At the A1 level, you only need to know that '气温' (qìwēn) means the temperature of the air outside. You will mostly see it in very simple sentences paired with numbers. For example, '今天气温二十度' (Today's temperature is 20 degrees). At this stage, don't worry about complex grammar. Just remember that when you see '气' (air) and '温' (warmth) together, someone is talking about how hot or cold it is today. You might hear this word on a basic weather app or from a teacher explaining the day's plan. It is a useful word to recognize so you know what to wear. Focus on the relationship between '气温' and the number of degrees (度 - dù). If the number is high (like 35), the '气温' is '热' (hot). If the number is low (like 5), the '气温' is '冷' (cold). This is the foundation for all weather-related talk in Chinese.
At the A2 level, you should start using '气温' (qìwēn) more actively in your own sentences. You should understand that it is a noun and can be the subject of a sentence. You will learn to pair it with adjectives like '高' (gāo - high) and '低' (dī - low). Instead of just saying 'It's hot,' you can say '今天的气温很高' (Today's air temperature is very high). You should also learn the terms '最高气温' (highest temperature) and '最低气温' (lowest temperature), as these are very common in daily life. At this level, you are expected to understand simple weather forecasts. For instance, if a friend says '明天气温会下降' (Tomorrow the temperature will drop), you should know to bring a jacket. You are moving from just recognizing the word to using it to make plans and describe the environment with more accuracy.
At the B1 level, you should be comfortable using '气温' (qìwēn) in more complex sentence structures, such as comparisons and cause-effect relationships. You will encounter the word in news reports and longer articles about travel or geography. You should be able to discuss '气温变化' (temperature changes) and how they affect people's lives. For example, '气温的变化影响了农作物的生长' (Changes in air temperature have affected the growth of crops). You will also start to see '气温' in more formal contexts, such as '平均气温' (average temperature). At this stage, you should be careful not to confuse it with '温度' (general temperature) or '体温' (body temperature). Your ability to use the correct specific term shows that you are moving into intermediate territory. You might also use it in the context of indoor environments, like setting the '室内气温' (indoor air temperature) with an air conditioner.
At the B2 level, '气温' (qìwēn) appears in more abstract and technical discussions. You will use it to discuss '全球变暖' (global warming) and '气候变化' (climate change). You should be able to describe trends, such as '气温持续升高' (temperatures continue to rise) or '气温骤降' (a sudden drop in temperature). You will also encounter idiomatic-like four-character phrases or formal collocations like '昼夜温差' (temperature difference between day and night). At this level, you should be able to write an essay or give a presentation about the environment using '气温' correctly and naturally. You understand the scientific implications of air temperature and can discuss its impact on ecosystems, energy consumption, and urban planning. Your vocabulary around this word should include related terms like '零下' (below zero), '摄氏度' (Celsius), and '恒温' (constant temperature).
At the C1 level, your use of '气温' (qìwēn) should be indistinguishable from a native speaker's. You will encounter the word in academic papers, high-level journalism, and literature. You should understand the nuance of how '气温' interacts with other meteorological variables like '湿度' (humidity) and '气压' (air pressure). In a literary context, you might see '气温' used metaphorically or to create a specific atmosphere in a narrative. You are expected to understand complex discussions about '历史平均气温' (historical average temperatures) and '气温异常' (temperature anomalies). Your ability to parse and use the word in high-stakes environments—such as a business meeting about agricultural futures or a scientific conference—is essential. You should also be aware of regional variations in how weather is discussed across the Chinese-speaking world.
At the C2 level, you have a complete mastery of '气温' (qìwēn) and all its technical and stylistic nuances. You can discuss the intricacies of '气温垂直递减率' (lapse rate) or the '城市热岛效应' (urban heat island effect) where '气温' is a central variable. You can read and analyze complex data sets involving '气温' and provide expert commentary in Mandarin. You understand the historical evolution of the term and its place within the broader framework of Chinese scientific terminology. Whether you are reading a classical-style poem that references the 'chilly air' or a modern white paper on carbon neutrality, you grasp every layer of meaning. At this level, the word is not just a vocabulary item but a tool for precise, professional, and sophisticated communication in any field of human endeavor.

气温 em 30 segundos

  • 气温 (qìwēn) refers specifically to air temperature, primarily used in weather contexts and measured in degrees Celsius.
  • It is a compound of 'air' (气) and 'warmth' (温), distinguishing it from general 'temperature' (温度) or 'body temperature' (体温).
  • Commonly paired with adjectives like 'high' (高) and 'low' (低), and verbs like 'rise' (升高) and 'fall' (下降).
  • Essential for daily weather talk, reading forecasts, and discussing climate change or seasonal variations in Chinese.

