When something is 寻常 (xún cháng), it means it's ordinary, common, or usual. Think of it like saying "normal" or "nothing special."
It's not surprising or out of the ordinary.
For example, a common day would be a 寻常 day.
It's a useful word to describe things that happen all the time.
When you're describing something as ordinary, common, or usual in Chinese, you can use the word 寻常 (xúncháng). It's a great word for talking about everyday things or situations that aren't special or out of the ordinary. Think of it like saying 'normal' or 'regular' in English. For example, a 寻常 day is just a regular day, nothing exciting or unusual happening. It helps you express that something is quite typical.
When we say something is 寻常 (xúncháng), we mean it's nothing out of the ordinary, it's just common or usual. Think of it like saying something is "everyday" or "run-of-the-mill."
For instance, if someone says "这只是寻常的一天" (Zhè zhǐ shì xúncháng de yī tiān), they mean "This is just an ordinary day." It implies there's nothing special or noteworthy happening.
You might also hear it in phrases like "寻常人家" (xúncháng rénjiā), which refers to "ordinary folk" or "common people." It's a way to describe something as typical and unremarkable, not unique or extraordinary.
When we say something is 寻常 (xúncháng), we mean it's nothing out of the ordinary, it's just common or usual.
It can describe everyday events, ordinary people, or common situations.
For example, you might say, "这只是寻常的一天" (Zhè zhǐ shì xúncháng de yī tiān), meaning "This is just an ordinary day."
Or, "他过着寻常的生活" (Tā guòzhe xúncháng de shēnghuó), which means "He lives an ordinary life."
It's a useful word for describing things that are typical and not exceptional in any way.
寻常 in 30 Seconds
- ordinary
- common
- usual
§ What 寻常 (xúncháng) Means
Let's talk about 寻常 (xúncháng). It's an adjective that means 'ordinary,' 'common,' or 'usual.' Think of it as describing something that isn't special, doesn't stand out, and is just part of everyday life. It's a B1 word, so you'll hear it often in conversations once you get past the very basics of Chinese.
- DEFINITION
- Ordinary; common; usual.
When do people use it? They use it to describe things, events, or even feelings that are not out of the ordinary. If something is regular, typical, or run-of-the-mill, 寻常 (xúncháng) is a good word to use. It often implies a sense of normalcy or something you'd expect to see or experience.
You might hear it when people are talking about:
- Everyday activities: "This is just a 寻常 day." (这是一个寻常的日子。)
- Common occurrences: "This kind of thing is very 寻常 here." (这种事情在这里很寻常。)
- Unremarkable qualities: "He has a very 寻常 appearance." (他长得很寻常。)
It can also be used to emphasize that something is *not* ordinary by adding a negative, like 不寻常 (bù xúncháng), meaning 'unusual' or 'extraordinary.' But for now, let's stick to the positive sense.
这只是一个寻常的周末。
This sentence means: This is just an ordinary weekend.
他穿着寻常的衣服。
Here, it translates to: He was wearing ordinary clothes.
You'll notice that it often comes before the noun it modifies, just like many adjectives in Chinese. It's a fairly neutral word, not carrying strong positive or negative connotations on its own. Its meaning depends heavily on the context.
Let's look at a few more examples to help cement your understanding:
这对我们来说是很寻常的。
Translation: This is very common for us.
他过着寻常的生活。
Translation: He lives an ordinary life.
It's a straightforward word, but mastering its use will make your Chinese sound much more natural. Pay attention to how native speakers use it in different contexts, and you'll quickly get a feel for it.
Alright, let's get into the nitty-gritty of 寻常 (xúncháng). This word means 'ordinary,' 'common,' or 'usual.' It's a pretty straightforward adjective, but knowing when and how to use it will make your Chinese sound a lot more natural. Forget the textbook examples for a bit; we're going to look at where you'll actually bump into this word in real life – at work, at school, and in the news.
§ What 寻常 Means
- Definition
- Ordinary; common; usual.
Basically, if something isn't special, doesn't stand out, or is just what you'd expect, you can probably use 寻常 to describe it. It's not a super formal word, but it's not slang either. It fits into a wide range of contexts.
§ At Work: Describing Routine or Lack of Specialness
In a work setting, 寻常 often comes up when you're talking about daily routines, typical procedures, or when something is unexpectedly not ordinary. Think about it: you want to say a meeting was just a regular meeting, or a problem wasn't out of the ordinary.
今天的会议很寻常，没有什么特别的讨论。
This means: Today's meeting was very ordinary, there were no special discussions.
这只是一个寻常的工作日。
This translates to: This is just an ordinary workday.
It's also super common to hear 寻常 in negative constructions, like 非寻常 (fēi xúncháng) meaning 'uncommon' or 'extraordinary,' or 不寻常 (bù xúncháng) which means the same thing. This is a very useful way to express that something is out of the ordinary.
他做出了一个不寻常的决定。
Meaning: He made an unusual decision.
§ At School: Describing Everyday Life and Expectations
In a school environment, 寻常 can describe the typical student's experience, common occurrences, or even contrast with something exceptional. If you're talking about what a normal day at school looks like, 寻常 fits right in.
对于大学生来说，熬夜学习是家常便饭，很寻常。
Translation: For college students, pulling all-nighters to study is common, very ordinary.
学校生活平淡无奇，没有什么不寻常的事情发生。
This means: School life is uneventful, nothing unusual happened.
§ In the News: Reporting on Common Events or Contrasting with the Unusual
When you're reading or watching the news, 寻常 is often used to establish context, describing typical situations or highlighting when something deviates from the norm. News reports love to contrast the ordinary with the extraordinary to create impact.
这只是一起寻常的交通事故。
This translates to: This is just an ordinary traffic accident.
在那个动荡的年代，死亡是如此寻常。
Meaning: In that tumultuous era, death was so common.
You'll also see it in more literary or reflective news pieces, especially when discussing human nature or societal trends.
Normal vs. Abnormal: 寻常 often sets the baseline for what is considered normal. Anything deviating from this baseline might be described as 不寻常.
Everyday Occurrences: It's perfect for describing things that happen regularly and don't require special attention.
Emotional States: Sometimes it describes common human emotions or reactions.
So, there you have it. 寻常 is a useful word for describing the plain, the regular, and the expected. Keep an ear out for it, and don't be afraid to use it yourself to make your Chinese sound more grounded in reality.
§ 寻常 (xúncháng) Mistakes to Avoid
Alright, let's talk about 寻常 (xúncháng). It means 'ordinary,' 'common,' or 'usual.' Simple enough, right? But even simple words can trip you up if you're not careful. Here are some common mistakes I see students make and how to fix them.
§ Mistake 1: Confusing 寻常 with 平常 (píngcháng)
This is probably the most frequent mistake. Both 寻常 (xúncháng) and 平常 (píngcháng) can mean 'ordinary' or 'common.' However, there's a subtle but important difference.
- The difference
- 平常 (píngcháng) often refers to things that happen regularly, or a state of being normal. It has a stronger sense of 'everyday' or 'usual routine.' 寻常 (xúncháng) emphasizes the lack of anything special or unusual. It's more about being unremarkable.
Think of it this way:
- 平常 (píngcháng) = What usually happens.
- 寻常 (xúncháng) = Not special; just typical.
我平常早上七点起床。
Wǒ píngcháng zǎoshang qī diǎn qǐchuáng.
(I usually wake up at 7 AM. - This is my normal routine.)
这只是一个寻常的夜晚。
Zhè zhǐshì yīgè xúncháng de yèwǎn.
(This is just an ordinary night. - Nothing special about it.)
§ Mistake 2: Using 寻常 to Describe People's Appearance Negatively
While 寻常 (xúncháng) can describe someone as 'ordinary' in terms of not being particularly striking or famous, be careful how you use it when describing appearance. It can come across as a bit blunt or even slightly negative if you're not implying a contrast.
- Better Alternatives
- If you simply mean someone is 'average-looking' without negative connotation, you might use 普通 (pǔtōng) instead. 寻常 (xúncháng) often implies a lack of distinction, which can sometimes be interpreted as 'plain' or 'unremarkable' in a way that isn't always polite for a person's looks.
他长得很普通。
Tā zhǎng dé hěn pǔtōng.
(He looks very ordinary/average. - More neutral.)
However, 寻常 (xúncháng) is perfectly fine when contrasting with something extraordinary:
她虽然长相寻常，但很有才华。
Tā suīrán zhǎngxiàng xúncháng, dàn hěn yǒu cáihuá.
