填补 in 30 Seconds
- 填补 (tiánbǔ) means to fill a gap, vacancy, or deficiency.
- Use it for jobs, markets, time, or emotional voids.
- Commonly pairs with words like 'vacancy' (空缺) or 'shortage' (短缺).
- Distinguish from 填写 (tiánxiě - fill in forms).
The Chinese word 填补 (tiánbǔ) is a versatile verb that literally translates to 'fill up' or 'stuff.' However, its common usage extends beyond the physical act of filling. It is frequently employed to describe the act of filling a vacancy, a gap, or a deficiency, whether in a job, a schedule, a market, or even an emotional void. It implies making something complete or whole by adding what is missing.
In professional contexts, 填补 is used when a position becomes vacant and someone is needed to take it. For instance, a company might need to 填补 a vacant management role. In economics, it can refer to filling a gap in the market with new products or services. In personal life, one might use 填补 time with activities when they have a lot of free time, or even 填补 emotional emptiness with companionship or hobbies. The core idea remains consistent: to make something that is incomplete or lacking, complete.
Consider the phrase 填补空白 (tiánbǔ kòngbái), which means 'to fill in a blank' or 'to fill a void.' This is a very direct application of the word. It can also be used in the context of filling a shortage, such as 填补劳动力短缺 (tiánbǔ láodònglì duǎnquē), meaning 'to fill a labor shortage.' The word is quite common in news reports, business discussions, and everyday conversations, making it a valuable addition to your vocabulary.
- Job Vacancy
- This is one of the most frequent uses. When a job opening exists, employers aim to 填补 it with a suitable candidate.
- Market Gap
- Companies often look for opportunities to 填补 underserved areas of the market with their products or services.
- Time Management
- When you have unexpected free time, you might 填补 it with activities to make your day more productive or enjoyable.
- Emotional Needs
- People might seek to 填补 feelings of loneliness or sadness through social interactions or engaging hobbies.
公司正在努力填补这个管理层的空缺。
Mastering the usage of 填补 (tiánbǔ) involves understanding its common grammatical patterns and the contexts in which it naturally appears. It functions as a transitive verb, meaning it typically takes a direct object – the thing that is being filled.
A very common structure is 填补 + [Noun representing a gap/vacancy/deficiency]. For example:
我们需要尽快填补这个职位空缺。
Another pattern involves using 填补 with a verb phrase indicating an action or state that fills something:
她通过阅读来填补她空闲的时间。
The word can also be used reflexively or with a sense of personal need:
他试图用工作来填补内心的空虚。
In more formal or written contexts, you might see it used in phrases like 填补市场空白 (tiánbǔ shìchǎng kòngbái) – to fill a market gap – or 填补财政赤字 (tiánbǔ cáizhèng chìzì) – to fill a fiscal deficit.
- Verb + Object
- The most common structure: 填补 + [what is being filled].
- Verb + Verb Phrase
- Used when an action fills time or a need: 填补 + [action/state].
- Common Nouns as Objects
- Objects often include: 空缺 (vacancy), 空白 (blank/void), 短缺 (shortage), 赤字 (deficit), 市场 (market), 时间 (time), 需求 (demand).
The word 填补 (tiánbǔ) is quite common and you'll encounter it in a variety of settings, reflecting its broad applicability. Its presence spans formal and informal discussions, though it leans towards more neutral or slightly formal registers.
News and Media: This is a prime location for 填补. News reports frequently discuss job vacancies, economic gaps, or shortages that need to be addressed. For instance, you might hear about the government's efforts to 填补 regional development disparities or a company's strategy to 填补 a niche in the market. Articles about social issues might also discuss how to 填补 educational gaps or provide services to underserved communities.
Business and Economics: In the corporate world, 填补 is indispensable. Discussions about recruitment, market analysis, and financial planning will often use it. A manager might say, "We need to 填补 the sales team's vacant positions," or an analyst might report on how a new product aims to 填补 a gap in consumer demand. Financial news will cover efforts to 填补 budget deficits or 填补 foreign exchange reserves.
Everyday Conversations: While perhaps less frequent in casual chat compared to more colloquial terms, 填补 can appear in discussions about personal schedules, hobbies, or emotional states. Someone might mention needing to 填补 their weekend with activities because they have nothing planned, or talk about how a new friendship helped 填补 a void in their social life. It's also used when discussing filling out forms or documents, as in 填补 a questionnaire.
Academic and Research: In academic papers, 填补 might be used to describe how research aims to 填补 existing knowledge gaps in a particular field or how new theories 填补 the shortcomings of previous ones.
