This page in your language

فارسی

العربية

Deutsch

Español

Français

日本語

한국어

Português

中文

हिन्दी

A2 noun 13 min read

期盼

qipan

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips 期盼 in 30 Seconds

Explanation 期盼 in your Level:

At the A1 level, you can think of 期盼 (qīpàn) as a special way to say 'wait' or 'want' for something good. Even though it is a bit more advanced, you might see it in simple sentences about holidays or family. Imagine you are waiting for your birthday; that feeling of looking forward to the cake and presents is a kind of 期盼. In Chinese, we use this word when we are happy about something coming in the future. You can use it like this: '我期盼假期' (I look forward to the holiday). It is like the word 'expect' but with more heart. At this stage, focus on the fact that it is a positive word. You are looking (盼) for a specific time (期). It is a happy feeling of waiting for something you really like, like seeing your friends or going to a party. Just remember it is slightly more formal than just saying 'I want.'

At the A2 level, you should start to recognize 期盼 (qīpàn) as a noun that describes 'anticipation' or 'expectation.' You will often see it in the phrase '充满期盼' (chōngmǎn qīpàn), which means 'full of anticipation.' For example, '他的眼里充满期盼' (His eyes are full of anticipation). This level is where you learn that Chinese words can be both verbs and nouns. When you use it as a noun, it's like a 'thing' you have in your heart. You might use it when talking about your parents' hopes for you: '父母的期盼' (Parents' expectations). It's a useful word for writing simple letters or talking about your future plans. It sounds more polite and thoughtful than the basic word '希望' (hope). When you use 期盼, people will think your Chinese is very expressive and sincere. Try to use it when you are waiting for something important, like an exam result or a visit from a friend.

For B1 learners, 期盼 (qīpàn) becomes an essential word for expressing deeper emotions and formal intentions. You should understand the nuance between 期盼 and 期待 (qīdài). While 期待 is for everyday things, 期盼 is for things that carry more emotional weight. In a B1 context, you might use it in an essay about your dreams or a speech about community goals. You will often see it paired with the preposition '对' (duì), as in '对未来的期盼' (anticipation for the future). You can also use it to describe collective hopes, such as '人民的期盼' (the people's expectations). At this level, you should be able to use it in more complex sentences, like '虽然困难很多，但他心中依然存有期盼' (Although there are many difficulties, he still has anticipation in his heart). It helps you move away from simple 'Subject-Verb-Object' sentences and allows you to describe states of mind more accurately.

At the B2 level, you are expected to use 期盼 (qīpàn) with precision in both written and spoken Chinese. You should recognize its role in formal literature and news media. It often appears in the context of social responsibility or long-term historical processes. For example, '这项政策回应了社会各界的期盼' (This policy responds to the expectations of all sectors of society). You should also be comfortable using it to describe abstract concepts like peace, justice, or cultural revival. The word carries a sense of 'earnestness' that other words lack. In your writing, you can use it to create a specific atmosphere—one of hopeful endurance. You should also be aware of how it functions in collocations like '不负期盼' (to not fail expectations) or '深切的期盼' (deep anticipation). This level requires you to understand that 期盼 is not just about wanting something; it's about the psychological state of looking forward to it with a sense of purpose.

At the C1 level, 期盼 (qīpàn) is a tool for sophisticated expression. You should be able to analyze its use in classical-modern hybrid prose and academic discussions about psychology or sociology. It represents a 'teleological' hope—a hope directed toward a specific end. You might encounter it in philosophical texts discussing the nature of human desire and time. For instance, '期盼不仅是对未来的投射，更是对当下意义的赋予' (Anticipation is not only a projection into the future, but also an assignment of meaning to the present). You should be able to distinguish the subtle 'visual' metaphor inherent in the character 盼 and how authors use this to create imagery. In high-level debates, you might use 期盼 to discuss the 'legitimate expectations' of a population. Your usage should be flawless, knowing exactly when the emotional weight of 期盼 is required and when a more clinical term would be appropriate.

At the C2 level, you have a native-like grasp of the cultural and historical baggage of 期盼 (qīpàn). You understand how it has evolved from earlier forms of Chinese and how it functions in contemporary political discourse as a way to build consensus and emotional connection with the public. You can use it in highly creative ways, perhaps subverting its usually positive tone in a literary context to describe a 'burden of expectation' that is overwhelming. You are sensitive to the rhythm and 'tone color' the word adds to a sentence, using it to balance a line of poetry or a formal oration. You can discuss the word's relationship with other 'hope' words in the Chinese lexicon with nuance, explaining how 期盼 bridges the gap between the mundane and the transcendent. To you, 期盼 is not just a vocabulary item; it is a cultural concept that encapsulates the Chinese approach to time, patience, and the enduring nature of the human spirit.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

期盼 in 30 Seconds

期盼 (qīpàn) is a Chinese noun and verb meaning 'expectation' or 'anticipation,' carrying more emotional weight and formality than common synonyms like 期待.
The word is composed of 'time period' (期) and 'to look/long for' (盼), emphasizing the act of waiting with one's eyes on the prize.
It is frequently used in formal speeches, literature, and news to describe collective hopes or deep personal longings for significant life events.
Commonly paired with '充满' (full of) or '辜负' (let down), it describes a positive and earnest state of looking forward to the future.