The Chinese word 气温 (qìwēn) is a compound noun that specifically refers to atmospheric or air temperature. In the vast landscape of Mandarin vocabulary, understanding the distinction between general 'temperature' and 'air temperature' is crucial for achieving natural fluency. The character 气 (qì) represents air, gas, or spirit, while 温 (wēn) signifies warmth or temperature. Combined, they form a term used primarily in the context of weather, meteorology, and climate discussions. Unlike the broader term 温度 (wèndù), which can apply to water, a frying pan, or a scientific experiment, 气温 is your go-to word when discussing how hot or cold it feels outside.

Meteorological Context
Used in weather reports to indicate daily highs and lows. For example, '今天的最高气温是三十度' (Today's highest air temperature is thirty degrees).
Daily Conversation
Commonly used when planning outdoor activities or discussing seasonal changes. '气温下降了,多穿点衣服' (The temperature has dropped, put on more clothes).

随着全球变暖,全球平均气温正在逐渐上升。(With global warming, the global average temperature is gradually rising.)

When you are in China, you will hear this word constantly on the news, in elevators while checking the weather app, and in small talk with neighbors. It is a foundational A2-level word because weather is a universal topic of conversation. Mastering 气温 allows you to move beyond simple adjectives like 'hot' (热) or 'cold' (冷) and describe the environment with more precision. It is also essential for reading signs in public places, such as digital thermometers at train stations or parks. In professional settings, specifically those related to agriculture, logistics, or environmental science, 气温 is an indispensable technical term.

明天的气温会比今天低五度。(Tomorrow's temperature will be five degrees lower than today's.)

Seasonal Variation
Discussing how air temperature fluctuates between summer and winter using '气温差' (temperature difference).

Furthermore, the word is often paired with verbs like 升高 (shēnggāo - to rise) and 下降 (xiàjiàng - to drop). In the context of climate change, you will often encounter the phrase 平均气温 (píngjūn qìwēn - average temperature). Understanding this word is not just about vocabulary; it's about understanding how Chinese speakers conceptualize the atmosphere as a distinct 'gas' environment that possesses its own thermal properties. By using 气温 instead of the more generic 温度 when talking about the weather, you demonstrate a higher level of linguistic accuracy and cultural awareness.

Using 气温 (qìwēn) correctly involves pairing it with specific verbs and adjectives that describe state or change. In Chinese grammar, '气温' usually functions as the subject of a sentence. Unlike English, where we often say 'It is 30 degrees,' Chinese speakers frequently say 'The air temperature is 30 degrees' (气温是三十度). This structural difference is a common point of confusion for beginners, but once mastered, it makes your speech sound much more authentic.

这里的夏季平均气温在二十五度左右。(The average summer temperature here is around twenty-five degrees.)

Verb Pairings
Common verbs include: 升高 (rise), 下降 (fall), 维持 (maintain), 波动 (fluctuate). Example: '气温维持在零度以上' (The temperature stays above zero).

When describing the intensity of the temperature, adjectives like 高 (gāo - high) and 低 (dī - low) are used rather than 'hot' or 'cold' directly modifying the word '气温'. For instance, you would say '气温很高' (The air temperature is very high) rather than '气温很热'. This is a subtle but important distinction. If you want to say the weather is hot, use '天气很热'; if you are referring to the numerical value or the state of the air, use '气温很高'.

由于寒潮的影响,明天的气温将大幅度下降。(Due to the cold wave, tomorrow's temperature will drop significantly.)

In more advanced usage, 气温 can be modified by adverbs like 骤然 (zhòurán - suddenly) or 持续 (chíxù - continuously). For example, '气温持续走高' means the temperature continues to rise or stay high. This is common in financial or environmental news reports. Another common pattern is '昼夜气温差' (diurnal temperature variation), which is used to describe places like deserts or high-altitude regions where the temperature changes drastically between day and night.

Comparative Structures
Using '比' to compare temperatures: '北京的气温比上海低' (Beijing's temperature is lower than Shanghai's).

Finally, remember that in China, the Celsius scale is used exclusively. So when you hear '气温是三十度', it means 30°C (86°F), which is quite hot! Always keep this cultural and scientific context in mind when using the word in conversation or while interpreting weather forecasts in Chinese-speaking regions.

The most common place to encounter 气温 (qìwēn) is in daily media. Every evening, millions of people in China watch the '天气预报' (Weather Forecast) on CCTV or check their smartphones. In these contexts, the word is used formally to provide data. You will hear phrases like '最高气温' (maximum temperature) and '最低气温' (minimum temperature) repeatedly. This formal usage sets the standard for how the word is used in educational and scientific settings as well.

本周气温波动较大,请市民注意预防感冒。(Temperatures will fluctuate greatly this week; citizens please take care to prevent colds.)

In schools, students learn about geography and climate using 气温. Textbooks discuss '等温线' (isotherms) and '气温带' (temperature zones). If you are listening to a lecture on environmental science or sustainability in Mandarin, the word will appear in discussions about '全球平均气温升高' (global average temperature rise). It is a key term for any academic discussion involving the Earth's atmosphere.