政府计划通过投资来填补农村地区的教育空白。
- News Headlines
- Often used in headlines related to employment, economy, or social issues.
- Business Meetings
- Common in discussions about hiring, market opportunities, and financial management.
- Formal Speeches
- Used to convey the idea of completing or addressing deficiencies in a structured manner.
- Academic Papers
- Appears when discussing how research or theories address missing pieces of knowledge.
While 填补 (tiánbǔ) is a useful word, learners sometimes make mistakes in its application. These errors often stem from misunderstanding its nuances or confusing it with similar-sounding or conceptually related words.
Mistake 1: Overusing it for physical filling.
While 填补 can mean 'to fill up' physically, it's more commonly used for abstract gaps. Using it to describe filling a cup with water, for example, would be unnatural. For physical filling, words like 装满 (zhuāngmǎn) or 填充 (tiánchōng) are more appropriate.
Incorrect: 我用杯子填补水。
Correct: 我用杯子装满了水。
Mistake 2: Confusing it with 填写 (tiánxiě).
填写 (tiánxiě) specifically means 'to fill in' (as in a form, a blank space on paper, or a survey). While both involve 'filling,' 填补 is about filling a gap or deficiency, whereas 填写 is about completing a written entry.
Incorrect: 我需要填补这个表格。
Correct: 我需要填写这个表格。
Mistake 3: Using it for general 'adding' or 'inserting'.
填补 implies making something complete by addressing a lack. It's not simply adding an item to a list or inserting something into a space without a sense of deficiency. For instance, one would not say they 填补 a sentence with a word unless that word was specifically addressing a missing element or thought.
Incorrect: 他填补了一个词到句子中。
Correct: 他插入了一个词到句子中。
- Physical Filling
- Avoid using 填补 for simple physical filling. Use 装满 (zhuāngmǎn) or 填充 (tiánchōng) instead.
- Filling Forms
- For filling out documents, use 填写 (tiánxiě), not 填补.
- General 'Adding'
- 填补 implies rectifying a lack. For simple addition or insertion, use words like 加入 (jiārù) or 插入 (chārù).
While 填补 (tiánbǔ) is excellent for describing the act of filling a gap or deficiency, other words can convey similar or related meanings depending on the context.
- 填补 (tiánbǔ)
- Meaning: To fill a vacancy, a gap, a deficiency, or a void. It implies making something complete that was lacking.
- 填充 (tiánchōng)
- Meaning: To fill up, to stuff, to pack. This word often refers to filling a space with material, like stuffing a cushion or filling a container with something. It can also be used metaphorically for filling time or content, but generally has a more physical connotation than 填补.
- Example Comparison:
公司需要填补销售部门的空缺。
The company needs to fill the vacancy in the sales department. 他用旧衣服填充了沙发缝隙。
He used old clothes to stuff the gaps in the sofa.
- 填写 (tiánxiě)
- Meaning: To fill in (a form, a blank space, a survey). This is specifically about writing information into designated spaces.
- Example Comparison:
我需要填补市场空白。
I need to fill the market gap. 请填写您的姓名和地址。
Please fill in your name and address.
- 弥补 (wěibǔ)
- Meaning: To make up for, to compensate for, to offset. This word is about compensating for a loss, a mistake, or a deficiency, often with something else of value. It's more about making amends or balancing things out.
- Example Comparison:
他希望通过加班来填补他的工作失误。
He hopes to make up for his work mistakes by working overtime. 公司将提供额外津贴来弥补员工的交通不便。
The company will provide an extra allowance to compensate for the employees' transportation inconvenience.
- 补充 (bǔchōng)
- Meaning: To supplement, to add to, to replenish. This is about adding something to increase quantity, completeness, or strength. It's a more general 'adding' than 填补.
- Example Comparison:
我们需要填补产品线的空白。
We need to fill the gap in the product line. 多喝水可以补充身体流失的水分。
Drinking more water can replenish the body's lost fluids.
How Formal Is It?
Fun Fact
The character 填 (tián) in its oracle bone script form visually represents a person using their hands or tools to put something into a space, perhaps to build or seal. This ancient imagery connects directly to the core meaning of filling. The character 补 (bǔ) has evolved from depicting sewing, highlighting its function of repair and making whole. The combination in 填补 thus carries a sense of both filling an absence and rectifying a lack.
Pronunciation Guide
- Pronouncing 'tián' without aspiration, making it sound like 'dian'.
- Incorrectly applying tones, especially confusing the 3rd tone with other tones.
- Not differentiating the vowel sounds clearly.
- Pronouncing the 'u' in 'bǔ' as a clear 'oo' sound instead of the shorter, more central vowel.