The Chinese word 期盼 (qīpàn) is a profound and emotionally resonant term that translates most accurately to 'expectation,' 'anticipation,' or 'longing hope.' While it is often used as a verb in daily conversation, its function as a noun captures a specific state of mind—a mixture of eager waiting and heartfelt desire. To understand 期盼, one must look at its components: 期 (qī) refers to a period of time or a deadline, and 盼 (pàn) depicts the act of looking or longing for something with one's eyes. Together, they form a word that describes not just a passive wait, but an active, visual, and emotional looking forward to an event, a person, or a result. It is a word that carries more weight than the simple 'hope' (希望 - xīwàng) and more emotional gravity than the neutral 'anticipation' (期待 - qīdài). When you use 期盼, you are expressing that the outcome matters deeply to your heart.

Emotional Depth: 期盼 implies a sense of yearning. It is the feeling a student has while waiting for university admission results, or the feeling parents have when waiting for a child to return from abroad after many years. It is often internal and enduring.

他的眼神里充满了对未来的期盼。(His eyes were filled with anticipation for the future.)

In social contexts, 期盼 is frequently used in formal speeches, literature, and heartfelt personal letters. It is the language of dreams and long-term goals. For instance, a community might have a collective 期盼 for a new park or a better education system. In this sense, it transcends individual desire and becomes a shared vision. It is also common in diplomatic or professional settings when expressing a strong desire for cooperation or peace. Because it sounds more formal and poetic than 期待, using it in your writing or speaking can elevate your tone, signaling that you are discussing something of significant importance or emotional value. It is the 'longing' that sustains people through hard times, the light at the end of the tunnel that one keeps their eyes fixed upon.

Formal Usage: In official documents or high-level meetings, you might hear '我们对此次合作充满期盼' (We are full of anticipation for this cooperation). It adds a layer of sincerity and gravity to the statement.

那是全村人多年的期盼。(That was the long-standing expectation of the entire village.)

Furthermore, the word is often paired with adjectives like '深深的' (deep), '长久的' (long-lasting), or '美好的' (beautiful). This reinforces its status as a noun representing a state of existence rather than just a fleeting thought. When you are in a state of 期盼, you are mentally and emotionally engaged with the future. It is a very human word, capturing the essence of looking forward to something better. Whether it is a child's 期盼 for a birthday gift or a nation's 期盼 for prosperity, the word bridges the gap between the present reality and a desired future state. It is the bridge built of hope and time.

Literary Nuance: In poetry, 期盼 is used to describe the silent, often painful wait for a lover or a lost home, emphasizing the endurance required in the act of hoping.

我带着你的期盼，踏上了旅程。(Carrying your expectations, I set out on the journey.)

Using 期盼 (qīpàn) correctly requires an understanding of its syntactic flexibility. While we are focusing on its role as a noun, it transitions smoothly between being the subject of a sentence, the object of a verb, or part of a descriptive phrase. As a noun, it often follows verbs of possession or emotion, such as 充满 (chōngmǎn - to be full of) or 寄托 (jìtuō - to place/entrust). For example, '心中充满期盼' (the heart is full of anticipation) is a very common structure. Here, the anticipation is treated as a substance that can fill a container (the heart). This usage highlights the internal, psychological nature of the word. It isn't just something you do; it's something you have or feel.

Pattern: 充满 + 期盼: This is the most common way to use 期盼 as a noun. It describes a state of being eager and hopeful.

每一个孩子脸上都写满了对假期的期盼。(Every child's face was written with anticipation for the holidays.)

Another significant usage is when 期盼 acts as the object of a person's focus. You might say '这是父母对你的期盼' (This is your parents' expectation for you). In this context, the noun refers to the specific hopes or goals that others have for an individual. It functions similarly to 'expectations' in English but carries a softer, more supportive emotional tone. It implies that the parents are looking forward to your success with love, rather than just demanding it. This distinction is crucial in understanding Chinese interpersonal dynamics, where 'expectations' are often viewed as a form of care (关心) rather than just pressure.

Pattern: [Person] + 的 + 期盼: Used to describe the specific hopes held by a person or group. '老师的期盼' (the teacher's expectation).

不要辜负了大家对你的期盼。(Do not let down everyone's expectations of you.)