Beyond formal news and education, you will hear it in the workplace. For instance, in construction, agriculture, or logistics, the outdoor temperature determines work schedules and safety protocols. A manager might say, '今天气温太高,中午停止户外作业' (The temperature is too high today; stop outdoor work at noon). This practical application shows that the word is not just for scientists but for anyone whose life is affected by the environment.

室内气温应该保持在二十六度左右比较舒适。(The indoor temperature should be kept around 26 degrees for comfort.)

In literature and creative writing, 气温 might be used to set a mood or describe a setting. While '天气' (weather) is more common for general descriptions, '气温' adds a touch of precision or a slightly more formal, descriptive tone. For example, a novelist might write about the 'cold air temperature' to emphasize the harshness of a winter scene. Even in casual social media posts, people might share a screenshot of their weather app with the caption '这气温,真是绝了!' (This temperature is just incredible!), usually referring to extreme heat or cold.

One of the most frequent errors English speakers make is confusing 气温 (qìwēn) with 温度 (wèndù). While they both translate to 'temperature,' they are not interchangeable in all contexts. 温度 is the general, scientific term for the degree of heat or cold of any object. 气温 is specifically for the air. If you say '水的气温' (the air temperature of the water), it sounds nonsensical. You must say '水的温度' (the temperature of the water).

错误:我的气温是三十八度。(Wrong: My air temperature is 38 degrees.)
正确:我的体温是三十八度。(Correct: My body temperature is 38 degrees.)

Another common mistake is using the wrong adjectives. As mentioned before, learners often try to say '气温很热' (The air temperature is very hot). In Chinese, a temperature value itself isn't 'hot'; it is 'high' (高 - gāo) or 'low' (低 - dī). The weather is hot, but the temperature is high. This logic applies to many Chinese nouns—you describe the attribute (temperature) with scale adjectives (high/low), not the sensation (hot/cold).

Learners also struggle with the placement of the word in a sentence. In English, we use a dummy 'it' as the subject: 'It is 20 degrees today.' In Chinese, there is no dummy 'it'. You must provide a real subject. You can say '今天二十度' (Today is 20 degrees) or '今天的气温是二十度' (Today's temperature is 20 degrees). Attempting to translate 'It is...' literally into '它是...' is a major grammatical error in this context.

错误:它是二十度。(Wrong: It is twenty degrees.)
正确:气温是二十度。(Correct: The temperature is twenty degrees.)

Finally, be careful with the distinction between 气温 and 气候 (qìhòu - climate). Climate refers to long-term patterns, while 气温 refers to the specific state of the air at a given time. If you say '这个地方的气温很好' (The temperature here is very good), you are talking about the current moment. If you mean the general weather pattern is pleasant, you should use '气候' or '天气'.

To truly master 气温 (qìwēn), you must see how it fits into a family of related words. The most immediate relative is 温度 (wèndù). Think of 温度 as the parent category. It covers everything: the temperature of a star, a cup of coffee, or a chemical reaction. 气温 is a specific sub-category used only for the atmosphere. In casual daily speech, people might shorten '气温' to just '温' in compounds, but '温度' is the most common synonym you'll hear when the context isn't strictly meteorological.

气温 vs. 温度
Use 气温 for weather reports. Use 温度 for objects, liquids, and general science. You can ask '现在的温度是多少?' (What is the current temperature?) and it's fine, but '现在的气温是多少?' is more precise for weather.
气温 vs. 体温
体温 (tǐwēn) is strictly for body temperature. Never mix these up, or you might tell a doctor that the weather has a fever!

Another word to consider is 天气 (tiānqì). This is the broadest term, meaning 'weather'. It includes temperature, rain, wind, and cloud cover. If you want to say 'The weather is nice,' you use 天气. If you want to say 'The temperature is high,' you use 气温. Often, learners use 天气 when they really want to discuss the specific heat level, which is where 气温 comes in handy for precision.

虽然天气晴朗,但气温依然很低。(Although the weather is sunny, the temperature is still very low.)

In more formal or scientific writing, you might encounter 暖气 (nuǎnqì) or 冷气 (lěngqì). While these contain the character for air/gas, they refer to heating and air conditioning systems, respectively. Don't confuse the 'air' in 'air temperature' with the 'air' in 'air conditioner'. Lastly, 气候 (qìhòu) refers to the long-term 'climate'. If you are moving to a new city, you might ask about its 气候 (climate) rather than its 气温 (current temperature).

By understanding these nuances, you avoid the robotic feel of direct translation and start thinking in the categories that native Chinese speakers use. This not only improves your speaking but also your ability to parse complex sentences in reading and listening exercises.

How Formal Is It?

Curiosidade

The character '温' is also used in the name of the famous Chinese prime minister Wen Jiabao, though there it implies a mild or warm personality.

