好事
好事 in 30 Seconds
- A positive event, action, or outcome.
- Covers kind deeds and happy occurrences.
- General term for something good.
- Used widely in everyday Chinese.
The Chinese word 好事 (hǎo shì) is a versatile term that can refer to a good deed, a good thing, or a happy event. It's a common and positive expression used in everyday conversation. Think of it as a general term for anything that is positive, beneficial, or brings happiness.
- Literal Meaning
- 好 (hǎo) means 'good', and 事 (shì) means 'matter', 'affair', or 'thing'. So, literally, it means 'good matter' or 'good thing'.
- Usage Contexts
- You'll hear 好事 used in various situations:
- When someone does a kind or helpful act: "He helped an old lady cross the street; that's a 好事."
- To describe a fortunate event: "Getting that promotion was a really 好事 for her."
- To refer to something positive happening in general: "It's a 好事 that the weather is nice today."
- As a general expression of approval for something good: "This new policy is a 好事 for the community."
他帮助了那位老人过马路,这是一件好事。
He helped the old lady cross the street; this is a good deed. 能找到这份工作,真是好事一件!
It's a great thing to find this job! The word 好事 is inherently positive and conveys a sense of good fortune, kindness, or beneficial outcomes. It's a fundamental term for expressing positive sentiments in Chinese.
Using 好事 correctly involves understanding its flexible application in various sentence structures. It can function as a noun phrase, often modified by adjectives or measure words, or as part of a larger statement about positive events or actions.
- As a Noun Phrase
- 好事 itself can act as the subject or object of a sentence. It is often preceded by measure words like '件' (jiàn) when referring to a specific incident or deed. For example, '一件好事' means 'a good deed' or 'a good thing'.
帮助有需要的人是好事。
- Describing Events
- It's commonly used to describe happy or fortunate events. You can say something 'is a 好事' or 'happened as a 好事'.
公司盈利增长是好事。
- Expressing Approval
- It can also be used as a general statement to express approval or positivity about a situation.
看到大家都在努力,真是好事。
Mastering these sentence patterns will allow you to incorporate 好事 naturally into your Chinese conversations.
The word 好事 is ubiquitous in everyday Chinese communication. You'll encounter it in a wide range of settings, reflecting its common and positive nature.
- Daily Conversations
- In casual chats with friends, family, or colleagues, 好事 is frequently used to comment on positive occurrences. For instance, if a friend shares some good news, you might respond by saying it's a 好事.
听到你找到新工作,真是好事!
- News and Media
- News reports often use 好事 to describe positive developments, such as economic growth, successful community projects, or advancements in science and technology.
新的环保政策的出台是一件好事。
- Public Announcements
- In public announcements, especially related to community events or positive initiatives, 好事 can be used to frame the message positively.
今天天气晴朗,非常适合户外活动,真是好事。
Its widespread use makes it a crucial word for understanding everyday Chinese discourse and expressing positive sentiments.
While 好事 is a straightforward word, learners might make a few common mistakes, often related to overgeneralization or incorrect grammatical placement. Understanding these pitfalls can help you use the word more accurately.
- Mistake 1: Confusing with Specific Actions
- 好事 is a general term. Learners might try to use it as a direct verb for 'doing good deeds' when a more specific verb like '做善事' (zuò shànshì - to do good deeds) is more appropriate. 好事 describes the outcome or nature of the action, not the action itself.
Incorrect: 他正在好事。(He is doing good deed.)
Correct: 他正在做善事。(He is doing good deeds.)
Correct: 他的行为是好事。(His behavior is a good deed.)
- Mistake 2: Overuse as a General Adjective
- While 好事 can imply 'good', it's not a direct substitute for the adjective '好' (hǎo) in all cases. Using 好事 where a simple 'good' is needed can sound unnatural.
Incorrect: 这个好事。(This good thing - when referring to a simple quality.)
Correct: 这个很好。(This is very good.)
Correct: 这是一个好事。(This is a good thing/happy event.)
- Mistake 3: Incorrect Measure Word Usage
- When referring to a specific good deed or event, the measure word '件' (jiàn) is most common. Using other measure words might sound odd or be grammatically incorrect.
Incorrect: 一个好事。(A good deed - without measure word or wrong measure word)
Correct: 一件好事。(A good deed/thing)
Paying attention to these nuances will help you communicate more naturally and accurately in Chinese.
While 好事 is a versatile term, other words and phrases can be used to convey similar meanings, often with slightly different nuances or in specific contexts. Understanding these alternatives enriches your vocabulary.
- 善事 (shàn shì)
- Meaning: Good deed, charitable act. This term specifically refers to acts of kindness, charity, or moral goodness. It's more formal and often implies a selfless act for the benefit of others.
- Comparison: While a '善事' is always a '好事', a '好事' is not always a '善事'. For example, getting a promotion is a '好事' but not necessarily a '善事'. Helping an elderly person is both a '好事' and a '善事'.
他乐于做善事。
- 吉事 (jí shì)
- Meaning: Auspicious event, good omen. This term is often used for significant happy events, especially those related to celebrations, good fortune, or positive signs. It carries a stronger sense of luck and auspiciousness.
- Comparison: A '吉事' is a type of '好事', but it emphasizes the auspiciousness and often celebratory nature of the event. '好事' is more general.
婚礼是吉事。
- 喜事 (xǐ shì)
- Meaning: Happy event, joyous occasion. This term is very similar to '好事' when referring to happy events, but it specifically highlights the element of joy and celebration. It's commonly used for personal milestones like weddings, births, or promotions.