In more complex sentences, 期盼 can serve as the subject. For instance, '这种期盼支撑着他走过了最困难的时期' (This kind of anticipation supported him through the most difficult period). Here, the noun becomes an active force that can 'support' or 'sustain' someone. This showcases the power attributed to positive expectation in Chinese thought. It is seen as a source of energy or motivation. When constructing sentences, remember that 期盼 is almost always positive. You wouldn't usually have a '期盼' for something bad to happen; for that, you would use words like '担心' (worry) or '恐惧' (fear). The word inherently contains a 'beautiful' or 'desired' outcome.

Pattern: 带着 + 期盼: Used to describe doing an action while carrying a state of anticipation. '带着期盼出发' (to set out with anticipation).

他的心中始终保留着一份美好的期盼。(He always kept a beautiful expectation in his heart.)

期盼 (qīpàn) is a versatile word that you will encounter across various levels of Chinese society, from the most formal media broadcasts to intimate family gatherings. One of the most common places to hear it is in news reporting, especially when the journalist is discussing social progress, international relations, or public sentiment. For example, during a report on a new high-speed railway opening, the reporter might say, '这条铁路承载着沿线居民多年的期盼' (This railway carries the long-standing expectations of the residents along the line). In this context, it emphasizes the collective desire of the people and the emotional significance of the infrastructure project. It sounds much more impactful than simply saying the people 'wanted' the train.

News & Media: Used to describe the 'hopes of the masses' (群众的期盼). It conveys a sense of duty for the government to fulfill these hopes.

全世界人民都在期盼着和平的到来。(People all over the world are anticipating the arrival of peace.)

In the realm of entertainment, particularly in song lyrics and television dramas, 期盼 is a staple. It is the perfect word for a ballad about waiting for a loved one to return or a hero anticipating a final victory. You will often hear it in the theme songs of romantic dramas where the protagonist sings about their 'deeply hidden anticipation' (深藏的期盼). Because the word itself has a melodic quality and evokes a visual image of someone looking into the distance, it resonates well with audiences. If you watch a historical drama (wuxia or xianxia), characters often speak of their 'centuries-long anticipation' for a specific event or person. This adds a layer of epic scale to their emotions.

Literature & Songs: It is used to evoke nostalgia or deep longing. It’s a 'high-register' word for hope that sounds elegant in artistic contexts.

歌词中表达了对家乡的深深期盼。(The lyrics express a deep longing for one's hometown.)

In everyday family life, while people might use the verb form more often, the noun form appears in conversations about life goals and education. Parents might say to their children, '你是我唯一的期盼' (You are my only hope/expectation). While this might sound heavy in English, in a Chinese context, it often conveys a sense of legacy and the passing on of dreams. It is also used in professional feedback. A manager might tell an employee, '公司对你有很多期盼' (The company has many expectations for you). This is a way of saying you have potential and they are looking forward to your growth. Hearing the word in these contexts tells you that the speaker is looking at the long term and values your future contribution.

Workplace & Education: Used by mentors or leaders to express confidence in someone's future. It’s a motivational tool.

老师的眼神中充满了对学生的期盼。(The teacher's eyes were full of expectations for the students.)

One of the most frequent mistakes learners make with 期盼 (qīpàn) is confusing it with its close relative, 期待 (qīdài). While both mean 'to look forward to' or 'expectation,' they are not always interchangeable. 期待 is the general, everyday word. You 期待 a weekend, a movie, or a cup of coffee. It is relatively neutral. 期盼, however, is much more 'heavy.' If you say you 期盼 a cup of coffee, it sounds like you haven't had water in three days and the coffee is your only salvation! Using 期盼 for trivial things can make you sound overly dramatic or like you are writing a poem when you should just be ordering a drink. Always ask yourself: Is this expectation deeply emotional or significant? If not, stick with 期待.

Mistake 1: Overuse in Casual Situations: Saying '我期盼周末' (I longingly anticipate the weekend) sounds a bit too intense for a casual Friday chat. Use '我期待周末' instead.

Incorrect: 我期盼明天的午饭。(I am longingly anticipating tomorrow's lunch.) - Unless you are starving!

Another common error involves the grammatical structure. Learners often forget that when 期盼 is used as a noun, it usually needs a modifier or a specific verb like 充满 (to be full of). You cannot simply say '我有期盼' (I have expectation) in the same way you say 'I have a dream.' It sounds incomplete in Chinese. You should say '我心中充满期盼' or '我对他有很多期盼.' Additionally, some learners confuse 期盼 with 盼望 (pànwàng). While 盼望 is very similar, it is almost exclusively used as a verb and is slightly more informal/colloquial than the noun form of 期盼. Using 盼望 as a noun ('我的盼望') is grammatically possible but much less common and sounds a bit awkward compared to '我的期盼.'