Guia de pronúncia

UK /tʃʰi˥˩ wən˥/
US /tʃʰi˥˩ wən˥/
In Mandarin, stress is usually evenly distributed, but the falling tone of 'qì' makes it sound more forceful than 'wēn'.
Rima com
近 (jìn) 新 (xīn) 心 (xīn) 因 (yīn) 金 (jīn) 林 (lín) 民 (mín) 信 (xìn)
Erros comuns
  • Pronouncing 'q' like an English 'k' instead of a 'ch' sound.
  • Getting the tones wrong, making it sound like 'qíwén' (which means something else entirely).
  • Merging the two sounds into one syllable.
  • Pronouncing 'wen' like the English word 'when' with a heavy 'h' sound.
  • Failing to aspirate the 'q' sound correctly.

Nível de dificuldade

Leitura 2/5

The characters are relatively simple and common in daily reading materials.

Escrita 3/5

Writing '气' is easy, but '温' has more strokes and requires practice.

Expressão oral 2/5

The tones are distinct, making it easy to pronounce clearly once learned.

Audição 2/5

Frequently heard in weather reports, providing lots of listening practice.

O que aprender depois

Pré-requisitos

天 (tiān) 气 (qì) 温 (wēn) 度 (dù) 热 (rè)

Aprenda a seguir

湿度 (shīdù) 气压 (qìyā) 降水 (jiàngshuǐ) 气候 (qìhòu) 环境 (huánjìng)

Avançado

对流层 (duìliúcéng) 温室效应 (wēnshì xiàoyìng) 逆温层 (nìwēncéng) 等温线 (děngwēnxiàn) 热量 (rèliàng)

Gramática essencial

Subject + Number + Degree (度)

今天气温三十度。

Using '比' for comparisons

北京的气温比上海低。

Adjective '高/低' with '气温'

气温很高。

Change of state with '了'

气温下降了。

Range with '在...到...之间'

气温在五到十度之间。

Exemplos por nível

1

今天气温二十度。

Today's air temperature is twenty degrees.

Subject (今天气温) + Number (二十度). No 'is' needed in casual speech.

2

气温很高。

The air temperature is very high.

Use '高' (high) for temperature, not '热' (hot).

3

明天的气温是多少?

What is tomorrow's air temperature?

Using '是多少' to ask for a numerical value.

4

气温很低,多穿衣服。

The temperature is very low, wear more clothes.

Use '低' (low) for cold temperatures.

5

现在的气温是十度。

The current air temperature is ten degrees.

Standard 'A is B' structure.

6

这里的气温不热。

The temperature here is not hot.

Negating the feeling associated with the temperature.

7

气温一度。

The temperature is one degree.

Simple measurement statement.

8

北京的气温很冷。

Beijing's temperature is very cold.

Using '冷' to describe the sensation of the temperature.

1

最高气温是三十五度。

The maximum temperature is thirty-five degrees.

最高 (zuìgāo) means highest/maximum.

2

最低气温只有五度。

The minimum temperature is only five degrees.

最低 (zuìdī) means lowest/minimum.

3

晚上的气温会下降。

The temperature will drop at night.

下降 (xiàjiàng) is the standard verb for 'to drop'.

4

白天的气温比较高。

The daytime temperature is relatively high.

比较 (bǐjiào) means relatively/comparatively.

5

气温开始升高了。

The temperature has started to rise.

升高 (shēnggāo) is the standard verb for 'to rise'.

6

这里夏天的气温很舒服。

The summer temperature here is very comfortable.

舒服 (shūfu) means comfortable.

7

由于下雨,气温变凉了。

Due to the rain, the temperature has become cool.

由于 (yóuyú) means 'due to' or 'because of'.

8

请告诉我明天的气温。

Please tell me tomorrow's temperature.

Imperative sentence structure.

1

气温的变化会影响人的心情。

Changes in air temperature can affect people's moods.

变化 (biànhuà) as a noun meaning 'change'.

2

平均气温每年都在上升。

The average temperature is rising every year.

平均 (píngjūn) means average.

3

这个城市的昼夜气温差很大。

The temperature difference between day and night in this city is very large.

昼夜 (zhòuyè) means day and night.

4

室内气温最好保持在二十六度。

It is best to keep the indoor temperature at twenty-six degrees.

保持 (bǎochí) means to maintain/keep.

5

气温骤降导致很多人感冒了。

The sudden drop in temperature caused many people to catch a cold.

骤降 (zhòujiàng) means to drop suddenly.

6

随着气温回升,花都开了。

As the temperature rose back up, the flowers bloomed.

回升 (huíshēng) means to rise again/recover.

7

如果不注意气温,很容易生病。

If you don't pay attention to the temperature, it's easy to get sick.

如果...就... (if... then...) structure.

8

气温太低,湖水结冰了。

The temperature is too low; the lake water has frozen.

结冰 (jiébīng) means to freeze.

1

全球平均气温的升高是气候变化的重要标志。

The rise in global average temperature is an important sign of climate change.

标志 (biāozhì) means sign/symbol/indicator.

