应付 in 30 Seconds
- To deal with or handle, especially when it implies doing just enough to get by.
- Use '应付' for managing difficult situations, tasks, or people, often with a sense of expediency.
- It means coping with challenges, sometimes superficially, rather than solving them completely.
- Think of it as getting through something that requires effort, often under pressure.
- Core Meaning
- To deal with, to handle, to cope with, often implying a sense of managing or getting by, sometimes with a hint of doing just enough to satisfy requirements or to get through a situation. It can suggest handling a task, a problem, or even a person, especially when the situation is challenging or requires effort.
- Nuance
- While it can mean simply 'to handle', it often carries a connotation of expediency or a less-than-perfect but functional solution. It's about making do or managing a situation without necessarily excelling or resolving it completely. Think of it as 'getting through it' or 'dealing with it' when you might not have the ideal resources or time.
- Contexts
- This word is very versatile. You might use it to describe handling a difficult boss, managing a heavy workload, dealing with unexpected problems, or even just getting through a tedious meeting. It's commonly heard in everyday conversations about work, school, and personal challenges.
我需要 应付 很多工作。
他总是 应付 了事。
- Synonym Hint
- It's similar to '处理' (chǔlǐ - to handle/process), but '应付' often carries a stronger implication of managing a difficult or demanding situation, or doing the minimum required.
我们必须 应付 这个紧急情况。
- Verb Phrase
- '应付' is a verb, and it is often followed by a noun or a clause indicating what is being dealt with. Common structures include: 应付 + [situation/problem/person/task].
- Common Complements
- It can be used with adverbs that describe how the situation is handled, such as '勉强' (miǎnqiǎng - barely), '简单' (jiǎndān - simply), '草草' (cǎocǎo - hastily), or '妥善' (tuǒshàn - properly, though this is less common if the 'just enough' nuance is strong).
- Negative Usage
- It is often used in negative constructions to express an inability to cope or deal with something, e.g., '我应付不了' (wǒ yìngfu bù liǎo - I can't handle it).
他很难 应付 这种客户。
别担心，这件事情我会 应付 好的。
- Common Verb Collocations
- * 勉强应付 (miǎnqiǎng yìngfu): To barely manage, to cope with difficulty.
由于人手不足，我们只能 勉强应付 现有的订单。
Due to insufficient staff, we can only barely manage the current orders. - * 应付考试 (yìngfu kǎoshì): To get through an exam, often implying studying just enough to pass rather than aiming for top marks.
他平时不怎么学习，只想 应付 考试。
He doesn't study much usually, just wants to get through the exam. - * 应付检查 (yìngfu jiǎnchá): To deal with an inspection, often implying putting on a show or making things look good for the inspectors.
在老板来之前，我们得赶紧 应付 一下现场。
Before the boss arrives, we must quickly tidy up the scene.
- Workplace Conversations
- You'll frequently hear '应付' in discussions about managing workloads, dealing with demanding clients or superiors, or handling unexpected problems. For example, a colleague might say, '这个项目压力很大，我实在有点 应付 不来' (This project is very stressful, I really can't cope with it). Or, '我们得想办法 应付 完这个季度' (We have to manage to get through this quarter).
- Academic Settings
- Students might use it when talking about exams or assignments, especially if they are not particularly engaged or are struggling. '我只是 应付 一下作业，没怎么认真做' (I'm just getting the assignment done, I didn't do it very seriously). Or, '这次考试太难了，我感觉我 应付 不了' (This exam was too difficult, I feel like I can't cope).
- Dealing with People
- It can also refer to managing difficult personalities or social situations. '他这个人很难 应付' (This person is difficult to deal with). This implies that interacting with them requires effort or a careful approach.
- Everyday Problems
- In more general contexts, it can be used for any situation that requires managing. '家里突然停水了，我们得 应付 一下' (The water suddenly went out at home, we have to manage somehow). The implication is finding a temporary solution or getting by.
我的工作就是 应付 各种突发状况。
他总是能 应付 得很好。
- Confusing with '处理' (chǔlǐ)
- While both mean 'to handle', '处理' is more neutral and can imply a thorough or proper resolution. '应付' often suggests managing with less resources, time, or perfection, or dealing with something difficult or annoying. Using '处理' when the situation is clearly just 'getting by' might sound too formal or imply a level of competence that isn't there. Conversely, using '应付' for a task that requires careful, professional handling might sound dismissive or inadequate.
- Overusing '应付' for Positive Situations
- '应付' generally carries a connotation of challenge, difficulty, or at least effort. Using it to describe handling a simple or enjoyable task might sound strange. For instance, saying '我 应付 了这份简单的报告' (I handled this simple report) sounds a bit odd; '完成了' (wánchéng le - completed) or '写了' (xiě le - wrote) would be more natural.