(Although her appearance is ordinary, she is very talented.)
§ Mistake 3: Overusing 寻常 in Formal Contexts
While 寻常 (xúncháng) is a perfectly good word, it can sometimes sound a bit more literary or poetic compared to its counterparts, especially in very formal or academic writing where you might prefer to be more precise.
- When to use other words
- In some formal or technical contexts, you might find 普通 (pǔtōng) or 常见 (chángjiàn - 'commonly seen') to be more appropriate, as they often carry a more neutral and straightforward tone.
这是生活中很常见的问题。
Zhè shì shēnghuó zhōng hěn chángjiàn de wèntí.
(This is a very common problem in life. - Often used for frequent issues.)
Don't let these small distinctions scare you. The key is to practice and pay attention to context. Listen to native speakers, read a lot, and you'll get a feel for when to use 寻常 (xúncháng) and when another word is a better fit. Keep practicing, and you'll nail it.
§ Similar words and when to use this one vs alternatives
Alright, let's talk about how 寻常 (xúncháng) fits in with other words that also mean 'ordinary' or 'common.' This is where it gets practical, so pay attention. Knowing the nuances will make your Chinese sound much more natural.
- DEFINITION
- Ordinary; common; usual.
The most common alternatives you'll encounter are 普通 (pǔtōng), 一般 (yībān), and 平常 (píngcháng). While they all share a core meaning of 'not special,' their usage often differs subtly.
§ 寻常 (xúncháng) vs. 普通 (pǔtōng)
普通 (pǔtōng) is probably the most widely used word for 'ordinary' or 'common.' It can describe people, objects, situations, or even language. It's very versatile.
- DEFINITION
- Common; ordinary; average.
When to use 寻常 (xúncháng) instead of 普通 (pǔtōng)? 寻常 (xúncháng) often carries a slightly more literary or slightly more formal tone, though it's still used in everyday speech. It emphasizes the 'usualness' or 'expectedness' of something, often in contrast to something unusual. It can also imply a sense of 'nothing special' or 'nothing out of the ordinary.' You'll often see it in phrases like 非同寻常 (fēitóngxúncháng), meaning 'extraordinary' or 'uncommon,' where it acts as the baseline for 'common.' It's also frequently used to describe things that are so common they don't even warrant attention.
这对他来说是寻常事。
Translation hint: This is an ordinary thing for him. (It's something he usually does, nothing special.)
他讲着寻常的故事，没有什么特别的。
Translation hint: He was telling ordinary stories, nothing special.
§ 寻常 (xúncháng) vs. 一般 (yībān)
一般 (yībān) also means 'ordinary' or 'average,' but it's often used to describe quality or a general situation. It can also mean 'generally' or 'in general.' When you say something is 一般, it can sometimes imply it's 'just so-so' or 'not great.'
- DEFINITION
- General; ordinary; common; average; generally.
这家餐厅的菜很一般。
Translation hint: The food at this restaurant is very average (just so-so).
You wouldn't typically use 寻常 (xúncháng) in the above example. 寻常 (xúncháng) doesn't carry the connotation of 'average quality' in the same way 一般 (yībān) can. 寻常 is more about the regularity or the absence of anything surprising.
§ 寻常 (xúncháng) vs. 平常 (píngcháng)
平常 (píngcháng) is very close in meaning to 寻常 (xúncháng), often interchangeable in many contexts. It also means 'ordinary,' 'common,' or 'usual.' It can also function as an adverb meaning 'usually' or 'ordinarily.'
- DEFINITION
- Ordinary; common; usual; ordinarily; usually.
The key difference is subtle. 平常 (píngcháng) often describes things that happen on a daily basis or are part of one's routine. It emphasizes the habitual or everyday aspect.
这只是平常的一天。
Translation hint: This is just an ordinary day.
他平常不喜欢说话。
Translation hint: He usually doesn't like to talk.
While you *could* use 寻常 (xúncháng) in the first example (这是一个寻常的一天), 平常 (píngcháng) feels more natural when describing a typical day or routine. 寻常 is good for stating something is not special or surprising, while 平常 is good for describing something as routine or typical of daily life.
§ Summary of usage:
- 寻常 (xúncháng): Use when highlighting something is ordinary, not special, or unremarkable, often implying a baseline of commonness. Good for contrast (e.g., 非同寻常). Can have a slightly more formal or literary feel than 普通.
- 普通 (pǔtōng): The most general and versatile word for 'ordinary' or 'common.' Use it for almost anything that isn't special.
- 一般 (yībān): Use for general situations, or to describe something as 'average' or 'just so-so' in quality.
- 平常 (píngcháng): Use for daily routines, typical occurrences, or things that happen habitually.
Don't overthink it, but do pay attention to the context. The more you read and listen, the more naturally these distinctions will come to you. Keep practicing!
Fun Fact
While '寻常' is generally used for 'ordinary,' it can sometimes subtly imply a contrast with something special or out of the norm, especially in classical or poetic contexts. It's similar to how 'nothing out of the ordinary' implies something is usually ordinary.
Pronunciation Guide
- Don't confuse with similar sounding words like '寻常' (xúncháng) meaning 'ordinary'.
Difficulty Rating
The characters are not overly complex and appear in common vocabulary.
Both characters have a manageable number of strokes and are relatively common.
The pronunciation is straightforward with common pinyin combinations.
The tones are distinct, and the word is often heard in everyday conversation.
What to Learn Next
Prerequisites
Learn Next
Advanced
Grammar to Know
寻常 can be used directly before a noun to describe it as ordinary or common.
寻常百姓 (xúncháng bǎixìng) - ordinary people.
It can also be used as a predicate, often followed by 的, to describe something as being ordinary.
这事很寻常的 (zhè shì hěn xúncháng de) - This matter is quite ordinary.
寻常 can be modified by adverbs of degree like 很 (hěn - very) or 不 (bù - not) to intensify or negate its meaning.
这不寻常 (zhè bù xúncháng) - This is not ordinary; this is unusual.
It often appears in literary or more formal contexts compared to more colloquial terms like 普通 (pǔtōng).
寻常日子 (xúncháng rìzi) - ordinary days.
When comparing two things, 寻常 can be used to emphasize that one thing is just like any other, without special qualities.
他过着寻常的生活 (tā guòzhe xúncháng de shēnghuó) - He lives an ordinary life.
Examples by Level
这是很寻常的一天。
This is a very ordinary day.
他吃很寻常的饭菜。
He eats very common food.
这不是寻常的事。
This is not an ordinary thing.
她的名字很寻常。
Her name is very common.
这个词很寻常。
This word is very common.
寻常的东西也可以很好。
Ordinary things can also be good.
他喜欢寻常的生活。
He likes an ordinary life.
这不是寻常的颜色。
This is not an ordinary color.
这只是寻常的一天。
This is just an ordinary day.
他穿着寻常的衣服。
He wore ordinary clothes.
寻常人家的生活。
The life of an ordinary family.
这饭菜很寻常。
This meal is very ordinary.
她喜欢寻常的东西。
She likes ordinary things.
这不是寻常的事。
This is not a common thing.
他做着寻常的工作。
He does ordinary work.
那是个寻常的地方。
That's an ordinary place.
这只是一件寻常的小事，别担心。
This is just an ordinary small matter, don't worry.
寻常 (xúncháng) is used to describe something common or typical.
他的生活很寻常，没有什么特别的。
His life is very ordinary, nothing special.
很寻常 (hěn xúncháng) means 'very ordinary'.
寻常百姓的生活是怎样的？
What is the life of ordinary people like?
寻常百姓 (xúncháng bǎixìng) refers to 'ordinary common folk'.
这在北方是很寻常的现象。
This is a very common phenomenon in the north.
很寻常的现象 (hěn xúncháng de xiànxiàng) means 'a very common phenomenon'.
他穿着寻常的衣服，融入人群。
He wore ordinary clothes, blending into the crowd.
寻常的衣服 (xúncháng de yīfu) means 'ordinary clothes'.
对于他来说，失败是寻常事。
For him, failure is a common occurrence.
寻常事 (xúncháng shì) means 'a common thing/occurrence'.
这不过是寻常的一天，没什么不同。
This is just an ordinary day, nothing different.
寻常的一天 (xúncháng de yī tiān) means 'an ordinary day'.