Mistake 2: Confusing with 'Hope' (希望): 希望 is a broader term for 'wish' or 'hope.' 期盼 is more about the process of waiting and looking forward. You can 'hope' for something that is impossible, but you usually '期盼' something that is coming or possible.

Correct: 全家人对他充满了期盼。(The whole family is full of expectations for him.)

Finally, pay attention to the 'object' of your 期盼. In English, you might say 'my expectation of you.' In Chinese, the preposition '对' (duì - towards/for) is essential. A common mistake is saying '你的期盼' when you mean 'expectations for you.' '你的期盼' means the expectations *you* have. If you want to say 'my expectations for you,' it must be '我对你的期盼.' This '对...的' structure is a hallmark of natural-sounding Chinese and is often missed by beginners who translate literally from English possessives. Mastering this will make your use of 期盼 sound much more native and precise.

Mistake 3: Missing the Preposition '对': Always use '对 [someone/something] 的期盼' to specify what the expectation is directed toward.

Incorrect: 我期盼你成功。(I anticipate your success.) - While understandable, '我对你的成功充满期盼' is more formal and noun-focused.

To truly master 期盼 (qīpàn), it is helpful to compare it with other words in the 'expectation' and 'hope' family. Chinese is rich with synonyms that vary based on intensity, formality, and nuance. The most common alternative is 期待 (qīdài). As mentioned before, 期待 is the 'workhorse' word—it is used for almost everything from waiting for a bus to waiting for a friend. It is neutral and versatile. If you are unsure which word to use, 期待 is usually the safer, more modern choice for daily life. However, if you want to add a touch of poetic longing or emphasize a deep-seated wish, 期盼 is the superior choice. It suggests that the person waiting is doing so with their whole heart, often 'watching' for the result to appear.

期盼 vs. 期待: 期盼 is more emotional and literary. 期待 is more common and neutral. Think 'longing' vs. 'anticipating.'

期待：期待明天的聚会 (Looking forward to tomorrow's party).
期盼：期盼失散多年的亲人团聚 (Anticipating the reunion of long-lost relatives).

Another similar word is 盼望 (pànwàng). This word is very close to 期盼 but is more commonly used as a verb. It has a slightly more 'active' feel, often associated with a physical act of looking out. In children's stories or casual speech, you might hear '小明盼望着过年' (Xiao Ming is looking forward to the New Year). While 期盼 can also be a verb, it is more likely to be found in written texts or formal speeches. If you are writing a formal letter or an essay, 期盼 is often the better choice. If you are talking to a child or a close friend about something they are excited about, 盼望 feels more natural and warm.

期盼 vs. 盼望: 盼望 is more colloquial and verb-heavy. 期盼 is more formal and often used as a noun.

渴望：渴望自由 (Thirsting for freedom).
期盼：期盼和平 (Anticipating peace).

Finally, consider 憧憬 (chōngjǐng). This word is used specifically for 'imagining' or 'longing for' a beautiful future. It is very positive and often used in the context of dreams and ideals. While 期盼 is about the *act* of expecting something, 憧憬 is about the *vision* of that beautiful thing. You might have a 期盼 for a stable job, but you have a 憧憬 for a life of travel and adventure. Each of these words allows you to fine-tune your expression of hope. By choosing 期盼, you are highlighting the endurance and the visual focus of your waiting, making your Chinese sound both precise and emotionally rich.

Summary of Alternatives: 1. 期待 (Neutral, daily)
2. 盼望 (Colloquial, active)
3. 渴望 (Intense, urgent)
4. 憧憬 (Poetic, visionary)

How Formal Is It?

Fun Fact

The character 盼 (pàn) contains the 'eye' radical (目). This visually reinforces the idea that anticipation is an act of 'watching' for something to happen. In ancient texts, it was often used to describe the beautiful eyes of a woman.

Pronunciation Guide

UK /tɕʰi˥ pʰan˥˩/

US /tɕʰi˥ pʰan˥˩/

In Mandarin, stress is usually balanced, but the falling tone on 'pàn' makes it sound slightly more emphatic in this word.

Rhymes With

衣 (yī) 西 (xī) 低 (dī) 站 (zhàn) 慢 (màn) 饭 (fàn) 看 (kàn) 半 (bàn)

Common Errors

Pronouncing 'qi' as 'ki' (it should be like 'chee').
Failing to aspirate the 'p' in 'pan'.
Mixing up the tones: pronouncing 'qi' as a falling tone instead of level.
Pronouncing 'pan' as a level tone instead of falling.
Confusing 'qi' with 'chi' (the tongue position is different).

Difficulty Rating

Reading 3/5

The characters are common but '盼' is slightly more advanced than '期'.

Writing 4/5

Requires remembering the 'eye' radical and the strokes in '期'.

