
vs. 体格 (tǐgé)
'体格' refers to physical build or stature (appearance). '体质' refers to internal resilience and functional quality.
Common Collocations
Look out for common pairings like '体质虚弱' (weak constitution), '体质强壮' (strong constitution), '改善体质' (improve constitution), and '增强体质' (strengthen constitution).
Cultural Significance
The concept of '体质' is deeply embedded in Chinese culture, reflecting a holistic approach to health that values individual predispositions and balanced living.
Memorize It
Mnemonic
Imagine your '体质' (tǐzhì) is like the 'body' (体) and its fundamental 'quality' (质). Think of it as the body's built-in operating system – its inherent quality that determines how well it runs. If the quality is good, the body runs smoothly. If the quality is poor, it might have glitches.
Visual Association
Picture a strong, well-built tree with deep roots (representing a strong constitution) versus a spindly, weak sapling that easily bends in the wind (representing a weak constitution). The tree's 'body' (体) has a certain 'quality' (质) that makes it resilient.
Word Web
Challenge
Try to describe the '体质' of three different fictional characters you know (e.g., from books or movies). Are they strong, weak, prone to illness, energetic? Use '体质' in your descriptions.
Word Origin
The word '体质' is composed of two characters: '体' (tǐ) meaning 'body', 'form', or 'substance', and '质' (zhì) meaning 'quality', 'nature', or 'essence'. Together, they literally mean 'body quality' or 'body essence', referring to the inherent physical makeup of a person.
Original meaning: The concept of '体质' has roots in ancient Chinese medical texts, where it referred to the innate characteristics and predispositions of an individual's body, influencing their health and susceptibility to disease. It was a cornerstone of diagnosis and treatment in Traditional Chinese Medicine.
Sino-TibetanCultural Context
Discussing someone's '体质' can be sensitive, especially if they have a weak constitution or are frequently ill. It's generally best to focus on positive aspects or to discuss one's own '体质' rather than making unsolicited comments about others'.
While English has terms like 'physique', 'constitution', and 'build', the Chinese concept of '体质' often carries a more nuanced and holistic meaning, particularly within the framework of TCM, which considers energetic balance and predispositions beyond just physical appearance or current health.
Practice in Real Life
Real-World Contexts
Discussing personal health and fitness goals.
- 我想改善体质。
- 运动可以增强体质。
- 我的体质不太好。
Visiting a doctor, especially a TCM practitioner.
- 我的体质怎么样？
- 医生说我体质偏寒。
- 需要怎么调养体质？
Talking about children's health and development.
- 孩子的体质需要注意。
- 她体质虚弱，容易生病。
- 多吃这个对孩子体质有好处。
Giving or receiving health advice.
- 保持健康的生活方式对体质很重要。
- 你要多休息，不然体质会变差。
- 吃这个能帮你调养体质。
Comparing physical strengths or weaknesses.
- 他体质强壮，不怕累。
- 相比之下，我的体质就差多了。
Conversation Starters
"你觉得自己的体质怎么样？好还是不好？"
"你有没有什么方法可以改善或增强体质？"
"你认为什么生活习惯对体质影响最大？"
"你相信中医关于体质的说法吗？"
"如果你可以改变自己的体质，你希望有什么样的改变？"
Journal Prompts
写下你认为自己体质的主要特点，是偏向强壮还是虚弱？有哪些方面需要改进？
你最近有没有为了改善体质而做些什么？效果如何？
你认为你所处的环境（气候、生活节奏等）对你的体质有什么影响？
你有没有听说过一些关于不同体质类型的说法？你觉得自己属于哪一种？
如果让你给一个体质虚弱的朋友提建议，你会说什么？
Frequently Asked Questions
10 questions'体质' (tǐzhì) refers to your inherent physical constitution or physique, essentially the quality and resilience of your body over the long term. '身体' (shēntǐ) is the general word for 'body' and can refer to your current physical state, including temporary discomforts or health issues. For example, you might say '我的身体不舒服' (My body doesn't feel well) if you have a cold today, but you'd say '我的体质比较虚弱' (My constitution is rather weak) if you tend to get sick often.