他过着寻常而平静的生活。
He lives an ordinary and peaceful life.
寻常而平静 (xúncháng ér píngjìng) means 'ordinary yet peaceful'.
这对他来说是寻常事，不必大惊小怪。
This is an ordinary thing for him, no need to make a fuss.
在小城市里，这样的生活节奏很寻常。
In small cities, this kind of life pace is very common.
寻常的问候也能让人感到温暖。
Even ordinary greetings can make people feel warm.
他穿着寻常，看不出是什么大人物。
He dressed ordinarily, you couldn't tell he was a big shot.
这只是寻常的一天，没有什么特别的。
This is just an ordinary day, nothing special.
对于经验丰富的他，完成这项任务是寻常的。
For him, being experienced, completing this task is common.
别把寻常的友谊误认为是爱情。
Don't mistake ordinary friendship for love.
他做出了寻常人不敢做的事情。
He did things that ordinary people wouldn't dare to do.
他穿着一身寻常的衣服，混在人群中毫不显眼。
He was wearing ordinary clothes, inconspicuous in the crowd.
寻常 (xúncháng) directly modifies the noun 衣服 (yīfu, clothes).
这只是一件寻常的小事，不值得大惊小怪。
This is just an ordinary trifle, not worth making a fuss about.
寻常 (xúncháng) precedes the noun 小事 (xiǎoshì, trifle).
对他来说，加班到深夜已经是寻常事了。
For him, working overtime until late at night is already a common occurrence.
寻常事 (xúnchángshì) is a common phrase meaning 'common occurrence/thing'.
虽然表演很精彩，但他的脸上并没有露出寻常的笑容。
Although the performance was wonderful, he didn't show his usual smile.
寻常 (xúncháng) modifies 笑容 (xiàoróng, smile).
她过着寻常的生活，每天上班下班，没有太多波澜。
She lives an ordinary life, commuting to and from work every day, without much excitement.
寻常 (xúncháng) modifies 生活 (shēnghuó, life).
在小城市里，这样的景象是再寻常不过的了。
In a small city, this kind of scene is nothing out of the ordinary.
再寻常不过 (zài xúncháng bùguò) is an emphatic expression meaning 'most common/ordinary'.
他虽然取得了巨大的成功，但依然保持着一颗寻常心。
Although he achieved great success, he still maintained an ordinary mindset (humble attitude).
寻常心 (xúnchángxīn) refers to a calm, humble, and ordinary mindset.
这本小说讲述了一个寻常女孩不寻常的经历。
This novel tells the extraordinary experience of an ordinary girl.
寻常 (xúncháng) and 不寻常 (bù xúncháng) are used in contrast, modifying 寻常女孩 (xúncháng nǚhái, ordinary girl) and 不寻常的经历 (bù xúncháng de jīnglì, extraordinary experience) respectively.
对于经验丰富的登山者来说，攀登这座山是寻常之事。
For experienced climbers, ascending this mountain is an ordinary matter.
寻常之事 (xúncháng zhī shì) is a common phrase meaning 'an ordinary matter' or 'a common occurrence'.
她那不同寻常的才华使她在人群中脱颖而出。
Her unusual talent made her stand out from the crowd.
不同寻常 (bùtóng xúncháng) means 'unusual' or 'extraordinary'.
在这个偏远的小村庄，没有电是很寻常的。
In this remote small village, having no electricity is very common.
很寻常 (hěn xúncháng) means 'very common' or 'very usual'.
他穿着寻常的衣服，融入了街上的人群。
He wore ordinary clothes and blended into the crowd on the street.
寻常的衣服 (xúncháng de yīfu) means 'ordinary clothes'.
战争时期，物资匮乏是寻常现象。
During wartime, scarcity of supplies is a common phenomenon.
寻常现象 (xúncháng xiànxiàng) means 'a common phenomenon'.
这样的失误在新手身上是寻常的，无需过度自责。
Such mistakes are common for beginners; there's no need to blame yourself too much.
是寻常的 (shì xúncháng de) functions as 'is common/ordinary'.
虽然他的观点有些非寻常，但却引人深思。
Although his views are somewhat unconventional, they are thought-provoking.
非寻常 (fēi xúncháng) is a more formal way to say 'unusual' or 'uncommon'.
这本小说描述了一个寻常人的不寻常经历。
This novel describes an ordinary person's extraordinary experience.
寻常人 (xúncháng rén) means 'an ordinary person'; 不寻常经历 (bù xúncháng jīnglì) means 'an extraordinary experience'.
Often Confused With
Often describes a person or life as unremarkable.
Describes something as average quality/status or widespread.
Very similar to 寻常; can also mean 'everyday' or 'at ordinary times'.
Idioms & Expressions
"不足为奇 (bù zú wéi qí)"
nothing strange; not surprising; commonplace.
这在中国是很寻常的，不足为奇。(This is very common in China, nothing surprising.)
neutral"司空见惯 (sī kōng jiàn guàn)"
a common occurrence; nothing new.
这种小偷小摸在那个地方已是司空见惯。(Such petty theft is already a common occurrence in that place.)
neutral"家常便饭 (jiā cháng biàn fàn)"
home-cooked meal; common occurrence; routine.
加班对他们来说已是家常便饭了。(Overtime work has become routine for them.)
neutral"习以为常 (xí yǐ wéi cháng)"
accustomed to; used to.
他已经习以为常了这种寻常的生活。(He has already gotten used to this ordinary life.)
neutral"不以为然 (bù yǐ wéi rán)"
disapprove of; not agree with; take exception to.
对于他的寻常想法，大家都不以为然。(Everyone disapproved of his ordinary ideas.)
neutral"平平常常 (píng píng cháng cháng)"
very ordinary; mediocre.
他的人生平平常常，没有什么波澜。(His life was very ordinary, without much drama.)
neutral"见怪不怪 (jiàn guài bù guài)"
not surprised by strange things; accustomed to the unusual.
这种事情太多了，他现在已经见怪不怪了。(There are too many such things, he's now accustomed to the unusual.)
neutral"人情世故 (rén qíng shì gù)"
ways of the world; social graces; sophistication.
他很懂人情世故，处理事情很寻常。(He understands the ways of the world well, and handles things in a common way.)
neutral"平淡无奇 (píng dàn wú qí)"
plain and unremarkable; nothing special.
这部电影剧情平淡无奇，没有什么吸引力。(The plot of this movie is plain and unremarkable, with no appeal.)
neutral"大同小异 (dà tóng xiǎo yì)"
largely similar but with minor differences.
这些产品虽然品牌不同，但功能上大同小异。(Although these products are different brands, their functions are largely similar.)
neutralEasily Confused
Both 平凡 and 寻常 can mean 'ordinary' or 'common'.
寻常 (xúncháng) focuses on something being common or usual, often implying a lack of surprise or specialness. 平凡 (píngfán) tends to describe someone or something as unremarkable, average, or not standing out, often with a slightly more personal or inherent quality.
他的人生很平凡，没有什么大起大落。(Tā de rénshēng hěn píngfán, méiyǒu shénme dà qǐ dà luò.) His life is very ordinary, with no big ups and downs. vs. 他穿着寻常的衣服。(Tā chuānzhe xúncháng de yīfu.) He is wearing ordinary clothes.
普通 also translates to 'common' or 'ordinary'.
寻常 (xúncháng) refers to something being common or usual in occurrence or appearance. 普通 (pǔtōng) describes something as being of average quality or status, or generally widespread. 普通 is more about a general category or standard.
这只是寻常的一天。(Zhè zhǐshì xúncháng de yī tiān.) This is just an ordinary day. vs. 他是一个普通学生。(Tā shì yīgè pǔtōng xuéshēng.) He is an ordinary student.
平常 means 'ordinary' or 'usual'.
寻常 (xúncháng) and 平常 (píngcháng) are very similar and often interchangeable in many contexts, both referring to things that are common or usual. However, 寻常 sometimes carries a nuance of 'not out of the ordinary' or 'as expected', while 平常 can also refer to 'everyday' or 'at ordinary times'.
这对他来说是寻常事。(Zhè duì tā lái shuō shì xúncháng shì.) This is a common thing for him. vs. 他平常很少说话。(Tā píngcháng hěn shǎo shuōhuà.) He usually speaks very little.
一般 also means 'general' or 'common'.
寻常 (xúncháng) emphasizes something being common or customary. 一般 (yībān) is more about being average, typical, or generally the case. It can also be used as an adverb to mean 'generally' or 'normally'.
