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B1 noun #2,500 most common 7 min read

技巧

jiqiao
Practice it Examples Notes & Tips 技巧 in 30 Seconds
Explanation 技巧 in your Level:
At the A1 level, you can think of **技巧 (jìqiǎo)** as a 'special way' to do something well. Even though it's a B1 word, you might hear it when people talk about 'tips' for learning. Imagine you are playing a game or drawing a picture. If your teacher shows you a better way to hold your pencil, that is a '技巧.' In simple Chinese, you can remember it as 'a good method' (好的方法). You don't need to use it in complex sentences yet. Just know that when you see '技巧,' someone is talking about how to do something in a smart or skillful way. For example, '学习技巧' (study tips) is a common phrase you might see in a textbook. It's like a 'secret' or a 'helper' to make your work easier. Think of it as 'skill' or 'technique.'
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For A2 learners, **技巧 (jìqiǎo)** is a useful noun to describe how someone does something skillfully. You are moving beyond just 'doing' things to 'how' they are done. You might use this word when talking about your hobbies. For example, if you like playing basketball, you can talk about '投篮技巧' (shooting techniques). If you like cooking, you can talk about '烹饪技巧' (cooking skills). The word is made of '技' (skill) and '巧' (clever). So, it's a 'clever skill.' You will often see it with the verb '学习' (to learn) or '有' (to have). '他有很多考试技巧' (He has many exam techniques/tips). It helps you sound more specific than just using the word '方法' (method).
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At the B1 level, you should start using **技巧 (jìqiǎo)** to describe professional or artistic methods. This is the level where the word is most commonly introduced. You should understand that 技巧 is different from 技能 (basic skill). 技巧 implies a level of finesse or a specific 'knack' for something. You will encounter it in contexts like '沟通技巧' (communication skills) or '面试技巧' (interview techniques). At this stage, you should be able to use it in sentences like '为了提高写作技巧，我每天都练习' (In order to improve my writing techniques, I practice every day). It is a noun that describes the 'how-to' of a specialized task. You should also notice how it is used in titles of articles or videos that offer advice.
By B2, you should be comfortable using **技巧 (jìqiǎo)** in more abstract and formal contexts. You should recognize its role in literary and artistic criticism. For example, discussing an author's '叙事技巧' (narrative techniques) or a painter's '用墨技巧' (ink-using techniques). You should also understand its collocations with formal verbs like '掌握' (to master), '运用' (to apply), and '传授' (to pass on). At this level, you can distinguish between 技巧 and related words like 技术 (technology) or 手段 (means). You might use it to discuss complex social interactions, such as '谈判技巧' (negotiation skills) in a business setting. It represents a combination of learned knowledge and practical application.
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At the C1 level, **技巧 (jìqiǎo)** becomes a tool for nuanced analysis. You should be able to discuss the 'subtlety' of techniques. You might use phrases like '高超的技巧' (superb technique) or '纯熟的技巧' (skilful/practiced technique). You can analyze how 技巧 contributes to the overall '匠心' (ingenuity/craftsmanship) of a work. In professional discourse, you might discuss the '技巧性' (technicality/skillfulness) of a strategy. You should be able to use the word to describe the 'art' of doing something that isn't traditionally considered an art, like the '技巧' of diplomacy or the '技巧' of psychological manipulation. Your understanding should include the historical and cultural weight of the characters 技 and 巧.
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For C2 learners, **技巧 (jìqiǎo)** is a word you use to evaluate the highest levels of human achievement. You might discuss the philosophical implications of '技巧' vs. '道' (the Way), where 技巧 is the external method and '道' is the internal essence. You can use it in highly specialized academic writing, such as analyzing the '修辞技巧' (rhetorical devices) in classical Chinese poetry. You should be able to use it with precision in any field, from advanced surgical procedures to complex financial engineering. At this level, you don't just 'use' the word; you use it to dissect the very nature of expertise and the elegance of execution in any human endeavor.
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Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

技巧 in 30 Seconds

  • 技巧 (jìqiǎo) means 'technique' or 'skill' with an emphasis on cleverness and finesse.
  • It is commonly used in professional, artistic, and athletic contexts to describe 'how' something is done.
  • Unlike '技术' (technology), '技巧' refers more to personal methods and 'knacks' for success.
  • Common collocations include '沟通技巧' (communication skills) and '掌握技巧' (to master a technique).