- Using it as a Noun
- '应付' is primarily a verb. While in certain colloquial contexts it might be implied as a noun (e.g., '他的 应付 方式' - his way of dealing with things), it's safer for learners to stick to its verb usage. Directly translating English phrases like 'a good coping mechanism' might lead to incorrect usage if '应付' is used as the main noun.
- Ignoring the Nuance of 'Just Enough'
- The implication of doing only what is necessary, or just enough to get by, is a key aspect of '应付'. If you use it when you've actually done an excellent or thorough job, it might undersell your effort. For example, if you've meticulously solved a complex problem, saying '我 应付 了这个问题' might sound like you only did the bare minimum, which might not be accurate.
学生们总是想 应付 作业，而不是真正学习。
- 处理 (chǔlǐ)
- This is the most common alternative and means 'to handle', 'to process', or 'to manage'. It's more neutral than '应付' and can imply a more thorough or professional approach.
处理: 我会 处理 这封邮件。
I will process this email. 应付: 这个客户很难 应付。
This client is difficult to deal with. - 应付 vs. 处理
- '处理' is often used for tasks, problems, or data that need to be managed systematically. '应付' is more about coping with pressure, difficulty, or something undesirable, often implying a less than perfect but acceptable outcome. You '处理' a report, but you '应付' a demanding boss or a crisis.
- 应付 (yìngfu) vs. 应对 (yìngduì)
- '应对' also means 'to respond to', 'to deal with', or 'to cope with'. It is often used for more serious situations like crises, challenges, or threats, and it implies a more active and perhaps more strategic response than '应付'. '应付' can sometimes feel more passive or like simply getting by.
应对: 我们需要制定策略来 应对 市场变化。
We need to formulate strategies to respond to market changes. 应付: 我只能 应付 手头的工作。
I can only cope with the work at hand. - 应付 vs. 应对
- '应对' suggests a more direct and perhaps more successful engagement with a challenge. '应付' can imply just managing to survive or satisfy minimal requirements, especially when faced with something unpleasant or difficult. You '应对' a crisis, but you might '应付' a difficult customer.
- 应付 (yìngfu) vs. 忍受 (rěnshòu)
- '忍受' means 'to endure' or 'to bear' something unpleasant. While '应付' might involve enduring, it focuses more on the action of managing or dealing with the situation, whereas '忍受' focuses on the passive suffering or toleration.
忍受: 他不得不 忍受 了多年的不公平待遇。
He had to endure years of unfair treatment. 应付: 我们需要 应付 这个难缠的供应商。
We need to deal with this difficult supplier. - 应付 (yìngfu) vs. 解决 (jiějué)
- '解决' means 'to solve' or 'to resolve' a problem. It implies finding a definitive answer or a complete solution. '应付' is about managing or coping, not necessarily solving. You '解决' a problem, but you '应付' a difficult situation or a person.
解决: 我们找到了 解决 这个问题的办法。
We found a way to solve this problem. 应付: 我只是 应付 了会议。
I just got through the meeting.
How Formal Is It?
Fun Fact
The combination of '应' (respond/comply) and '付' (give/hand over) suggests an action taken in response to a demand or situation, where the 'giving' represents the action of handling or dealing with it. This often carries the connotation of providing just what is needed, hence the nuance of 'getting by'.
Pronunciation Guide
- Mispronouncing the tones, especially the falling-rising tone on 'fu'.
- Confusing the 'yìng' sound with similar-sounding syllables.
- Not differentiating the falling-rising tone from a simple falling or rising tone.
Difficulty Rating
The word '应付' itself is relatively common, but understanding its nuances—especially the implication of 'just getting by' versus 'handling effectively'—can be challenging for learners. Context is crucial for accurate interpretation. Advanced usage in formal or literary texts might require a higher difficulty rating.
Using '应付' correctly in writing requires careful attention to context to avoid sounding too informal, too dismissive, or implying a lack of effort when that's not the intention. Choosing between '应付', '处理', and '应对' is a common challenge.
Native speakers use '应付' very naturally in everyday conversation. Learners might struggle to integrate it smoothly, often defaulting to more general verbs like 'handle' or 'deal with' and missing the specific nuance of '应付'.
Recognizing '应付' in spoken Chinese and understanding its implied meaning based on tone and context is key. The slight negative or expedient connotation can be missed if not actively listening for it.
What to Learn Next
Prerequisites
Learn Next
Advanced
Grammar to Know
Using '不了' (bù liǎo) to indicate inability.
我 应付 不了 (I can't handle it).
Using '得' (de) or '不' (bù) with complements to describe the manner of handling.
他 应付 得很好。(He handles it well.) / 他 应付 不好。(He doesn't handle it well.)
Using adverbs like '勉强' (miǎnqiǎng - barely) or '敷衍' (fūyǎn - perfunctorily) before '应付'.
我们只能 勉强 应付。(We can only barely manage.)