- Comparison: '喜事' is a subset of '好事' that specifically denotes a joyous occasion. You can say a '喜事' is a '好事', but not all '好事' are necessarily '喜事' (e.g., a peaceful resolution to a conflict might be a '好事' but not a '喜事').
家里添丁是喜事。
- 好事连连 (hǎo shì lián lián)
- Meaning: May good things happen one after another; continuous good fortune. This is an idiomatic expression used as a blessing or wish for continuous good luck and positive events.
- Comparison: This is an idiom that uses '好事' to express a wish for ongoing good fortune, rather than referring to a single good deed or event.
祝你新的一年好事连连!
Using these alternatives appropriately will help you express yourself with greater precision and sophistication in Chinese.
How Formal Is It?
Fun Fact
The simplicity of '好事' is one of its strengths. Unlike more complex idioms or phrases, its meaning is immediately accessible from its constituent parts. This directness makes it a fundamental building block for expressing positive sentiment in Chinese.
Pronunciation Guide
- Pronouncing 'shì' as 'si' (like 'see') or 'shi' (like 'she'). The 'sh' sound is crucial.
- Not fully enunciating the 'ao' diphthong in 'hǎo'.
- Confusing the tones, especially the third tone on 'hǎo' and the fourth tone on 'shì'.
Difficulty Rating
This word is very common in written Chinese, appearing in news articles, literature, and everyday writing. Learners at the A2 CEFR level and above should be able to understand it in context.
Easy to use in basic sentences. More complex usage might require understanding of collocations and nuances, but its core meaning is straightforward for learners aiming for B1 and above.
Highly frequent in spoken Chinese. Easy to integrate into conversations once the basic meaning and common phrases are understood.
Very common in spoken Chinese, making it easy to recognize and understand in context, even for beginners.
What to Learn Next
Prerequisites
Learn Next
Advanced
Grammar to Know
Using Measure Words with Nouns
The measure word '件' (jiàn) is commonly used with '好事' when referring to a specific event or deed: '一件好事' (one good deed/thing).
Subject-Predicate Sentences
Many sentences use '好事' as the predicate: '帮助别人是好事' (Helping others is a good thing).
Using Adverbs for Emphasis
Adverbs like '真' (zhēn - truly) or '太' (tài - too/very) can be used to emphasize '好事': '真是好事!' (It's truly a good thing!)
Compound Words and Phrases
'好事' combines with other words to form related terms like '善事' (good deed) or idioms like '好事多磨' (good things take time).
Using '的' (de) to Modify Nouns
Adjectives or descriptive phrases can precede '好事' using '的': '一个值得庆祝的好事' (a good thing worth celebrating).
Examples by Level
这是好事。
This is a good thing.
Basic sentence structure: Subject + 是 + Noun.
帮助别人是好事。
Helping others is a good deed.
Gerund phrase as subject: Verb-ing + 是 + Noun.
今天天气好,是好事。
The weather is good today, it's a good thing.
Two clauses joined by a comma, implying causality.
找到工作是好事。
Finding a job is a good thing.
Verb phrase as subject.
这是件好事。
This is a good thing.
Using the measure word '件' (jiàn) for events/deeds.
他做了好事。
He did a good deed.
Verb + Object structure.
一件好事。
A good thing.
Measure word + Noun.
真是好事!
It's really a good thing!
Adverb + Noun.
他帮助了那位老人过马路,这是一件好事。
He helped the old lady cross the street; this is a good deed.
Using '这' (zhè - this) to refer to a preceding event, followed by '是' (shì - is) and '一件好事' (yī jiàn hǎo shì - a good deed).
能找到这份工作,真是好事一件!
It's a great thing to find this job!
'能' (néng - can/to be able to) + Verb Phrase + '是' + '好事一件' (hǎo shì yī jiàn - a good thing). The '一件' emphasizes the singular nature of the fortunate event.
看到大家都在努力,真是好事。
It's really good to see everyone working hard.
'看到' (kàn dào - to see) + Subject + Verb + '真是' (zhēn shì - truly/really) + '好事' (hǎo shì - good thing).
公司盈利增长是好事,但也要注意成本。
The company's profit growth is a good thing, but we also need to pay attention to costs.
Clause 1 + '是好事' (shì hǎo shì - is a good thing) + '但' (dàn - but) + Clause 2.
我们应该多做些好事。
We should do more good deeds.
'应该' (yīnggāi - should) + '多做' (duō zuò - do more) + '些好事' (xiē hǎo shì - some good deeds).
这是一个值得庆祝的好事。
This is a good thing worth celebrating.
'这' (zhè - this) + '是' (shì - is) + '一个' (yī gè - a) + '值得庆祝的' (zhí de qìngzhù de - worth celebrating) + '好事' (hǎo shì - good thing).
听说你通过了考试,真是好事!
Heard you passed the exam, that's great news!
'听说' (tīngshuō - heard that) + Subject + Verb + '真是' (zhēn shì - truly/really) + '好事' (hǎo shì - good thing).
把旧衣服捐给需要的人是好事。
Donating old clothes to those in need is a good deed.
Verb Phrase as Subject + '是' + '好事'.
他不仅乐于助人,还经常参与公益活动,真是一件大好事。
He not only enjoys helping others, but also often participates in public welfare activities; it's truly a great good deed.
