接种
接种 in 30 Seconds
- 接种 (jiēzhòng) is the formal Chinese verb for 'to vaccinate' or 'to inoculate,' used in medical and official settings.
- It combines '接' (receive) and '种' (plant), metaphorically planting a seed of immunity in the human body.
- Commonly paired with '疫苗' (vaccine), it forms phrases like '接种疫苗' or '接种率' (vaccination rate).
- While '打针' is colloquial for any shot, '接种' specifically refers to the preventative medical process of immunization.
The Chinese term 接种 (jiēzhòng) is a formal and precise verb that translates to 'to vaccinate' or 'to inoculate' in English. It is composed of two characters: 接 (jiē), which means 'to receive,' 'to connect,' or 'to take,' and 种 (zhòng), which means 'to plant,' 'to sow,' or 'to cultivate.' When combined, the word literally suggests the act of 'planting' or 'sowing' a medical substance—the vaccine—into the body to foster immunity. This term is primarily used in medical, scientific, and formal administrative contexts. While everyday conversations might use the more colloquial 打针 (dǎzhēn - to get a shot) or 打疫苗 (dǎ yìmiáo - to get a vaccine), 接种 is the standard term you will encounter on official health forms, news reports, and medical advice leaflets.
- Formal Usage
- In official documents, you will see phrases like '接种计划' (vaccination plan) or '接种率' (vaccination rate). It signifies a professional medical procedure rather than just the physical act of an injection.
- Medical Context
- It refers to the biological process of introducing an antigen to stimulate the immune system. It covers various methods, including injections, oral drops, or nasal sprays.
政府建议所有公民尽早接种流感疫苗。 (The government suggests all citizens get the flu vaccine as early as possible.)
The history of this word is deeply rooted in China's medical history. Long before modern immunology, ancient Chinese physicians practiced '人痘接种' (rén dòu jiēzhòng), a primitive form of variolation to prevent smallpox. This historical context gives the word a sense of continuity in Chinese medical tradition. In modern times, the word gained immense global visibility during the COVID-19 pandemic, appearing daily in headlines regarding the '接种疫苗' (vaccination) efforts worldwide. Understanding this word is essential for anyone navigating the healthcare system in a Chinese-speaking environment or reading news regarding public health.
医生正在为孩子接种卡介苗。 (The doctor is vaccinating the child with the BCG vaccine.)
In terms of register, using 接种 instead of '打针' shows a higher level of Chinese proficiency. It indicates that the speaker is referring to the preventative medical purpose of the action rather than just the physical sensation of the needle. For instance, in a scientific paper or a hospital announcement, '打针' would be considered too colloquial and imprecise. Therefore, learners should aim to use 接种 when discussing health policies, medical history, or formal health requirements for travel and school enrollment.
我们需要提高老年人的疫苗接种率。 (We need to improve the vaccine vaccination rate among the elderly.)
- Etymology Note
- The use of '种' (to plant) in a medical context is a beautiful metaphor for how a vaccine 'grows' immunity within the human body, much like a seed growing in fertile soil.
完成全程接种后,你会获得一份证书。 (After completing the full course of vaccination, you will receive a certificate.)
这种疫苗需要分两次接种。 (This vaccine needs to be administered in two doses.)
Mastering the usage of 接种 (jiēzhòng) involves understanding its grammatical role as a transitive verb and its placement within various sentence patterns. The most common structure is [Subject] + 接种 + [Vaccine Name]. For example, '我接种了新冠疫苗' (I received the COVID-19 vaccine). Another vital structure is the causative or passive construction using '为' (wèi) or '给' (gěi), such as [Medical Professional] + 为/给 + [Patient] + 接种 + [Vaccine]. This highlights the doctor-patient interaction during the procedure.
- Pattern 1: Simple Transitive
- Subject + 接种 + 疫苗. Example: 很多人接种了加强针。 (Many people received the booster shot.)
- Pattern 2: Passive/Service
- 给/为 + Somebody + 接种. Example: 护士给学生们接种了疫苗。 (The nurse vaccinated the students.)
在一些国家,接种某些疫苗是强制性的。 (In some countries, vaccinating against certain diseases is mandatory.)
It is also frequently used as a noun-like modifier in compound phrases. For instance, '接种点' (jiēzhòng diǎn) refers to a vaccination site or clinic, and '接种证' (jiēzhòng zhèng) is a vaccination certificate. In these cases, 接种 describes the purpose of the location or document. When discussing statistics, you will often hear '接种人数' (number of people vaccinated) or '接种剂次' (number of doses administered). These technical applications make it a versatile word for discussing public health logistics.
请携带您的身份证前往指定的接种点。 (Please bring your ID card to the designated vaccination site.)