Speaking 2/5

Easy to pronounce if you know Pinyin.

Listening 2/5

Very distinct sound, easy to pick up in context.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

期 (Period) 看 (Look) 希望 (Hope) 等 (Wait) 心 (Heart)

Learn Next

期待 (Expect) 憧憬 (Long for) 渴望 (Thirst for) 辜负 (Let down) 承载 (Carry)

Advanced

希冀 (Hope/Aspire) 企盼 (Earnestly anticipate) 翘首以盼 (Crane neck to look) 望穿秋水 (Longing gaze)

Grammar to Know

Noun Modification with '的'

美好的期盼 (Beautiful anticipation)

Preposition '对' to indicate target

对他人的期盼 (Expectations for others)

Verb '充满' + Noun

充满期盼 (Full of anticipation)

Verb '着' for ongoing state

期盼着 (Is anticipating)

Verb '辜负' + Noun

辜负期盼 (Let down expectations)

Examples by Level

我期盼你的到来。

I look forward to your arrival.

Subject + 期盼 + Object.

孩子们期盼着过年。

The children are looking forward to the New Year.

Used as a verb with '着' for ongoing state.

我期盼明天的天气很好。

I hope tomorrow's weather will be good.

期盼 can introduce a clause.

他期盼收到礼物。

He looks forward to receiving a gift.

Simple verb usage.

我们期盼和平。

We hope for peace.

Abstract noun as object.

她期盼见到妈妈。

She looks forward to seeing her mom.

Verb + Verb Phrase.

大家都期盼假期。

Everyone looks forward to the holidays.

Universal subject.

我期盼你的回信。

I look forward to your reply.

Common in letter writing.

他的眼里充满了期盼。

His eyes were full of anticipation.

Noun usage after '充满'.

这是父母对我的期盼。

This is my parents' expectation for me.

Possessive '的' with '对...的'.

我们带着期盼开始了旅行。

We started the trip with anticipation.

Used in a prepositional phrase '带着...'

这份礼物是我的期盼。

This gift is what I anticipated.

Noun as a predicate.

我能感受到你的期盼。

I can feel your anticipation.

Noun as object of '感受'.

大家的期盼让他很有压力。

Everyone's expectations gave him a lot of pressure.

Noun as subject.

心中的期盼终于实现了。

The anticipation in the heart finally came true.

Modified noun as subject.

这是一份美好的期盼。

This is a beautiful expectation.

Adjective + Noun.

全村人都在期盼这场雨。

The whole village is anticipating this rain.

Collective subject expressing urgent hope.

他辜负了老师的期盼。

He let down the teacher's expectations.

Verb '辜负' (let down) + Noun.

这种期盼支撑着他度过了难关。

This kind of anticipation supported him through the difficulties.

Noun as an active agent/subject.

我们对新的一年充满期盼。

We are full of anticipation for the new year.

Standard '对...充满...' structure.

那是他长久以来的期盼。

That was his long-standing expectation.

Time modifier '长久以来'.

为了满足家人的期盼，他非常努力。

To satisfy his family's expectations, he worked very hard.

Verb '满足' (satisfy) + Noun.

这种期盼是无法用语言表达的。

This kind of anticipation cannot be expressed in words.

Abstract noun as subject with negation.

期盼和平是每个人的权利。

Anticipating peace is everyone's right.

Gerund-like usage (verb phrase as subject).

这项工程承载着几代人的期盼。

This project carries the expectations of several generations.

Verb '承载' (carry/bear) + Noun.

他的成功是对母亲期盼最好的回报。

His success is the best return for his mother's expectations.

Noun as a target of '回报' (return/repayment).

社会对教育改革有着极高的期盼。

Society has extremely high expectations for education reform.

Formal social context.

这种深切的期盼化作了他前进的动力。

This deep anticipation turned into the motivation for him to move forward.

Metaphorical usage: '化作' (turn into).

无论结果如何，这份期盼本身就是一种幸福。

Regardless of the result, this anticipation itself is a kind of happiness.

Philosophical reflection on the noun.

她一直期盼着能有机会去远方旅行。

She has always been looking forward to having a chance to travel far away.

Verb form with '着' and '能'.

他带着满心的期盼，敲开了那扇门。

With a heart full of anticipation, he knocked on that door.

Descriptive phrase '带着满心的...'.

期盼与现实之间总是有一定的差距。

There is always a gap between expectation and reality.

Noun in a comparative structure.

这种期盼在某种程度上反映了集体的焦虑。

This anticipation to some extent reflects collective anxiety.

Academic/Sociological analysis.

文学作品往往寄托了作者对理想社会的期盼。

Literary works often embody the author's anticipation for an ideal society.

Verb '寄托' (place/embody) + Noun.

那种期盼已经超越了单纯的个人欲望。

That kind of anticipation has already transcended simple personal desire.