The term 技巧 (jìqiǎo) is a sophisticated noun in Mandarin Chinese that encapsulates the concept of 'skill,' 'technique,' or 'craftsmanship.' It is composed of two characters: 技 (jì), meaning ability or talent, and 巧 (qiǎo), meaning clever, skillful, or ingenious. Together, they refer to a specialized method or a particular way of performing a task that requires not just effort, but a high degree of finesse and practice. Unlike a basic 'skill' (技能 - jìnéng), which might be purely functional, 技巧 often implies a level of artistry or a 'trick of the trade' that makes a difficult task look easy.

Conceptual Scope
It covers everything from the physical dexterity of a pianist to the psychological strategies used in a negotiation. If there is a 'smart' way to do something, that way is a 技巧.
Nuance of Ingenuity
The inclusion of '巧' suggests that the person using the 技巧 is being clever or efficient, often finding a shortcut or a more elegant solution than a brute-force approach.

“他在球场上的控球技巧让所有观众都感到惊讶。” (His ball-handling skills on the court surprised all the spectators.)

— Example of physical dexterity

In a professional context, 技巧 is frequently used to describe 'soft skills' or 'methodologies.' For instance, 'communication skills' is translated as 沟通技巧 (gōutōng jìqiǎo). This suggests that communication is not just about speaking, but about the strategic and nuanced application of language to achieve a specific result. The word is inherently positive, suggesting mastery and experience.

“写作不仅仅是堆砌辞藻，更是一种艺术技巧。” (Writing is not just piling up words; it is an artistic technique.)

Etymological Breakdown
The character 技 originally depicted a hand (扌) performing a task, while 巧 originally referred to the work of a carpenter using a square tool. This historical root emphasizes the 'hand-on' and 'precise' nature of the word.

“掌握这些面试技巧，能帮你更快找到工作。” (Mastering these interview techniques can help you find a job faster.)

To truly understand 技巧, one must look at it as the bridge between raw talent and professional execution. It is the 'how' behind the 'what.' Whether it's the 技巧 of a chef slicing vegetables or the 技巧 of a diplomat handling a crisis, it implies a refined, learned capability that distinguishes an expert from a novice.

Using 技巧 correctly involves understanding its role as a noun that usually follows a specific domain or activity. It is rarely used in isolation without a context that defines what kind of skill is being discussed. You will often see it paired with verbs like 掌握 (zhǎngwò - to master), 运用 (yùnyòng - to apply), or 提高 (tígāo - to improve).

  • Domain + 技巧: This is the most common structure. Examples include 学习技巧 (study skills), 谈判技巧 (negotiation techniques), and 摄影技巧 (photography techniques).
  • Adjective + 技巧: You can describe the quality of the skill, such as 高超的技巧 (superb technique) or 拙劣的技巧 (clumsy technique).

“这种高难度的手术需要极高的专业技巧。” (This high-difficulty surgery requires extremely high professional skill.)

In daily conversation, you might use it to ask for advice. For example, “你有什么学习汉语的技巧吗？” (Do you have any tips/techniques for learning Chinese?). Here, 技巧 functions similarly to 'tips' or 'hacks' in English, but carries a slightly more formal and structured connotation.

When writing, 技巧 can be used to analyze literature or art. For instance, 写作技巧 (writing techniques) refers to how an author uses metaphors, structure, and tone to convey meaning. It is an essential term for anyone studying the humanities or arts in Chinese.

“他运用了一些心理学技巧来平息这场争论。” (He used some psychological techniques to calm the argument.)

