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紧急情况

A2 noun #5,000 most common 13 min read

紧急情况

jinji qingkuang Top 5,000

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips 紧急情况 in 30 Seconds

Explanation 紧急情况 in your Level:

At the A1 level, you only need to know that '紧急情况' (jǐnjí qíngkuàng) means 'emergency.' It is a very important word for safety. You might see it on red signs or near buttons in elevators. If you are in trouble, you can point and say '紧急情况!' (Emergency!) to get someone's attention. Think of it as two parts: 'jǐnjí' is like 'fast/urgent' and 'qíngkuàng' is like 'what is happening.' At this level, don't worry about complex grammar. Just remember that this word means something serious is happening and you need help. You can use it with '这是' (This is) to say '这是紧急情况' (This is an emergency). It is also helpful to know that the emergency phone numbers in China are different from other countries. Knowing this word helps you stay safe while traveling. You will hear it in subway stations or see it on exit signs. It is one of those 'survival' words that every beginner should recognize visually and be able to say, even if their pronunciation isn't perfect yet. Focus on the 'jǐn' (tight) and 'jí' (urgent) sounds. If you can say those, people will understand you are in a hurry and need assistance. It is a noun, so treat it like the name of a thing—the 'thing' being a serious problem that needs to be fixed right now.

At the A2 level, you can start using '紧急情况' (jǐnjí qíngkuàng) in simple sentences. You should know how to say 'In an emergency' using the pattern '在紧急情况下' (zài jǐnjí qíngkuàng xià). You can also use it with verbs like '发生' (fāshēng, to happen) or '遇到' (yùdào, to encounter). For example, '如果发生紧急情况，请叫医生' (If an emergency happens, please call a doctor). At this level, you are learning to describe your needs more clearly. You can use this word to explain why you are late or why you need to use a phone. It is also important to distinguish between a 'jǐnjí qíngkuàng' and a 'jíshì' (urgent matter). A 'jíshì' might be a phone call you must take, but a 'jǐnjí qíngkuàng' is usually more serious, like a fire or an injury. You will see this phrase in public safety announcements and on signs in hotels or malls. You should be able to recognize it in a list of rules. For instance, '紧急情况请走楼梯' (In an emergency, please use the stairs). Understanding this phrase allows you to follow basic safety protocols in a Chinese-speaking environment. You are also starting to see how 'jǐnjí' can be used on its own as an adjective, but you should stick to the full noun phrase when you want to name the situation itself. This builds a solid foundation for more complex descriptions later on.

At the B1 level, you should be comfortable using '紧急情况' (jǐnjí qíngkuàng) in both spoken and written contexts. You can use it to talk about past experiences or hypothetical situations. For example, '上周我们遇到了紧急情况，所以没去开会' (We encountered an emergency last week, so we didn't go to the meeting). You can also start using more specific verbs like '处理' (chǔlǐ, to handle) or '应对' (yìngduì, to respond to). You should understand that '紧急情况' is a formal enough term for work environments. If you are writing an email to explain a sudden absence, this is the perfect phrase to use. It sounds professional and serious. You will also notice that in B1 level listening materials, like news clips or stories, this word is used to set the stage for a dramatic event. You should be able to understand the context around the word—is it a medical emergency, a fire, or a technical failure? You might also encounter the term '紧急联系人' (jǐnjí liánxì rén, emergency contact person) when filling out forms. This shows how the 'jǐnjí' part of the word is used in compounds. At this level, your goal is to use the word accurately with a variety of verbs and in different social settings, from personal to professional. You are moving beyond just 'survival' and into 'description and explanation.'

At the B2 level, you can use '紧急情况' (jǐnjí qíngkuàng) to discuss complex topics like disaster management or corporate safety policies. You should be able to explain what constitutes an emergency in different contexts. For example, '在网络安全领域，数据泄露被视为一种紧急情况' (In the field of cybersecurity, a data leak is regarded as an emergency situation). You should also be familiar with related formal terms like '突发事件' (tūfā shìjiàn, sudden incident) and know when to use one over the other. '紧急情况' is more focused on the urgency and the need for action, while '突发事件' is often used in administrative or official reporting. You can also use '紧急情况' in more abstract ways, such as discussing a 'state of emergency' (紧急状态, jǐnjí zhuàngtài). At this level, you should be able to handle conditional sentences with more nuance, like '除非发生极其严重的紧急情况，否则不得动用这笔资金' (Unless an extremely serious emergency occurs, these funds must not be used). Your vocabulary is becoming more specialized, and you understand the subtle differences in tone and register. You can read news articles about crises and understand the role that 'jǐnjí qíngkuàng' plays in the narrative. You are also capable of discussing the psychological impact of emergencies using this vocabulary.