这件事很寻常，没什么好大惊小怪的。(Zhè jiàn shì hěn xúncháng, méishénme hǎo dàjīngxiǎoguài de.) This matter is very common, there's nothing to make a fuss about. vs. 这部电影一般般。(Zhè bù diànyǐng yībānbān.) This movie is just so-so.
常见 literally means 'commonly seen'.
寻常 (xúncháng) refers to something being common or usual. 常见 (chángjiàn) specifically implies something that is frequently seen or encountered. 常见 is more about visibility or frequency of appearance.
这种现象在农村很寻常。(Zhè zhǒng xiànxiàng zài nóngcūn hěn xúncháng.) This phenomenon is very common in rural areas. vs. 这种鸟很常见。(Zhè zhǒng niǎo hěn chángjiàn.) This type of bird is very common.
Word Family
Nouns
How to Use It
寻常 (xúncháng) describes something as ordinary, common, or usual. It can be used to describe people, things, or situations. It often implies a sense of normalcy or routine.
Examples:
- 他过着寻常的生活。 (Tā guòzhe xúncháng de shēnghuó.) - He lives an ordinary life. (ordinary life)
- 这只是寻常的一天。 (Zhè zhǐshì xúncháng de yī tiān.) - This is just an ordinary day. (ordinary day)
- 她有着寻常的美丽。 (Tā yǒuzhe xúncháng de měilì.) - She possesses common beauty. (common beauty)
Common Mistakes with 寻常 (xúncháng)
1. Confusing with 平凡 (píngfán): While both mean 'ordinary', 寻常 often describes something that is typical or unremarkable in a neutral way, whereas 平凡 can sometimes carry a slight nuance of being mediocre or lacking special qualities. For example, you might say someone has a 寻常 life (an ordinary, normal life), but if you say they are a 平凡 person, it could imply they are not particularly talented or special.
Incorrect: 他的表现很平凡，没有什么特别的。(Tā de biǎoxiàn hěn píngfán, méiyǒu shénme tèbié de.) - His performance was very ordinary, nothing special. (While grammatically correct, 寻常 might be better here to just describe typical performance without a negative connotation.)
Correct: 他的表现很寻常，没有什么特别的。(Tā de biǎoxiàn hěn xúncháng, méiyǒu shénme tèbié de.) - His performance was very ordinary, nothing special. (describing typical performance)
2. Overusing 寻常 for every instance of 'normal' or 'regular': While 寻常 is good for 'ordinary' or 'common', other words might be more appropriate for 'normal' in other contexts. For instance, for 'normal temperature', you'd use 正常 (zhèngcháng).
Incorrect: 他的体温很寻常。(Tā de tǐwēn hěn xúncháng.) - His body temperature is very ordinary. (sounds a bit off)
Correct: 他的体温很正常。(Tā de tǐwēn hěn zhèngcháng.) - His body temperature is normal. (normal temperature)
3. Using it to describe something that is actually special but you want to downplay it: 寻常 is genuinely about what is ordinary. If you want to subtly suggest something is not as special as others might think, there are other ways to do it, but 寻常 might sound too direct and even rude if used incorrectly in such a context.
Tips
Basic Meaning
寻常 (xún cháng) is an adjective meaning ordinary, common, or usual. It describes things that are not special or out of the norm.
Synonyms
Similar words include 普通 (pǔ tōng) and 平常 (píng cháng). While often interchangeable, 寻常 sometimes carries a slightly more literary or formal nuance than 普通.
Usage with Nouns
You can use 寻常 directly before a noun. For example, 寻常事 (xún cháng shì) means ordinary matters or common things.
Describing People
When describing people, 寻常人 (xún cháng rén) refers to an ordinary person or a commoner. It implies someone without special status or abilities.
Negative Context
Sometimes 寻常 can be used in a negative context to imply something is too mundane or unremarkable. For example, 这菜味道太寻常了 (Zhè cài wèi dào tài xún cháng le) - This dish tastes too ordinary (implying not good).
Opposite Meaning
The opposite of 寻常 would be words like 特别 (tè bié) meaning special, or 不寻常 (bù xún cháng) meaning uncommon or unusual.
Contextual Nuances
Pay attention to context. In some poetic or literary uses, 寻常 can evoke a sense of everyday beauty or simplicity, rather than just plainness.
Example Sentence 1
他过着寻常的生活。 (Tā guò zhe xún cháng de shēng huó.) - He lives an ordinary life.
Example Sentence 2
这只是寻常的小病，不用担心。 (Zhè zhǐ shì xún cháng de xiǎo bìng, bú yòng dān xīn.) - This is just a common minor illness, no need to worry.
Example Sentence 3
他的才华远超寻常。 (Tā de cái huá yuǎn chāo xún cháng.) - His talent far surpasses the ordinary.
Memorize It
Mnemonic
Imagine a **尋常 (xúncháng)** person just *seeking a regular job* (寻) and *always acting the same* (常).
Visual Association
Picture a typical, everyday street scene. There are **寻常** people walking, doing **寻常** things, and everything looks **寻常**. It's just a normal, common day.
Word Web
Challenge
Describe your **寻常** daily routine in Chinese. For example, '我早上**寻常**地吃早饭' (Wǒ zǎoshang **xúncháng** de chī zǎofàn - I **ordinarily** eat breakfast in the morning).
Word Origin
The character '寻' (xún) originally meant 'to seek' or 'to search,' often implying looking for something common or unremarkable. The character '常' (cháng) means 'constant,' 'regular,' or 'frequent.'
Original meaning: When combined, '寻常' initially conveyed the idea of something being 'often sought' or 'commonly encountered,' leading to its modern meaning of ordinary or usual.
Sino-Tibetan, Sinitic branch, Mandarin Chinese.Cultural Context
In Chinese culture, there is often an appreciation for the '寻常' or everyday aspects of life, reflecting a pragmatic and grounded perspective. This word can be used to describe common people, events, or situations without negative connotations, simply stating that something is not extraordinary. It's often used in phrases like '寻常百姓' (xúncháng bǎixìng), meaning 'ordinary folks.'
Practice in Real Life
Real-World Contexts
Describing everyday life or events.
- 寻常的一天 - an ordinary day
- 寻常的事 - a common occurrence
- 寻常百姓家 - ordinary people's homes
Talking about something that is not special or remarkable.
- 没有什么寻常的 - there's nothing special/unusual
- 这是寻常的现象 - this is a common phenomenon
- 一个寻常的夜晚 - an ordinary night
When something is within the realm of expectations.
- 寻常不过了 - nothing could be more ordinary/common
- 很寻常的反应 - a very common reaction
- 寻常的结局 - a usual outcome
Contrasting with something extraordinary or unusual.
- 不再寻常 - no longer ordinary/unusual
- 超越寻常 - beyond the ordinary
- 非寻常 - not ordinary/uncommon
Referring to things that are commonplace in a particular setting.
- 在乡村是很寻常的 - it's very common in the countryside
- 办公室里寻常的景象 - a common sight in the office
- 寻常的规矩 - usual rules
Conversation Starters
"你觉得你的日常生活是寻常的吗？为什么？ (Do you think your daily life is ordinary? Why?)"
"你有没有遇到过什么让你觉得不寻常的事情？ (Have you ever encountered anything that you found unusual?)"
"你认为什么样的事情对你来说是寻常的？ (What kind of things do you consider ordinary for yourself?)"
"你喜欢过寻常的生活还是更喜欢充满惊喜的生活？ (Do you prefer an ordinary life or a life full of surprises?)"
"在你的文化中，什么被认为是寻常的？ (In your culture, what is considered ordinary?)"
Journal Prompts
描述一个你觉得非常寻常的一天，并思考为什么它如此寻常。(Describe a day you found very ordinary, and think about why it was so ordinary.)
写下你生活中一个不再寻常的时刻或经历。 (Write about a moment or experience in your life that is no longer ordinary.)
思考“寻常”这个词对你来说意味着什么。它是否带有积极或消极的含义？ (Reflect on what the word "ordinary" means to you. Does it carry a positive or negative connotation?)
记录一件你认为对别人来说可能不寻常，但对你来说却很寻常的事情。 (Document something that might be unusual for others, but is very ordinary for you.)
想象一个完全寻常的世界。它会是什么样子？你会有什么感受？ (Imagine a completely ordinary world. What would it be like? How would you feel?)