Using '一下' (yí xià) to indicate a brief or superficial handling.
我先 应付 一下。(I'll deal with it briefly first.)
Using '过去' (guòqù) to indicate getting through or overcoming a situation.
他总能设法 应付 过去。(He can always find a way to get through it.)
Examples by Level
我应付不了。
I can't handle it.
'不了' (bù liǎo) indicates inability.
妈妈应付爸爸。
Mom deals with Dad.
Simple subject-verb-object structure.
他应付一下。
He'll deal with it briefly.
'一下' (yí xià) suggests a brief action.
我应付生活。
I cope with life.
General statement of coping.
她应付学校。
She handles school.
Implies managing school responsibilities.
我们应付工作。
We manage work.
Refers to managing daily work tasks.
孩子应付考试。
The child deals with the exam.
Focuses on the act of facing an exam.
我应付朋友。
I deal with friends.
Can imply managing social interactions.
我有点应付不过来。
I'm having a bit of trouble coping.
'不过来' (bù guò lái) emphasizes the difficulty of managing.
他总是敷衍了事地应付。
He always does things superficially to get by.
'敷衍了事' (fūyǎn liǎoshì) means to do something perfunctorily.
我们需要应付这个新情况。
We need to deal with this new situation.
Focuses on managing an unfamiliar circumstance.
我的工作是应付客户的投诉。
My job is to handle customer complaints.
Describes a specific job responsibility involving difficult interactions.
别担心，我会应付好的。
Don't worry, I'll handle it well.
Expresses confidence in managing a situation.
他只是想应付一下，不想深入。
He just wants to get by, not delve deeper.
Highlights the 'just enough' aspect.
学校要求我们应付大量的阅读。
The school requires us to cope with a large amount of reading.
Refers to managing a demanding academic task.
你能应付这种压力吗？
Can you cope with this kind of pressure?
Asks about the ability to manage stress.
面对如此复杂的局面，我们必须谨慎应付。
Facing such a complex situation, we must handle it cautiously.
'局面' (júmiàn - situation) is a common object. '谨慎' (jǐnshèn - cautious) adds nuance.
他总是用一种敷衍的态度来应付工作。
He always approaches work with a perfunctory attitude.
'态度' (tàidù - attitude) is often used with '应付'.
虽然任务艰巨，但他总能设法应付过去。
Although the task was arduous, he always managed to get through it.
'设法' (shèfǎ - to find a way) and '过去' (guòqù - to get past) add detail.
我感觉自己快要应付不过来了，需要一些帮助。
I feel like I'm about to be overwhelmed, I need some help.
'快要...不过来了' emphasizes being close to failure to cope.
这家公司很难应付，他们的要求非常多。
This company is difficult to deal with; their demands are numerous.
Describes difficulty in dealing with an organization.
家长们需要学会如何应付孩子的青春期叛逆。
Parents need to learn how to deal with their children's teenage rebellion.
Applies to managing interpersonal challenges.
他只是想勉强应付一下，并不打算真正解决问题。
He just wants to barely manage, not actually solve the problem.
'勉强' (miǎnqiǎng - barely) and '真正解决' (zhēnzhèng jiějué - truly solve) highlight the contrast.
在紧急情况下，我们必须迅速做出反应来应付。
In an emergency, we must react quickly to cope.
'迅速做出反应' (xùnsù zuòchū fǎnyìng - react quickly) is a common precursor to '应付'.
面对如此严峻的挑战，我们不能只是敷衍了事地应付。
Facing such a severe challenge, we cannot just deal with it perfunctorily.
'严峻' (yánjùn - severe) and '敷衍了事' (fūyǎn liǎoshì - perfunctorily) emphasize the seriousness and the inadequate approach.
他善于应付各种复杂的人际关系。
He is good at navigating complex interpersonal relationships.
'善于' (shànyú - to be good at) and '人际关系' (rénjì guānxì - interpersonal relationships) are common usages.
这次的突发事件，让我们措手不及，只能尽力应付。
This sudden incident caught us off guard, and we could only try our best to cope.
'突发事件' (tūfā shìjiàn - sudden incident), '措手不及' (cuòshǒu bùjí - caught off guard), '尽力' (jìnlì - to do one's best).
在压力之下，有些人会选择逃避，而有些人则能更好地应付。
Under pressure, some people choose to avoid, while others can cope better.
Contrasts '逃避' (táobì - to avoid) with '应付'.
他似乎总有办法应付那些刁难的客户。
He always seems to have a way to deal with those difficult customers.
'刁难' (diāonán - to make things difficult) is a common adjective for customers when using '应付'.
我们需要更积极主动地去应付市场变化，而不是被动等待。
We need to proactively deal with market changes, rather than passively waiting.
Contrasts proactive '应付' with passive waiting.