2

异常的气温波动对农业生产造成了严重威胁。

Abnormal temperature fluctuations have posed a serious threat to agricultural production.

异常 (yìcháng) means abnormal.

3

为了节能,公共场所的气温设定有严格规定。

To save energy, there are strict regulations on temperature settings in public places.

为了 (wèile) indicates purpose.

4

气温持续走低,供暖系统已经全面启动。

The temperature continues to drop, and the heating system has been fully activated.

持续走低 (chíxù zǒudī) means to continue a downward trend.

5

专家预测,未来几天的气温将趋于平稳。

Experts predict that the temperature in the coming days will tend to stabilize.

趋于平稳 (qūyú píngwěn) means to tend toward stability.

6

高山上的气温随高度增加而降低。

The temperature on high mountains decreases as altitude increases.

随...而... (along with... then...) structure.

7

由于受到暖湿气流的影响,气温有所回升。

Due to the influence of warm and humid air currents, the temperature has risen somewhat.

有所 (yǒusuǒ) means 'to some extent'.

8

该地区历史上的极端气温曾达到五十度。

The extreme temperature in this region historically reached fifty degrees.

极端 (jíduān) means extreme.

1

气温的垂直递减率是气象学研究中的一个核心参数。

The vertical lapse rate of air temperature is a core parameter in meteorological research.

垂直递减率 (chuízhí dìjiǎnlǜ) is a technical term for lapse rate.

2

城市热岛效应导致市区气温明显高于郊区。

The urban heat island effect causes city temperatures to be significantly higher than in the suburbs.

热岛效应 (rèdǎo xiàoyìng) means heat island effect.

3

尽管气温严酷,这些生物依然在极地顽强生存。

Despite the harsh temperatures, these organisms still survive tenaciously in the polar regions.

严酷 (yánkù) means harsh/severe.

4

气温的微小偏差可能预示着更大规模的气候波动。

A small deviation in air temperature may portend larger-scale climate fluctuations.

偏差 (piānchā) means deviation/bias.

5

该报告详细分析了过去一个世纪以来全球气温的演变趋势。

The report provides a detailed analysis of the evolution of global temperatures over the past century.

演变 (yǎnbiàn) means evolution/development.

6

在某些极端环境下,气温的测量精度至关重要。

In certain extreme environments, the measurement precision of air temperature is crucial.

至关重要 (zhìguān zhòngyào) means vital/crucial.

7

温室气体的排放是导致全球气温异常升高的主因。

Greenhouse gas emissions are the primary cause of the abnormal rise in global temperatures.

主因 (zhǔyīn) means main cause.

8

气温的季节性更迭构成了大自然周而复始的律动。

The seasonal change of air temperature constitutes the recurring rhythm of nature.

周而复始 (zhōu ér fù shǐ) is an idiom meaning 'to go round and round'.

1

大气环流的改变对区域性气温分布具有深远的影响。

Changes in atmospheric circulation have a profound impact on regional temperature distribution.

大气环流 (dàqì huánliú) means atmospheric circulation.

2

通过对古气候资料的研究,我们可以推断出数千年前的气温状况。

By studying paleoclimate data, we can infer the temperature conditions of thousands of years ago.

推断 (tuīduàn) means to infer/deduce.

3

气温的非线性变化增加了气候模型预测的复杂性。

The non-linear changes in air temperature increase the complexity of climate model predictions.

非线性 (fēixiànxìng) means non-linear.

4

深层海水与大气之间的热交换对全球气温起到了调节作用。

The heat exchange between deep ocean water and the atmosphere plays a regulatory role in global temperatures.

调节 (tiáojié) means to regulate/adjust.

5

在探讨碳中和路径时,控制全球气温升幅是核心目标。

When discussing the path to carbon neutrality, controlling the rise in global temperature is the core objective.

升幅 (shēngfú) means the extent of a rise.

6

气温的剧烈波动往往伴随着极端天气事件的频发。

Violent fluctuations in air temperature are often accompanied by the frequent occurrence of extreme weather events.

伴随 (bànsuí) means to accompany.

7

该论文论证了气温升高与生物多样性丧失之间的耦合关系。

The paper demonstrates the coupling relationship between temperature rise and biodiversity loss.

耦合 (ǒuhé) means coupling (in a scientific sense).

8

气温对于生态系统生产力的阈值效应不容忽视。

The threshold effect of air temperature on ecosystem productivity cannot be ignored.

阈值 (yùzhí) means threshold.

Colocações comuns

最高气温
最低气温
平均气温
气温升高
气温下降
气温波动
室内气温
全球气温
气温骤降
适宜气温

Frases Comuns

气温回升

— The temperature is rising back up after a cold spell.

春天到了,气温开始回升。

气温走低

— The temperature is trending downwards.

未来一周气温将持续走低。

零下气温

— Temperatures below zero degrees Celsius.

北方冬天的零下气温很常见。

极端气温

— Extreme temperatures (very hot or very cold).