- Forgetting the aspiration on the initial 't' in 'tián'.
Difficulty Rating
At CEFR B2, reading passages will frequently contain <strong class='text-violet-600 dark:text-violet-400'>填补</strong> in contexts related to business, economics, social issues, and personal development. Understanding its nuances and distinguishing it from synonyms is key.
B2 learners should be able to use <strong class='text-violet-600 dark:text-violet-400'>填补</strong> correctly in their writing, especially in essays discussing problems, solutions, or market opportunities. Accurate collocation with nouns like 'vacancy', 'gap', or 'shortage' is important.
Speaking at B2 level involves using <strong class='text-violet-600 dark:text-violet-400'>填补</strong> naturally in conversations about jobs, plans, or societal issues. Learners should be able to express the idea of completing something that is lacking.
In listening comprehension at B2, <strong class='text-violet-600 dark:text-violet-400'>填补</strong> will appear in news reports, business discussions, and lectures. Recognizing its meaning in context is crucial for understanding the overall message.
What to Learn Next
Prerequisites
Learn Next
Advanced
Grammar to Know
The use of potential complements with 填补 (e.g., 填补得了, 填补不了)
这个职位很难填补得了。 (This position is difficult to fill.)
Using 填补 with directional complements (less common but possible)
我们需要填补进去一些新的想法。 (We need to fill in some new ideas.)
Using 填补 with resultative complements (e.g., 填补好, 填补完)
请把表格填补好。 (Please fill the form properly.)
Using 填补 in passive constructions (though active is more common)
这个空缺被新来的员工填补了。 (This vacancy was filled by the new employee.)
Distinguishing 填补 from 填写 in sentence structure.
我需要填补市场空白，而不是填写问卷。
Examples by Level
请把杯子填满水。
Please fill the cup with water.
Here, 填满 is used, which is a common way to say 'fill up'. While 填补 is related, 填满 is more direct for physical filling at A1.
这个盒子是空的，需要填满。
This box is empty and needs to be filled.
Again, 填满 is used for physical filling. The concept of 'filling a deficiency' is too abstract for A1.
我填了我的名字。
I filled in my name.
Simple verb 'fill' is used. For forms, 填写 is more precise, but at A1, simpler verbs might appear.
箱子里装满了玩具。
The box is full of toys.
装满 means 'to be full of', emphasizing the state of being filled.
把沙子装进袋子里。
Put the sand into the bag.
装进 means 'to put into', a very basic action verb.
我的水杯满了。
My water cup is full.
满了 means 'is full', describing the state.
我放了书在桌子上。
I put books on the table.
放 means 'to put' or 'to place'.
这个袋子很大。
This bag is big.
Basic adjective describing size.
我周末有空，可以用看电影来填补时间。
I have free time on the weekend, I can fill the time by watching movies.
Here, 填补 is used for filling time, which is a common abstract use understandable at A2.
这个问卷需要填写。
This questionnaire needs to be filled in.
填写 is used for filling out forms/questionnaires.
新来的员工填补了去职员工的空缺。
The new employee filled the vacancy of the departed employee.
This sentence uses 填补 for a job vacancy. While abstract, the context of 'employee' and 'vacancy' makes it understandable.
他通过运动来补充体力。
He replenishes his energy through exercise.
补充 means 'to supplement' or 'replenish', different from 填补.
我们需要装满这个箱子。
We need to fill this box completely.
装满 for physical filling.
他写了他的名字在纸上。
He wrote his name on the paper.
写 means 'to write'.
我买了新的书。
I bought new books.
买 means 'to buy'.
这个房间很大。
This room is very big.
很大 means 'very big'.
公司正在努力填补这个管理层的空缺。
The company is working hard to fill this management vacancy.
A clear example of 填补 for a professional vacancy.
为了填补市场空白，他们推出了新产品。
To fill the market gap, they launched a new product.
Using 填补 for a market gap, common in business contexts.
她用阅读来填补她空闲的时间。
She fills her free time by reading.
Filling free time with an activity.
这篇论文的目的是填补现有研究的不足。
The purpose of this paper is to fill the shortcomings of existing research.
Academic context: filling research gaps.
我们需要弥补这次的损失。
We need to make up for this loss.
弥补 means 'to make up for' a loss.
请填写您的个人信息。
Please fill in your personal information.
填写 for personal information on a form.
我补充了一些细节到我的报告里。
I added some details to my report.
补充 means 'to add to' or 'supplement'.
这个城市正在发展。
This city is developing.
正在 indicates an ongoing action.