At the C1 level, you have a deep understanding of '紧急情况' (jǐnjí qíngkuàng) and its place in the broader Chinese lexicon. You can analyze how the term is used in legal documents, insurance policies, and high-level government communications. You understand the legal implications of a '紧急情况'—for example, how it might excuse someone from a contract or justify certain actions under 'emergency necessity' (紧急避险, jǐnjí bìxiǎn). You can use the phrase in sophisticated debates about public policy, such as '政府在处理紧急情况时应如何平衡权力和公民权利' (How the government should balance power and civil rights when handling emergency situations). You are also sensitive to the rhetorical use of the word. A politician might use '紧急情况' to create a sense of urgency and push through a new law. You can detect these nuances in speech and writing. Your own use of the word is precise; you choose it over '危机' (crisis) or '险情' (peril) because you want to emphasize the procedural and situational aspect of the event. You are also comfortable with classical or literary variations of the concept, though '紧急情况' remains your primary tool for modern communication. You can write detailed reports on risk management, using this term as a cornerstone of your analysis.

At the C2 level, your mastery of '紧急情况' (jǐnjí qíngkuàng) is near-native. You understand not just the word, but the cultural and historical weight it carries. You can discuss how the Chinese state's approach to '紧急情况' has evolved over decades, from the handling of natural disasters like the Wenchuan earthquake to modern public health crises. You can use the term in academic writing, exploring its definition in the context of 'Emergency Management Science' (应急管理学). You are also aware of how the term might be used in literature to create tension or to explore human nature under pressure. You can use the phrase in highly nuanced ways, perhaps even ironically or metaphorically, to describe a situation that isn't a literal emergency but feels like one due to its intensity. Your ability to switch between the formal '突发事件' and the more common '紧急情况' is seamless, depending on your audience and purpose. You can interpret high-level government white papers on national security and emergency response without difficulty. At this level, the word is no longer just a vocabulary item; it is a concept that you can manipulate and discuss from multiple perspectives—legal, social, psychological, and historical. You are a master of the register, knowing exactly when '紧急情况' is the most powerful and appropriate term to use.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

紧急情况 in 30 Seconds

紧急情况 means 'emergency situation.' It is used for medical, fire, or safety crises that need immediate action.
It is a noun phrase consisting of 'urgent' (紧急) and 'situation' (情况). Use it as a subject or object.
Commonly paired with '发生' (to occur), '遇到' (to encounter), and '处理' (to handle).
Essential for survival Chinese; seen on safety signs, subways, and in hospitals everywhere.

The Chinese term 紧急情况 (jǐnjí qíngkuàng) is a vital noun phrase that every learner should master early in their journey. At its core, it translates to 'emergency situation' or 'urgent circumstances.' It is composed of two distinct parts: 紧急 (jǐnjí), meaning 'urgent,' 'pressing,' or 'critical,' and 情况 (qíngkuàng), meaning 'situation,' 'condition,' or 'circumstances.' Together, they describe a state of affairs that requires immediate attention, often involving danger, medical crises, or unforeseen problems that disrupt the normal flow of life. This phrase is used in a wide variety of contexts, ranging from medical emergencies and natural disasters to workplace crises and personal urgent matters. Understanding when to use this specific phrase versus more specific terms like 'accident' (事故) or 'crisis' (危机) is key to sounding natural in Mandarin.

Core Definition: A state of affairs requiring immediate action, typically involving a threat to health, life, property, or environment.

In everyday life, you might hear this word in public announcements, such as on a train or in an airport, where staff might refer to 'emergency procedures' or 'emergency exits.' In a medical context, it is the standard way to describe a patient's sudden downturn or a trauma situation. In the business world, it refers to unforeseen events that require immediate management intervention. The term is versatile because it is formal enough for official reports but common enough for a person on the street to shout when they need help. It implies a sense of time pressure; if something is a 'jǐnjí qíngkuàng,' you cannot wait until tomorrow to deal with it.

如果发生紧急情况，请拨打110。 (In case of an emergency situation, please dial 110.)

The word 'jǐnjí' itself carries the weight of a 'tight' (紧) and 'anxious' (急) feeling. Imagine a rope being pulled tight—that is the 'jǐn' part. Imagine a person rushing because they are late or worried—that is the 'jí' part. When these combine with 'qíngkuàng,' you get a situation that is stretched to its limit and requires a fast response. This nuance is important because it distinguishes an emergency from a mere 'problem' (问题) or 'difficulty' (困难). A problem can be solved slowly, but an emergency demands speed.

Usage Contexts: Medical trauma, fire hazards, police intervention, natural disasters, and critical equipment failure.

医生，这是紧急情况，我朋友晕倒了！ (Doctor, this is an emergency, my friend fainted!)

Furthermore, the term is often used in the plural or general sense in policies and safety manuals. For example, 'emergency contact' is translated as 紧急联系人 (jǐnjí liánxì rén). This shows how the 'jǐnjí' part of our target word acts as a modifier for other nouns. However, when you want to refer to the situation itself, you must include 'qíngkuàng.' Without it, 'jǐnjí' is just an adjective meaning 'urgent.' By adding 'qíngkuàng,' you create a solid noun phrase that can be the subject or object of a sentence.

我们有处理紧急情况的预案。 (We have contingency plans for emergency situations.)

In summary, '紧急情况' is the standard, most versatile way to say 'emergency' in Chinese. It is used in formal announcements, medical crises, and everyday warnings. It combines the concepts of urgency and situational context into a single, indispensable phrase for anyone living or traveling in a Chinese-speaking environment. Whether you are reading a safety manual or calling for help, this is the phrase that will communicate the gravity of the moment effectively.