Frequently Asked Questions
10 questionsWhile both mean 'ordinary,' 寻常 often implies a sense of what is expected or normal in a particular context, sometimes with a slightly literary or formal flavor. 普通 is more general and widely used for 'common' or 'average.' For example, you might say 这是寻常事 (zhè shì xúncháng shì) 'This is a common occurrence,' meaning it's not surprising. But you'd use 普通话 (pǔtōnghuà) for 'Mandarin Chinese,' meaning the 'common language.'
Yes, it can. When describing people, 寻常 often means someone is unremarkable or just an average person, not standing out. For instance, 一个寻常人 (yí ge xúncháng rén) means 'an ordinary person.' However, it's generally more common to use 普通 for people.
Not inherently. It describes something as being 'ordinary' or 'common.' Sometimes, depending on the context, 'ordinary' might be perceived as lacking excitement or special qualities, but the word itself is neutral. It simply states a fact about normalcy.
You can use it as an adjective before a noun or as part of a predicate. For example: 寻常的日子 (xúncháng de rìzi) 'ordinary days.' Or 这件事很寻常 (zhè jiàn shì hěn xúncháng) 'This matter is very common.'
A common phrase is 不寻常 (bù xúncháng), meaning 'unusual' or 'extraordinary.' For example, 今天的风不寻常 (jīntiān de fēng bù xúncháng) 'Today's wind is unusual.' It highlights something that deviates from the norm.
寻常 can be used in both, but it tends to have a slightly more formal or literary feel than 普通. You might encounter it more in written contexts or in more elevated speech.
Yes, in many cases. 'Ordinary' and 'normal' are quite close in meaning here. If something is 寻常, it's generally considered within the bounds of what is normal or expected. For example, 这种天气在这个季节是寻常的 (zhè zhǒng tiānqì zài zhè ge jìjié shì xúncháng de) 'This kind of weather is normal for this season.'
Here's one: 他过着寻常的生活，没有太多波澜。 (Tā guòzhe xúncháng de shēnghuó, méiyǒu tài duō bōlán.) 'He lives an ordinary life, without too many ups and downs.'
While 寻常 means 'ordinary' or 'common,' it doesn't directly mean 'regular' or 'frequent' in terms of repetition. For 'regular' or 'frequent,' you'd use words like 经常 (jīngcháng) or 常常 (chángcháng). 寻常 describes the nature of something, not its occurrence rate.
一般 also means 'general' or 'ordinary.' The nuance is subtle. 一般 often refers to something being 'average' or 'typical.' 寻常 emphasizes what is 'expected' or 'not unusual.' You might say 一般情况 (yībān qíngkuàng) 'general situation,' or generally speaking. Whereas 寻常 often contrasts with something special or out of the ordinary.
Test Yourself 168 questions
她今天穿得很___。
The sentence means 'She is dressed very ordinarily today.' '寻常' fits the context of being typical or common.
这是一家___的商店。
The sentence means 'This is an ordinary shop.' '寻常' describes a typical, common store.
他每天过着___的生活。
The sentence means 'He lives an ordinary life every day.' '寻常' refers to a common or typical way of living.
这件衣服看起来很___。
The sentence means 'This piece of clothing looks very ordinary.' '寻常' describes its common appearance.
这不是什么___的事情。
The sentence means 'This is not an ordinary matter.' '寻常' suggests it's not something common or typical.
他喜欢吃___的食物。
The sentence means 'He likes to eat ordinary food.' '寻常' refers to common or usual food.
Which word means 'ordinary' or 'common'?
寻常 (xúncháng) directly translates to ordinary, common, or usual.
In the sentence '这只猫很寻常。' (Zhè zhī māo hěn xúncháng.), what does 寻常 mean?
很寻常 (hěn xúncháng) means 'very ordinary'.
Which of these situations would you describe as 寻常 (xúncháng)?
A dog eating a bone is an ordinary and common sight, unlike the other options.
The sentence '他很寻常。' (Tā hěn xúncháng.) means 'He is very special.'
寻常 (xúncháng) means ordinary or common, so '他很寻常' means 'He is very ordinary.'
If something is 寻常 (xúncháng), it is unusual.
寻常 (xúncháng) means ordinary or common, which is the opposite of unusual.
Eating rice for breakfast in China is a 寻常 (xúncháng) thing.
Eating rice for breakfast is common in China, so it is a 寻常 (xúncháng) thing.
The speaker likes to eat ordinary apples.
This is just an ordinary small matter.
He lives an ordinary life.
Read this aloud:
这是很寻常的一天。
Focus: xún cháng
You said:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Read this aloud:
寻常的饭菜很好吃。
Focus: fàn cài
You said:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Read this aloud:
我喜欢寻常的颜色。
Focus: yán sè
You said:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Write a short sentence describing something ordinary you do every day.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
我每天都做寻常的事情。
Complete the sentence: 我的生活很___。
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
我的生活很寻常。
Describe a common object using '寻常'.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
这是一张寻常的桌子。
小明的生活怎么样？
Read this passage:
小明每天早上都去学校。他吃寻常的早饭。他的生活很寻常。
小明的生活怎么样？
文章中明确提到“他的生活很寻常”。
文章中明确提到“他的生活很寻常”。
在中国，吃什么很寻常？
Read this passage:
在中国，吃米饭是很寻常的事情。很多人每天都吃米饭。
在中国，吃什么很寻常？
文章中提到“吃米饭是很寻常的事情”。
文章中提到“吃米饭是很寻常的事情”。
她喜欢穿什么样的衣服？
Read this passage:
她喜欢穿寻常的衣服，不喜欢特别的颜色。
她喜欢穿什么样的衣服？
文章中提到“她喜欢穿寻常的衣服”。
文章中提到“她喜欢穿寻常的衣服”。
The correct order is '这 (this) 不 (not) 是 (is) 寻常 (ordinary) 的 (structural particle) 事 (thing).'
The correct order is '他 (he) 过着 (lives) 寻常 (ordinary) 的 (structural particle) 生活 (life).'
The correct order is '这 (this) 是 (is) 寻常 (ordinary) 日子 (days).'
他每天都做一些很___的事情。
The sentence describes daily, common activities, so '寻常' (ordinary) fits best.
商店里卖的都是些___的衣服。
If the clothes are common, '寻常' (ordinary) is the right word.
这个小镇很安静，生活很___。
A quiet town usually has an ordinary, calm life. '寻常' means ordinary.
对我来说，这只是一个___的周一。
If it's just 'a Monday', it's an ordinary one. '寻常' means ordinary.
他讲了一个___的故事，没什么惊喜。
If there were no surprises, the story was ordinary. '寻常' means ordinary.
这家餐厅的菜味道很___，但也不错。
If the taste is not special but still good, '寻常' (ordinary) is suitable.
Choose the sentence where “寻常” is used correctly.
“寻常” describes something that is common or ordinary, like a dress. The other options are grammatically correct but less natural in context, especially '寻常的苹果是红色的' where '普通' (pǔtōng, common/general) would be more appropriate.
Which of these objects would most likely be described as “寻常”?
“寻常” means ordinary or common. An ordinary cup fits this description best, unlike expensive, rare, or unique items.
Which word is an antonym for “寻常”?
“寻常” means ordinary or common, so its antonym would be 'special' or 'unusual'. '普通' and '一般' are synonyms or closely related, and '经常' means often.
“寻常” can be used to describe something very expensive and luxurious.
“寻常” means ordinary or common. Something very expensive and luxurious is usually not considered ordinary.
Seeing a cat on the street is a “寻常” sight in many cities.
Seeing a cat on the street is a common occurrence in many cities, so “寻常” is appropriate here.
If something is “寻常”, it means it is very unique and rare.
“寻常” means common or ordinary, which is the opposite of unique and rare.
What kind of day is it?
What is he wearing?
How was the meal?