Furthermore, 接种 can be modified by adverbs of frequency or degree. Phrases like '全面接种' (comprehensive vaccination) or '分阶段接种' (vaccination in stages) are common in policy discussions. If you want to say someone is 'fully vaccinated,' you would use '完成全程接种' (wánchéng quánchéng jiēzhòng). This level of precision is necessary when filling out travel declarations or medical history forms for schools or workplaces. Understanding these nuances helps a learner transition from basic survival Chinese to professional-level proficiency.
目前,全球已经接种了数十亿剂疫苗。 (Currently, billions of doses of vaccines have been administered globally.)
- Advanced Structure
- [Target Population] + 应接尽接. This is a common slogan meaning 'everyone who should be vaccinated should be vaccinated as much as possible.'
你应该在出国前接种黄热病疫苗。 (You should get the yellow fever vaccine before going abroad.)
由于过敏,他无法接种这种疫苗。 (Due to allergies, he cannot receive this vaccine.)
The word 接种 (jiēzhòng) is ubiquitous in any environment related to public health, science, and governance. If you live in China or a Chinese-speaking region, you will most likely hear this word in hospital waiting rooms, community health centers (社区卫生服务中心), and on television news broadcasts. During public health campaigns, such as those for the seasonal flu or the HPV vaccine, loudspeakers in residential compounds might broadcast reminders for residents to go and '接种'. It is the voice of authority and science.
- News & Media
- News anchors use it to report on medical breakthroughs or national health statistics. '我国疫苗接种工作取得重大进展' (Our country's vaccine vaccination work has made significant progress).
- Workplace & Education
- Human Resource departments or school administrations will use it in emails regarding mandatory health checks or voluntary vaccination drives for employees and students.
请在手机上展示您的接种记录。 (Please show your vaccination record on your mobile phone.)
In a clinical setting, a nurse might ask, '你以前接种过这种疫苗吗?' (Have you been vaccinated with this vaccine before?). This is a standard screening question. Furthermore, in the context of international travel, customs and immigration officers might refer to your '接种证书' (vaccination certificate) to verify that you meet the entry requirements for specific diseases like yellow fever or polio. In academic settings, such as medical schools or biological research labs, the word is used to describe the experimental process of inoculating laboratory animals or cell cultures with pathogens or vaccines.
由于接种了疫苗,他的症状非常轻微。 (Because he was vaccinated, his symptoms were very mild.)
Interestingly, while the primary meaning is medical, the concept of 'inoculation' can sometimes be used metaphorically in psychological or social contexts in very formal literature (though this is rare). For example, '接种思想疫苗' (to inoculate with ideological vaccines) to mean protecting someone from harmful ideas. However, for 99% of learners, the medical context is where they will encounter and use this word. Whether you are reading a brochure about child health or listening to a podcast about global health challenges, 接种 is the key term for preventative medicine.
该地区的疫苗接种率已经达到了百分之九十。 (The vaccine vaccination rate in this area has reached ninety percent.)
- Common Audio Contexts
- Public service announcements (PSAs), doctor consultations, health webinars, and government press conferences.
我们需要科普关于疫苗接种的正确知识。 (We need to popularize correct knowledge about vaccine vaccination.)
接种后请在现场观察三十分钟。 (Please stay on-site for observation for thirty minutes after vaccination.)
One of the most frequent mistakes English speakers make when using 接种 (jiēzhòng) is confusing it with the more general term 打针 (dǎzhēn). While both involve a needle, 打针 is the physical act of giving or receiving any injection (including medicine for pain, vitamins, or vaccines). 接种 refers specifically to the medical purpose of immunization. Using '打针' in a formal medical report or when discussing public health policy sounds unprofessional and overly simplistic.
- Mistake 1: Over-generalization
- Saying '接种感冒药' (vaccinating cold medicine) is incorrect. You '打针' for cold medicine, but you '接种' for a flu vaccine (流感疫苗).
- Mistake 2: Character Confusion
- Confusing '接种' (jiēzhòng) with '这种' (zhè zhǒng - this kind). Though they share the character '种', the pronunciation and meaning are entirely different.
错误:医生给我接种了止痛药。 (Incorrect: The doctor vaccinated me with painkillers.)
Another common error is the incorrect placement of the object. Some learners might try to say '被接种' (bèi jiēzhòng) to mean 'was vaccinated.' While grammatically possible, it is much more natural in Chinese to use the active form '接种了疫苗' or the structure '完成了接种'. Also, pay attention to the pronunciation of '种'. In this word, it is pronounced in the fourth tone (zhòng) because it acts as a verb (to plant). If you pronounce it in the third tone (zhǒng), which means 'kind' or 'species,' native speakers will likely understand you but it will sound incorrect.