虽然他表面上应付得很好，但我知道他内心承受着巨大的压力。
Although he appeared to handle it well on the surface, I know he was under immense pressure internally.
Highlights the difference between outward appearance and inner state.
公司正在努力应付日益增长的竞争压力。
The company is working hard to cope with the increasing competitive pressure.
'日益增长' (rìyì zēngzhǎng - increasingly growing) and '竞争压力' (jìngzhēng yālì - competitive pressure) are common contexts.
在瞬息万变的商业环境中，企业必须具备灵活应付各种不确定性的能力。
In the rapidly changing business environment, companies must possess the ability to flexibly cope with various uncertainties.
'瞬息万变' (shùnxī wànbiàn - rapidly changing), '不确定性' (bùquèdìngxìng - uncertainty), '灵活' (línghuó - flexible) are advanced vocabulary used with '应付'.
他处理危机的能力令人印象深刻，总能以一种游刃有余的方式应付。
His ability to handle crises is impressive; he always manages them with ease.
'游刃有余' (yóurèn yǒu yú - with ease, skillfully) describes an ideal way of '应付'.
许多学生在面对学业压力时，往往采取一种应付了事的态度，而非寻求真正的理解。
When facing academic pressure, many students often adopt a perfunctory attitude to get by, rather than seeking true understanding.
'应付了事' (yìngfu liǎoshì - perfunctory) is used here to describe an attitude.
这位外交官以其高超的谈判技巧，成功应付了多次棘手的国际争端。
With his superb negotiation skills, this diplomat successfully managed multiple tricky international disputes.
'棘手' (jíshǒu - tricky, thorny) and '国际争端' (guójì zhēngduān - international dispute) are advanced contexts.
在信息爆炸的时代，如何辨别真伪并有效应付海量信息，成为一项重要的生存技能。
In the era of information explosion, how to discern truth from falsehood and effectively cope with massive amounts of information has become an important survival skill.
'信息爆炸' (xìnxī bàozhà - information explosion), '辨别真伪' (biànbié zhēnwěi - discern truth from falsehood), '海量信息' (hǎiliàng xìnxī - massive information).
尽管面临着前所未有的挑战，领导层仍试图通过各种策略来应付当前的困境。
Despite facing unprecedented challenges, the leadership is still trying to cope with the current predicament through various strategies.
'前所未有' (qiánsuǒ wèiyǒu - unprecedented), '困境' (kùnjìng - predicament), '策略' (cèlüè - strategies).
他那种玩世不恭的态度，似乎总能帮助他应付生活中的不如意。
His cynical attitude seems to always help him cope with life's disappointments.
'玩世不恭' (wánshì bùgōng - cynical, nonchalant), '不如意' (bùrúyì - disappointments, unsatisfactory).
我们需要培养一种能够积极应付逆境的心理韧性。
We need to cultivate psychological resilience that can actively cope with adversity.
'心理韧性' (xīnlǐ rènxìng - psychological resilience), '逆境' (nìjìng - adversity).
在高度不确定的全球格局下，国家间的互动已不再是简单的政治博弈，而是对复杂风险的系统性应付。
Under a highly uncertain global landscape, interactions between nations are no longer simple political games, but a systematic coping with complex risks.
'全球格局' (quánqiú géjú - global landscape), '政治博弈' (zhèngzhì bóyì - political games), '系统性' (xìtǒngxìng - systematic).
他以一种近乎艺术的方式应付着巨大的公众压力，将质疑转化为动力。
He coped with immense public pressure in an almost artistic manner, transforming criticism into motivation.
'近乎艺术的方式' (jìnhū yìshù de fāngshì - almost artistic manner), '公众压力' (gōngzhòng yālì - public pressure), '质疑' (zhìyí - criticism).
面对历史遗留的难题，我们不能简单地回避或应付，而应以负责任的态度去审视和解决。
Faced with historical challenges, we cannot simply avoid or cope superficially, but should examine and resolve them with a responsible attitude.
'历史遗留的难题' (lìshǐ yíliú de nántí - historical challenges), '审视' (shěnshì - to examine), '负责任的态度' (fùzérèn de tàidù - responsible attitude).
企业在应对市场饱和的同时，也在探索如何通过创新来应付日益饱和的消费者需求。
While dealing with market saturation, companies are also exploring how to cope with increasingly saturated consumer demand through innovation.
'市场饱和' (shìchǎng bǎohé - market saturation), '创新' (chuàngxīn - innovation), '消费者需求' (xiāofèizhě xūqiú - consumer demand).
真正的智者并非从不遇到困境，而是懂得如何从容应付，并在磨砺中成长。
The truly wise are not those who never encounter difficulties, but those who know how to cope calmly and grow through adversity.
'智者' (zhìzhě - wise person), '从容' (cóngróng - calmly, unhurriedly), '磨砺' (mólì - to temper, to hone).