While '体质' is a very important concept in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), it is also used in general conversations about health, fitness, and well-being. You might hear people discussing how to improve their '体质' through exercise or diet, or commenting on someone's 'strong constitution' (体质强壮) or 'weak constitution' (体质虚弱) in everyday contexts.
Yes, '体质' can be improved. Although there are genetic factors that influence one's constitution, lifestyle choices such as regular exercise, a balanced diet, adequate sleep, and stress management can significantly enhance and strengthen one's physique and resilience over time. Phrases like '改善体质' (improve constitution) and '增强体质' (strengthen constitution) are commonly used.
In TCM, people are often categorized into different '体质' types. Some common ones include: 阳虚体质 (yángxū tǐzhì - yang deficiency constitution), 阴虚体质 (yīnxū tǐzhì - yin deficiency constitution), 气虚体质 (qìxū tǐzhì - qi deficiency constitution), 血虚体质 (xuèxū tǐzhì - blood deficiency constitution), 痰湿体质 (tánshī tǐzhì - phlegm-dampness constitution), 湿热体质 (shīrè tǐzhì - damp-heat constitution), 肝郁体质 (gānyù tǐzhì - liver qi stagnation constitution), and 血瘀体质 (xuèyū tǐzhì - blood stasis constitution). Each type has specific characteristics and recommendations.
'体质' is the underlying foundation that influences one's '健康' (health). A strong '体质' generally makes it easier to maintain good health and resist illness. Conversely, a weak '体质' might make someone more susceptible to diseases. However, one's current '健康' can also be affected by external factors, lifestyle, and immediate conditions, even if their inherent '体质' is good.
No, '体质' is generally considered an uncountable noun. It refers to an inherent quality or characteristic of a person's body, not to discrete items. You would talk about having a 'good' or 'weak' constitution, rather than 'two constitutions'.
While the term '体质' is primarily used for humans, the concept of inherent physical makeup can be extended metaphorically to other living things in certain contexts. However, for animals and plants, more specific terms related to their species' characteristics or health might be more appropriate and commonly used.
Think of '体' as 'body' and '质' as 'quality'. So, '体质' is your 'body quality' – the inherent strength and resilience of your physical self. Imagine your body having a built-in quality score!
A common mistake is using '体质' to describe a temporary state of being unwell, like having a cold. '体质' refers to long-term predispositions. Also, avoid using it for non-biological constitutions, such as a country's 'constitution' (which is 宪法, xiànfǎ).
You can say '改善我的体质' (gǎishàn wǒ de tǐzhì) or '增强我的体质' (zēngqiáng wǒ de tǐzhì).
Test Yourself 10 questions
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Summary
体质 (tǐzhì) refers to a person's inherent physical constitution or physique, encompassing their overall strength, health resilience, and predisposition to illness. It's a foundational concept in discussions about health, fitness, and especially Traditional Chinese Medicine, distinguishing itself from a person's current temporary health status.
- Physique, constitution, physical condition.
- Refers to inherent bodily makeup and health resilience.
- Used in health, fitness, and traditional medicine contexts.
- Distinct from current health state; describes long-term tendencies.
Think 'Body Quality'
To remember '体质' (tǐzhì), break it down: '体' means body, and '质' means quality. So, '体质' is your body's inherent quality – its strength, resilience, and general physical makeup.
Health Discussions
This word is very common in conversations about health, fitness, and especially Traditional Chinese Medicine. Listen for it when people discuss how to stay healthy or why they get sick.
Not Just Current Sickness
Avoid using '体质' to describe how you feel *right now* (e.g., 'I have a cold'). '体质' refers to your long-term, inherent physical tendencies and resilience, not a temporary ailment.
Traditional Chinese Medicine
In TCM, '体质' is a core concept. People are often classified into different '体质' types, which influences dietary and lifestyle recommendations for maintaining health.
Related Content
This Word in Other Languages
Related Grammar Rules
More health words
一粒
A2One pill; a grain (for small, round objects like pills).
一片
A2One tablet; a slice (for flat objects like pills).
不正常
A2abnormal
以上
A2Above, over (a number)
酸痛
A2Sore; aching (especially muscles).
倒是
A2On the contrary; actually.
针灸
A2Acupuncture; traditional Chinese therapy.
扎针
A2to give an injection
急性
B1acute (illness)
急性病
B1Acute disease.