错误:他正在接种这种这种疫苗。 (Avoid stuttering or confusing '接种' with '这种'.)
Finally, learners sometimes forget that 接种 can be both a verb and a noun (vaccination). If you use it as a noun, ensure it is paired with appropriate verbs like '进行' (jìnxíng - to carry out) or '完成' (wánchéng - to complete). For example, '进行疫苗接种' (to carry out vaccine vaccination). Avoid using it with verbs that don't fit medical procedures, like '做接种' (to do vaccination), which sounds unnatural compared to '进行接种'.
注意:不要说“做接种”,而要说“进行接种”或“接种疫苗”。 (Note: Don't say 'do vaccination,' say 'carry out vaccination' or 'vaccinate with a vaccine'.)
- Grammar Pitfall
- Using '接种' for non-medical 'planting.' If you are planting flowers, use '种花' (zhòng huā), never '接种花'.
正确:我已经完成了两剂疫苗的接种。 (Correct: I have completed the vaccination of two doses of the vaccine.)
错误:这个护士很会接种。 (Incorrect: This nurse is good at vaccinating—too vague. Use '这个护士接种技术很好'.)
Understanding the synonyms and related terms for 接种 (jiēzhòng) is crucial for nuanced communication. While 接种 is the formal term for the act of inoculating, several other words occupy the same semantic space but differ in register or specific focus. The most common alternative is 打疫苗 (dǎ yìmiáo), which literally means 'to hit/inject vaccine.' This is the standard way to express the idea in daily conversation.
- 接种 vs. 打疫苗
- 接种 is formal/medical; 打疫苗 is colloquial/everyday. You would say '我今天去打疫苗' to a friend, but write '本人已接种' on a form.
- 接种 vs. 免疫 (miǎnyì)
- 接种 is the *action* of giving the vaccine; 免疫 is the *result* (immunity). However, '免疫' is also used in '免疫接种' (immunization).
- 接种 vs. 种痘 (zhòngdòu)
- 种痘 specifically refers to smallpox vaccination (variolation). It is an older term and rarely used for modern vaccines like the flu shot.
虽然接种和打疫苗意思一样,但在医生面前最好用“接种”。 (Although 接种 and 打疫苗 mean the same thing, it's best to use '接种' in front of a doctor.)
Another related term is 预防针 (yùfángzhēn), which literally means 'preventative needle.' This is often used by parents when talking to children, as in '我们要去打预防针了' (We are going to get a preventative shot). It is less clinical than 接种 but more specific than just '打针'. In academic or policy contexts, you might also see 牛痘 (niúdòu) when discussing the history of the cowpox vaccine, or 强化免疫 (qiánghuà miǎnyì) for booster campaigns. Knowing when to switch between these terms allows you to adapt your speech to your audience effectively.
通过接种疫苗,我们可以建立群体免疫。 (By vaccinating with vaccines, we can establish herd immunity.)
In some specialized contexts, 植入 (zhírù) or 注入 (zhùrù) might be used for 'implant' or 'inject,' but they do not carry the specific medical connotation of building immunity that 接种 does. For example, you '注入' liquid into a container, but you '接种' a vaccine into a person. This distinction highlights the unique status of 接种 in the Chinese lexicon as a term dedicated to the science of immunization. By comparing these words, learners can see how Chinese categorizes medical actions based on their intent and formal level.
这种新方法比传统的接种方式更有效。 (This new method is more effective than traditional vaccination methods.)
接种疫苗是预防传染病最经济有效的手段。 (Vaccination is the most economical and effective means of preventing infectious diseases.)
How Formal Is It?
Fun Fact
China was one of the first civilizations to practice vaccination. In the 10th century, they used 'human smallpox variolation' by blowing powdered smallpox scabs into the nose—a technique known as '接种'.
Pronunciation Guide
- Pronouncing 'zhong' in the third tone (zhǒng) instead of the fourth (zhòng).
- Confusing 'jie' (1st tone) with 'jie' (2nd tone).
- Merging the two syllables into one blurred sound.
- Failure to aspirate consonants correctly.
- Using the wrong tone for 'zhong' changes the meaning to 'kind of connection' which is nonsensical.
Difficulty Rating
The characters are relatively common, but '接' can be confused with other 'shou' radical characters.
Writing '接' and '种' requires attention to stroke order and radical placement.
The tones (1 and 4) are distinct but 'zhong' must be sharp.
Easily recognized in health-related contexts.
What to Learn Next
Prerequisites
Learn Next
Advanced
Grammar to Know
The use of '为' (wèi) to indicate the beneficiary of an action.
医生为老人接种。
The particle '了' (le) indicating completion of the vaccination.