Verb Collocations
  • - 掌握技巧 (Master the technique)
  • - 缺乏技巧 (Lack technique)
  • - 展示技巧 (Display skill)
  • - 传授技巧 (Pass on techniques)

You will encounter 技巧 in a wide variety of settings, ranging from formal education to casual hobbyist groups. Its versatility makes it a staple in both professional and everyday Mandarin.

1. In the Workplace

In corporate training sessions or self-help seminars, 技巧 is everywhere. You'll hear about 领导技巧 (leadership skills), 时间管理技巧 (time management techniques), and 销售技巧 (sales techniques). It is the language of professional development.

“在职场中，人际交往的技巧往往比专业知识更重要。” (In the workplace, interpersonal skills are often more important than professional knowledge.)

2. In Sports and Arts

Commentators on TV often use 技巧 to describe an athlete's performance. A gymnast's routine or a soccer player's dribbling is praised for its 技巧. Similarly, in music or painting, the technical execution is always referred to as 技巧.

“这位钢琴家的演奏技巧简直无懈可击。” (This pianist's performance technique is simply flawless.)

3. Online Tutorials and 'Life Hacks'

On platforms like Bilibili or Douyin, titles often include 技巧 to attract viewers looking for 'hacks' or 'tips.' For example, '5个让照片更好看的修图技巧' (5 photo editing techniques to make your photos look better).

4. Academic and Literary Criticism

In a classroom or a book review, you'll hear 技巧 used to discuss the structure of a story or the brushwork of a painting. It moves from a practical 'how-to' to an analytical 'how-it-was-done.'

While 技巧 is a common word, learners often trip up on its specific nuances compared to similar terms. Here are the most frequent errors:

1. Confusing 技巧 with 技术 (Technology/Skill)

This is the most common mistake. 技术 usually refers to scientific, industrial, or highly technical systems (e.g., 电脑技术 - computer technology). 技巧 refers to the personal method or clever way of doing something. You wouldn't say 'cooking technology' (烹饪技术) if you mean the chef's personal flair; you'd use 技巧.

❌ “他的电脑技巧很好。” (His computer 'knack' is good - sounds weird if you mean he's a coder.)
✅ “他的电脑技术很好。” (His computer skills/technology are good.)

2. Confusing 技巧 with 技能 (Basic Skill)

技能 is more about the fundamental ability to do a job (like driving or typing). 技巧 is about the 'extra' level of mastery or cleverness. You 'learn' a 技能, but you 'refine' a 技巧.

3. Using it as a Verb

技巧 is strictly a noun. You cannot '技巧' something. You must use a verb like 运用 (apply) or 掌握 (master) before it.

❌ “他很技巧地解决了问题。” (He 'skillfully' solved the problem - 技巧 is not an adverb.)
✅ “他运用技巧解决了问题。” (He used techniques to solve the problem.) or “他很巧妙地解决了问题。” (He cleverly solved the problem.)

4. Over-formalizing Casual Tips

While 技巧 can mean 'tips,' in very casual settings (like telling a friend how to open a jar), using 技巧 might sound a bit too formal. In those cases, 窍门 (qiàomén - knack/trick) might be more natural.

To truly master 技巧, you need to know its 'neighbors' in the Chinese language. Each of these words shares a semantic space but has a distinct flavor.

1. 技能 (jìnéng) - Skill/Ability
Focuses on the practical ability to perform a task. Often used for vocational skills (e.g., 职业技能 - vocational skills). It is more about 'can you do it?' rather than 'how cleverly do you do it?'
2. 技术 (jìshù) - Technology/Technique
Focuses on the systematic, scientific, or industrial aspect. It's often used for things involving machines, science, or complex systems (e.g., 信息技术 - Information Technology).
3. 窍门 (qiàomén) - Knack/Trick
A more colloquial term for a 'shortcut' or a 'clever trick.' If 技巧 is a 'technique,' 窍门 is a 'life hack.' You use it for things like 'the trick to getting this stain out.'
4. 手段 (shǒuduàn) - Means/Method (Neutral to Negative)
Refers to the method used to achieve an end. It can sometimes have a negative connotation, like 'scheming' or 'manipulation,' whereas 技巧 is almost always positive.
5. 功夫 (gōngfu) - Effort/Skill
Refers to the time and effort put into mastering something. If someone has 'great 功夫,' it means they've practiced for a long time. 技巧 is the result of that 功夫.