Using 紧急情况 (jǐnjí qíngkuàng) correctly involves understanding its role as a noun and the common verbs it associates with. In Chinese grammar, this phrase typically functions as the object of verbs like 'encounter' (遇到), 'handle' (处理), or 'occur' (发生). It can also serve as the subject of a sentence, such as when describing what an emergency entails. Because it is a four-character phrase, it has a balanced, rhythmic feel that is common in formal and semi-formal Chinese speech.

Common Verb Pairings: 遇到 (yù dào) - to encounter; 处理 (chǔ lǐ) - to handle/deal with; 发生 (fā shēng) - to happen/occur; 应对 (yìng duì) - to respond to.

When you want to say 'In case of an emergency,' the most common structure is '如果发生紧急情况' (Rúguǒ fāshēng jǐnjí qíngkuàng). This is the standard opening for safety instructions. If you are describing a past event, you might say '我们遇到了紧急情况' (Wǒmen yùdàole jǐnjí qíngkuàng), meaning 'We encountered an emergency.' Notice how the verb '遇到' perfectly captures the sense of coming across a situation unexpectedly.

在紧急情况下，请保持冷静。 (In an emergency situation, please remain calm.)

Another important grammatical structure is using '紧急情况' with the preposition '下' (xià), meaning 'under' or 'in.' The phrase '在紧急情况(之)下' (zài jǐnjí qíngkuàng zhī xià) is the standard way to say 'under emergency circumstances.' This is often used to set the scene for how one should behave or what rules apply during such a time. For example, '在紧急情况下，可以打破玻璃' (In an emergency, you may break the glass).

In more formal or academic writing, you might see '紧急情况' used as part of a longer compound, such as '紧急情况管理' (emergency management) or '紧急情况响应' (emergency response). In these cases, it acts as a specific category of study or professional practice. For learners at the A2 level, focusing on the basic 'Verb + 紧急情况' or '在紧急情况下' structures will cover 90% of daily needs.

由于紧急情况，会议被取消了。 (Due to an emergency situation, the meeting was canceled.)

Finally, consider the use of '紧急情况' in the context of personal requests. If you are at work and need to leave suddenly, you can say, '我家里的紧急情况需要处理' (There is an emergency at my home that needs to be handled). This is a polite but firm way to indicate that your departure is necessary and not just a whim. It provides a level of seriousness that the word '急事' (urgent matter) might lack in a professional setting.

Sentence Patterns: 1. 如果...发生紧急情况 (If... an emergency occurs)
2. 在紧急情况下... (In an emergency...)
3. 处理紧急情况 (Handle an emergency)

By practicing these patterns, you will be able to communicate urgency clearly and effectively. Remember that word order in Chinese is relatively fixed: the time/condition usually comes before the action. So, 'In an emergency (condition) + stay calm (action)' follows this logic perfectly.

The phrase 紧急情况 (jǐnjí qíngkuàng) is ubiquitous in public spaces across China, Taiwan, and Singapore. One of the most common places you will hear it is in transportation hubs. On the Beijing Subway or the Shanghai Metro, automated announcements frequently remind passengers: '如遇紧急情况，请使用紧急通话装置' (In case of an emergency, please use the emergency intercom). Here, the word is used to ensure safety and provide clear instructions to thousands of commuters daily.

广播：各位乘客，由于紧急情况，列车将临时停车。 (Announcement: Passengers, due to an emergency, the train will stop temporarily.)

Hospitals are another primary environment for this term. While doctors might use more technical terms among themselves, when speaking to families or the general public, they use '紧急情况' to convey the urgency of a patient's status. In an 'Emergency Room' (急诊室 - jízhěn shì), the staff are constantly managing '紧急情况.' You might hear a nurse say, '这属于紧急情况，请让一让' (This is an emergency, please make way). It is a word that commands immediate respect and space in a crowded Chinese hospital.

The news media is also a frequent source of this vocabulary. During natural disasters like floods or typhoons, news anchors will report on the '紧急情况' in the affected areas. They use the term to categorize the severity of the event. For example, a reporter might state, '当地政府已经启动了紧急情况预案' (The local government has activated the emergency situation plan). This formal usage highlights the word's role in official communication and crisis management.

Daily Life Examples: 1. Elevator safety signs.
2. Airplane safety demonstrations.
3. Office fire drill instructions.
4. Smartphone SOS settings.

In the digital age, you will see this phrase on your smartphone. Both iOS and Android systems in Chinese use '紧急情况' in their safety settings. Features like 'Emergency SOS' or 'Medical ID' are often categorized under '紧急情况' menus. This means that even if you aren't talking to someone, you are interacting with this word every time you look at your phone's safety features. It has become a standard part of the modern Chinese technological lexicon.

手机屏幕：紧急情况拨号 (Phone screen: Emergency dialing)

Lastly, in the workplace, '紧急情况' is used during safety briefings. Whether you work in a factory, a school, or an office building, you will be told what to do in an emergency. This consistent use across different sectors of society makes it one of the most practical and high-frequency noun phrases for any learner to acquire. It is not just a word; it is a tool for survival and effective communication in critical moments.