他已经接种了。
Resultative complements with '完成' (wánchéng).
完成了接种。
Passive voice with '被' (bèi).
他被要求接种。
Compound nouns formed by [Verb] + [Noun].
接种点 (Vaccination + site).
Examples by Level
我接种了。
I have been vaccinated.
Simple Subject + Verb + Particle 'le' for completion.
你要接种吗?
Do you want to get vaccinated?
Question form using 'ma'.
医生接种疫苗。
The doctor administers the vaccine.
Subject + Verb + Object.
我不怕接种。
I am not afraid of vaccination.
Negative 'bu' + verb 'pa' (fear).
今天接种。
Vaccinate today.
Time word + Verb.
在这里接种。
Vaccinate here.
Location 'zai zheli' + Verb.
接种疫苗好。
Vaccination is good.
Verb-Object as a subject + Adjective.
他是接种医生。
He is a vaccination doctor.
Noun acting as a modifier for 'yisheng'.
我明天去接种流感疫苗。
I am going to get the flu vaccine tomorrow.
Future intent with 'qu' (go).
护士给我接种了疫苗。
The nurse gave me the vaccine.
Causative structure 'gei...jiezhong'.
接种疫苗后要休息。
You need to rest after being vaccinated.
Time clause '...hou' (after).
这种疫苗需要接种两次。
This vaccine needs to be administered twice.
Frequency 'liang ci' (twice).
他在学校接种了疫苗。
He was vaccinated at school.
Location 'zai xuexiao'.
请带上你的接种证。
Please bring your vaccination certificate.
Imperative 'qing' (please) + compound noun.
接种疫苗可以预防疾病。
Vaccination can prevent diseases.
Modal verb 'keyi' (can).
哪里可以接种新冠疫苗?
Where can I get the COVID-19 vaccine?
Question word 'nali' (where).
政府正在推广免费接种计划。
The government is promoting a free vaccination plan.
Progressive aspect 'zhengzai' + formal noun phrase.
为了健康,大家应该尽早接种。
For the sake of health, everyone should get vaccinated as soon as possible.
Purpose clause 'weile...'.
接种率越高,社会就越安全。
The higher the vaccination rate, the safer the society.
Structure 'yue...yue...' (the more... the more...).
医生详细解释了接种的必要性。
The doctor explained the necessity of vaccination in detail.
Abstract noun 'biyàoxìng' (necessity).
许多老年人已经完成了接种。
Many elderly people have already completed their vaccinations.
Present perfect with 'yijing...le'.
这个接种点每天接待五百人。
This vaccination site receives five hundred people every day.
Measure word 'ge' for 'jiezhong dian'.
接种后可能会有一些轻微反应。
There might be some mild reactions after vaccination.
Possibility 'keneng' + 'qingwei' (mild).
出国旅游前通常需要接种疫苗。
Usually, vaccinations are required before traveling abroad.
Adverb 'tongchang' (usually).
科学家们正在研究更有效的接种方式。
Scientists are researching more effective vaccination methods.
Comparative 'geng' (more) + formal 'fangshi' (method).
该地区的疫苗接种工作已经全面展开。
Vaccination work in this area has been fully launched.
Idiomatic phrase 'quanmian zhankai' (fully unfold).
接种加强针可以显著提高抗体水平。
Getting a booster shot can significantly increase antibody levels.
Adverb 'xianzhu' (significantly).
由于身体原因,他被建议延迟接种。
Due to physical reasons, he was advised to delay vaccination.
Passive structure 'bei' + 'jianyi' (be advised).
我们必须关注偏远地区的接种覆盖率。
We must pay attention to the vaccination coverage in remote areas.
Formal verb 'guanzhu' (pay attention to).
接种疫苗是预防传染病的屏障。
Vaccination is a barrier to preventing infectious diseases.
Metaphorical use of 'pingzhang' (barrier).
法律规定了某些职业必须接种疫苗。
The law stipulates that certain professions must be vaccinated.
Formal verb 'guiding' (stipulate).
接种后的观察期通常为三十分钟。
The observation period after vaccination is usually thirty minutes.
Technical term 'guanchaqi' (observation period).
序贯接种策略旨在优化免疫效果。
The sequential vaccination strategy aims to optimize the immune effect.
Technical term 'xùguàn' (sequential) and 'yōuhuà' (optimize).
接种异常反应的鉴定需要专业评估。
The identification of abnormal vaccination reactions requires professional assessment.
Noun phrase as subject; formal 'jianding' (identification).
历史上的“人痘接种”是免疫学的先驱。
Historically, 'human variolation' was a pioneer of immunology.
Historical reference; 'xianqu' (pioneer).