Read this aloud:
这很寻常。
Focus: 寻常 (xún cháng)
You said:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Read this aloud:
这不是寻常的事。
Focus: 不是 (bù shì)
You said:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Read this aloud:
寻常的一天。
Focus: 一天 (yī tiān)
You said:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Describe a normal day for you, using '寻常' at least once. (Write 2-3 sentences)
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
我寻常的一天从早上七点开始。我通常会吃早饭，然后去工作。下班后，我会和朋友见面。
Imagine you are talking about something very common in China. Use '寻常' to describe it. (Write 1-2 sentences)
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
在中国，骑自行车是很寻常的出行方式。你可以在街上看到很多人骑车。
Complete the sentence: '对他来说，这件小事是如此寻常，以至于他______。'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
对他来说，这件小事是如此寻常，以至于他没有注意到。
小明喜欢吃什么食物？
Read this passage:
小明喜欢吃寻常的饭菜，比如米饭和面条。他不喜欢尝试新的食物，因为他觉得寻常的食物就很好吃。
小明喜欢吃什么食物？
文章中提到“小明喜欢吃寻常的饭菜，比如米饭和面条。”
文章中提到“小明喜欢吃寻常的饭菜，比如米饭和面条。”
这个城市有什么特点？
Read this passage:
这个城市没有什么特别的，一切都显得很寻常。没有高楼大厦，也没有著名的景点。但是，很多人喜欢这里的平静生活。
这个城市有什么特点？
文章中说“这个城市没有什么特别的，一切都显得很寻常。”
文章中说“这个城市没有什么特别的，一切都显得很寻常。”
“寻常的事情”指的是什么？
Read this passage:
昨天我遇到了一个很久不见的朋友。我们聊了很多寻常的事情，比如工作和生活。虽然是很寻常的聊天，但我感觉很开心。
“寻常的事情”指的是什么？
根据上下文，和很久不见的朋友聊工作和生活是日常且普通的事情。
根据上下文，和很久不见的朋友聊工作和生活是日常且普通的事情。
The sentence means 'This is just an ordinary day.' '这' (this) comes first, followed by '只是' (just), then '寻常的' (ordinary) describing '一天' (day).
The sentence means 'He wore ordinary clothes.' '他' (he) is the subject, '穿着' (wearing) is the verb, and '寻常的衣服' (ordinary clothes) is the object.
The sentence means 'She is not ordinary.' '她' (she) is the subject, '不' (not) negates '寻常' (ordinary), and '是' (is) connects them.
她喜欢穿那些看起来很___的衣服。
The sentence describes clothes that look 'ordinary' or 'common'. '寻常' fits this meaning best. '特别' means special, '时尚' means fashionable, and '昂贵' means expensive.
这在农村地区是件很___的事情。
The context implies something that is 'common' or 'usual' in rural areas. '寻常' (ordinary, common) is the correct choice. '罕见' means rare, '奇怪' means strange, and '新奇' means novel.
对他来说，加班已经是___便饭了。
The phrase '家常便饭' (jiācháng biànfàn) means 'common occurrence' or 'everyday meal'. In this context, it implies that working overtime has become an ordinary thing for him. While '寻常' itself means ordinary, '家常' is the correct component for this idiom. '豪华' means luxurious, '美味' means delicious, and '独特' means unique.
不要觉得自己的生活不___，每个人都有自己的精彩。
The sentence suggests not feeling that one's life is 'ordinary' or 'commonplace'. '寻常' fits this meaning. '丰富' means rich/colorful, '成功' means successful, and '有趣' means interesting.
这种小错误在初学者身上很___。
The sentence describes small mistakes as 'common' or 'ordinary' for beginners. '寻常' is the best fit. '罕见' means rare, '糟糕' means terrible, and '严重' means serious.
她穿着一身___的衣服，混在人群中不显眼。
The sentence implies she wore 'ordinary' clothes to blend in with the crowd. '寻常' best conveys this. '华丽' means gorgeous, '朴素' means simple/plain, and '鲜艳' means brightly colored.
Choose the sentence where “寻常” is used correctly.
“寻常” describes something that is common or usual. An ordinary dress is typically not suitable for formal occasions. Extraordinary achievements require more than ordinary effort.
Which word is a synonym for “寻常”?
“平常” also means ordinary or common, making it the closest synonym to “寻常”.
Complete the sentence: 这对我们来说，只是___的小事。(For us, this is just a ___ trifle.)
The sentence implies that the matter is common or ordinary, which is the meaning of “寻常”.
“寻常” can describe something that is unusual or rare.
“寻常” means ordinary, common, or usual. It is the opposite of unusual or rare.
A “寻常” day is usually a special day.
A “寻常” day is an ordinary or common day, not usually a special one.
If something is “寻常”, it means it happens frequently.
Something that is ordinary or common (寻常) usually happens frequently.
Listen to the sentence about someone's daily life.
Listen to the sentence about a small matter.
Listen to the sentence about routines in a village.
Read this aloud:
这对他来说是寻常的。
Focus: xún cháng
You said:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Read this aloud:
不要把寻常的事情复杂化。
Focus: fù zá huà
You said:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Read this aloud:
他的穿着很寻常，没有特别之处。
Focus: chuān zhuó
You said:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Describe a typical day in your life using at least one instance of 寻常. What makes your day ordinary or common?
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
我的一天通常很寻常。早上，我八点起床，吃早饭，然后开始工作。晚上，我会和家人一起吃饭，然后看电视或者读书。
Think about something that used to be special for you, but now feels 寻常. What is it, and why does it feel ordinary now?
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
以前，每年去海边度假对我来说很特别，但现在感觉很寻常。因为我每年都去，所以已经习惯了。
Write a short paragraph about how something considered 寻常 in your culture might be unusual in another culture. Give an example.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
在我们国家，早上喝咖啡是很寻常的事情。但在一些国家，人们可能更喜欢喝茶，所以喝咖啡对他们来说就不那么寻常。
文章中主人公的穿着是怎样的？
Read this passage:
他穿着一件寻常的衬衫，看起来很普通。他走在街上，没有人注意到他。对他来说，这样平淡的生活就是他想要的。
文章中主人公的穿着是怎样的？
文章第一句提到“他穿着一件寻常的衬衫”，说明他的穿着很普通。
文章第一句提到“他穿着一件寻常的衬衫”，说明他的穿着很普通。
小明对他的生活有什么感受？
Read this passage:
小明每天的生活都很寻常。他早上七点起床，吃早饭，然后去学校。晚上回家做作业，然后睡觉。他喜欢这样简单而寻常的生活。
小明对他的生活有什么感受？
文章最后一句明确说明“他喜欢这样简单而寻常的生活”。
文章最后一句明确说明“他喜欢这样简单而寻常的生活”。
这家餐厅受欢迎的原因是什么？
Read this passage:
这家餐厅的菜肴味道很好，但价格却很寻常。因此，它吸引了许多当地居民，成为了一家很受欢迎的社区餐厅。
这家餐厅受欢迎的原因是什么？
文章提到“这家餐厅的菜肴味道很好，但价格却很寻常”，说明这是它受欢迎的原因。
文章提到“这家餐厅的菜肴味道很好，但价格却很寻常”，说明这是它受欢迎的原因。
'寻常' (xúncháng) means ordinary. The sentence describes his ordinary life.
'寻常' (xúncháng) means usual or common. This sentence means "This is a usual Sunday."
'寻常事' (xúncháng shì) means ordinary matter/thing. The sentence means "Don't treat this as an ordinary matter."
在农村，日出而作，日落而息是再___不过的生活方式。
The sentence describes a typical daily routine in the countryside, so '寻常' (ordinary/common) fits best to convey that it's a very common lifestyle.
他虽然是天才，但在学校里，他只想做个___的学生，不引人注目。
The sentence contrasts '天才' (genius) with wanting to be an 'ordinary' student, making '寻常' the correct choice to express 'common/normal'.
对大多数人来说，早晨一杯咖啡是再___不过的习惯。
Drinking coffee in the morning is a very common habit for most people, so '寻常' (ordinary/common) is the appropriate word here.
我以为她的生活很___，没想到她竟然是个国际间谍！
The sentence sets up a contrast between what was thought to be an 'ordinary' life and the unexpected reality of being an international spy. '寻常' accurately captures the 'ordinary' aspect.
他总是穿得很___，从不追求时尚。
The sentence indicates that he never pursues fashion, implying he dresses in a plain or 'ordinary' way. '寻常' fits this context perfectly.
在科技发达的今天，智能手机已经成为我们生活中___的物品。
Smartphones are now a common and ordinary item in daily life, so '寻常' is the best fit to describe them.