'不仅...还...' (bùjǐn...hái... - not only...but also...) structure. '大好事' (dà hǎo shì - big good thing/major good deed) adds emphasis.
这次的合作成功,对双方来说都是一件互利互惠的好事。
The success of this collaboration is a mutually beneficial good thing for both parties.
Describing the nature of the '好事' using adjectives like '互利互惠的' (hù lì hù huì de - mutually beneficial).
虽然遇到了困难,但最终解决了问题,也算是一件好事。
Although difficulties were encountered, the problem was ultimately solved, which can also be considered a good thing.
'虽然...但...' (suīrán...dàn... - although...but...) structure. '也算' (yě suàn - can also be considered) softens the statement.
我们应该抓住这个机会,把它变成一件实实在在的好事。
We should seize this opportunity and turn it into a tangible good thing.
'抓住' (zhuāzhù - seize) and '变成' (biànchéng - turn into) are active verbs. '实实在在的' (shí zài shí zài de - tangible/real) modifies '好事'.
政府推出的这项新政策,旨在为市民带来更多的好事。
This new policy introduced by the government aims to bring more good things to the citizens.
'旨在' (zhǐ zài - aims to) introduces the purpose. '带来' (dài lái - bring).
能够在家乡找到满意的工作,对他而言是一件天大的好事。
Being able to find satisfactory work in his hometown is a huge good thing for him.
'对他而言' (duì tā ér yán - for him) specifies the perspective. '天大的好事' (tiān dà de hǎo shì - a huge good thing) is an idiom for something extremely fortunate.
每一次的成功都是前人努力积累的好事。
Every success is a good thing accumulated from the efforts of predecessors.
'每一次的成功' (měi yī cì de chénggōng - every success) as the subject. '前人努力积累的' (qián rén nǔlì jīlěi de - accumulated from the efforts of predecessors) acts as an attributive phrase.
这件事的处理结果,对我们来说无疑是一件好事。
The outcome of this matter is undoubtedly a good thing for us.
'处理结果' (chǔlǐ jiéguǒ - outcome of handling). '无疑' (wúyí - undoubtedly) adds certainty.
尽管过程充满挑战,但他最终克服了重重困难,实现目标,这无疑是一件令人欣慰的好事。
Although the process was full of challenges, he ultimately overcame numerous difficulties and achieved his goal; this is undoubtedly a gratifying good thing.
Complex sentence structure with '尽管...但...' (jǐnguǎn...dàn... - although...but...). '令人欣慰的' (lìng rén xīnwèi de - gratifying) modifies '好事'.
这次国际交流活动不仅增进了各国人民之间的了解,还促进了文化传播,堪称一件意义深远的好事。
This international exchange activity not only enhanced understanding among people of various countries but also promoted cultural dissemination, which can be called a profoundly significant good thing.
'不仅...还...' (bùjǐn...hái...) structure. '堪称' (kān chēng - can be called/regarded as). '意义深远' (yìyì shēnyuǎn - profoundly significant).
科学家们在新能源领域的研究取得突破性进展,这为解决全球能源危机带来了希望,是一件值得举国欢庆的好事。
Scientists have made breakthrough progress in the research of new energy fields, bringing hope for solving the global energy crisis; this is a good thing worth celebrating nationwide.
Longer descriptive clauses. '突破性进展' (tūpò xìng jìnzhǎn - breakthrough progress). '举国欢庆' (jǔ guó huānqìng - celebrated nationwide).
社会各界纷纷响应环保倡议,积极参与植树造林活动,这是一种集体向善的体现,也是一件功在当代、利在千秋的好事。
All sectors of society have responded to the environmental protection initiative and actively participated in tree-planting activities; this is a manifestation of collective goodness and a good thing that benefits the present generation and future generations.
'社会各界' (shèhuì gèjiè - all sectors of society). '功在当代、利在千秋' (gōng zài dāngdài, lì zài qiānqiū - benefits the present and future generations).
他将毕生积蓄捐赠给慈善机构,用于帮助贫困儿童接受教育,这无疑是他人生中最具价值的一件好事。
He donated his life savings to a charity organization to help impoverished children receive education; this is undoubtedly the most valuable good deed of his life.
'毕生积蓄' (bìshēng jīxù - life savings). '最具价值的' (zuì jù jiàzhí de - most valuable).
通过引入先进的管理理念和技术,这家濒临破产的企业起死回生,这对于当地经济发展来说无疑是一件天大的好事。
By introducing advanced management concepts and technology, this near-bankrupt enterprise has been revived; this is undoubtedly a huge good thing for local economic development.
'濒临破产' (bīnlín pòchǎn - on the verge of bankruptcy). '起死回生' (qǐ sǐ huíshēng - to come back to life, revived).
两国元首在峰会上就关键问题达成一致,为地区和平稳定奠定了基础,这被视为一项具有里程碑意义的好事。
The heads of state of the two countries reached consensus on key issues at the summit, laying the foundation for regional peace and stability; this is regarded as a landmark good thing.
'两国元首' (liǎng guó yuánshǒu - heads of state of two countries). '达成一致' (dáchéng yīzhì - reach consensus). '里程碑意义' (lǐchéngbēi yìyì - landmark significance).
随着科技的飞速发展,人工智能在医疗领域的应用日益广泛,有望为人类健康带来前所未有的好事。
With the rapid development of technology, the application of artificial intelligence in the medical field is becoming increasingly widespread, promising unprecedented good things for human health.