该研究探讨了不同年龄段接种后的免疫持久性。
The study explored the immune persistence after vaccination in different age groups.
Formal research verb 'tǎotào' (explore).
强制接种政策在国际上引发了广泛辩论。
Mandatory vaccination policies have sparked widespread debate internationally.
Abstract noun 'bianlun' (debate).
接种禁忌症应由医生根据个体情况判定。
Contraindications for vaccination should be determined by doctors based on individual circumstances.
Technical term 'jìnjìzhèng' (contraindication).
通过建立接种档案,可以实现全生命周期的健康管理。
By establishing vaccination records, whole-life-cycle health management can be achieved.
Prepositional phrase 'tongguo...' (by means of).
该疫苗的接种程序已经过严格的临床试验。
The vaccination procedure for this vaccine has undergone rigorous clinical trials.
Formal 'yijingguo' (has undergone).
疫苗接种的公平性是全球公共卫生的核心议题。
The equity of vaccine vaccination is a core issue of global public health.
Highly abstract noun 'gōngpíngxìng' (equity).
我们需要权衡接种收益与潜在风险之间的关系。
We need to weigh the relationship between vaccination benefits and potential risks.
Sophisticated verb 'quánhéng' (weigh/balance).
接种率的波动往往受社会心理因素的影响。
Fluctuations in vaccination rates are often influenced by socio-psychological factors.
Complex causal relationship description.
该政策旨在消除接种过程中的体制性障碍。
The policy aims to eliminate institutional barriers in the vaccination process.
Formal 'tǐzhìxìng zhàng'ài' (institutional barriers).
交叉接种的科学依据尚在进一步完善中。
The scientific basis for cross-vaccination is still being further refined.
Technical phrase 'kēxué yījù' (scientific basis).
接种行为不仅是个人选择,更是社会责任的体现。
The act of vaccinating is not only a personal choice but also an embodiment of social responsibility.
Structure 'bujin... gengshi...' (not only... but even more...).
对接种数据的深度挖掘揭示了免疫屏障的薄弱环节。
Deep mining of vaccination data revealed weak links in the immune barrier.
Metaphorical 'shēndù wǎjué' (deep mining).
该论文系统地阐述了接种对降低重症率的贡献。
The paper systematically elaborates on the contribution of vaccination to reducing the rate of severe illness.
Formal 'chànshù' (elaborate) and 'gòngxiàn' (contribution).
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
— To receive the COVID-19 vaccine. This was the most common use of the word in recent years.
我已经接种新冠疫苗了。
— To receive the flu vaccine. Common during autumn and winter.
每年冬天我都接种流感疫苗。
— To receive a booster shot. Used for additional doses after the primary course.
我今天去接种加强针。
— Complete vaccination. Refers to receiving all required doses of a vaccine series.
只有全程接种才能获得最佳保护。
— Preventative vaccination certificate. An official record of all vaccines received.
上学需要提供预防接种证。
— Vaccination contraindications. Medical reasons why someone should not receive a vaccine.
接种前请核对接种禁忌。
— Vaccinate all who are eligible. A policy slogan encouraging maximum coverage.
我们要做到应接尽接。
— Schedule a vaccination. To book an appointment for a shot.
你可以通过手机预约接种。
— Vaccination record. A log of when and what vaccines were administered.
系统里有你的接种记录。
— Sequential vaccination. Using different types of vaccines in a series.
专家建议采用序贯接种。
Often Confused With
Sounds similar but means 'this kind.' Pay attention to the first character '接' vs '这'.
Starts with '接' but means 'to receive guests.' The context is social, not medical.
Ends with '种' but means 'to plant crops/plants.' Used in agriculture.
Idioms & Expressions
— To prevent trouble before it happens. This is often used to describe the purpose of vaccination.
接种疫苗就是为了防患于未然。
Formal— To dig a well before one is thirsty; to prepare in advance. Similar to the concept of vaccination.
接种流感疫苗是未雨绸缪的好办法。
Literary— A fundamental solution. Vaccination is often described as the fundamental way to end a pandemic.
提高接种率是控制疫情的治本之道。
Formal— This idiom uses '接' but means 'too busy to attend to everything.' It is a pun often used in news about busy vaccination sites.
接种点的工作人员忙得应接不暇。
Common— To practice what one preaches. Used for leaders who get vaccinated first to encourage others.
市长身体力行,率先接种了疫苗。
Formal— Just in case. A common reason people give for getting vaccinated.
接种疫苗是以防万一。
Informal— To brook no delay. Used when a vaccination campaign is urgent.
接种工作刻不容缓。
Formal— The general trend. Used to describe the global move toward full vaccination.