在信息过载的数字时代，个体需要发展出一种批判性思维，来有效应付充斥网络的各种信息洪流。
In the age of information overload in the digital era, individuals need to develop critical thinking skills to effectively cope with the torrents of information flooding the internet.
'信息过载' (xìnxī guòzài - information overload), '批判性思维' (pīpànxìng sīwéi - critical thinking), '信息洪流' (xìnxī hóngliú - torrents of information).
他总是以一种不动声色的姿态应付着内心的挣扎，外人难以窥探其真实情感。
He always coped with his inner struggles with an unruffled demeanor; outsiders could hardly perceive his true emotions.
'不动声色' (bùdòng shēngsè - unruffled, showing no emotion), '内心的挣扎' (nèixīn de zhēngzhá - inner struggles), '窥探' (kuītàn - to pry into, to spy).
文明的冲突并非不可避免，关键在于各国能否以开放和尊重的态度去应付彼此的差异。
Clash of civilizations is not inevitable; the key lies in whether nations can cope with each other's differences with an open and respectful attitude.
'文明的冲突' (wénmíng de chōngtū - clash of civilizations), '开放' (kāifàng - open), '尊重' (zūnzhòng - respect), '差异' (chāyì - differences).
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
— To do something perfunctorily; to get by with minimal effort.
他做事总是应付了事，从不认真对待。
— To be unable to cope or handle; to be overwhelmed.
我最近工作太多了，感觉应付不过来。
— To barely manage; to cope with difficulty.
由于资源有限，我们只能勉强应付。
— To deal with something briefly or superficially.
我先应付一下这个小问题，再处理大麻烦。
— Difficult to deal with; hard to manage.
这个客户非常难应付，总是挑剔。
— To be good at dealing with or managing.
她很善于应付突发状况。
— To deal with an inspection, often implying making things look good.
在老板来之前，我们得赶紧应付一下现场。
— To get through an exam, often with minimal preparation.
他平时不学习，只想应付考试。
— To cope with life's challenges or daily existence.
每个人都在努力应付生活中的种种不易。
— To manage a situation, especially a complex or difficult one.
领导需要有能力应付复杂的局面。
Often Confused With
'处理' is a more general term for handling or processing, often implying a more neutral or thorough approach. '应付' typically suggests managing a difficult situation or doing just enough to get by.
'应对' means to respond to or cope with challenges, crises, or threats, often implying a more active or strategic approach. '应付' can be more about managing or getting through something, sometimes less actively.
'对付' is often more informal and can imply dealing with someone or something, sometimes with a slightly negative or confrontational edge, like dealing with an adversary.
Idioms & Expressions
— To do something merely as a duty or obligation, without genuine interest or effort; to go through the motions.
他对待这份工作只是应付差事，毫无热情。
Informal— To do something perfunctorily; to get by with minimal effort.
他做事总是应付了事，从来不追求完美。
Informal— To handle something with ease; to manage effortlessly.
她面对各种挑战都能应付自如。
Neutral— To be so busy dealing with one's own problems that one cannot help others.
我最近忙得应付自顾不暇，实在帮不了你。
Informal— To be able to handle or cope with something.
别担心，这点工作我应付得来。
Informal— To be unable to cope or handle; to be overwhelmed.
这么多任务，我真是应付不过来了。
Informal— To deal with something briefly or superficially.
我先应付一下眼前的麻烦。
Informal— Similar to '应付差事', doing something just to fulfill a requirement.
他只是来应付差的。
Informal— To handle or deal with something appropriately.
他能够应付得当各种复杂情况。
Neutral— To do something perfunctorily; to get by with minimal effort.
他做事总是应付了事，缺乏责任心。
InformalEasily Confused
Both mean 'to handle' or 'to deal with'.
'处理' is more neutral and can imply a systematic, thorough, or professional way of managing something. '应付' often carries a nuance of managing a difficult, demanding, or unpleasant situation, or doing just enough to get by. You '处理' a document, but you '应付' a demanding boss or a crisis.
我需要 <mark>处理</mark> 这封邮件。(I need to process this email - neutral task). 他很难 <mark>应付</mark>。(He is difficult to deal with - implies difficulty).
Both involve responding to or dealing with situations.
'应对' usually refers to responding to more significant challenges, crises, or threats, often implying a strategic or active engagement. '应付' can be used for broader situations, including less critical ones, and often suggests coping, managing, or getting by, sometimes with less active effort or a focus on expediency. You '应对' a crisis, but you might '应付' a demanding client.
我们需要 <mark>应对</mark> 市场变化。(We need to respond to market changes - strategic response). 我只能 <mark>应付</mark> 手头的工作。(I can only cope with the work at hand - managing current tasks).
Both can mean 'to deal with'.
'对付' is generally more informal and can carry a stronger connotation of dealing with someone or something that is problematic, an adversary, or an enemy. It can imply a more strategic or even slightly aggressive approach. '应付' is broader and can range from handling everyday tasks to coping with difficulties, with a frequent implication of just getting by.