One of the most frequent mistakes learners make with 紧急情况 (jǐnjí qíngkuàng) is confusing it with the adjective 紧急 (jǐnjí). While they are related, they cannot always be used interchangeably. '紧急' means 'urgent' and is usually used to describe a noun (like an 'urgent task' - 紧急任务). '紧急情况' is the noun itself. You cannot say 'This is a jǐnjí' in Chinese; you must say 'This is a jǐnjí qíngkuàng.' Omitting 'qíngkuàng' when you mean 'an emergency' is a common error that makes the sentence feel incomplete.

Mistake 1: Omitting '情况': Incorrect: 这是一个紧急。(Zhè shì yīgè jǐnjí.)
Correct: 这是一个紧急情况。(Zhè shì yīgè jǐnjí qíngkuàng.)

Another common confusion arises between '紧急情况' and '急事' (jíshì). While both involve urgency, '急事' is typically used for personal, less life-threatening matters. For example, if you need to take a phone call because your car broke down, that's a '急事.' If your car is on fire, that's a '紧急情况.' Using '紧急情况' for a minor urgent matter can sound overly dramatic, while using '急事' for a major disaster can sound dismissive. Choosing the right level of urgency is a nuance that comes with practice.

Learners also struggle with the placement of the phrase in 'if' clauses. In English, we say 'If there is an emergency.' In Chinese, the verb '发生' (fāshēng - to happen) or '有' (yǒu - to have/there is) is essential. Beginners often try to translate literally and say '如果紧急情况' (If emergency situation), which is grammatically incorrect. You must include the verb: '如果有紧急情况' or '如果发生紧急情况.'

错误：如果紧急情况，打电话。(Incorrect: If emergency, call.)
正确：如果发生紧急情况，请打电话。(Correct: If an emergency occurs, please call.)

Finally, be careful with the word '危机' (wēijī - crisis). While an emergency can be a crisis, '危机' often refers to long-term systemic issues like an 'economic crisis' (经济危机) or a 'mid-life crisis' (中年危机). '紧急情况' is almost always used for sudden, short-term events that require an immediate physical or logistical response. Don't use '紧急情况' to describe your long-term relationship problems!

Summary of Confusion: 1. 紧急 (Adj) vs 紧急情况 (Noun)
2. 紧急情况 (Emergency) vs 急事 (Urgent matter)
3. 紧急情况 (Sudden) vs 危机 (Long-term crisis)

By keeping these distinctions in mind, you will avoid the most common pitfalls and use the term with the precision of a native speaker. Pay attention to how the word is paired with verbs and prepositions, and you'll find it much easier to integrate into your speech.

While 紧急情况 (jǐnjí qíngkuàng) is the most common term for 'emergency,' there are several other words that cover similar ground. Understanding these alternatives will help you expand your vocabulary and understand more specific contexts. The most closely related term is 突发事件 (tūfā shìjiàn), which literally means 'suddenly occurring incident.' This is a more formal, bureaucratic term often used in government reports or news broadcasts to describe emergencies like sudden protests, accidents, or outbreaks.

Comparison: 紧急情况 vs. 突发事件: 紧急情况: General, common, emphasizes the need for speed.
突发事件: Formal, administrative, emphasizes the suddenness of the event.

Another alternative is 急症 (jízhèng), which is specifically used for medical emergencies. If you are in a hospital and someone has a sudden heart attack, doctors will refer to it as an 'acute symptom' or 'emergency case.' While '紧急情况' can be used in a medical context, '急症' is the precise medical term. Similarly, the 'Emergency Department' in a hospital is called the 急诊科 (jízhěn kē).

这不是普通的感冒，这是急症！ (This isn't a normal cold, this is a medical emergency!)

For less severe situations, as mentioned before, 急事 (jíshì) is the best alternative. It covers things like needing to leave a meeting early because of a family matter or a sudden deadline. It doesn't imply danger, just a lack of time. In a business setting, you might also hear 紧急任务 (jǐnjí rènwù), meaning 'urgent task.' This is an emergency for your schedule, but not necessarily a threat to life or limb.

In some contexts, you might hear 险情 (xiǎnqíng), which refers to a 'dangerous situation' or 'peril.' This is specifically used for things like floods, forest fires, or structural collapses where the danger is the primary focus. While all '险情' are '紧急情况,' not all '紧急情况' (like a lost passport) are '险情.' Using '险情' adds a layer of physical danger to your description.

Quick Reference Guide: - 危机 (Crisis): Long-term/Systemic
- 事故 (Accident): Something that already happened
- 紧急情况 (Emergency): Something happening now that needs action
- 突发事件 (Sudden event): Formal/News term

Finally, the word 应急 (yìngjí) is often used as a prefix meaning 'emergency-response.' For example, '应急灯' (emergency light) or '应急预案' (emergency plan). While it's not a direct synonym for '紧急情况,' it's part of the same word family and is used to describe the tools and procedures used to handle emergencies. Understanding how these words cluster together will give you a much more sophisticated grasp of the language.

How Formal Is It?

Fun Fact

The character '紧' (jǐn) originally depicted a person binding something tightly with silk threads. The character '急' (jí) shows a heart beneath a person rushing, symbolizing the inner anxiety of being in a hurry.

Pronunciation Guide

UK jǐn jí qíng kuàng

US jǐn jí qíng kuàng

The primary stress in this phrase is usually on 'jǐn' and 'kuàng'.