我们要做好应对极端气温的准备。

昼夜温差

— The difference in temperature between day and night.

这里的昼夜温差特别大。

气温适中

— The temperature is moderate or pleasant.

今天气温适中,很适合郊游。

气温过高

— The temperature is too high.

气温过高时要防止中暑。

气温记录

— A record of the temperature.

这次的热浪打破了历史气温记录。

气温敏感

— Sensitive to temperature changes.

这种电子设备对气温非常敏感。

恒定气温

— A constant or stable air temperature.

实验室内需要保持恒定气温。

Frequentemente confundido com

气温 vs 温度

温度 is general; 气温 is specifically for air.

气温 vs 体温

体温 is for bodies; 气温 is for the atmosphere.

气温 vs 天气

天气 is the overall weather; 气温 is just the temperature part.

Expressões idiomáticas

"春暖花开"

— Spring is warm and flowers are blooming; used to describe pleasant spring weather.

等到春暖花开,我们再去旅游。

Literary/Common
"寒风刺骨"

— The cold wind pierces the bones; implies extremely low air temperature.

冬天的北方,寒风刺骨。

Descriptive
"烈日当空"

— The scorching sun is high in the sky; implies very high air temperature.

烈日当空,工人们依然在劳作。

Descriptive
"天寒地冻"

— The sky is cold and the ground is frozen; describes severe winter temperatures.

在天寒地冻的日子里,大家都不想出门。

Common
"秋高气爽"

— The autumn sky is high and the air is fresh/cool; describes perfect autumn temperatures.

北京的秋天秋高气爽,非常宜人。

Common
"骄阳似火"

— The sun is like fire; describes extreme summer heat.

骄阳似火的七月,气温达到了四十度。

Literary
"冰天雪地"

— A world of ice and snow; describes environments with very low temperatures.

他在冰天雪地里走了三个小时。

Common
"冬暖夏凉"

— Warm in winter and cool in summer; describes ideal living temperatures.

这间屋子冬暖夏凉,住着很舒服。

Common
"冷暖自知"

— One knows for oneself whether the water is warm or cold; metaphor for personal experience.

生活中的酸甜苦辣,冷暖自知。

Philosophical
"风和日丽"

— Gentle breeze and beautiful sun; describes pleasant weather and temperature.

在一个风和日丽的下午,我们出发了。

Common

Fácil de confundir

气温 vs 气候

Both relate to the environment and start with '气'.

气候 is the long-term climate pattern (years), while 气温 is the immediate air temperature (minutes/hours).

这里的气候很干燥,今天的气温很高。

气温 vs 暖气

Contains '气' and relates to 'warmth'.

暖气 refers to the heating system/radiator in a building, not the natural air temperature.

外面的气温很低,所以我们要开暖气。

气温 vs 气压

Both are meteorological terms starting with '气'.

气压 is air pressure, while 气温 is air temperature.

气温升高通常伴随着气压的变化。

气温 vs 温差

Both relate to temperature levels.

温差 is the difference between two temperatures, while 气温 is the temperature itself.

这里的气温波动大,导致温差很大。

气温 vs 水温

Both use the character '温'.

水温 is for water; 气温 is for air.

虽然气温很高,但湖里的水温还是很凉。

Padrões de frases

A1

今天气温 [Number] 度。

今天气温二十度。

A2

[最高/最低] 气温是 [Number] 度。

最高气温是三十度。

B1

由于 [Reason],气温 [升高/下降] 了。

由于下雨,气温下降了。

B1

气温在 [Number] 到 [Number] 度之间。

气温在十到十五度之间。

B2

气温的变化对 [Something] 有很大影响。

气温的变化对植物有很大影响。

C1

[Phenomenon] 导致了气温的异常波动。

厄尔尼诺现象导致了气温的异常波动。

C1

气温随 [Variable] 的增加而 [升高/降低]。

气温随海拔的增加而降低。

C2

在探讨 [Topic] 时,气温是一个不可或缺的参数。

在探讨生态平衡时,气温是一个不可或缺的参数。

Família de palavras

Substantivos

温度 (wèndù - temperature)
气候 (qìhòu - climate)
天气 (tiānqì - weather)
气流 (qìliú - air current)

Verbos

温和 (wēnhé - to be mild/temperate)
升温 (shēngwēn - to heat up)
降温 (jiàngwēn - to cool down)

Adjetivos

温暖 (wēnnuǎn - warm)
温热 (wēnrè - lukewarm)
寒冷 (hánlěng - cold)

Relacionado

气象 (qìxiàng - meteorology)
摄氏 (shèshì - Celsius)
华氏 (huáshì - Fahrenheit)
零下 (língxià - below zero)
度 (dù - degree)

Como usar

frequency

Extremely high in daily life, news, and science.

Erros comuns
  • Using '气温' for body temperature. 体温 (tǐwēn)

    气温 is only for the atmosphere. Using it for a person implies they are made of air.