接种疫苗是大势所趋。
Formal— Unity is strength. Often used in slogans to encourage collective vaccination.
全民接种,众志成城抗击疫情。
Literary— As secure as Mount Tai. Describing the feeling of safety after vaccination.
接种后,心里感觉安如泰山。
LiteraryEasily Confused
Both involve needles.
打针 is general for any injection; 接种 is specific to vaccines for immunity.
他感冒了,去医院打针。 (He has a cold and went for a shot—not a vaccine.)
Related to the same medical process.
接种 is the action; 免疫 is the resulting state of protection.
接种后,你就会产生免疫力。
Uses the character 种 (zhòng).
种花 is literal planting of flowers; 接种 is metaphorical planting of a vaccine.
他在花园里种花。
Starts with 接 (jiē).
接头 means to connect parts or meet someone secretly.
水管接头漏水了。
Phonetically similar for beginners.
这种 is a demonstrative 'this kind'; 接种 is a medical verb.
我不喜欢这种颜色。
Sentence Patterns
我接种了。
我接种了。
我要接种[疫苗]。
我要接种流感疫苗。
政府推广接种计划。
政府推广免费接种计划。
接种[疫苗]可以显著降低风险。
接种疫苗可以显著降低感染风险。
[疫苗]接种的必要性不言而喻。
流感疫苗接种的必要性不言而喻。
通过提高接种率,我们能构建免疫屏障。
通过提高接种率,我们能构建坚实的免疫屏障。
接种点位于[地点]。
接种点位于社区中心。
请带上接种证。
请带上你的接种证。
Word Family
Nouns
Verbs
Adjectives
Related
How to Use It
Very high in medical and news contexts.
-
接种感冒药
→
打感冒针 / 吃感冒药
You only '接种' vaccines (vaccinating). For general medicine like painkillers or cold medicine, use '打针' or '吃药'.
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我接种了两次这种疫苗 (using 3rd tone for zhong)
→
我接种 (4th tone) 了两次这种 (3rd tone) 疫苗
In '接种', 'zhong' is the 4th tone because it is a verb. In '这种', 'zhong' is the 3rd tone because it is a noun/classifier.
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做接种
→
进行接种 / 接种疫苗
'做' is too informal and technically incorrect for a medical procedure. Use '进行' (carry out) or just the verb '接种' itself.
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接种花
→
种花
Do not use '接种' for literal gardening. '接种' is strictly a medical/scientific term for inoculation.
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接种过敏
→
接种后的过敏反应
You are not 'allergic to vaccinating,' you are having an 'allergic reaction after vaccination.' Use the full phrase for clarity.
Tips
Use in Forms
When filling out medical history forms in Chinese, look for the word '接种' to indicate where you should list your vaccines. It is the official term used by all healthcare providers.
Tone Accuracy
Be very careful with the 4th tone on 'zhòng'. If you say it in the 3rd tone, it might be confused with 'this kind' (zhè zhǒng). Practice a sharp, downward 'zhòng' sound.
Pairing with 疫苗
The most natural way to use the word is in the phrase '接种疫苗'. Even if the context is clear, adding '疫苗' makes your Chinese sound more complete and native-like.
Sound Professional
If you are in a professional environment, such as a business meeting about health insurance or a scientific conference, always use '接种' instead of '打针' to maintain a high register.
The 'Gei' Structure
Remember the structure '给 [Person] 接种'. This is how you describe the action of a nurse or doctor. Example: '护士给我接种了流感疫苗.'
Public Health Slogans
Familiarize yourself with slogans like '应接尽接'. Understanding these will help you interpret government announcements and public health posters in Chinese cities.
News Keywords
When listening to the news, '接种' is a keyword for health segments. If you hear it, get ready to hear numbers (rates) and names of diseases (flu, COVID, etc.).
Compound Words
Learn compound words like '接种点' and '接种证' as single units of meaning. This will speed up your reading comprehension of signs and official documents.
The 'Planting' Metaphor
Use the 'planting' metaphor to remember the meaning. You are planting protection in your body. This makes the word feel more vivid and easier to recall.
Hospital Screening
If a doctor asks '接种过吗?', they are asking if you have been vaccinated. Being able to answer '接种过' (I have) or '没接种' (I haven't) is a vital survival skill.
Memorize It
Mnemonic
Think of 'Jie' as joining or receiving, and 'Zhong' as planting a seed. You are 'joining' the vaccine to your body by 'planting' it like a seed of health.
Visual Association
Imagine a doctor 'planting' a small glowing green seed into someone's arm. That seed grows into a protective shield (immunity).
Word Web
Challenge
Try to use '接种' instead of '打针' three times today when talking or thinking about health. Write down '我已经接种了' on a sticky note to remember the structure.