Rhymes With

紧 (jǐn) rhymes with 品 (pǐn). 急 (jí) rhymes with 级 (jí). 情 (qíng) rhymes with 明 (míng). 况 (kuàng) rhymes with 样 (yàng) in some dialects, but strictly rhymes with 放 (fàng).

Common Errors

Pronouncing 'jí' as a first tone (flat) instead of a second tone (rising).
Pronouncing 'qíng' as 'qǐng' (third tone).
Forgetting the 'g' sound at the end of 'qíng' and 'kuàng'.
Mixing up the tones of 'jǐn' and 'jí'.
Slurring 'qíngkuàng' into one syllable.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 2/5

The characters are common but 'jǐn' and 'kuàng' have several strokes.

Writing 3/5

Writing '紧急' and '情况' correctly requires practice with stroke order.

Speaking 2/5

The tones are straightforward but the four-syllable rhythm must be maintained.

Listening 2/5

Very easy to recognize in public announcements due to its distinct rhythm.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

情况 (situation) 急 (urgent/hurry) 发生 (to happen) 危险 (danger) 帮助 (help)

Learn Next

应急 (emergency response) 救援 (rescue) 疏散 (evacuate) 报警 (call the police) 第一时间 (immediately)

Advanced

突发公共卫生事件 (Public health emergency) 不可抗力 (Force majeure) 紧急避险 (Emergency necessity) 危机干预 (Crisis intervention) 防灾减灾 (Disaster prevention and mitigation)

Grammar to Know

Conditional '如果...就...' with emergency.

如果发生紧急情况，我们就离开。

Using '由于' (due to) to explain reasons.

由于紧急情况，他迟到了。

The prepositional phrase '在...下'.

在紧急情况下，请不要慌张。

Resultative complements with '处理'.

紧急情况处理好了。

Using '被' (passive) with emergency events.

会议被紧急情况打断了。

Examples by Level

这是紧急情况。

This is an emergency situation.

A simple 'A is B' structure.

紧急情况！请帮我！

Emergency! Please help me!

Using the noun as an exclamation.

那里有紧急情况。

There is an emergency over there.

Using '有' (to have/there is) to show existence.

不是紧急情况。

It is not an emergency situation.

Negating the sentence with '不' (not).

这是紧急情况吗？

Is this an emergency situation?

Turning a statement into a question with '吗'.

看到紧急情况请打电话。

If you see an emergency, please call.

Using '看到' (see) as a condition.

我需要处理紧急情况。

I need to handle an emergency.

Simple Subject-Verb-Object (SVO) sentence.

他在紧急情况中。

He is in an emergency situation.

Using '在...中' to mean 'in the middle of'.

如果发生紧急情况，请拨打120。

If an emergency occurs, please dial 120.

Standard '如果...请...' conditional structure.

在紧急情况下，请保持冷静。

In an emergency situation, please stay calm.

Using '在...下' to indicate circumstances.

由于紧急情况，他不能来上班。

Due to an emergency, he cannot come to work.

Using '由于' (due to) to show cause.

你知道怎么处理紧急情况吗？

Do you know how to handle an emergency situation?

Using '怎么' (how) with the verb '处理'.

这是一个非常严重的紧急情况。

This is a very serious emergency situation.

Using adjectives like '非常严重' to modify the noun.

我们必须为紧急情况做准备。

We must prepare for emergency situations.

Using '为...做准备' (to prepare for...).

地铁里发生了紧急情况。

An emergency occurred in the subway.

Using '发生' as the main verb.

请告诉我发生了什么紧急情况。

Please tell me what emergency occurred.

Using '什么' to ask for specific details.

面对紧急情况，他表现得很勇敢。

Facing an emergency, he acted very bravely.

Using '表现得' to describe the manner of an action.

公司有一套完整的紧急情况处理流程。

The company has a complete emergency handling process.

Using '一套' as a measure word for a set/system.

你应该随身携带紧急情况下的联系方式。

You should carry contact information for emergencies with you.

Using '随身携带' (carry on one's person).

医生正在处理病人的紧急情况。

The doctor is dealing with the patient's emergency.

Using '正在' to show an action in progress.

除非是紧急情况，否则不要按这个按钮。

Unless it is an emergency, do not press this button.

Using '除非...否则...' (unless... otherwise...).

他因为家里有紧急情况而提前离开了。

He left early because there was an emergency at home.

Using '因为...而...' to show cause and effect.

学会如何应对紧急情况是非常重要的。

Learning how to respond to emergencies is very important.

Using a phrase as the subject of the sentence.

这个紧急情况让我们措手不及。

This emergency caught us off guard.

Using the idiom '措手不及' (caught unprepared).

政府启动了应对自然灾害的紧急情况预案。

The government activated the emergency plan for natural disasters.

Using formal verbs like '启动' (to start/activate).

在处理这类紧急情况时，经验至关重要。

Experience is crucial when handling these types of emergencies.

Using '至关重要' (crucial/of vital importance).

我们需要评估这次紧急情况对环境的影响。

We need to assess the impact of this emergency on the environment.

Using '评估' (to assess) and '影响' (impact).