'日益广泛' (rìyì guǎngfàn - increasingly widespread). '有望' (yǒuwàng - is expected to/promises). '前所未有' (qián suǒ wèi yǒu - unprecedented).
在全球化日益加深的背景下,跨文化理解与合作的深化,无疑是人类文明进步的一大好事,它有助于消弭隔阂,促进共同繁荣。
Against the backdrop of deepening globalization, the deepening of cross-cultural understanding and cooperation is undoubtedly a major good thing for the progress of human civilization, helping to eliminate divisions and promote common prosperity.
Complex sentence with abstract concepts. '背景下' (bèijǐng xià - against the backdrop). '消弭隔阂' (xiāomǐ géhé - eliminate divisions/barriers). '共同繁荣' (gòngtóng fánróng - common prosperity).
此次科学研究的重大突破,不仅解决了长期困扰学界的难题,更为相关产业的发展开辟了新的道路,堪称一项具有划时代意义的好事。
The major breakthrough in this scientific research has not only solved a problem that has long troubled the academic community but also opened up new avenues for the development of related industries, which can be called a good thing of epoch-making significance.
'重大突破' (zhòngdà tūpò - major breakthrough). '划时代意义' (huà shídài yìyì - epoch-making significance).
政府致力于推动绿色经济发展,鼓励企业进行技术创新和产业升级,旨在实现可持续发展目标,这无疑是一项惠及子孙后代的好事。
The government is committed to promoting the development of the green economy, encouraging enterprises to innovate technologically and upgrade their industries, aiming to achieve sustainable development goals; this is undoubtedly a good thing that benefits future generations.
'致力于' (zhìlì yú - committed to). '可持续发展' (kěchíxù fāzhǎn - sustainable development). '惠及子孙后代' (huì jí zǐsūn hòudài - benefits descendants).
在信息爆炸的时代,能够辨别真伪信息,保持独立思考能力,这本身就是一种宝贵的能力,也是一种难得的好事。
In the era of information explosion, being able to discern true from false information and maintain independent thinking is itself a precious ability and a rare good thing.
'信息爆炸' (xìnxī bàozhà - information explosion). '辨别真伪' (biànbié zhēnwěi - discern true from false). '独立思考能力' (dúlì sīkǎo nénglì - ability for independent thinking).
他将自己多年的研究成果无私地分享给同行,促进了整个领域的进步,这是一种大爱无疆的体现,也是一件功德无量的善事。
He selflessly shared his research findings of many years with his peers, promoting the progress of the entire field; this is a manifestation of boundless love and a good deed of immeasurable merit.
'研究成果' (yánjiū chéngguǒ - research findings). '无私地分享' (wúsī de fēnxiǎng - selflessly share). '功德无量' (gōngdé wúliàng - immeasurable merit).
随着人工智能技术的不断成熟,它在艺术创作领域的应用也日益广泛,为人类的想象力插上了翅膀,这预示着文化艺术发展的新篇章,无疑是一件令人振奋的好事。
With the continuous maturity of artificial intelligence technology, its application in the field of artistic creation is also becoming increasingly widespread, giving wings to human imagination; this heralds a new chapter in the development of culture and art, undoubtedly a thrilling good thing.
'人工智能技术' (réngōng zhìnéng jìshù - AI technology). '插上了翅膀' (chā shàng le chìbǎng - gave wings to). '振奋' (zhènfèn - thrilling/inspiring).
在这个充满不确定性的时代,保持乐观积极的心态,并付诸实践,这本身就是一种强大的力量,也是一种难得的好事。
In this era full of uncertainty, maintaining an optimistic and positive mindset and putting it into practice is itself a powerful force and a rare good thing.
'充满不确定性' (chōngmǎn bù quèdìng xìng - full of uncertainty). '付诸实践' (fùzhū shíjiàn - put into practice).
各国加强在气候变化问题上的合作,共同应对全球性挑战,这不仅是负责任的表现,更是为人类共同未来奠定基石的一件大事,也是一件好事。
Countries are strengthening cooperation on climate change issues and jointly responding to global challenges; this is not only a responsible act but also a major event and a good thing that lays the cornerstone for the common future of humanity.
'气候变化' (qìhòu biànhuà - climate change). '全球性挑战' (quánqiú xìng tiǎozhàn - global challenges). '奠定基石' (diàndìng jīshí - lay the cornerstone).
在全球性挑战日益严峻的当下,国际社会能够凝聚共识,协同行动,共同应对气候变化、公共卫生危机等复杂议题,这无疑是人类命运共同体理念的一次生动实践,也是一项具有深远历史意义的好事。
In the current era of increasingly severe global challenges, the ability of the international community to build consensus, coordinate actions, and jointly address complex issues such as climate change and public health crises is undoubtedly a vivid practice of the concept of a community with a shared future for mankind, and also a good thing of profound historical significance.
Highly abstract and complex vocabulary. '严峻' (yánjùn - severe). '凝聚共识' (níngjù gòngshí - build consensus). '协同行动' (xiétóng xíngdòng - coordinate actions). '人类命运共同体' (rénlèi mìngyùn gòngtóngtǐ - community with a shared future for mankind).
科技的飞速发展,特别是人工智能和生物技术的交叉融合,为解决人类面临的诸多难题提供了前所未有的机遇,尽管伴随着伦理和社会挑战,但其潜在的正面效益,足以使其成为一项值得期待的划时代好事。
The rapid development of technology, especially the cross-integration of artificial intelligence and biotechnology, provides unprecedented opportunities to solve many problems facing humanity. Although accompanied by ethical and social challenges, its potential positive benefits are enough to make it a highly anticipated, epoch-making good thing.