政府正在采取措施填补日益增长的劳动力短缺。
The government is taking measures to fill the growing labor shortage.
填补 used for a significant societal issue: labor shortage.
他试图用新的爱好来填补他生活中的空虚感。
He tries to fill the sense of emptiness in his life with new hobbies.
填补 used for emotional or existential emptiness.
这家初创公司希望填补现有教育技术市场的某个特定空白。
This startup company hopes to fill a specific gap in the existing educational technology market.
Sophisticated use in a business context: filling a niche market gap.
文化交流项目旨在填补不同国家人民之间的理解鸿沟。
Cultural exchange programs aim to bridge the gap in understanding between people of different countries.
填补 used metaphorically for bridging understanding gaps.
我们需要弥补因天气原因造成的延误。
We need to compensate for the delays caused by weather.
弥补 for compensating for a negative consequence.
请填写这份申请表，包括您的工作经历。
Please fill in this application form, including your work experience.
填写 in a formal application context.
他努力补充他知识上的不足。
He strives to supplement his knowledge deficiencies.
补充 for improving knowledge.
这个项目需要更多的资金。
This project needs more funding.
需要 means 'to need'.
为了应对人口老龄化带来的挑战，政府正积极填补养老服务领域的缺口。
To cope with the challenges brought by an aging population, the government is actively filling the gap in the elderly care service sector.
Complex societal issue: filling a gap in a specific service sector.
他的演讲未能填补听众心中对事件真相的疑虑。
His speech failed to fill the doubts in the audience's minds about the truth of the event.
填补 used for addressing doubts or uncertainties.
企业战略的成功在于能否有效填补供应链中的薄弱环节。
The success of a corporate strategy lies in its ability to effectively fill the weak links in the supply chain.
Business strategy context: filling weaknesses in a supply chain.
艺术家试图通过其作品填补现代社会中人与人之间的隔阂。
The artist attempts to fill the alienation between people in modern society through their work.
Artistic and social commentary: filling alienation.
尽管努力弥补，但这次失误造成的损害是难以挽回的。
Despite efforts to compensate, the damage caused by this mistake is difficult to reverse.
弥补 used to emphasize the difficulty of full compensation for damage.
请填写此表格并附上您的简历。
Please fill in this form and attach your resume.
填写 in a formal application process.
我们需要补充库存，以满足即将到来的节日需求。
We need to replenish our inventory to meet the upcoming holiday demand.
补充 for replenishing stock.
这项研究旨在探索新的治疗方法。
This research aims to explore new treatment methods.
旨在 means 'aims to'.
该政策旨在填补技术创新与产业应用之间的脱节，促进经济可持续发展。
This policy aims to bridge the disconnect between technological innovation and industrial application, promoting sustainable economic development.
Highly nuanced use: bridging a disconnect between two complex concepts.
历史学家认为，对这段时期的深入研究能够填补我们对古代社会理解的诸多空白。
Historians believe that in-depth research into this period can fill numerous gaps in our understanding of ancient society.
Filling 'gaps in understanding' of a historical period.
在人际关系中，有效的沟通能够填补误解所造成的隔阂。
In interpersonal relationships, effective communication can fill the chasm created by misunderstandings.
填补 for interpersonal gaps caused by misunderstanding.
艺术家用其独特的风格填补了艺术界长期存在的某种美学真空。
The artist filled a certain long-standing aesthetic vacuum in the art world with their unique style.
Filling an 'aesthetic vacuum' in an artistic context.
尽管付出了巨大努力弥补，但那场灾难的创伤对当地社区的影响依然深远。
Despite immense efforts to compensate, the trauma from that disaster continues to have a profound impact on the local community.
弥补 used to describe compensation for a profound and lasting impact.
请填写此表格，并确保所有信息准确无误。
Please fill in this form, and ensure all information is accurate.
填写 with an emphasis on accuracy.
我们需要补充我们的知识储备，以跟上快速变化的行业趋势。
We need to supplement our knowledge base to keep up with rapidly changing industry trends.
补充 for knowledge acquisition in a dynamic field.
这项研究意在揭示其背后的复杂机制。
This research is intended to reveal the complex mechanisms behind it.
意在 is a more formal synonym for 旨在.
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
— To fill a vacancy or a gap, especially in a job or a position.
公司正在积极填补这个重要的空缺，希望尽快找到合适的人选。
— To fill in a blank space, or metaphorically, to fill a gap in knowledge, opportunity, or market.
他们的创新产品成功地填补了市场上的一大空白。
— To make up for a shortage of something, such as labor, resources, or goods.
政府正在采取措施填补日益严重的人才短缺问题。
— To occupy or utilize one's free time with activities.