Describe a typical day in your life using at least three sentences. Try to include the word “寻常” to describe something ordinary or common.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
我的一天开始得很寻常，早上七点起床，吃早餐。然后我去上班，工作八个小时。晚上回家后，我喜欢做一些寻常的活动，比如看书或者看电视。
Imagine you are explaining to a friend why a certain situation or event is not as special as they think, but actually quite ordinary. Use “寻常” in your explanation.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
你可能觉得这件事很特别，但其实这在我们的行业里很寻常。每年都会发生几次类似的事情，没什么好大惊小怪的。
Write a short paragraph about something you consider ordinary now, but found unusual or special when you first experienced it. Use “寻常” at least once.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
当我第一次来中国的时候，看到很多人骑自行车上班我觉得很特别。现在，这对我来说已经是寻常的景象了，甚至我自己也经常骑自行车。
根据短文，小王对“寻常的生活”有什么看法？
Read this passage:
小王总是追求不寻常的经历，他觉得寻常的生活太无聊了。他喜欢旅行到偏远的地方，尝试各种极限运动，享受那种刺激和新奇。对他来说，每天朝九晚五的工作简直是难以忍受的。
根据短文，小王对“寻常的生活”有什么看法？
短文中提到“他觉得寻常的生活太无聊了”，所以他认为寻常的生活太平淡无奇。
短文中提到“他觉得寻常的生活太无聊了”，所以他认为寻常的生活太平淡无奇。
与古代相比，现代人的生活有什么不同？
Read this passage:
在古代，普通老百姓的生活是十分寻常的。他们日出而作，日落而息，很少有机会接触到外界的新鲜事物。与此相比，现代人的生活丰富多彩，充满了各种可能性，不再是单一的寻常。
与古代相比，现代人的生活有什么不同？
短文中提到“现代人的生活丰富多彩，充满了各种可能性，不再是单一的寻常”，所以现代人的生活更加丰富多彩。
短文中提到“现代人的生活丰富多彩，充满了各种可能性，不再是单一的寻常”，所以现代人的生活更加丰富多彩。
根据短文，这部电影的故事情节有什么特点？
Read this passage:
这部电影的故事情节非常寻常，没有太多的惊喜，结局也在意料之中。虽然它没有特别之处，但因为演员的精湛表演，仍然吸引了不少观众。有时候，寻常也能创造出不寻常的价值。
根据短文，这部电影的故事情节有什么特点？
短文中提到“这部电影的故事情节非常寻常，没有太多的惊喜”，说明故事情节很普通。
短文中提到“这部电影的故事情节非常寻常，没有太多的惊喜”，说明故事情节很普通。
This sentence describes someone's life as ordinary. The correct order is Subject (他) + 的 + Noun (生活) + Adverb (很) + Adjective (寻常).
This sentence means 'This is an ordinary day'. The structure is 'Subject (这) + Verb (是) + Quantity (一个) + Adjective (寻常) + 的 + Noun (日子)'.
This sentence means 'She wore ordinary clothes to work'. The structure is 'Subject (她) + Verb (穿着) + Adjective (寻常) + 的 + Noun (衣服) + Verb Phrase (去上班)'.
她那双不___的眼睛里闪烁着智慧的光芒。
“寻常”在这里表示不普通、不一般，强调其与众不同。
这种做法在业内已是___，没有什么值得大惊小怪的。
“寻常”在此处指常见、普通，符合行业惯例。
他虽然取得了非___的成就，但依然保持着谦逊的态度。
“非寻常”表示不一般、不普通的，强调成就的卓越性。
那年的夏天格外炎热，远超___的温度让人难以忍受。
“寻常”指往常、惯常，这里用来表示超出了一般夏季的温度。
她的生活并没有什么___之处，却充满了对艺术的执着追求。
“寻常之处”指普通、不特别的地方，与“对艺术的执着追求”形成对比。
在那个动荡的年代，饥饿和贫困是人们的___。
“寻常”在这里表示常见、经常发生的事情，反映了当时社会普遍的状况。
Choose the sentence where 寻常 is used correctly to mean 'ordinary'.
In this sentence, 寻常 describes the plot as ordinary or lacking novelty. The other options use 寻常 in contexts where it implies something beyond ordinary, or in a way that doesn't fit the primary meaning.
Which of the following phrases is closest in meaning to '寻常百姓' (xúncháng bǎixìng)?
寻常百姓 refers to ordinary common people, which is best matched by 普通民众. The other options refer to higher social classes, special groups, or elites.
A friend tells you, '这不过是寻常事罢了。' What is the most likely implication?
寻常事 means an ordinary matter. '不过是...罢了' reinforces the idea of it being common and not special.
如果你说一件事'不寻常'，意味着这件事非常普通。
不寻常 (bù xúncháng) is the opposite of 寻常, meaning 'unusual' or 'extraordinary', not ordinary.
在中文语境中，'寻常'通常带有贬义，暗示乏味或无趣。
While '寻常' can sometimes imply a lack of excitement, it is not inherently pejorative. It simply describes something as common or usual, without a strong negative connotation. Its meaning depends on the context.
'寻常'和'普通'在很多情况下可以互换使用。
Both 寻常 (xúncháng) and 普通 (pǔtōng) mean 'ordinary' or 'common' and can often be used interchangeably to describe something that isn't special or out of the ordinary.
Listen for the context of 'ordinary people's homes'.
Listen for how 'ordinary clothes' is used.
Listen for the contrast between 'ordinary day' and 'meaningful'.
Read this aloud:
寻常的对话中也蕴含着深刻的哲理。
Focus: 寻常 (xúncháng)
You said:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Read this aloud:
不要把寻常的事情看得太简单。
Focus: 寻常 (xúncháng)
You said:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Read this aloud:
对他们来说，这已经成为寻常的习惯了。
Focus: 寻常 (xúncháng)
You said:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Describe a situation where something or someone that is usually ordinary suddenly becomes extraordinary or stands out. Use 寻常 in your description.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
他平时是一个寻常的上班族，每天按部就班。然而，当他在社区活动中展现出惊人的领导才能时，大家都感到他的不寻常之处，他不再是一个寻常的人了。
Write a short paragraph about how an ordinary object in your life holds special meaning for you. Incorporate the word 寻常.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
这块手表看起来很寻常，但它是我祖父传给我的。虽然功能并不复杂，但它承载着我们家族的记忆和深情，因此对我来说意义非凡，远超寻常物品的价值。
Imagine you are describing a place that looks ordinary but has a hidden secret. Use 寻常 to convey its initial appearance.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
那栋老房子在街角显得很寻常，外观没有什么特别之处。然而，它的地下室里却隐藏着一个古老的密道，通向一个不为人知的世界，这让它不再那么寻常。
根据文章，是什么打破了村庄的寻常宁静？
Read this passage:
在一个偏远的小村庄里，生活节奏缓慢而寻常。村民们日出而作，日落而息，过着简单朴实的日子。然而，一次偶然的机会，一位记者发现了村子里流传已久的古老传说，从此打破了这里的寻常宁静。
根据文章，是什么打破了村庄的寻常宁静？
文章明确提到“一位记者发现了村子里流传已久的古老传说，从此打破了这里的寻常宁静。”
文章明确提到“一位记者发现了村子里流传已久的古老传说，从此打破了这里的寻常宁静。”
文章中的“她”为什么能在人群中引人注目？
Read this passage:
她有着寻常的容貌，不施粉黛，却散发着一种独特的气质。她的笑容像阳光一样温暖，她的眼神充满了智慧和善良。虽然她不追求引人注目，但在人群中，你总能被她身上那种超越寻常的魅力所吸引。
文章中的“她”为什么能在人群中引人注目？
文章提到“她有着寻常的容貌，不施粉黛，却散发着一种独特的气质...你总能被她身上那种超越寻常的魅力所吸引。”
文章提到“她有着寻常的容貌，不施粉黛，却散发着一种独特的气质...你总能被她身上那种超越寻常的魅力所吸引。”
文中指出，“早上在公园散步”对于谁来说是一种不寻常的奢侈？
Read this passage:
对于许多人来说，早上在公园散步是一件寻常不过的事情。然而，对于长期卧床的病人而言，能够再次行走并感受户外的清新空气，却是一种不寻常的奢侈。这种寻常的体验，对他们来说是弥足珍贵的。
文中指出，“早上在公园散步”对于谁来说是一种不寻常的奢侈？
文章明确指出“对于长期卧床的病人而言，能够再次行走并感受户外的清新空气，却是一种不寻常的奢侈。”
文章明确指出“对于长期卧床的病人而言，能够再次行走并感受户外的清新空气，却是一种不寻常的奢侈。”
The correct order emphasizes that it's unusual for him to come home so late.