Sophisticated terminology. '交叉融合' (jiāochā rónghé - cross-integration). '伦理和社会挑战' (lúnlǐ hé shèhuì tiǎozhàn - ethical and social challenges). '潜在的正面效益' (qiánzài de zhèngmiàn xiàoyì - potential positive benefits).
在一个日益多元化和信息化的社会中,个体能够保持批判性思维,不随波逐流,并积极承担社会责任,这不仅是对自我价值的实现,更是对社会整体进步的贡献,是一种难能可贵的好事。
In an increasingly diverse and information-driven society, individuals who can maintain critical thinking, not follow the crowd, and actively take social responsibility are not only realizing their self-worth but also contributing to the overall progress of society, which is a rare and valuable good thing.
'日益多元化和信息化' (rìyì duōyuánhuà hé xìnxī huà - increasingly diverse and information-driven). '不随波逐流' (bù suí bō zhú liú - not follow the crowd/trend). '难能可贵' (nánnéng kěguì - rare and valuable).
历经长期的谈判与博弈,各国终于就一项具有约束力的气候协定达成共识,这标志着全球在应对气候变化这一生存性挑战上迈出了关键性一步,无疑是人类文明史上的重要好事。
After long-term negotiations and strategic maneuvering, countries have finally reached a consensus on a binding climate agreement, marking a crucial step for the world in addressing the existential challenge of climate change; this is undoubtedly an important good thing in the history of human civilization.
'历经' (lìjīng - having experienced). '博弈' (bóyì - strategic maneuvering/game theory). '具有约束力的' (jùyǒu shùyǔ lì de - binding). '生存性挑战' (shēngcún xìng tiǎozhàn - existential challenge).
当个体能够超越狭隘的私利,将个人发展与社会福祉紧密结合,主动承担起推动社会进步的责任时,这不仅是对个人品德的升华,更是对集体向善力量的汇聚,是一种具有深远意义的善举,亦可称之为好事。
When individuals can transcend narrow self-interest, closely integrate personal development with social well-being, and proactively take on the responsibility of promoting social progress, this is not only an sublimation of personal virtue but also a convergence of collective forces for good; it is a good deed of profound significance, and can also be called a good thing.
Abstract philosophical concepts. '超越狭隘的私利' (chāoyuè xiá'ài de sīlì - transcend narrow self-interest). '社会福祉' (shèhuì fúzhǐ - social well-being). '升华' (shēnghuá - sublimation). '亦可称之为' (yì kě chēng zhī wèi - can also be called).
在历史长河中,每一次重大科技革新,如蒸汽机的发明、电力的普及、互联网的诞生,都极大地改变了人类的生活方式和社会结构,为文明的演进注入了强大的动力,这些无疑都是具有里程碑意义的重大好事。
In the long river of history, every major technological innovation, such as the invention of the steam engine, the popularization of electricity, and the birth of the internet, has greatly changed the way of life and social structure of humanity, injecting strong momentum into the evolution of civilization; these are undoubtedly major good things of landmark significance.
Historical perspective. '历史长河' (lìshǐ chánghé - long river of history). '文明的演进' (wénmíng de yǎnjìn - evolution of civilization).
面对日益复杂的全球性挑战,唯有通过加强国际合作,秉持多边主义原则,各国才能有效应对共同威胁,实现可持续发展,这不仅是负责任大国的担当,更是人类共同体建设的必然要求,是一件关乎全人类福祉的头等大事,也是一件幸事。
Facing increasingly complex global challenges, only by strengthening international cooperation and upholding the principles of multilateralism can countries effectively respond to common threats and achieve sustainable development. This is not only the responsibility of major responsible powers but also a necessary requirement for building a community of shared future for mankind, an paramount issue concerning the well-being of all humanity, and also a piece of good fortune.
Highly formal and politically charged language. '日益复杂' (rìyì fùzá - increasingly complex). '秉持多边主义原则' (bǐngchí duōbiān zhǔyì yuánzé - uphold the principles of multilateralism). '头等大事' (tóuděng dàshì - paramount issue).
当社会能够为个体提供充分的自由发展空间,鼓励创新,尊重多元,并建立健全的保障体系时,这不仅能激发个体的潜能,更能促进社会的整体活力和创造力,无疑是一件推动文明进步的伟大好事。
When society can provide ample space for individual freedom and development, encourage innovation, respect diversity, and establish a sound social security system, this can not only unleash individual potential but also promote the overall vitality and creativity of society, undoubtedly a great good thing that drives the progress of civilization.
Sociological and political concepts. '自由发展空间' (zìyóu fāzhǎn kōngjiān - space for free development). '健全的保障体系' (jiànquán de bǎozhàng tǐxì - sound social security system). '促进社会的整体活力和创造力' (cùjìn shèhuì de zhěngtǐ huólì hé chuàngzàolì - promote the overall vitality and creativity of society).
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
— A good deed; a good thing.
他帮助了迷路的小孩,这是一件好事。
— To do a good deed; to do something good.
我们应该经常做一件好事来帮助他人。
— It's truly a good thing; great news.
听到你顺利毕业,真是好事!
— A big good thing; a major positive event.