你怎么 <mark>对付</mark> 他？(How do you deal with him? - potentially confrontational). 我需要 <mark>应付</mark> 这个项目。(I need to handle this project - general task management).
Both relate to addressing problems or situations.
'解决' means to solve or resolve a problem completely, finding a definitive answer or outcome. '应付' means to manage, cope with, or deal with a situation, often implying doing just enough to get by or navigate through it, without necessarily achieving a full resolution. You '解决' a problem, but you '应付' a difficult person or a crisis.
我们 <mark>解决</mark> 了这个问题。(We solved this problem - complete resolution). 我只是 <mark>应付</mark> 了会议。(I just got through the meeting - managed to attend).
Both can be used when facing difficulties.
'承受' means to bear, endure, or withstand something unpleasant or difficult, focusing on the passive experience of hardship. '应付' implies an active action of managing or dealing with the situation. You '承受' pain, but you '应付' a difficult task. You endure hardship ('承受') by managing it ('应付').
他 <mark>承受</mark> 了巨大的压力。(He bore immense pressure - enduring). 他需要 <mark>应付</mark> 巨大的压力。(He needs to cope with immense pressure - actively managing).
Sentence Patterns
Subject + 应付 + Object.
我 <mark>应付</mark> 工作。(I handle work.)
Subject + 应付 + 不了.
我 <mark>应付</mark> 不了。(I can't handle it.)
Subject + (Adverb) + 应付 + Object.
他敷衍地 <mark>应付</mark>。(He handles it perfunctorily.)
Subject + 需要 + 应付 + Object.
我需要 <mark>应付</mark> 这个。(I need to deal with this.)
Subject + 善于/不善于 + 应付 + Object.
她 <mark>善于</mark> <mark>应付</mark> 压力。(She is good at handling pressure.)
Subject + 勉强 + 应付 + Object.
我们只能 <mark>勉强</mark> <mark>应付</mark>。(We can only barely manage.)
Subject + (Phrase indicating difficulty) + 应付 + Object.
这个客户很难 <mark>应付</mark>。(This customer is difficult to deal with.)
Subject + 设法 + 应付 + Object/Situation.
他设法 <mark>应付</mark> 了这个局面。(He managed to cope with the situation.)
Word Family
Verbs
Related
How to Use It
High
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Using '应付' when '处理' is more appropriate.
→
我需要处理这份报告。
'应付' often implies difficulty or just getting by. If the task is neutral and requires proper management, '处理' is better. '我需要应付这份报告。' might suggest the report is difficult or the speaker is just trying to finish it.
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Using '应付' for a perfectly completed task.
→
我圆满完成了这个项目。
'应付' suggests managing or coping, often with less than perfect results. Using it for a successful completion might undersell the effort. '我应付了这个项目。' might imply it was just barely finished.
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Confusing '应付' and '应对' in crisis situations.
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我们需要积极应对这次危机。
'应对' is more appropriate for serious crises or challenges requiring a strategic response. '应付' might sound too casual or insufficient in such contexts. '我们需要应付这次危机。' could imply a less determined or less effective approach.
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Using '应付' for simple, enjoyable activities.
→
我喜欢看电影。
'应付' is for tasks that require effort or management, often under pressure. Using it for leisure activities sounds unnatural. '我喜欢应付看电影。' is incorrect.
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Incorrectly using '应付' as a noun.
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他处理问题的方式很有条理。
'应付' is primarily a verb. While related phrases exist, directly using '应付' as a noun like 'his應付' is generally incorrect in standard Mandarin. '他应付问题的方式' is acceptable, but '他的应付' is not standard.
Tips
应付 vs. 处理 vs. 应对
Remember: '处理' is neutral handling, '应对' is active response to challenges/crises, and '应付' is often about managing difficulty or getting by. Choose the word that best fits the specific action and situation.
Visualize the Struggle
Imagine someone barely keeping their head above water while juggling multiple tasks. This visual of struggling but managing can help you remember the core meaning of '应付'.
Create Your Own Sentences
Try to construct sentences using '应付' in various contexts: work, school, personal life, and social interactions. This active practice will solidify your understanding and usage.
The 'Just Enough' Factor
When you hear or use '应付', consider if the speaker is implying that the task was completed adequately but not necessarily with excellence. This subtle implication is a hallmark of the word.
Real-Life Scenarios
Think about situations where you've had to '应付' something. Was it a heavy workload, a difficult person, or an unexpected problem? Applying the word to your own experiences makes it more memorable.
Common Patterns
Notice how '应付' is often followed by complements indicating ability or manner, such as '应付不了' (can't cope), '应付得好' (handle well), or '勉强应付' (barely manage).