我喜欢在周末填补我的时间，学习新的技能。
— To enter a market with products or services to meet an unmet demand or fill a niche.
这家公司看到了一个机会，希望填补这个细分市场。
— A general term for filling any kind of gap, be it in a schedule, a budget, or a strategic plan.
我们需要找到方法来填补我们预算上的缺口。
— To alleviate feelings of emptiness, loneliness, or dissatisfaction.
他试图用音乐来填补他内心的空虚。
— To compensate for or make up for the shortcomings or weaknesses of something.
这次培训旨在填补员工在客户服务方面的不足。
— To satisfy or meet a particular need or demand.
这款新设备能够很好地填补用户对便携性的需求。
— To develop or bring services/opportunities to an area that lacks them.
政府正在努力填补偏远地区教育资源的空白。
Often Confused With
填补 is about filling a gap or deficiency, making something whole. 填写 is specifically about filling in forms, blanks, or surveys by writing information.
填补 usually refers to abstract gaps or vacancies. 填充 often implies physically filling a space or container with material.
填补 is about completing what is missing. 弥补 is about compensating for a loss, mistake, or deficiency, making amends.
Idioms & Expressions
— Literally 'fill pits and patch leaks'. It refers to fixing problems, solving issues, or dealing with difficulties, often in a reactive or remedial way.
在项目后期，我们总是忙于填坑补漏。
Colloquial— Literally 'duck-stuffing education'. This refers to a rote learning method where students are forced to memorize information without deep understanding, akin to stuffing a duck.
很多学生抱怨学校的填鸭式教育让他们失去了学习的兴趣。
Critical/Formal— To fill land with earth or soil to create new land, often for construction or expansion.
海边的填土造地工程正在如火如荼地进行。
Technical/Formal— To fill one's stomach; to eat one's fill. A very common and basic expression.
忙了一天，我只想赶紧填饱肚子。
Colloquial— Fill-in-the-blank questions. A common type of question in tests and exercises.
这次考试有很多填空题，需要仔细思考。
Educational— To fill a gap in historical knowledge or understanding through research or new discoveries.
这次考古发现极大地填补了我们对那个朝代的历史空白。
Academic— To introduce products or services to meet an unmet demand in the market.
这家公司敏锐地抓住了机会，成功填补了市场上的空白。
Business— To alleviate feelings of emotional emptiness or loneliness.
他通过培养爱好来填补自己情感上的空虚。
Psychological/Personal— To occupy or utilize one's free time with activities.
我喜欢在周末填补我的时间，学习新的技能。
Everyday— To fill a vacant job position.
公司正在紧急填补这个关键职位的空缺。
ProfessionalEasily Confused
Both involve the character <strong class='text-red-600 dark:text-red-400'>填</strong> (fill).
<strong class='text-violet-600 dark:text-violet-400'>填补</strong> is used for abstract gaps, vacancies, or shortages (e.g., filling a job, filling a market gap). <strong class='text-red-600 dark:text-red-400'>填写</strong> is specifically for writing information into forms, surveys, or blank spaces.
我需要<mark>填补</mark>这个职位空缺，而不是<mark>填写</mark>我的个人信息。
Both characters <strong class='text-red-600 dark:text-red-400'>填</strong> and <strong class='text-blue-600 dark:text-blue-400'>充</strong> (fill, abundant) relate to filling.
<strong class='text-violet-600 dark:text-violet-400'>填补</strong> is typically for abstract voids or vacancies. <strong class='text-red-600 dark:text-red-400'>填充</strong> often refers to physically filling something with material (like stuffing a cushion) or filling time/content, but with a more material connotation.
他用旧衣服<mark>填充</mark>了沙发缝隙，而公司正在<mark>填补</mark>市场上的空白。
Both deal with addressing deficiencies or making something whole.
<strong class='text-violet-600 dark:text-violet-400'>填补</strong> focuses on completing what is missing to make something whole. <strong class='text-red-600 dark:text-red-400'>弥补</strong> emphasizes compensating for a loss, mistake, or deficiency, often by providing something else of value or making amends.
他努力<mark>填补</mark>了他的工作失误，并通过<mark>弥补</mark>给客户带来了额外的服务。
Both relate to adding something to make something more complete.
<strong class='text-violet-600 dark:text-violet-400'>填补</strong> is about filling a specific void or vacancy. <strong class='text-red-600 dark:text-red-400'>补充</strong> means to supplement, add to, or replenish, usually to increase quantity or completeness.
我们需要<mark>填补</mark>这个项目的资金缺口，并<mark>补充</mark>一些必要的文件。
Both suggest making something full or substantial.