Verb '超越' (transcend) + Noun.

在漫长的等待中，期盼渐渐变成了一种煎熬。

In the long wait, anticipation gradually turned into a kind of suffering.

Describing the negative transformation of the noun.

他从未放弃过对真理的期盼与追求。

He never gave up his anticipation and pursuit of truth.

Paired with '追求' (pursuit).

这种期盼源于内心深处对美好的向往。

This anticipation stems from the deep yearning for beauty in the heart.

Verb '源于' (originate from).

政府必须正视民众对公平正义的期盼。

The government must face up to the people's expectations for fairness and justice.

Political/Formal context.

每一个细节都体现了设计者对完美的期盼。

Every detail reflects the designer's anticipation for perfection.

Verb '体现' (reflect/embody).

期盼这一概念在古典诗歌中常被赋予视觉化的意象。

The concept of anticipation is often given visualized imagery in classical poetry.

Meta-linguistic discussion of the word.

他那饱含期盼的笔触，勾勒出了一个时代的轮廓。

His brushstrokes, full of anticipation, outlined the silhouette of an era.

Metaphorical use in art criticism.

当期盼不再指向具体的物，它便成为了一种纯粹的生命状态。

When anticipation no longer points to concrete things, it becomes a pure state of life.

Philosophical/Existential usage.

这种期盼在历史的洪流中显得既渺小又伟大。

This anticipation appears both tiny and great in the torrent of history.

Literary/Historical context.

那种由于期盼而生的焦灼，在其作品中随处可见。

That anxiety born of anticipation is visible everywhere in his work.

Complex noun phrase as subject.

期盼之情溢于言表，令在场的所有人都为之动容。

The feeling of anticipation was so strong it was beyond words, moving everyone present.

Idiomatic expression '溢于言表'.

在虚无主义的阴影下，期盼成了最后的救赎。

Under the shadow of nihilism, anticipation became the final redemption.

Existentialist/Philosophical context.

这种期盼横跨了文化与疆界，成为人类共同的语言。

This anticipation spans cultures and boundaries, becoming a common language for humanity.

Universalist/Grand narrative context.

Common Collocations

充满期盼

满怀期盼

不负期盼

辜负期盼

深切的期盼

寄托期盼

长久的期盼

美好的期盼

共同的期盼

热切期盼

Common Phrases

期盼已久

— To have been looking forward to something for a long time.

这场期盼已久的雨终于下了。

满心的期盼

— A heart full of anticipation.

他带着满心的期盼踏上了旅程。

眼神中的期盼

— The anticipation visible in one's eyes.

我永远忘不了他眼神中的期盼。

社会的期盼

— The expectations of society.

我们要顺应社会的期盼。

唯一的期盼

— The only hope or expectation.

你是我在这个世界上唯一的期盼。

无尽的期盼

— Endless anticipation or longing.

在无尽的期盼中，天亮了。

真诚的期盼

— Sincere anticipation or hope.

请接受我们最真诚的期盼。

默默地期盼

— To look forward to something silently.

他只是在心里默默地期盼。

达成期盼

— To achieve or fulfill an expectation.

我们终于达成了大家的期盼。

承载期盼

— To carry or bear expectations.

这枚勋章承载着家人的期盼。

Often Confused With

期盼 vs 期待 (qīdài)

期待 is more common and neutral. Use it for everyday things. Use 期盼 for more emotional or formal situations.

期盼 vs 希望 (xīwàng)

希望 is 'hope' in a general sense. 期盼 implies a more active state of waiting and watching.

期盼 vs 愿望 (yuànwàng)

愿望 is a 'wish.' It is more about what you want to happen, while 期盼 is about the state of expecting it to happen.

Idioms & Expressions

"翘首以盼"

— To stand on tiptoe and crane one's neck to look for something; to look forward to something eagerly.

全国人民都在翘首以盼这一时刻的到来。

Formal/Literary

"望穿秋水"

— To gaze until one's eyes are tired (like autumn water); to look forward with great longing.

她望穿秋水，终于等到了儿子的归来。

Literary/Poetic

"如愿以偿"

— To have one's wish fulfilled; to get what one expected.

经过努力，他终于如愿以偿考上了大学。

Neutral

"大失所望"

— To be greatly disappointed (the opposite of fulfilling an expectation).

这场电影真令人大失所望。

Neutral

"不负众望"

— To live up to everyone's expectations.

他不负众望，赢得了比赛的冠军。

Formal

"众望所归"

— To enjoy the support and expectations of the people.

他是众望所归的领导人。

Formal

"朝思暮想"

— To think of something day and night; very deep longing.

这是他朝思暮想都想去的地方。

Literary

"引颈而望"

— To crane one's neck to look; similar to 翘首以盼.