Master the Tones
Pay close attention to the tones: 'yìng' (high rising) and 'fu' (falling-rising). Correct tones are crucial for clear communication in Mandarin.
Distinguishing Similar Words
When learning '应付', also learn its synonyms like '处理' and '应对' and understand their specific uses to avoid confusion and choose the most precise word.
Avoid Overgeneralization
Don't use '应付' for simple, enjoyable, or perfectly executed tasks. It's best reserved for situations that require effort, management, or coping, often with a hint of difficulty or expediency.
Memorize It
Mnemonic
Imagine you have a difficult boss ('应' - 'Ooh, 'ying' that's tough!) and you have to 'give' them what they want, or just enough to get by ('付' - 'fu'ck it, I'll just give them something). So, '应付' is when you have to deal with a tough boss by giving them just enough to survive the day.
Visual Association
Picture a person juggling many balls (representing tasks/problems) and barely keeping them all in the air. They are '应付' (handling) the situation, but it looks precarious. The balls are not perfectly caught, but they aren't dropping either.
Word Web
Challenge
Try to describe three situations in your life where you had to '应付' something. Were you successful? What was the outcome? Did you feel you did just enough, or did you exceed expectations?
Word Origin
The word '应付' is a compound word in Chinese. The character '应' (yìng) means 'to respond', 'to answer', or 'to comply'. The character '付' (fù) means 'to give', 'to pay', or 'to hand over'. Together, they form the meaning of 'to respond by giving' or 'to handle by giving what is required'.
Original meaning: Literally, 'to respond by giving'. This implies fulfilling a request or requirement, or dealing with something by providing the necessary action or response.
Sino-TibetanCultural Context
While '应付' can describe a neutral action, it can sometimes carry a negative connotation if it implies laziness, dishonesty, or a lack of genuine effort. It's important to consider the context and the speaker's intent. For example, '应付检查' (handling an inspection) might suggest a superficial tidying up rather than a thorough preparation.
In English-speaking contexts, '应付' can be translated as 'to deal with', 'to handle', 'to cope with', or 'to manage'. The nuance of 'doing just enough' is often conveyed by phrases like 'getting by', 'making do', or 'barely managing'.
Practice in Real Life
Real-World Contexts
Workplace pressure and workload management.
- 应付工作
- 应付不过来
- 应付压力
- 应付客户
Academic challenges like exams and assignments.
- 应付考试
- 应付作业
- 应付不了
- 应付了事
Dealing with difficult people or interpersonal relationships.
- 难以应付
- 善于应付
- 应付难缠的人
Handling unexpected problems or emergencies.
- 应付突发状况
- 应付紧急情况
- 应付一下
General life challenges and coping mechanisms.
- 应付生活
- 应付困难
- 勉强应付
Conversation Starters
"How do you usually '应付' (deal with) a very busy workday?"
"What's the most challenging thing you've had to '应付' (cope with) recently?"
"Do you think it's better to '应付' (get by) or to try and solve problems completely?"
"In your experience, what makes someone '善于应付' (good at handling) difficult situations?"
"How do you '应付' (manage) unexpected changes in plans?"
Journal Prompts
Describe a time you felt you could barely '应付' (cope with) a situation. What happened, and how did you feel?
Reflect on your approach to tasks. Do you tend to '应付' (get by) or strive for thoroughness? Give an example.
Think about a person you know who is particularly good at '应付' (handling) difficult people. What qualities do they possess?
Write about a recent challenge you faced. Did you '应付' (deal with) it, or did you '解决' (solve) it? What's the difference in your approach?
How do you '应付' (manage) stress? Are there any specific strategies you use?
Frequently Asked Questions
10 questions'应付' (yìngfu) and '处理' (chǔlǐ) both mean 'to handle' or 'to deal with', but they have different nuances. '处理' is more general and neutral, suggesting a systematic or thorough way of managing a task or problem. For example, '请处理这些文件。' (Please process these documents.) '应付' often implies managing a difficult, demanding, or unpleasant situation, or doing just enough to get by. It carries a sense of coping or expediency. For example, '他很难应付这个客户。' (This client is difficult to deal with.) If you're just getting through a task with minimal effort, '应付' is more appropriate than '处理'.
'应付' (yìngfu) and '应对' (yìngduì) both relate to dealing with situations. '应对' typically refers to responding to significant challenges, crises, or threats, often implying a more active, strategic, or even defensive approach. For example, '我们需要应对这次危机。' (We need to respond to this crisis.) '应付' can be used for a wider range of situations, including less critical ones, and often suggests coping, managing, or getting by, sometimes with less effort or a focus on expediency. For instance, '我需要应付很多工作。' (I need to handle a lot of work.) Think of '应对' as confronting and actively managing a major issue, while '应付' can be about managing daily pressures or difficult tasks.