“虽然他有基本的技能，但还需要学习一些高级的技巧。” (Although he has basic skills, he still needs to learn some advanced techniques.)

Understanding these differences allows you to choose the word that perfectly fits the level of formality and the specific type of 'skill' you are describing.

How Formal Is It?

Difficulty Rating

Grammar to Know

Noun modification with '的'

Verb-Object constructions (掌握+技巧)

Abstract noun usage

Domain-specific compounding

Formal vs. Informal register

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Examples by Level

1

这是一个好技巧。

This is a good technique/tip.

Simple Subject + Verb + Object structure.

2

学习汉语有什么技巧？

Are there any tips for learning Chinese?

Using '有什么' to ask for advice.

3

他画画的技巧很好。

His drawing technique is very good.

Possessive '的' connecting the activity and the noun.

4

我需要一些考试技巧。

I need some exam techniques/tips.

Verb '需要' followed by the noun phrase.

5

这个游戏需要技巧。

This game requires skill.

Simple 'Subject + Verb + Object'.

6

老师教我们写字技巧。

The teacher taught us writing techniques.

Double object verb '教'.

7

跑步也有技巧吗？

Are there techniques for running too?

Using '也...吗' for a question.

8

我不懂这个技巧。

I don't understand this technique.

Negative '不' with the verb '懂'.

1

你可以教我一些烹饪技巧吗？

Can you teach me some cooking techniques?

Polite request using '可以...吗'.

2

掌握这些技巧需要时间。

Mastering these techniques takes time.

The phrase '掌握技巧' acts as the subject.

3

他的驾驶技巧非常熟练。

His driving skills are very proficient.

Adverb '非常' modifying the adjective '熟练'.

4

这些是很有用的生活技巧。

These are very useful life hacks/skills.

Noun phrase '生活技巧' (life skills).

5

他在比赛中展示了高超的技巧。

He showed superb skills in the competition.

Verb '展示' (to display/show).

6

我们要多练习，才能提高技巧。

We need to practice more to improve our skills.

Using '才能' to show a condition for a result.

7

阅读技巧可以帮你看书更快。

Reading techniques can help you read faster.

Subject '阅读技巧' (reading techniques).

8

这个技巧非常简单，但很有用。

This technique is very simple but very useful.

Contrast using '但' (but).

1

在面试中，沟通技巧是非常关键的。

In an interview, communication skills are very crucial.

Abstract noun '沟通技巧' (communication skills).

2

他运用了一些心理技巧来解决冲突。

He applied some psychological techniques to resolve the conflict.

Verb '运用' (to apply/use).

3

写作技巧的提高需要大量的阅读。

Improving writing techniques requires a lot of reading.

The nominalized phrase '写作技巧的提高' (the improvement of writing techniques).

4

这本书介绍了很多实用的社交技巧。

This book introduces many practical social skills.

Adjective '实用的' (practical) modifying '技巧'.

5

摄影师分享了他的构图技巧。

The photographer shared his composition techniques.

Specific domain '构图' (composition) + '技巧'.

6

没有技巧，很难完成这么复杂的任务。

Without technique, it's hard to complete such a complex task.

Conditional phrase '没有技巧' (without technique).

7

这种翻译技巧能让句子更自然。

This translation technique can make sentences more natural.

Causative structure '让...更...'.

8

他通过学习谈判技巧，成功签下了合同。

By learning negotiation techniques, he successfully signed the contract.

Prepositional phrase '通过...' (through/by).

1

这位导演的叙事技巧让电影非常引人入胜。

The director's narrative techniques make the movie very fascinating.

Formal term '叙事技巧' (narrative techniques).