<strong class='text-violet-600 dark:text-violet-400'>填补</strong> is about filling a specific gap or vacancy. <strong class='text-red-600 dark:text-red-400'>充实</strong> means to enrich, make fuller, or more substantial, often referring to knowledge, life experience, or content.
他利用业余时间<mark>充实</mark>了自己的知识，并<mark>填补</mark>了工作中的一些技能空白。
Sentence Patterns
Subject + 填补 + Object (vacancy/gap/time)
我需要<mark>填补</mark>周六下午的<mark>时间</mark>。
Subject + 通过 + Verb Phrase + 来/以 + 填补 + Object
他<mark>通过</mark>学习新技能<mark>来</mark><mark>填补</mark>工作经验的<mark>不足</mark>。
Company/Organization + 正在/努力 + 填补 + Object (job vacancy/market gap)
公司<mark>正在</mark><mark>努力</mark><mark>填补</mark>这个关键<mark>职位</mark>的空缺。
Purpose is to + 填补 + Object (shortage/deficiency)
这项政策的目的是<mark>填补</mark>该地区<mark>劳动力</mark>的短缺。
Subject + 试图/尝试 + 用 + Noun + 来 + 填补 + Object (emptiness/void)
她<mark>试图</mark>用阅读<mark>来</mark><mark>填补</mark>她<mark>内心</mark>的<mark>空虚</mark>。
Subject + 旨在/致力于 + 填补 + Object (complex gap/disconnect)
该项目<mark>旨在</mark><mark>填补</mark>技术创新与市场应用之间的<mark>脱节</mark>。
Efforts to + 填补 + Object (shortcoming/gap)
他们正在努力<mark>填补</mark>现有研究中<mark>知识</mark>的<mark>空白</mark>。
Nuanced use of 填补 with abstract concepts (e.g., understanding, aesthetic vacuum)
艺术家用作品<mark>填补</mark>了人们<mark>理解</mark>上的<mark>隔阂</mark>。
Word Family
Nouns
Verbs
Related
How to Use It
High
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Using 填补 for simple physical filling.
→
Use 装满 (zhuāngmǎn) or 填充 (tiánchōng) for physical filling.
<strong class='text-violet-600 dark:text-violet-400'>填补</strong> is more for abstract gaps like jobs or markets. For example, you fill a cup with water using <strong class='text-red-600 dark:text-red-400'>装满</strong>, not <strong class='text-violet-600 dark:text-violet-400'>填补</strong>.
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Confusing 填补 (tiánbǔ) with 填写 (tiánxiě).
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Use 填补 for vacancies/gaps, 填写 for forms/blanks.
<strong class='text-violet-600 dark:text-violet-400'>填补</strong> means to fill a void or vacancy. <strong class='text-red-600 dark:text-red-400'>填写</strong> means to fill in information on a document. You <strong class='text-violet-600 dark:text-violet-400'>填补</strong> a job opening, but you <strong class='text-red-600 dark:text-red-400'>填写</strong> an application form.
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Using 填补 interchangeably with 弥补 (wěibǔ).
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填补 completes what's missing; 弥补 compensates for loss/mistakes.
<strong class='text-violet-600 dark:text-violet-400'>填补</strong> aims to make something whole by adding what's lacking. <strong class='text-red-600 dark:text-red-400'>弥补</strong> is about making up for a loss or negative consequence. You <strong class='text-violet-600 dark:text-violet-400'>填补</strong> a shortage, but you <strong class='text-red-600 dark:text-red-400'>弥补</strong> a financial loss.
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Incorrectly applying tones.
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Practice the tones: tián (3rd) bǔ (3rd).
The 3rd tone on both characters is crucial. In natural speech, two consecutive 3rd tones often change to a low falling-rising tone followed by a low falling tone. Ensure you practice both the written tones and the natural pronunciation.
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Using 填补 for simple addition.
→
Use 填补 only when there's a sense of filling a void or deficiency.
<strong class='text-violet-600 dark:text-violet-400'>填补</strong> implies rectifying a lack. For simple addition, use words like <strong class='text-red-600 dark:text-red-400'>加入 (jiārù)</strong> or <strong class='text-red-600 dark:text-red-400'>补充 (bǔchōng)</strong>. You don't <strong class='text-violet-600 dark:text-violet-400'>填补</strong> a list; you <strong class='text-red-600 dark:text-red-400'>加入</strong> items to it.
Tips
Focus on the 'Gap'
Remember that 填补 is fundamentally about addressing something that is missing, lacking, or empty. Always consider what is being filled – is it a vacancy, a market gap, free time, or an emotional void?