该法律规定了在紧急情况下的特殊权力。

The law stipulates special powers in emergency situations.

Using '规定' (to stipulate/prescribe).

由于电力中断，工厂陷入了紧急情况。

Due to a power outage, the factory fell into an emergency.

Using '陷入' (to fall into/sink into) a state.

他冷静地指挥大家撤离，化解了紧急情况。

He calmly directed everyone to evacuate, resolving the emergency.

Using '化解' (to resolve/defuse).

所有的紧急情况都应该被记录在案。

All emergency situations should be recorded on file.

Using '记录在案' (to be on record).

频繁发生的紧急情况暴露了系统漏洞。

Frequently occurring emergencies exposed system vulnerabilities.

Using '暴露' (to expose) and '漏洞' (vulnerability/loophole).

在紧急情况下，法律往往赋予行政机关更大的裁量权。

In emergencies, the law often grants administrative bodies greater discretionary power.

Using legal terminology like '裁量权' (discretionary power).

有效的风险管理旨在预防潜在的紧急情况。

Effective risk management aims to prevent potential emergencies.

Using '旨在' (aimed at) and '潜在' (potential).

该地区的紧急情况由于通讯中断而进一步恶化。

The emergency in the region worsened further due to communication breakdown.

Using '进一步恶化' (further deteriorate).

我们必须在紧急情况发生后的黄金时间内采取行动。

We must take action within the 'golden hour' after an emergency occurs.

Using '黄金时间' (golden hour/critical time).

媒体对紧急情况的报道应当客观且及时。

Media reporting of emergencies should be objective and timely.

Using '应当' (should/ought to) in a formal requirement.

紧急情况往往是检验社会治理能力的试金石。

Emergencies are often a touchstone for testing social governance capabilities.

Using the metaphor '试金石' (touchstone).

这种突如其来的紧急情况打乱了所有的部署。

This sudden emergency disrupted all the deployments.

Using '突如其来' (sudden/unexpected) and '部署' (deployment).

紧急情况下的资源分配需要遵循公平原则。

Resource allocation in emergencies needs to follow the principle of fairness.

Using '遵循' (to follow/adhere to).

紧急情况的定义在不同法律体系中存在细微的差别。

The definition of an emergency situation has subtle differences across different legal systems.

Using '存在' (to exist) and '细微' (subtle).

在极端紧急情况下，社会契约的稳定性可能受到挑战。

In extreme emergencies, the stability of the social contract may be challenged.

Using political philosophy terms like '社会契约' (social contract).

通过对历史紧急情况的研究，我们可以总结出应对危机的普遍规律。

By studying historical emergencies, we can summarize universal laws for responding to crises.

Using '总结出' (to summarize/derive).

紧急情况往往伴随着信息的碎片化和高度的不确定性。

Emergencies are often accompanied by information fragmentation and high uncertainty.

Using '伴随着' (accompanied by).

决策者在紧急情况下的心理素质对结果有决定性影响。

The psychological resilience of decision-makers in emergencies has a decisive impact on the outcome.

Using '心理素质' (psychological quality/resilience).

该论文深入探讨了全球化背景下跨国紧急情况的协调机制。

The paper explores the coordination mechanisms of transnational emergencies in the context of globalization.

Using '深入探讨' (to explore deeply).

紧急情况不仅是对物质财富的威胁，更是对人类意志的磨砺。

Emergencies are not only a threat to material wealth but also a tempering of human will.

Using the '不仅是...更是...' (not only... but also...) structure.

面对突发的紧急情况，公众的恐慌情绪往往比灾害本身更具破坏性。

Faced with a sudden emergency, public panic is often more destructive than the disaster itself.

Using '更具破坏性' (more destructive).

Common Collocations

发生紧急情况

处理紧急情况

应对紧急情况

严重的紧急情况

突发的紧急情况

紧急情况预案

在紧急情况下

由于紧急情况

报告紧急情况

虚假紧急情况

Common Phrases

紧急联系人

— The person to call if you are in an emergency. Common on forms.

请在表格上填写紧急联系人。

紧急出口

— The door used to leave a building during an emergency.

紧急出口在那边。

紧急制动

— The emergency brake on a vehicle or train.

司机采取了紧急制动。

紧急手术

— A medical operation that cannot wait.

病人正在接受紧急手术。

紧急救援

— The act of providing immediate help during a crisis.

紧急救援队已经到达现场。

紧急状态

— A legal declaration by a government during a major crisis.

国家进入了紧急状态。

紧急任务

— A task that must be completed immediately.

我今天有一个紧急任务。

紧急通知

— An urgent announcement or message.

公司发出了紧急通知。

紧急避难

— Seeking shelter or escaping danger in an emergency.

大家正在进行紧急避难。

紧急求助

— Asking for help in a critical situation.

他发出了紧急求助信号。

Often Confused With

紧急情况 vs 紧急

An adjective meaning 'urgent'. You can't say 'This is a 紧急'. Use '紧急情况' as the noun.

紧急情况 vs 急事

A personal urgent matter. Use this for errands, not for life-and-death emergencies.

紧急情况 vs 危机

A crisis. Usually refers to longer-term problems like economic or political crises.

Idioms & Expressions

"迫在眉睫"

— Extremely urgent; literally 'pressing against the eyelashes.' Used for emergencies.