大家都引颈而望，等待结果公布。

Literary

"刻骨铭心"

— Unforgettable; often used to describe the depth of a feeling like 期盼.

那份期盼是刻骨铭心的。

Literary

"梦寐以求"

— Something one dreams of; a very high level of expectation.

这是他梦寐以求的机会。

Neutral

Easily Confused

期盼 vs 期望 (qīwàng)

Sounds similar and has a similar meaning.

期望 is more about a standard or a level one is expected to reach, often used in professional or academic settings. 期盼 is more emotional and focused on the act of longing.

我对你的期望很高 (I have high expectations of you/your performance).

期盼 vs 盼望 (pànwàng)

Contains the same second character.

盼望 is usually a verb and is more colloquial. 期盼 is more formal and is frequently used as a noun.

我盼望你快点回来 (I look forward to you coming back soon).

期盼 vs 指望 (zhǐwang)

Also means 'to hope for' or 'to count on.'

指望 often implies dependence on someone or something. It can sometimes have a slightly negative or desperate connotation (e.g., 'don't count on it'). 期盼 is always positive and noble.

你就别指望他了 (Don't count on him).

期盼 vs 渴望 (kěwàng)

Both involve strong desire.

渴望 is much stronger, like a 'thirst.' It implies an urgent need. 期盼 is more patient and focused on the future arrival.

他渴望成功 (He thirsts for success).

期盼 vs 向往 (xiàngwǎng)

Both involve looking toward the future.

向往 is 'to yearn for' a place or a lifestyle that one hasn't experienced. 期盼 is 'to expect' something that is coming or possible.

我向往自由的生活 (I yearn for a life of freedom).

Sentence Patterns

我期盼着 + [Event/Action]

我期盼着假期的到来。

[Someone] 的眼里充满了期盼

他的眼里充满了期盼。

对...充满期盼

我们对未来充满期盼。

不负...的期盼

他不负父母的期盼。

承载着...的期盼

这个梦想承载着全家人的期盼。

寄托了...的期盼

这封信寄托了我的期盼。

期盼已久的 + [Noun]

这是我期盼已久的机会。

期盼之情溢于言表

他的期盼之情溢于言表。

Word Family

Nouns

期盼 (Expectation/Anticipation)

期待 (Expectation - more common)

盼头 (Something to look forward to - colloquial)

Verbs

期盼 (To anticipate/long for)

盼望 (To look forward to)

期待 (To expect)

Adjectives

期盼的 (Anticipatory)

充满期盼的 (Full of anticipation)

日期 (Date)

希望 (Hope)

愿望 (Wish)

目标 (Goal)

未来 (Future)

How to Use It

frequency

Very high in written media, moderate to high in daily speech.

Common Mistakes

Using 期盼 for negative things. → 我担心会下雨。(I'm worried it will rain.)
期盼 is inherently positive. You don't 'anticipate' something you don't want to happen.
Saying '我有期盼你'. → 我对你充满期盼。(I am full of expectations for you.)
You cannot use 期盼 as a noun that directly takes a person as an object. You need the '对...的' structure.
Using 期盼 for very small, daily things. → 我期待明天的早饭。(I'm looking forward to tomorrow's breakfast.)
期盼 is too 'heavy' for trivial things. Use 期待 instead.
Writing '盼' without the eye radical. → 期盼 (with 目 radical).
The eye radical is essential to the meaning and the character structure.
Confusing 期盼 with 期望 in a performance context. → 老师对我的期望很高。(The teacher has high expectations for my performance.)
期望 is better for standards and performance levels. 期盼 is better for emotional longing.

Tips

Using the '对' Structure

Always pair 期盼 with '对' when specifying the object of expectation. For example, '对成功的期盼' (anticipation for success). This makes your Chinese sound professional.

Painting a Picture

Remember the 'eye' in 盼. When you use this word, imagine you are literally looking out a window or toward the horizon. This helps you capture the right emotion.

Avoid Triviality

Don't use 期盼 for things like 'I expect to eat an apple.' It sounds too dramatic. Save it for meaningful events like '期盼新年的团圆' (Anticipating the New Year reunion).

Formal Letters

In a formal email or letter, use '热切期盼您的回复' (Eagerly looking forward to your reply). It is much more polite and elegant than simple phrases.

Family Hopes

Understand that '父母的期盼' is a very common theme in Chinese culture. Using this word shows you understand the emotional ties between generations.

Tone Matters

When saying 期盼, emphasize the falling tone on 'pàn' to show your sincerity. A weak 'pan' makes the expectation sound half-hearted.

Mnemonic Aid

Think: 'Qi' (Time) + 'Pan' (Eyes) = Watching the Time. This simple formula will help you remember the meaning and the characters.

Media Cues

Listen for this word in Chinese New Year galas (Chunwan). It is used constantly to describe the nation's hope for the future.