填补 vs. 填写
Crucially, distinguish 填补 (fill a gap/vacancy) from 填写 (fill in a form). One is about making whole, the other is about writing information.
Common Partners
Pay attention to the common nouns that pair with 填补, such as 空缺, 空白, and 短缺. Mastering these collocations will greatly improve your fluency.
Professional and Abstract Use
You'll most frequently encounter 填补 in professional contexts (jobs, markets) and when discussing abstract concepts (time, emotions, knowledge gaps). It's less common for simple physical filling.
Visual Association
Visualize someone named 'Tian Bu' diligently filling up a large, empty space, like a construction worker filling a hole or a painter filling a canvas. This visual can help anchor the meaning of 'filling a deficiency'.
Sentence Creation
Practice writing your own sentences using 填补 in different contexts: job vacancies, market opportunities, and filling free time. This active recall is key to retention.
Distinguishing from 弥补
Remember that while 填补 completes what's missing, 弥补 compensates for loss or mistakes. Think 'fill the gap' vs. 'make up for the damage'.
Tone Practice
Pay close attention to the tones of tián (3rd tone) bǔ (3rd tone). Practice saying them correctly, and be aware that the 3rd tone often becomes a low falling-rising tone in natural speech.
Completeness and Harmony
The concept of 填补 aligns with cultural values of completeness and restoring balance, whether in professional, social, or personal spheres.
Metaphorical Applications
Explore how 填补 can be used metaphorically for abstract concepts like bridging understanding gaps or filling aesthetic vacuums in art and literature.
Memorize It
Mnemonic
Imagine a construction worker named 'Tian' who is very good at 'filling' holes and 'patching' up weak spots on a building site. He uses his skills to 'fill' the gaps and 'patch' up the deficiencies, making the structure sound. So, 'Tian-bu' sounds like 'Tian' who 'fills' and 'patches'.
Visual Association
Picture a large, empty canvas (a gap) and a painter named 'Bu' who is diligently filling it with vibrant colors, making it complete. The name 'Tian Bu' sounds like 'Tian' (Heaven) and 'Bu' (Patch/Fill), suggesting filling the 'heavenly' or vast emptiness.
Word Web
Challenge
Try to use 填补 in three sentences describing different scenarios: one about a job, one about time, and one about a market gap. Focus on using it with appropriate objects.
Word Origin
The word 填补 is composed of two characters: 填 (tián) and 补 (bǔ). 填 originally depicted a person kneeling and filling a space with mud or earth. It carries the meaning of filling, stuffing, or plastering. 补, on the other hand, originally depicted a needle and thread mending a tear in fabric. It means to mend, repair, supplement, or make up for a deficiency. Together, 填补 combines the idea of filling a space or void with the concept of making something complete or adequate, addressing a lack.
Original meaning: To fill (a space) and mend (a deficiency).
Sino-TibetanCultural Context
The term 填补 itself is generally neutral. However, the context in which it is used can carry sensitivity. For instance, discussing 'filling emotional voids' (填补内心空虚) requires empathy and care. Similarly, discussing labor shortages (填补劳动力短缺) can touch upon economic and social policy issues.
In English, we use 'fill' in similar ways, such as 'fill a vacancy,' 'fill a gap in the market,' or 'fill a void.' The Chinese 填补 aligns closely with these abstract uses of 'fill' rather than just physical filling.
Practice in Real Life
Real-World Contexts
Job Recruitment
- 填补职位空缺
- 招聘填补空缺
- 紧急填补
- 尽快填补
Market Development
- 填补市场空白
- 填补市场需求
- 填补细分市场
- 填补现有空白
Time Management
- 填补时间
- 填补空闲时间
- 用...填补时间
- 填补无聊
Addressing Deficiencies
- 填补短缺
- 填补不足
- 填补缺口
- 填补知识空白
Emotional Well-being
- 填补空虚
- 填补内心的空白
- 填补孤独
- 用...填补
Conversation Starters
"What are some common ways companies try to fill vacant positions in China?"
"How do you typically fill your free time on weekends?"
"Can you think of a time when a new product filled a gap in the market?"
"What strategies can be used to fill a shortage of skilled workers?"
"How can one fill the feeling of emptiness or loneliness?"
Journal Prompts
Describe a time you had to fill a gap or vacancy in your schedule. What did you do?
Think about a market you are familiar with. What kind of gaps exist, and how could they be filled?
Reflect on your personal growth. What areas of knowledge or skill do you feel you need to fill?
How do you currently fill your time? Are there activities that bring you more fulfillment?