  • Saying '气温很热'. 气温很高 (qìwēn hěn gāo)

    Temperature is a numerical value; values are high or low, not hot or cold.

  • Saying '它是二十度'. 气温是二十度 (qìwēn shì èrshí dù)

    Chinese doesn't use 'it' as a dummy subject for weather. You must name the subject (气温 or 今天).

  • Confusing '气温' with '气候'. 气温 (temperature) vs 气候 (climate)

    If you want to talk about how hot it is *today*, use 气温. If you want to talk about how hot a city is *generally*, use 气候.

  • Using '气温' for water or food. 温度 (wèndù)

    Water and food are not 'air' (气). Use the general term '温度'.

Dicas

Adjective Choice

Always pair '气温' with '高' (high) or '低' (low). Avoid saying '气温很热' or '气温很冷' in formal writing, although you might hear it occasionally in very loose casual speech.

Specific vs. General

Use '气温' for the environment and '温度' for objects. This distinction is a hallmark of a more advanced learner. If you're talking about the oven, use '温度'.

Celsius Context

When you hear a '气温' number in China, mentally prepare for Celsius. 25 is perfect, 35 is hot, and 0 is freezing.

Tone Clarity

The 4th tone on 'qì' (气) is very short and sharp. Think of it as a karate chop sound. This helps distinguish it from 'qí' (2nd tone).

Weather Reports

Weather reports are the best way to practice hearing '气温'. They follow a very predictable pattern: 'City Name + 气温 + Number + 度'.

Character Breakdown

The character '温' (wēn) has a 'sun' (日) inside it. This can help you remember it relates to heat and temperature.

Range Pattern

To describe a temperature range, use 'A 到 B 度'. For example: '五到十度' (5 to 10 degrees).

Air Warmth

Literally translate the characters: 气 (Air) + 温 (Warmth) = Air Warmth. This is exactly what air temperature is.

Small Talk

If you don't know what to say to a Chinese neighbor, just mention the '气温'. It's a universally accepted way to start a conversation.

Health Alerts

In China, if the '气温' hits 40°C, schools or outdoor work may be cancelled. Pay attention to this word for your safety!

Memorize

Mnemônico

Imagine '气' (qì) as the 'air' around you and '温' (wēn) as a 'thermometer'. Together, they tell you the temperature of the air.

Associação visual

Visualize a weather map with numbers floating in the air. Those numbers represent the '气温'.

Word Web

天气 下雨 太阳 度数 季节 冬天 夏天 空调

Desafio

Try to use '气温' in three different sentences today: one about the current weather, one about a change, and one about a specific number of degrees.

Origem da palavra

The word is a modern compound. '气' (qì) originally depicted rising steam or breath, evolving to mean air or atmosphere. '温' (wēn) consists of the water radical and a phonetic component, originally meaning lukewarm water.

Significado original: The combination of 'air' and 'warmth' to describe the thermal state of the atmosphere became standard in modern scientific Chinese.

Sino-Tibetan

Contexto cultural

Be aware that discussing record-breaking temperatures often leads to discussions about climate change, which can be a sensitive topic in some academic or political circles.

English speakers often say 'It's 20 degrees,' whereas Chinese speakers are more likely to specify 'The temperature is 20 degrees.'

CCTV Weather Forecast (the most-watched weather program in the world). Climate change white papers issued by the Chinese government. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) theories about how external '气温' affects internal '气' (energy).

Pratique na vida real

Contextos reais

Weather Forecast

  • 最高气温
  • 最低气温
  • 气温趋势
  • 气温分布

Travel Planning

  • 当地气温
  • 平均气温
  • 气温适宜
  • 关注气温

Health and Wellness

  • 注意气温
  • 气温变化
  • 预防感冒
  • 适应气温

Environmental Science

  • 全球气温
  • 气温升高
  • 记录气温
  • 监测气温

Agriculture

  • 适宜气温
  • 极端气温
  • 气温影响
  • 控制气温

Iniciadores de conversa

"你觉得明天的气温会升高吗? (Do you think the temperature will rise tomorrow?)"

"你家乡现在的气温是多少度? (What is the air temperature in your hometown right now?)"

"我不喜欢这种气温,太热了。 (I don't like this temperature; it's too hot.)"

"这种气温最适合去公园散步。 (This temperature is most suitable for a walk in the park.)"

"你出门前会查看气温吗? (Do you check the temperature before going out?)"

Temas para diário

描述一下你最喜欢的季节和那个季节的气温。 (Describe your favorite season and its air temperature.)

如果全球气温继续上升,我们的生活会发生什么变化? (If global temperatures continue to rise, how will our lives change?)

记录今天不同时间段的气温变化。 (Record the temperature changes at different times today.)

写一封信给朋友,告诉他们你旅游目的地的气温。 (Write a letter to a friend telling them about the temperature at your travel destination.)