Wait vs. Expect

If you want to focus on the waiting part, use 盼望. If you want to focus on the result, use 期待. If you want both with emotion, use 期盼.

Idiom Pairing

Try pairing it with the idiom '翘首以盼' (standing on tiptoe to look) in your writing to show off your advanced skills.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of 'Qi' as the 'Queue' (line) of time you are in, and 'Pan' as your 'Eyes' (the radical 目) looking forward at the prize at the end of the line.

Visual Association

Imagine someone standing on a hill, hand over their eyes, looking at the horizon for a ship to arrive. That 'looking' is the essence of 期盼.

Word Web

Time (期) Eye (目) Hope (希望) Wait (等) Future (未来) Heart (心) Longing (思念) Goal (目标)

Challenge

Try to use '期盼' in a sentence today when talking about something you are genuinely excited about, like a trip or a meeting with a friend.

Word Origin

The word 期盼 is a compound of two classical Chinese characters. '期' (qī) originally referred to a meeting or a fixed time, often related to the lunar cycle. '盼' (pàn) originally described the beauty of eyes with clear black and white parts, but evolved to mean 'to look' or 'to gaze' with longing.

Original meaning: To look toward a fixed time or event with clear focus.

Sino-Tibetan (Mandarin Chinese)

Cultural Context

Be careful when using it to describe people's expectations of you; it can imply a heavy emotional debt if you fail.

English speakers might use 'expectation' in a way that sounds demanding. In Chinese, 期盼 is almost always supportive and hopeful.

Commonly used in the lyrics of the famous song 'Tomorrow will be better' (明天会更好). Appears in many modern Chinese poems about the 'Chinese Dream' (中国梦). A key theme in the classic novel 'To Live' (活着) by Yu Hua.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Education

老师的期盼
不负期望
学业的期盼
家长的期盼

Holidays

期盼过年
团圆的期盼
假期的期盼
新年的期盼

Career

职位的期盼
成功的期盼
公司的期盼
晋升的期盼

Family

家人的期盼
回家的期盼
平安的期盼
深情的期盼

International Relations

和平的期盼
合作的期盼
发展的期盼
人民的期盼

Conversation Starters

"你对新的一年有什么期盼吗？ (Do you have any expectations for the new year?)"

"你最期盼收到的礼物是什么？ (What is the gift you most look forward to receiving?)"

"大家对这次旅行都充满了期盼。 (Everyone is full of anticipation for this trip.)"

"你觉得父母对你的期盼压力大吗？ (Do you feel the pressure of your parents' expectations is high?)"

"我们都期盼着那个好消息。 (We are all looking forward to that good news.)"

Journal Prompts

写一写你心中最深的一个期盼，以及你为之付出了什么。 (Write about the deepest anticipation in your heart and what you have done for it.)

描述一次你终于实现了长久期盼的事时的心情。 (Describe how you felt when you finally achieved something you had anticipated for a long time.)

如果你能实现全世界人民的一个共同期盼，你会选哪一个？ (If you could fulfill one common expectation of people all over the world, which one would you choose?)

谈谈你如何处理别人对你的期盼。 (Talk about how you handle other people's expectations of you.)

为什么期盼对人类的生活如此重要？ (Why is anticipation so important to human life?)

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

It can be both! In sentences like '我期盼你回来,' it is a verb. In sentences like '他的眼里充满期盼,' it is a noun. In Chinese, many words change their part of speech based on context.

Use 期盼 when the situation is more formal, literary, or involves deep emotions. For example, use it for a long-lost friend returning home. Use 期待 for daily things like waiting for a movie to start.

Generally, no. 期盼 is a positive word. You wouldn't say you '期盼' a disaster. For negative expectations, you would use words like '担心' (worry) or '预感' (premonition).

You can say '不要辜负我对你的期盼' (Bùyào gūfù wǒ duì nǐ de qīpàn). This is a very powerful and emotional way to say it.

The most common phrase is '充满期盼' (chōngmǎn qīpàn), meaning 'full of anticipation.' You see this in books and news reports all the time.

Yes, but usually in formal speeches or letters to show sincere hope for cooperation. For example: '我们期盼与贵公司的合作' (We look forward to cooperating with your company).

The second character 盼 (pàn) has the 'eye' radical (目) on the left. This is because the word originally referred to the way someone looks or gazes.

Yes, children can use it, but they are more likely to use the simpler word 盼望 (pànwàng) in daily speech. 期盼 is something they might learn in school or read in storybooks.

No. In Chinese, abstract nouns like 期盼 don't have a plural form. You can add '很多' (many) or '各种' (various) before it to show there are multiple expectations.

Not exactly. 'Wish' is usually 愿望 (yuànwàng). 期盼 is more about the process of *waiting* for that wish to come true.