2

他不仅有天赋，而且掌握了扎实的专业技巧。

He not only has talent but also has mastered solid professional skills.

Correlative conjunction '不仅...而且...'.

3

在辩论中，逻辑技巧比大声说话更有力。

In a debate, logical techniques are more powerful than speaking loudly.

Comparison 'A 比 B 更...'.

4

掌握一些基本的理财技巧对年轻人很重要。

Mastering some basic financial management skills is important for young people.

The whole phrase '掌握...技巧' is the subject.

5

这篇文章详细分析了作者的修辞技巧。

This article analyzes the author's rhetorical techniques in detail.

Formal verb '分析' (to analyze).

6

这种管理技巧可以显著提高团队的效率。

This management technique can significantly improve team efficiency.

Adverb '显著' (significantly) modifying '提高'.

7

他在这场演出中展现了惊人的舞台技巧。

He displayed amazing stage techniques in this performance.

Adjective '惊人的' (amazing/startling).

8

通过不断的练习，她的钢琴技巧达到了新的高度。

Through constant practice, her piano technique reached a new height.

Metaphorical phrase '达到了新的高度' (reached a new height).

1

他的作品展现了极高的艺术造诣和表现技巧。

His work demonstrates extremely high artistic attainment and expressive techniques.

Parallel structure '艺术造诣' and '表现技巧'.

2

外交官需要具备高超的周旋技巧以应对复杂的局势。

Diplomats need to possess superb maneuvering skills to deal with complex situations.

Formal verb '具备' (to possess/be equipped with).

3

这种写作技巧虽然巧妙，但如果过度使用会显得虚假。

Although this writing technique is clever, it will seem artificial if overused.

Concession '虽然...但...' with a conditional '如果...'.

4

他在处理危机时表现出的应变技巧令人叹服。

The adaptability skills he showed when handling the crisis were admirable.

Complex noun phrase with a relative clause '他在处理危机时表现出的'.

5

现代营销技巧往往利用消费者的心理弱点。

Modern marketing techniques often exploit the psychological weaknesses of consumers.

Verb '利用' (to exploit/utilize).

6

这篇文章探讨了古典诗歌中的对仗技巧。

This article explores the techniques of antithesis in classical poetry.

Specialized academic term '对仗技巧' (antithesis techniques).

7

他以纯熟的技巧掩盖了作品中的逻辑漏洞。

He used practiced skill to cover up the logical loopholes in the work.

Preposition '以' (with/by means of).

8

在信息时代，搜索技巧已经成为一项必备的能力。

In the information age, search techniques have become an essential ability.

Noun phrase '必备的能力' (essential ability).

1

这种艺术风格在技巧上追求极致的精细与和谐。

This artistic style pursues ultimate precision and harmony in technique.

Prepositional phrase '在技巧上' (in terms of technique).

2

他深谙权术，在政治斗争中运用技巧游刃有余。

He is well-versed in political maneuvering and uses techniques with ease in political struggles.

Idiom '游刃有余' (doing something with ease).

3

大师的境界在于化技巧于无形，达到天人合一。

The master's realm lies in making technique invisible, achieving the unity of man and nature.

Philosophical structure '在于...' (lies in...).

4

该论文对小说中的多重叙事技巧进行了深度的解构。

The paper provides a deep deconstruction of the multiple narrative techniques in the novel.

Formal structure '对...进行...解构' (to perform a deconstruction of...).

5

他在演奏中展现的不仅是技巧，更是对生命深处的感悟。

What he showed in his performance was not just technique, but an insight into the depths of life.

Contrast '不仅是...更是...'.

6

这种微雕技巧对艺术家的视力和耐心是极大的考验。

This micro-carving technique is a great test of the artist's eyesight and patience.

Subject '这种微雕技巧' (this micro-carving technique).

7

在高级翻译中，对文化差异的处理技巧至关重要。

In advanced translation, the techniques for handling cultural differences are crucial.

Adjective '至关重要' (crucial/of vital importance).