Word Origin
The term comes from the combination of '接' (to receive/connect) and '种' (to plant). It reflects the early medical practice of 'planting' a small amount of a pathogen into a healthy person to stimulate immunity.
Original meaning: To inoculate or variolate, specifically referring to the human smallpox variolation (人痘接种) practiced in ancient China.
Sino-Tibetan (Chinese)Cultural Context
Always respect individual health privacy when asking about vaccination status, though it is a common topic in public health discussions.
In English-speaking countries, 'vaccination' and 'inoculation' are used similarly, but 'shot' is the most common informal term. '接种' is the direct equivalent of the formal terms.
Practice in Real Life
Real-World Contexts
At the Hospital
- 我要接种疫苗。
- 在哪里接种?
- 接种疼吗?
- 接种后要注意什么?
Reading the News
- 接种率达到90%。
- 启动大规模接种。
- 接种加强针。
- 疫苗接种预约系统。
School Enrollment
- 提交接种记录。
- 检查接种证。
- 补种缺失的疫苗。
- 接种证明是必须的。
International Travel
- 接种黄热病疫苗。
- 出示接种证明。
- 接种要求是什么?
- 我在入境前接种了。
Workplace Health
- 公司组织接种。
- 自愿报名接种。
- 接种假 (Vaccination leave).
- 统计接种人数。
Conversation Starters
"你最近接种流感疫苗了吗? (Have you received the flu vaccine recently?)"
"你觉得接种疫苗对保护社区有帮助吗? (Do you think vaccination helps protect the community?)"
"你们国家的接种率高吗? (Is the vaccination rate in your country high?)"
"接种疫苗后你有什么反应吗? (Did you have any reaction after being vaccinated?)"
"你小时候怕接种吗? (Were you afraid of vaccinations when you were a child?)"
Journal Prompts
描述一次你接种疫苗的经历。 (Describe an experience you had getting vaccinated.)
谈谈你对强制接种政策的看法。 (Talk about your views on mandatory vaccination policies.)
为什么提高全球疫苗接种率很重要? (Why is it important to increase global vaccine vaccination rates?)
如果你是一名医生,你会如何劝说人们接种? (If you were a doctor, how would you persuade people to get vaccinated?)
写一段关于未来疫苗接种技术的想象。 (Write a paragraph imagining future vaccination technology.)
Frequently Asked Questions
10 questionsYes, '接种' can be used for veterinary vaccinations. For example, '给宠物接种狂犬疫苗' (to vaccinate a pet against rabies). It is the standard formal term for both humans and animals in medical contexts.
Yes, '接种' covers all methods of vaccination, including injections, oral drops (like the polio vaccine), or nasal sprays. It refers to the medical purpose of immunization rather than the physical method of delivery.
'接种' is formal and clinical, while '打疫苗' is colloquial. You use '接种' on forms, in news, and when talking to doctors. You use '打疫苗' when chatting with friends or family.
You can say '我已经完成了全程接种' (Wǒ yǐjīng wánchéngle quánchéng jiēzhòng). This is the most formal and accurate way to express that you've received all required doses.
Not always. It can be used as an intransitive verb in contexts where the vaccine is understood, like '他已经接种了.' However, it often takes '疫苗' or a specific vaccine name as an object.
While the term '人痘接种' refers to a historical practice that predates modern Western medicine, '接种' today is primarily associated with modern immunology and Western-style vaccines.
Yes, it frequently acts as a noun in compound phrases like '疫苗接种' (vaccine vaccination) or '接种率' (vaccination rate). It functions similarly to 'vaccination' in English.
It refers to 'vaccination contraindications'—medical conditions or factors (like severe allergies) that make it unsafe for a person to receive a particular vaccine.
Yes, when '种' means 'to plant' or 'to inoculate' as a verb, it is always the 4th tone (zhòng). The 3rd tone (zhǒng) is for the noun meaning 'kind' or 'species'.
In modern China, most vaccination records are digitized and can be found in health apps like 'Alipay' or 'WeChat' under the '健康码' (Health Code) or '防疫健康信息' sections.
Test Yourself 200 questions
Write a sentence using '接种' and '医生'.
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Write a sentence using '接种' and '流感'.
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Explain why '接种' is important in one sentence.
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Write a formal request to a hospital to schedule a vaccination.
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Describe the difference between '接种' and '打针' in Chinese.
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Write a short paragraph about vaccination rates in your city.
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Translate: 'Please bring your vaccination certificate to the school.'
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Translate: 'The government is promoting the vaccination plan.'
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Write a sentence using '接种' as a noun.
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Write a sentence about a '接种反应' you once had.
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Translate: 'Who is eligible for vaccination?'