公司成功上市,这是公司的大好事。
— Good things come to those who wait; good things often face obstacles.
虽然过程很辛苦,但结果是好的,毕竟好事多磨。
— Good deeds go unnoticed, while bad deeds spread far and wide.
他默默做了很多好事,但大家只知道他的一个失误,真是好事不出门,坏事传千里。
— An extremely fortunate event; a stroke of great luck.
能遇到你这样的朋友,对我来说是天大的好事。
— Good things come in pairs; double happiness.
他不仅找到了工作,还遇到了心仪的对象,真是好事成双!
— Good things and bad things; all sorts of events.
人生中总会遇到好事坏事,关键是看你怎么面对。
— Accumulate virtue and do good deeds, and good things will surely follow.
老一辈人常说:积德行善,必有好事。
Often Confused With
'好事' is a general term for any good thing or deed, while '善事' specifically refers to moral or charitable acts, often implying altruism.
'坏事' is the direct antonym, meaning 'bad deed' or 'bad thing'. It refers to negative actions or events.
'事情' is a general word for 'matter', 'affair', or 'thing', which can be neutral, good, or bad. '好事' is specifically a positive '事情'.
Idioms & Expressions
— Good things often face obstacles; good things come to those who wait. It implies that achieving something positive might involve difficulties or delays.
虽然找工作过程很艰难,但他相信好事多磨,最终会找到理想的职位。
Common, slightly philosophical— Good deeds go unnoticed, while bad deeds spread far and wide. This proverb highlights the tendency for negative news to travel faster and further than positive news.
他默默地捐助了学校,但一次小小的失误却被传得沸沸扬扬,真是好事不出门,坏事传千里。
Proverbial, reflects social observation— An extremely fortunate event; a stroke of great luck. It's an informal and emphatic way to describe something exceptionally good.
能得到这么重要的奖项,对他来说简直是天大的好事!
Informal, emphatic— Good things come in pairs; double happiness. Used to express that two positive events have occurred in succession or simultaneously.
她不仅事业有成,还找到了真爱,真是好事成双啊!
Common, celebratory— Good things and bad things; all sorts of events. Used to refer to the unpredictable mix of positive and negative occurrences in life.
人生就像一盒巧克力,你永远不知道下一颗是什么味道,有好事也有坏事。
General, reflective— A busybody; someone who meddles in others' affairs, often seeking gossip or trouble. It's a negative term, referring to someone who creates or spreads 'bad things' or stirs up trouble.
别理那些好事者,他们总是喜欢搬弄是非。
Negative, informal— A shortened, more colloquial version of '好事多磨', still implying that good things might take time or face challenges.
别着急,慢慢来,好事多。
Informal, colloquial— To always do good things; to be habitually virtuous. Emphasizes a consistent pattern of positive actions.
他一生好事总办,深受大家的尊敬。
Formal, emphasizing virtue— Good fortune is about to arrive; good things are coming. A positive omen or expectation.
过年期间,家家户户都希望能好事临门。
Traditional, auspicious— Good deeds and virtuous acts. A more formal and slightly redundant phrase emphasizing virtuous actions.
他一生致力于好事善事,为社会做出了巨大贡献。
Formal, emphasizing virtueEasily Confused
Both '好事' and '善事' refer to positive actions or events.
'好事' is a broader term that can encompass any positive occurrence, including fortunate events or simply pleasant circumstances. '善事', on the other hand, specifically denotes a morally good deed, often an act of charity or kindness. While all '善事' are '好事', not all '好事' are '善事'. For example, winning the lottery is a '好事' but not necessarily a '善事'. Helping an elderly person cross the street is both a '好事' and a '善事'.
他做了很多好事,帮助了很多人。(He did many good deeds, helping many people.) - Here '好事' could refer to general good actions or specific charitable acts. 他做了很多善事,比如捐款给孤儿院。(He did many charitable deeds, such as donating to orphanages.) - Here '善事' is more specific to charitable acts.
'好事' and '坏事' are direct opposites in meaning and structure.
'好事' refers to a good deed, a good thing, or a happy event. It carries a positive connotation. '坏事' refers to a bad deed, a bad thing, or an unfortunate event. It carries a negative connotation. They are antonyms and are often used in contrast to each other to describe the spectrum of events in life.
人生总有好有坏。(Life always has good and bad things.) - This sentence contrasts the two. 他做了好事,受到表扬;他做了坏事,受到惩罚。(He did a good deed and was praised; he did a bad deed and was punished.)
'好事' is a type of '事情'.
'事情' is a very general term for 'matter', 'affair', 'business', or 'thing'. It can be neutral, positive, or negative. '好事' is specifically a positive '事情' – a good thing, a good deed, or a happy event. You can say '这件事是好事' (This matter is a good thing), but you wouldn't say '这件事是坏事' unless you meant it was a bad thing.
今天有很多事情要做。(There are many things to do today.) - '事情' is neutral. 这件事对我们来说是一件好事。(This matter is a good thing for us.) - Here '好事' specifies the positive nature of the '事情'.
These terms are also used to describe positive events.
'好事' is the most general term for a good thing or deed. '吉事' specifically refers to an auspicious event, often associated with good fortune or luck, and is more formal. '喜事' refers to a happy event or joyous occasion, emphasizing the element of joy and celebration, commonly used for personal milestones like weddings or births. While '吉事' and '喜事' are types of '好事', '好事' can also refer to simple acts of kindness or everyday positive occurrences that might not be strictly 'auspicious' or 'joyous'.