Not always negative, but it often carries a nuance of difficulty, pressure, or expediency. It implies that the situation requires effort to manage, and often suggests doing just enough to get by or satisfy requirements, rather than achieving perfection or a complete resolution. For example, '他能应付各种情况。' (He can handle various situations.) here '应付' suggests competence in managing, but if someone says '他做事总是应付了事。' (He always does things perfunctorily.), it carries a negative connotation of laziness or lack of effort.
It's generally not used for purely positive or easy situations. If a task is simple and enjoyable, you would use words like '完成' (complete), '做好' (do well), or '享受' (enjoy). '应付' is typically reserved for situations that require some effort, skill, or resilience to manage, especially if they are challenging, tedious, or unpleasant.
Some common phrases include: '应付了事' (to do something perfunctorily), '应付不过来' (to be overwhelmed/unable to cope), '勉强应付' (to barely manage), '应付检查' (to deal with an inspection), '应付考试' (to get through an exam), and '难以应付' (difficult to deal with).
'解决' (jiějué) means to solve or resolve a problem completely, finding a definite answer. '应付' (yìngfu) means to manage, cope with, or deal with a situation, often implying doing just enough to get by or navigate through it without necessarily achieving a full resolution. If the goal is to find a definitive solution, use '解决'. If the goal is to manage a difficult situation or task, especially under pressure or with limited resources, '应付' is appropriate.
'应付' can be used in both neutral and informal contexts. In very formal settings, '处理' or '应对' might be preferred for clarity and to avoid any potential negative nuance. However, it's commonly used in everyday conversations and professional settings to describe managing challenges or workloads.
'应付' (yìngfu) is generally broader and can refer to handling tasks, situations, or people, often with a nuance of managing or coping. '对付' (duìfu) is often more informal and can imply dealing with someone or something that is problematic, an adversary, or an enemy, sometimes with a slightly confrontational or strategic edge. For example, you '应付' a demanding project, but you might '对付' a difficult colleague or an opponent.
Yes, '应付' can be used with abstract concepts like '压力' (pressure), '困难' (difficulty), '情况' (situation), '局面' (situation/scenario), and even '生活' (life). For example, '学会应付压力' (learn to cope with pressure) or '应付生活中的不如意' (deal with life's disappointments).
Common verbs used with '应付' include: 善于 (shànyú - to be good at), 难以 (nányǐ - difficult to), 勉强 (miǎnqiǎng - barely), 设法 (shèfǎ - to find a way to), 无法 (wúfǎ - unable to), 无法 (wúfǎ - unable to), and '应付' itself can be modified by adverbs like '敷衍地' (fūyǎn de - perfunctorily).
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Summary
'应付' means to deal with or handle, but it often carries the nuance of doing just enough to get by, managing a difficult situation, or coping with pressure. It's about getting through something rather than necessarily solving it perfectly. For example, '我需要应付很多工作' (I need to handle a lot of work) implies managing a heavy workload.
- To deal with or handle, especially when it implies doing just enough to get by.
- Use '应付' for managing difficult situations, tasks, or people, often with a sense of expediency.
- It means coping with challenges, sometimes superficially, rather than solving them completely.
- Think of it as getting through something that requires effort, often under pressure.
Context is Key
The meaning of '应付' heavily depends on the context. Pay attention to the surrounding words and the overall situation to determine if it means 'to cope', 'to manage', 'to get by', or 'to handle'. The nuance of 'doing just enough' is a frequent implication.
应付 vs. 处理 vs. 应对
Remember: '处理' is neutral handling, '应对' is active response to challenges/crises, and '应付' is often about managing difficulty or getting by. Choose the word that best fits the specific action and situation.
Visualize the Struggle
Imagine someone barely keeping their head above water while juggling multiple tasks. This visual of struggling but managing can help you remember the core meaning of '应付'.
Create Your Own Sentences
Try to construct sentences using '应付' in various contexts: work, school, personal life, and social interactions. This active practice will solidify your understanding and usage.
Example
他不知道该如何应付这么多工作。
Related Content
Related Grammar Rules
More daily life words
地址
B1The exact location of a building or person, used for sending mail or finding a place.
预约
B1To make an appointment or reservation in advance. It is commonly used for meetings, medical visits, or services.
宴会
B1A large formal meal for many people, often followed by speeches or celebration.
损坏
B1To cause physical harm to something so that it is broken or no longer useful.
家务
B1The regular work done in housekeeping, such as cleaning, cooking, and laundry.
错过
B1To fail to hit, reach, catch, meet, or see something. Frequently used regarding transport or opportunities.
偶尔
B1Happening or done sometimes but not often; occasionally.
登记
B1To record information in an official list or register, such as checking into a hotel or signing up for a service.
搬迁
B1To move to a new place, often referring to a family, a company, or an entire organization changing its location.
寻找
B1To look for or search for something or someone that is lost or needed. It is a more formal version of '找'.