解决水污染问题已经迫在眉睫。

Formal/Literary

"刻不容缓"

— Not a moment to lose. Used to describe the need for action in an emergency.

救援工作刻不容缓。

Formal

"火烧眉毛"

— Desperately urgent; literally 'fire burning the eyebrows.'

都火烧眉毛了，你还在睡觉！

Informal

"千钧一发"

— A very critical moment; literally 'a thousand pounds hanging by a hair.'

就在千钧一发的时刻，他救了那个孩子。

Literary

"危在旦夕"

— In imminent danger; literally 'danger at dawn or dusk.'

病人的生命危在旦夕。

Formal

"急如星火"

— As urgent as a meteor; extremely pressing.

这份文件急如星火，必须马上送达。

Literary

"手忙脚乱"

— In a frantic rush; to be in a mess because of an emergency.

突发的紧急情况让他手忙脚乱。

Neutral

"转危为安"

— To turn danger into safety; to resolve an emergency successfully.

经过抢救，病人终于转危为安了。

Neutral

"临危不惧"

— To face danger without fear. A good trait in an emergency.

他在紧急情况面前临危不惧。

Formal

"措手不及"

— To be caught off guard by a sudden event.

这场大雨让我们措手不及。

Neutral

Easily Confused

紧急情况 vs 事故

Both involve bad events.

An '事故' (accident) is something that has happened. An '紧急情况' (emergency) is the state of needing help right now.

这里发生了交通事故，现在是紧急情况。

紧急情况 vs 急诊

Both are medical terms.

‘急诊’ is specifically the medical treatment or the department. ‘紧急情况’ is the situation itself.

他因为紧急情况去了急诊。

紧急情况 vs 突发

Both mean sudden.

‘突发’ is a verb/adjective meaning 'sudden outbreak'. ‘紧急情况’ is the resulting situation.

突发的火灾造成了紧急情况。

紧急情况 vs 危险

Emergencies are dangerous.

‘危险’ is the quality of danger. ‘紧急情况’ is the specific event requiring action.

这个紧急情况非常危险。

紧急情况 vs 困难

Both are problems.

‘困难’ is a difficulty that can be slow. ‘紧急情况’ must be handled immediately.

虽然有困难，但这不是紧急情况。

Sentence Patterns

这是[紧急情况]。

这是紧急情况。

如果发生[紧急情况]，请...。

如果发生紧急情况，请打电话。

在[紧急情况]下，...。

在紧急情况下，请保持冷静。

处理[紧急情况]。

他正在处理紧急情况。

由于[紧急情况]，...。

由于紧急情况，会议取消了。

为[紧急情况]做准备。

我们要为紧急情况做准备。

[紧急情况]是...的试金石。

紧急情况是社会能力的试金石。

[紧急情况]的定义涉及...。

紧急情况的定义涉及法律范畴。

Word Family

Nouns

情况 (situation)

紧急 (urgency)

急诊 (emergency treatment)

急事 (urgent matter)

Verbs

急 (to be in a hurry)

救急 (to help in an emergency)

Adjectives

紧急的 (urgent)

匆忙的 (hurried)

焦急的 (anxious)

安全 (safety)

危险 (danger)

救护车 (ambulance)

警察 (police)

火警 (fire alarm)

How to Use It

frequency

Very high in safety, medical, and news domains.

Common Mistakes

Using '紧急' as a noun. → 这是一个紧急情况。
'紧急' is an adjective. You must add '情况' to make it a noun meaning 'an emergency'.
Saying '如果紧急情况' without a verb. → 如果发生紧急情况。
In Chinese, you need a verb like '发生' (happen) or '有' (have) to introduce the situation.
Using '紧急情况' for minor errands. → 我有急事。
'紧急情况' is for serious emergencies. For errands or being busy, use '急事'.
Confusing '紧急情况' with '事故'. → 这是一次事故。
An '事故' is an accident that has occurred. '紧急情况' is the urgent state of the situation.
Misplacing '下' in the phrase '在紧急情况下'. → 在紧急情况下。
The '下' must come after the noun phrase to mean 'under these circumstances'.

Tips

Learn the Numbers

Always memorize 110, 119, and 120 before traveling to China. Knowing how to say '这是紧急情况' (This is an emergency) can save lives when calling these numbers.

Use with '发生'

Pair '紧急情况' with the verb '发生' (to occur) for natural-sounding sentences. '如果发生紧急情况...' is the most common way to start a safety instruction.

Emergency Contact

Remember '紧急联系人' (jǐnjí liánxì rén). You'll need this for almost every official form you fill out in a Chinese-speaking country.

Tone Accuracy

Pay close attention to the third tone in 'jǐn'. If you get the tone wrong, it might be confused with other words. Practice dipping your voice low.

Stay Calm

In Chinese culture, '冷静' (lěngjìng - calm) is highly valued during an emergency. You will often see the sign '紧急情况，保持冷静'.

Stroke Order

The characters for '紧急情况' are quite complex. Practice writing them several times to ensure you don't miss any strokes, especially in '紧' and '况'.

Subway Cues

Subway announcements are a great place to hear this word. Listen for '如遇紧急情况' (If encountering an emergency) to hear the natural rhythm of the phrase.