8

他凭借卓越的辩论技巧，在国际法庭上赢得了诉讼。

Relying on his outstanding debating skills, he won the lawsuit in the international court.

Verb '凭借' (relying on/by virtue of).

Antonyms

笨拙

Common Collocations

掌握技巧
运用技巧
提高技巧
展示技巧
学习技巧
专业技巧
高超的技巧
沟通技巧
写作技巧
面试技巧

Common Phrases

生活技巧
社交技巧
谈判技巧
销售技巧
摄影技巧
构图技巧
心理技巧
辩论技巧
翻译技巧
理财技巧

Often Confused With

技巧 vs 技术

技巧 vs 技能

技巧 vs 方法

Idioms & Expressions

"游刃有余"
"熟能生巧"
"巧夺天工"
"妙笔生花"
"匠心独运"
"点石成金"
"鬼斧神工"
"登峰造极"
"炉火纯青"
"别出心裁"

Easily Confused

技巧 vs

技巧 vs

技巧 vs

技巧 vs

技巧 vs

Sentence Patterns

Word Family

Related

技术
技能
技艺
技师
竞技
巧妙
灵巧
精巧
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How to Use It

nuance

技巧 implies a level of cleverness that 技能 does not.

formality

It is suitable for both formal writing and daily conversation.

Common Mistakes
  • Using 技巧 when you mean 'technology' (技术).
  • Using 技巧 as an adverb (should be 巧妙地).
  • Confusing it with basic 'ability' (能力).
  • Using it without a modifying domain in formal writing.
  • Overusing it for simple tasks where '方法' would suffice.

Tips

Learn Collocations

Always learn 技巧 with its common verbs like 掌握 and 运用.

Craftsman Spirit

Understand that 技巧 is highly valued in Chinese culture as a sign of dedication.

Noun Only

Remember that 技巧 is a noun and cannot be used as a verb directly.

Ask for Tips

Use '你有什么技巧吗？' to ask for advice in a polite way.

Be Specific

Always specify what kind of 技巧 you are talking about (e.g., 写作技巧).

Context Clues

If you hear '技巧', look for the 'how-to' aspect of the conversation.

Article Titles

Look for 技巧 in titles of advice columns or 'how-to' guides.

Soft Skills

Use 沟通技巧 to talk about interpersonal relations.

Resume Building

Mention your 技巧 in specific areas on your Chinese CV.

The 'Qiao' Factor

Associate 技巧 with the word 'clever' (巧妙).

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Imagine a HAND (扌) using a TOOL (工) to do something CLEVERLY (巧).

Word Origin

Cultural Context

Modern Chinese education emphasizes 'learning how to learn' (学习技巧).

The word evokes the image of a skilled artisan.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Conversation Starters

"你有什么学习汉语的好技巧吗？"

"你觉得在职场中，什么技巧最重要？"

"你最想学习哪方面的技巧？"

"你认为写作技巧是可以教出来的吗？"

"你有什么省钱的小技巧吗？"

Journal Prompts

写一写你最近掌握的一项新技巧。

讨论一下为什么沟通技巧在现代社会很重要。

描述一个你认为技巧非常高超的人。

反思一下你在学习过程中遇到的最有用的技巧。

如果你可以立刻学会一项技巧，你会选什么？为什么？

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

No, it can be used for anything from sports to business to social skills.

Yes, if you mean clever ways to use a computer, but '电脑技术' is better for IT skills.

技巧 is more formal; 窍门 is like 'a little trick' or 'knack'.

You can say '有技巧' (has skill) or use the adjective '巧妙' (clever/skillful).

Chinese doesn't have plural forms, so 技巧 can mean 'technique' or 'techniques'.

No, it specifically refers to the method, not the raw power.

Yes, it is the standard way to say 'communication skills'.

Usually it's positive, but you can use it for 'scheming' if the context is clear.

Yes, it is typically introduced at the intermediate level.

There isn't a direct opposite, but '蛮力' (brute force) is often used as a contrast.

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