婚礼是一件喜事,也是一件好事。(A wedding is a happy occasion, and also a good thing.) 抽中头奖是天大的好事,也是一件吉事。(Winning the grand prize is a huge stroke of luck, and also an auspicious event.)
Both terms describe something positive.
'好事' is a general term for a good thing or deed. '美事' means a 'pleasant thing' or 'good affair', often implying something more aesthetically pleasing, enjoyable, or desirable. It has a nuance of pleasantness or delight. For example, '能和你一起工作是件美事' (Being able to work with you is a pleasant thing) focuses on the enjoyable aspect. While it's also a '好事', '美事' highlights the pleasantness.
能在这风景优美的地方生活,真是一件美事。(Being able to live in this scenic place is truly a pleasant thing.) - '美事' emphasizes the pleasantness of the location. 他帮助了很多人,这是一件好事。(He helped many people; this is a good deed.) - '好事' focuses on the virtuous action.
Sentence Patterns
这是好事。
这是好事。
Subject + 是 + 好事。
帮助别人是好事。
Subject + Verb + 了 + Object + ,+ 这是一件好事。
他捡到了钱包,这是一件好事。
能 + Verb Phrase + ,+ 真是好事。
能和你做朋友,真是好事。
Subject + 应该 + 多做 + 些好事。
我们应该多做些好事。
Subject + 是一件 + [Adjective] + 的好事。
这次考试通过是一件令人高兴的好事。
尽管 + Clause 1 + ,+ 但 + Clause 2 + ,+ 也算是一件好事。
虽然过程很曲折,但结果是好的,也算是一件好事。
Subject + 旨在 + Verb Phrase + ,+ 为 + Object + 带来 + 更多的好事。
公司的新计划旨在提高员工福利,为员工带来更多的好事。
Word Family
Nouns
Related
How to Use It
Very High
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Using 好事 as a verb
→
做一件好事 (zuò yī jiàn hǎo shì)
'好事' is a noun. You need a verb like '做' (zuò - to do) to express the action of performing a good deed. Saying '我好事了' (I good-thing-ed) is incorrect.
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Confusing with 坏事 (huài shì)
→
This is a direct antonym, so the mistake is in meaning.
Learners might mistakenly use '好事' when describing a negative event or action, or vice-versa. Always ensure the context is positive for '好事'.
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Incorrect measure word
→
一件好事 (yī jiàn hǎo shì)
When referring to a specific good deed or event, the measure word '件' (jiàn) is standard. Using other measure words might sound unnatural or be grammatically incorrect.
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Using 好事 as a general adjective
→
这个很好 (zhège hěn hǎo)
'好事' means 'a good thing' or 'a good deed'. It's not a direct replacement for the adjective '好' (hǎo - good). You wouldn't say '这是一个好事东西' (This is a good-thing thing); you'd say '这是一个好东西' (This is a good thing/product).
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Overusing it in formal writing
→
Depending on context, use 善事 (shàn shì), 喜事 (xǐ shì), or more descriptive terms.
While '好事' is common, in highly formal or literary contexts, more specific terms like '善事' (charitable deed) or phrases describing the positive impact might be more appropriate.
Tips
Connect to 'How She'
Remember '好事' by associating 'hǎo' with 'how' and 'shì' with 'she'. Imagine 'How she did a good deed!' This mnemonic can help recall the meaning of a good action or event.
Mind the Tones
Pay attention to the tones: 'hǎo' is 3rd tone (falling-rising) and 'shì' is 4th tone (falling). Correct tones are crucial for clear communication in Mandarin.
Distinguish from 善事
Remember that '好事' is general, while '善事' is specific to moral or charitable deeds. Use '好事' for everyday positive things and '善事' for more virtuous acts.
Use in Sentences
Actively try to incorporate '好事' into your own sentences. Describe a good thing that happened today, or a kind act you witnessed. Practice makes perfect!
Value of Good Deeds
Understand that in Chinese culture, performing '好事' is valued for its contribution to social harmony and personal virtue. It's more than just a positive event; it often carries a moral weight.
Expand Your Vocabulary
Learn related terms like '喜事' (happy event) and '吉事' (auspicious event) to express nuances of positive occurrences more precisely.
Measure Words Matter
When referring to a specific good deed or event, use the measure word '件' (jiàn), as in '一件好事'.
Idiomatic Expressions
Familiarize yourself with idioms like '好事多磨' (good things take time) and '好事不出门,坏事传千里' (bad news travels fast) to understand deeper cultural contexts.
Listen for Frequency
You'll hear '好事' very often in daily conversations, news, and media. Paying attention to how native speakers use it in different situations will greatly improve your understanding.
Memorize It
Mnemonic
Think of 'hao' sounding like 'how' and 'shi' sounding like 'she'. So, 'How she did a good deed!' or 'How she caused a good thing!' This helps associate the sound with the meaning of a good action or event.
Visual Association
Imagine a halo (sounds like 'hao') above a person performing a kind act, or a shining star (representing a good thing) above a happy scene. The 'shi' can be visualized as a 'sheet' of good news.
Word Web
Challenge
Try to describe three good things that happened to you this week using the word '好事'. For example, '我今天收到了一份礼物,这是一件好事。' (I received a gift today, this is a good thing.)