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Write a slogan for a vaccination campaign.
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Translate: 'I have completed two doses of vaccination.'
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Describe a '接种点' near your home.
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Write a sentence using '接种' and '免费'.
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Translate: 'Vaccination is an effective way to prevent the flu.'
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Write a sentence about '接种禁忌'.
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Translate: 'Many people have already been vaccinated.'
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Write a sentence using '接种' and '保护'.
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Translate: 'The observation period after vaccination is 30 minutes.'
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Pronounce '接种' out loud.
Read this aloud:
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Say: 'I want to get vaccinated.' in Chinese.
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Say: 'Where is the vaccination site?' in Chinese.
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Say: 'I have already been vaccinated.' in Chinese.
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Explain to a nurse that you are allergic to eggs before '接种'.
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Say: 'Does it hurt to get vaccinated?' in Chinese.
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Say: 'Please show your vaccination record.' in Chinese.
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Say: 'I need a booster shot.' in Chinese.
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Explain the importance of the '观察期' to a friend.
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Say: 'The vaccination rate is very high.' in Chinese.
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Say: 'Is this vaccine free?' in Chinese.
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Say: 'I lost my vaccination certificate.' in Chinese.
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Say: 'I feel a bit tired after vaccination.' in Chinese.
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Ask a doctor: 'Are there any contraindications?' in Chinese.
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Say: 'Everyone should get vaccinated.' in Chinese.
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Say: 'I have completed the full course of vaccination.' in Chinese.
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Say: 'When is the next dose?' in Chinese.
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Say: 'Is the vaccination site open today?' in Chinese.
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Say: 'I am here for the flu vaccine.' in Chinese.
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Say: 'Vaccination protects the elderly.' in Chinese.
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Listen and identify the word: '接种'.
Listen to the sentence: '请大家积极接种。' What is the speaker asking for?
Listen: '接种点在三楼。' Where is the vaccination site?
Listen: '我已经接种过两剂了。' How many doses has the speaker had?
Listen: '接种率达到了百分之八十。' What is the rate mentioned?
Listen: '接种前请核对信息。' What should you do before vaccination?
Listen: '明天下午有接种预约。' When is the appointment?
Listen: '这种疫苗安全性很高。' What is said about the vaccine?
Listen: '请携带身份证前往接种。' What must you bring?
Listen: '接种工作正在有序推进。' Is the work progressing?
Listen: '加强针的接种非常重要。' What is important?
Listen: '接种后要注意休息。' What should you do after?
Listen: '这里可以接种流感疫苗。' What vaccine is available here?
Listen: '补种工作将于下周开始。' When does catch-up vaccination start?
Listen: '医生正在为他进行接种。' What is the doctor doing?
/ 200 correct
Perfect score!
Summary
The word 接种 (jiēzhòng) is your go-to term for anything related to vaccination in a professional or formal context in Chinese. Whether you are filling out medical forms or reading the news, this word signifies the scientific act of preventing disease through immunization. Example: 我接种了加强针 (I received the booster shot).
- 接种 (jiēzhòng) is the formal Chinese verb for 'to vaccinate' or 'to inoculate,' used in medical and official settings.
- It combines '接' (receive) and '种' (plant), metaphorically planting a seed of immunity in the human body.
- Commonly paired with '疫苗' (vaccine), it forms phrases like '接种疫苗' or '接种率' (vaccination rate).
- While '打针' is colloquial for any shot, '接种' specifically refers to the preventative medical process of immunization.
Use in Forms
When filling out medical history forms in Chinese, look for the word '接种' to indicate where you should list your vaccines. It is the official term used by all healthcare providers.
Tone Accuracy
Be very careful with the 4th tone on 'zhòng'. If you say it in the 3rd tone, it might be confused with 'this kind' (zhè zhǒng). Practice a sharp, downward 'zhòng' sound.
Pairing with 疫苗
The most natural way to use the word is in the phrase '接种疫苗'. Even if the context is clear, adding '疫苗' makes your Chinese sound more complete and native-like.
Sound Professional
If you are in a professional environment, such as a business meeting about health insurance or a scientific conference, always use '接种' instead of '打针' to maintain a high register.
Example
所有的孩子都应该按时接种疫苗。
Related Content
This Word in Other Languages
More health words
一粒
A2One pill; a grain (for small, round objects like pills).
一片
A2One tablet; a slice (for flat objects like pills).
不正常
A2abnormal
以上
A2Above, over (a number)
酸痛
A2Sore; aching (especially muscles).
倒是
A2On the contrary; actually.
针灸
A2Acupuncture; traditional Chinese therapy.
扎针
A2to give an injection
急性
B1acute (illness)
急性病
B1Acute disease.