Consider a situation where you felt a void. What helped you to fill it or cope with it?
Frequently Asked Questions
10 questions填补 (tiánbǔ) is used when you are filling a gap, vacancy, or deficiency, essentially making something whole or complete. For example, filling a job opening or filling a market gap. 填写 (tiánxiě), on the other hand, is specifically used for filling in forms, surveys, or blank spaces by writing information into them. Think of it as 'filling in the blanks' on paper.
While 填补 can sometimes imply physical filling, it's more commonly used for abstract concepts like vacancies, gaps, or shortages. For simple physical filling, words like 装满 (zhuāngmǎn) (to fill up) or 填充 (tiánchōng) (to stuff, fill with material) are often more appropriate and natural.
Common nouns that follow 填补 include words indicating a lack or absence, such as: 空缺 (kòngquē) (vacancy), 空白 (kòngbái) (blank, void), 短缺 (duǎnquē) (shortage), 市场 (shìchǎng) (market, when referring to a gap), 时间 (shíjiān) (time), 需求 (xūqiú) (demand), and 空虚 (kōngxū) (emptiness).
填补 is generally considered neutral to slightly formal. It's commonly used in news reports, business discussions, and formal writing. While it can appear in everyday conversations, it's less casual than some other verbs. For very informal contexts, you might find alternatives depending on the specific meaning.
The key difference lies in their focus. 填补 is about completing what is missing to make something whole or adequate. 弥补 is about compensating for a loss, mistake, or deficiency, often implying making amends or rectifying a negative situation. For example, you 填补 a job vacancy, but you 弥补 a mistake with a promise or action.
A good mnemonic is to associate 'Tian Bu' with a person who 'fills' and 'patches' things up. Imagine 'Tian' filling a big bucket ('Bu' sounding like bucket) or patching up a hole. This helps remember the core idea of filling a void or deficiency.
Yes, for example, 填空题 (tiánkōngtí) refers to fill-in-the-blank questions. 填鸭式教育 (tiányāshì jiàoyù) refers to rote learning. The phrase 填坑补漏 (tiánkēng bǔlòu) means to fix problems or deal with difficulties.
You can use 填补 to describe efforts to alleviate feelings of emptiness, loneliness, or dissatisfaction. For instance, someone might try to 填补 their inner void with hobbies or relationships. The object would be 空虚 (kōngxū) (emptiness) or 孤独 (gūdú) (loneliness).
Yes, 填补 can be used metaphorically with abstract concepts. For example, '填补理解的鸿沟' (tiánbǔ lǐjiě de hónggōu) means 'to bridge the gap in understanding'. This usage is more common in formal or academic contexts.
The opposite depends on the context. If you fill a vacancy, the opposite is to leave it vacant (空出 kòngchū). If you fill a shortage, the opposite is scarcity (匮乏 kuìfá). If you fill in a blank, the opposite is to omit (遗漏 yílòu).
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Summary
填补 (tiánbǔ) is essential for discussing how to make something complete by addressing what is missing, whether it's a job opening, a market need, or even a personal void.
- 填补 (tiánbǔ) means to fill a gap, vacancy, or deficiency.
- Use it for jobs, markets, time, or emotional voids.
- Commonly pairs with words like 'vacancy' (空缺) or 'shortage' (短缺).
- Distinguish from 填写 (tiánxiě - fill in forms).
Focus on the 'Gap'
Remember that 填补 is fundamentally about addressing something that is missing, lacking, or empty. Always consider what is being filled – is it a vacancy, a market gap, free time, or an emotional void?
填补 vs. 填写
Crucially, distinguish 填补 (fill a gap/vacancy) from 填写 (fill in a form). One is about making whole, the other is about writing information.
Common Partners
Pay attention to the common nouns that pair with 填补, such as 空缺, 空白, and 短缺. Mastering these collocations will greatly improve your fluency.
Professional and Abstract Use
You'll most frequently encounter 填补 in professional contexts (jobs, markets) and when discussing abstract concepts (time, emotions, knowledge gaps). It's less common for simple physical filling.
Related Content
This Word in Other Languages
Related Grammar Rules
Related Phrases
More daily_life words
朝九晚五
B2From nine to five; regular working hours.
未免
B2Rather; a bit too; truly (implies something excessive).
废弃
B2To abandon; to discard; to cease to use.
恪守
B2To scrupulously observe; to strictly adhere to.
反常
B2abnormal, unusual
充裕
B2Abundant; ample.
充沛
B2Abundant; plentiful; full of energy.
门禁卡
B2Access card; entry card.
门禁
B2Access control (system).
配件
B2Fittings; accessories; spare parts.