Word Origin
The term '好事' is a straightforward combination of two common Chinese characters. '好' (hǎo) meaning 'good' and '事' (shì) meaning 'matter' or 'thing'. Its origin is directly linked to the literal meaning of its components, reflecting a direct and functional approach to word formation in Chinese.
Original meaning: Literally 'good matter' or 'good thing'.
Sino-TibetanCultural Context
The term '好事' is inherently positive and generally free from cultural sensitivities. It's a universally understood concept of goodness and positive events.
In English-speaking cultures, similar concepts exist like 'good deed', 'kindness', 'fortunate event', or 'stroke of luck'. The Chinese '好事' is a broad term encompassing these, often used more casually than some of the more formal English equivalents.
Practice in Real Life
Real-World Contexts
Talking about helping others.
- 帮助别人是好事。
- 他做了一件好事。
- 我们应该多做些好事。
Sharing good news or positive events.
- 听到这个消息,真是好事!
- 这是个大好事。
- 能遇到你真是我的幸事。
Describing positive developments or outcomes.
- 公司盈利增长是好事。
- 这次合作是双方的好事。
- 新政策带来了很多好事。
Expressing wishes or blessings.
- 祝你好事连连!
- 愿你万事如意,好事成双!
Reflecting on life's experiences.
- 人生难免有好有坏。
- 好事多磨,坚持下去。
- 经历过困难,才更珍惜好事。
Conversation Starters
"What's the best thing that happened to you this week? Was it a '好事'?"
"Can you think of a time someone did a '好事' for you?"
"What kind of '好事' do you think is most important in society?"
"If you could do one '好事' today, what would it be?"
"Do you believe in '好事多磨'? Tell me about a time when something good took a while to happen."
Journal Prompts
Describe a '好事' you witnessed recently. Who was involved, and what happened?
Reflect on a time you performed a '好事'. How did it make you feel?
What are your goals for doing more '好事' in the future? Be specific.
Consider a '喜事' (happy event) in your life or someone you know. How did it feel?
Think about the proverb '好事不出门,坏事传千里'. Do you agree? Give an example from your experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
10 questionsThe literal translation of 好事 (hǎo shì) is 'good matter' or 'good thing'. '好' (hǎo) means 'good', and '事' (shì) means 'matter', 'affair', or 'thing'.
Yes, 好事 is versatile. It can refer to a 'good deed' (an action) or a 'happy event' (an occurrence). For example, helping someone is a 'good deed', and getting a promotion is a 'happy event'.
'好事' is a general term for any good thing or fortunate event. '善事' specifically refers to a morally good deed or charitable act, often implying a selfless act for the benefit of others. All '善事' are '好事', but not all '好事' are '善事'.
Yes, when referring to a fortunate event, '好事' can imply luck. For extremely lucky or auspicious events, you might also use terms like '吉事' (jí shì) or '喜事' (xǐ shì), but '好事' is perfectly acceptable for general good fortune.
You can say '一件好事' (yī jiàn hǎo shì) for a general good deed, or more specifically '一件善事' (yī jiàn shàn shì) for a charitable or morally virtuous deed.
好事 is used in both formal and informal contexts. It's a very common word. However, for highly formal or specific situations, terms like '善事' (shàn shì) or '吉事' (jí shì) might be preferred.
'好事' is generally not pluralized in the same way English nouns are. When referring to multiple good things or deeds, you would typically use quantity words or context, such as '很多好事' (many good things) or '几件好事' (a few good deeds).
No, 好事 is primarily a noun. While it implies 'goodness', it's not used directly as an adjective like '好' (hǎo). You would say something 'is a good thing' (是好事) rather than 'it is good-thing'.
Common phrases include '一件好事' (a good thing), '做一件好事' (to do a good deed), '真是好事' (truly a good thing), and idioms like '好事多磨' (good things take time).
'事情' is a general term for any matter or event, neutral in tone. '好事' is specifically a positive '事情', meaning a good thing or a happy event. You'd use '事情' for any event, but '好事' only for positive ones.
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Summary
好事 (hǎo shì) is a fundamental Chinese term for 'good deed', 'good thing', or 'happy event'. It's used broadly to describe kind actions, fortunate circumstances, or anything positive that happens, making it essential for everyday communication.
- A positive event, action, or outcome.
- Covers kind deeds and happy occurrences.
- General term for something good.
- Used widely in everyday Chinese.
Context is Key
While '好事' is versatile, always consider the context. Is it a kind action someone took ('good deed') or a fortunate event that happened ('happy event')? This understanding will help you use it accurately.
Connect to 'How She'
Remember '好事' by associating 'hǎo' with 'how' and 'shì' with 'she'. Imagine 'How she did a good deed!' This mnemonic can help recall the meaning of a good action or event.
Mind the Tones
Pay attention to the tones: 'hǎo' is 3rd tone (falling-rising) and 'shì' is 4th tone (falling). Correct tones are crucial for clear communication in Mandarin.
Distinguish from 善事
Remember that '好事' is general, while '善事' is specific to moral or charitable deeds. Use '好事' for everyday positive things and '善事' for more virtuous acts.
Example
祝你今天遇到好事!
Related Content
Related Phrases
More general words
一下儿
A1a bit, a moment
点儿
A1a little bit
有点儿
A1a little, somewhat (negative connotation)
一下
A2A bit; a moment (used after a verb).
一点儿
A1a little, a bit
一会儿
A1a moment, a while
一部分
B1part; portion; minority
异样
B1different; unusual; strange
关于
A1about, concerning
快要
A2to be about to (happen)