The sentence structure highlights that this matter is difficult for ordinary people to understand.
This order shows that even an ordinary smile can warm people's hearts.
她总能从那些看似___的细节中发现非凡之处。
这句话的意思是“她总能从那些看似普通寻常的细节中发现非凡之处”。因此，“寻常”最符合语境。
他过着一种与世隔绝、远离___生活的生活。
这句话的意思是“他过着一种与世隔绝、远离普通寻常生活的生活”。因此，“寻常”最符合语境。
对于我们而言，这种现象已是___，不足为奇。
这句话的意思是“对于我们而言，这种现象已是普通寻常，不足为奇”。因此，“寻常”最符合语境。
他的举止从不___，总是充满惊喜。
这句话的意思是“他的举止从不普通寻常，总是充满惊喜”。因此，“寻常”最符合语境。
在文学作品中，描绘___生活往往更能触动人心。
这句话的意思是“在文学作品中，描绘普通寻常生活往往更能触动人心”。因此，“寻常”最符合语境。
她那双眼睛，即便在最___的场合，也能捕捉到不一样的光芒。
这句话的意思是“她那双眼睛，即便在最普通寻常的场合，也能捕捉到不一样的光芒”。因此，“寻常”最符合语境。
在复杂的现代社会中，许多人渴望回归那种___的田园生活。
这句话的意思是人们渴望回到那种普通、平常的田园生活。'奇特' (qítè - peculiar), '非凡' (fēifán - extraordinary), 和 '特殊' (tèshū - special) 都不符合语境。
他虽然取得了巨大的成功，但私底下依然保持着___的生活习惯，不张扬，不奢华。
这句话形容他保持着普通、平常的生活习惯。'奢侈' (shēchǐ - luxurious) 和 '独特' (dútè - unique) 是反义或不搭。'怪异' (guàiyì - strange) 则带有负面含义，不适用。
对于经历过大风大浪的人来说，平安健康的___日子就是最大的幸福。
这句话表达的是经历过重大变故后，人们认为平淡、普通的日常就是最大的幸福。'波澜壮阔的' (bōlán zhuàngkuò de - magnificent), '惊心动魄的' (jīngxīndòngpò de - soul-stirring), 和 '扣人心弦的' (kòurénxīnxián de - fascinating) 都与“寻常”相反，不符合语境。
在文学作品中，'寻常' 常被用来强调事件的独特性和非凡之处。
在文学作品中，'寻常' 通常用来强调事件的普通性、普遍性，与独特性和非凡之处是相反的。
当我们说某件事'不同寻常'时，意味着它超出了常规，带有特别的意味。
'不同寻常' (bù tóng xúncháng) 正是表示事情不普通、不常见，超出了常规。
一个艺术家如果能从___的日常生活中发现美，那他的创作就会充满生命力。
这句话的意思是艺术家能从普通的日常生活中发现美，'寻常' (xúncháng) 在此是正确的填空词。
This is not an ordinary act, there must be a deeper meaning behind it.
In such turbulent times, to live an ordinary life was already a luxury.
Although his works draw from ordinary life, they always provoke deep thought.
Read this aloud:
在危机面前，寻常的解决办法往往不够。
Focus: 寻常 (xún cháng)
You said:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Read this aloud:
她那不寻常的经历，让她对人生有了更深刻的理解。
Focus: 不寻常 (bù xún cháng)
You said:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Read this aloud:
我们不能把这些看似寻常的现象简单地归结为巧合。
Focus: 寻常 (xún cháng)
You said:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
在什么情况下，一件寻常的事物会变得不寻常？请举例说明。
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
一件寻常的事物在特定的背景下或从不同的角度审视时，会变得不寻常。例如，一件寻常的旧衣服，如果是祖传的，或是承载着某个重要历史事件的记忆，那么它的意义就不再寻常。又如，一个寻常的日出，如果是在一个你克服了巨大困难后才能抵达的山顶上看到的，那一刻的日出也变得格外不寻常。
描述一个你认为"寻常"但对你个人而言却有特殊意义的场景或物品。请解释它的"寻常"之处和"特殊"之处。
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
对我来说，家里的老式木质餐桌是一个寻常的物品。它没有华丽的装饰，就是一张普通的餐桌，在许多家庭中都能看到类似的设计。然而，这张餐桌却承载了我童年无数的家庭聚餐回忆，父母在它上面辅导我功课，和朋友们在这里分享欢声笑语。它的寻常在于其外观和功能，而它的特殊则在于它见证了我的成长和家庭的温馨，充满了不可替代的情感价值。
讨论在现代社会中，人们对于"寻常"的定义是否正在发生变化。请阐述你的观点并提供理由。
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
我认为在现代社会中，人们对于“寻常”的定义确实正在发生变化。在信息爆炸的时代，人们接触到更多元的生活方式和价值观，导致过去被认为是“寻常”的事物，如传统的家庭结构或固定的职业道路，现在可能不再是唯一或普遍的选择。个性化和差异化越来越被推崇，使得“不寻常”反而变得更加普遍，从而间接拓宽了“寻常”的边界。例如，过去可能觉得在家工作不寻常，现在却成了许多人的常态。
根据文段，作者认为提升生活品质的关键是什么？
Read this passage:
在快节奏的现代生活中，人们常常追求新奇和刺激，却忽视了身边那些寻常而美好的事物。一份亲手制作的早餐，一次与家人的闲聊，亦或是一个阳光明媚的午后，这些看似寻常的瞬间，实则蕴含着生活的真谛和幸福的源泉。学会发现并珍视这些寻常，是提升生活品质的关键。
根据文段，作者认为提升生活品质的关键是什么？
文段明确指出“学会发现并珍视这些寻常，是提升生活品质的关键”。
文段明确指出“学会发现并珍视这些寻常，是提升生活品质的关键”。
文段主要阐述了艺术的哪种特性？
Read this passage:
艺术的魅力往往在于它能将寻常的题材提升到非凡的境界。一位画家可能以街头巷尾的普通人物为素材，通过独特的视角和精湛的技艺，赋予作品深刻的内涵，使其超越了寻常的范畴。文学作品亦是如此，平淡无奇的日常对话，在作家笔下也能折射出人性的光辉与复杂。
文段主要阐述了艺术的哪种特性？
文段的核心观点是“艺术的魅力往往在于它能将寻常的题材提升到非凡的境界”，并用画家和文学作品的例子加以说明。
文段的核心观点是“艺术的魅力往往在于它能将寻常的题材提升到非凡的境界”，并用画家和文学作品的例子加以说明。
文段暗示了在获取知识寻常的时代，什么变得不寻常？
Read this passage:
在一个高度信息化的时代，获取知识似乎变得前所未有的寻常。通过互联网，任何人都能轻易查阅到海量的资料。然而，真正将这些寻常的知识转化为深刻的智慧，却需要批判性思维和独立思考的能力，这并非寻常之人轻易可得。
文段暗示了在获取知识寻常的时代，什么变得不寻常？
文段指出“获取知识似乎变得前所未有的寻常”，但“真正将这些寻常的知识转化为深刻的智慧，却需要批判性思维和独立思考的能力，这并非寻常之人轻易可得”，因此暗示了将知识转化为智慧的能力变得不寻常。
文段指出“获取知识似乎变得前所未有的寻常”，但“真正将这些寻常的知识转化为深刻的智慧，却需要批判性思维和独立思考的能力，这并非寻常之人轻易可得”，因此暗示了将知识转化为智慧的能力变得不寻常。
The sentence means: 'There was nothing particularly unusual or ordinary happening today.'
The sentence means: 'His expression and words, however, revealed something unusual.'
The sentence means: 'We are no longer living those ordinary days.'
/ 168 correct
Perfect score!
Summary
寻常 describes something that is ordinary and not particularly special.
- ordinary
- common
- usual
Basic Meaning
寻常 (xún cháng) is an adjective meaning ordinary, common, or usual. It describes things that are not special or out of the norm.
Synonyms
Similar words include 普通 (pǔ tōng) and 平常 (píng cháng). While often interchangeable, 寻常 sometimes carries a slightly more literary or formal nuance than 普通.
Usage with Nouns
You can use 寻常 directly before a noun. For example, 寻常事 (xún cháng shì) means ordinary matters or common things.
Describing People
When describing people, 寻常人 (xún cháng rén) refers to an ordinary person or a commoner. It implies someone without special status or abilities.
Related Content
Related Grammar Rules
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)