你更喜欢高气温还是低气温?为什么? (Do you prefer high or low temperatures? Why?)

Perguntas frequentes

10 perguntas

No, for a cup of tea you should use '温度' (wèndù). '气温' is strictly for the air temperature outside or in a room. For example, '茶的温度很高' (The tea's temperature is high).

Technically, it is '气温很高' (The temperature is high). In Chinese, nouns representing a scale (like temperature, price, or height) are described with 'high' or 'low'. If you want to say the weather is hot, say '天气很热'.

No, China uses Celsius (摄氏度) exclusively for '气温'. If you see '30度' in a weather report, it means 30°C (86°F).

天气 (tiānqì) means 'weather' in general, including rain, wind, and clouds. 气温 (qìwēn) is specifically the 'air temperature' part of the weather.

You can ask '今天的气温是多少度?' (What is today's temperature?) or more simply '今天几度?' (How many degrees today?).

No, that would mean 'my air temperature'. To talk about your own body temperature, use '我的体温' (wǒ de tǐwēn).

'零下' (língxià) means 'below zero'. So '气温零下五度' means the temperature is -5°C.

It is a standard term. It is used in news and textbooks, but it is also perfectly normal in everyday conversation. It is slightly more precise than saying '天气热' (the weather is hot).

They mean 'maximum temperature' and 'minimum temperature' respectively. You will see these terms in every weather forecast.

You say '气温下降了' (qìwēn xiàjiàng le) or '气温变低了' (qìwēn biàn dī le).

Teste-se 200 perguntas

writing

Write a sentence: 'Today's temperature is 25 degrees.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Write a sentence: 'The temperature will drop tomorrow.'

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writing

Write a sentence: 'The maximum temperature is 30 degrees.'

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writing

Write a sentence: 'I like comfortable temperatures.'

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writing

Write a sentence: 'Global temperatures are rising.'

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writing

Write a sentence: 'The temperature difference is very large.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

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writing

Write a sentence: 'The temperature is below zero today.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

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writing

Write a sentence using '气温骤降'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

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writing

Write a sentence: 'Please tell me the current temperature.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

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writing

Write a sentence: 'Indoor temperature should be 26 degrees.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

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writing

Write a sentence comparing two cities' temperatures.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

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writing

Write a sentence about seasonal temperature changes.

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writing

Write a sentence about extreme weather.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

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writing

Write a short paragraph (2 sentences) about checking the weather.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

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writing

Describe the temperature in your city today.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

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writing

Use '平均气温' in a sentence.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

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writing

Write a sentence using '气温波动'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

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writing

Translate: 'The temperature on the mountain is low.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Translate: 'What is the highest temperature today?'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Translate: 'Temperature affects people's health.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
speaking

Say: 'The temperature is 20 degrees.'

Read this aloud:

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
speaking

Say: 'Today is very hot.' (using 气温)

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Say: 'The temperature is dropping.'

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Say: 'What is the max temperature?'

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Say: 'The temperature is below zero.'

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Say: 'I like this temperature.'

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Say: 'The temperature difference is large.'

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Say: 'Global temperature is rising.'

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Say: 'The temperature is stable today.'

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Say: 'It's 35 degrees, be careful of heatstroke.'

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Say: 'The temperature will rise tomorrow.'

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Say: 'The average temperature is 25 degrees.'

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Say: 'The sudden drop in temperature made me sick.'

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Say: 'The indoor temperature is comfortable.'

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Say: 'The temperature reached 40 degrees.'

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Say: 'The temperature is low, wear a coat.'

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Say: 'I check the temperature every day.'

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Say: 'The historical high was 42 degrees.'

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Say: 'Summer temperatures are too high.'

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Say: 'Autumn temperatures are cool.'

Read this aloud:

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listening

Listen for '气温' and the number in a weather forecast simulation.

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listening

Listen: '明天的气温会下降五度。' By how many degrees will it drop?

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listening

Listen: '最高气温三十度,最低气温十五度。' What is the range?

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listening

Listen for the word '升高' or '下降' in a sentence.

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listening

Listen: '由于全球变暖,平均气温持续上升。' What is the trend?

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listening

Listen: '室内气温请调节至二十六度。' What is the target temp?

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listening

Listen: '气温骤降,请大家注意保暖。' What is the advice?

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listening

Listen: '这里的昼夜温差超过了二十度。' What is the temp difference?

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listening

Listen: '虽然阳光好,但气温依然很低。' Is it warm?

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listening

Listen: '气温在十到二十度之间。' What is the range?

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listening

Listen for '零下' in a sentence.

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listening

Listen: '极端气温导致农作物受损。' What was damaged?

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listening

Listen: '气温的变化影响了我的计划。' What was affected?

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listening

Listen: '现在的气温正合适。' Is the temperature okay?

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listening

Listen: '气温波动很大,容易生病。' Why is it easy to get sick?

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:

/ 200 correct

Perfect score!

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