Red Signs

Look for the characters 紧急 in red on signs. They usually indicate emergency exits, fire extinguishers, or alarm buttons.

Situational vs. Personal

Don't use '紧急情况' for small things like being late for a movie. Use '急事' for that. Reserve '紧急情况' for serious matters.

King of Situations

Remember that '情况' (qíngkuàng) sounds a bit like 'King Condition'. An emergency is the most important 'King Condition' you can face.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of 'Jin' as being 'in' a 'Tight' spot, and 'Ji' as being 'Just' too 'Fast'. 'Qing Kuang' is the 'King' of 'Conditions'. So an emergency is a Tight-Fast King Condition!

Visual Association

Imagine a red siren spinning. The 'Jǐn' is the tight wire of the alarm, the 'Jí' is the fast speed of the siren, and 'Qíngkuàng' is the whole scene at the police station.

Word Web

紧急情况警察 (110) 救护车 (120) 火警 (119) 危险救命医院冷静

Challenge

Try to find three '紧急出口' (emergency exits) today and say '紧急情况' to yourself each time you see one.

Word Origin

The phrase is a modern Chinese compound. '紧急' (jǐnjí) dates back to ancient texts meaning 'tight and fast.' '情况' (qíngkuàng) became the standard word for 'situation' in the late 19th and early 20th centuries during the modernization of the Chinese language.

Original meaning: A tight and hurried state of affairs.

Sino-Tibetan (Mandarin Chinese)

Cultural Context

When discussing emergencies, avoid using the term lightly in hospitals or airports as it can cause genuine alarm.

English speakers should note that '110' is not '911'. You must learn the specific numbers for police, fire, and medical help in China.

The movie 'The Captain' (中国机长) depicts a real-life aviation emergency. Public service announcements during the 2008 Sichuan Earthquake. Safety manuals in the Beijing Summer and Winter Olympics.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

At a Hospital

这是紧急情况！
医生在哪里？
他需要急救。
快叫救护车！

On Public Transport

紧急出口在哪里？
不要乱动紧急制动。
听从工作人员指挥。
保持冷静。

In the Office

家里有紧急情况。
我需要请假处理急事。
这是紧急任务。
启动应急预案。

Calling 110/119/120

我要报案。
这里发生了紧急情况。
有人受伤了。
位置在大街10号。

Natural Disaster

关注紧急情况通报。
准备好应急包。
撤离到安全地带。
不要靠近危险区域。

Conversation Starters

"如果你遇到紧急情况，你会怎么做？"

"你曾经遇到过紧急情况吗？"

"你知道中国的紧急求助电话是多少吗？"

"在你们国家，紧急情况下应该怎么办？"

"你觉得处理紧急情况最重要的是什么？"

Journal Prompts

描述一次你遇到的紧急情况，你是如何处理的？

写一写为什么在紧急情况下保持冷静很重要。

如果你是一家公司的经理，你会如何制定紧急情况预案？

讨论一下现代技术（如手机）如何帮助我们应对紧急情况。

想象你被困在电梯里，发生了紧急情况，你会给谁打电话？为什么？

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

Use '紧急情况' for serious, potentially dangerous situations like fires, accidents, or medical crises. Use '急事' for personal matters that are urgent but not life-threatening, such as a last-minute meeting or a family errand. For example, '家里有紧急情况' sounds much more serious than '家里有急事'.

No, '紧急' is an adjective meaning 'urgent'. In Chinese, you need a noun to follow it to mean 'an emergency'. Use '紧急情况'. If you just shout '紧急!', people might understand you're in a hurry, but it's grammatically incomplete. Shouting '救命!' (Help!) is better in an actual crisis.

In China, dial 110 for police, 119 for fire, and 120 for an ambulance. These are the three main numbers you would call in a '紧急情况'. Unlike the US '911', these services are separate, so calling the right one can save time.

It is a neutral term that can be used in both formal and informal settings. You will see it in laws and news (formal) as well as hear it in daily conversation (informal). It is the most standard and versatile way to express 'emergency'.

The phrase is '紧急联系人' (jǐnjí liánxì rén). You will often see this on visa applications, job contracts, or school registration forms. It literally translates to 'urgent contact person'.

It means 'in an emergency situation' or 'in case of emergency'. The '下' (xià) acts like 'under' or 'in' to describe the circumstances. It's a very common pattern in safety manuals.

Yes, it can. If a server crashes or a major deal falls through suddenly, you can call it a '紧急情况'. However, if it's a long-term company problem, '危机' (crisis) is more appropriate.

There isn't really a shorter noun. Chinese learners sometimes try to shorten it, but '紧急情况' is the standard four-character phrase. You might see '急诊' in hospitals, but that specifically means 'emergency medical care'.

You use the verb '处理' (chǔlǐ), making the phrase '处理紧急情况'. For example, '他正在处理紧急情况' (He is handling an emergency).

'突发事件' (tūfā shìjiàn) is a more formal, academic, or governmental term. You'll hear it on the news or read it in official reports. '紧急情况' is more common in daily life and public safety signs.

Test Yourself 180 questions

writing

Write 'This is an emergency' in Chinese.

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

A standard simple sentence.