Understanding "复习" - Chinese Word Explanation

1. Basic Information

• Word: 复习
• Pinyin: fùxí
• Literal Meaning: "Repeat" (复) + "Practice" (习) = "Repeat practice"
• Primary Meaning: To review or revise (especially in an academic context)

2. In-depth Explanation

• Context and Usage:
  复习 is most commonly used in educational settings to describe the process of reviewing previously learned material. It implies systematic repetition to reinforce knowledge, typically before exams or tests. Unlike casual reading, 复习 suggests purposeful study with the goal of retention. It can be used for any subject and at any educational level.

• Character Breakdown:

• 复 (fù): Means "repeat," "return," or "again"
• 习 (xí): Means "practice," "study," or "habit"
  Together, they create the concept of "repeated practice" or "going over learned material."

3. Example Sentences

1. Chinese: 我每天晚上复习两个小时。
   Pinyin: Wǒ měi tiān wǎnshang fùxí liǎng gè xiǎoshí.
   English: I review for two hours every evening.

2. Chinese: 考试前我们需要好好复习。
   Pinyin: Kǎoshì qián wǒmen xūyào hǎohao fùxí.
   English: We need to review properly before the exam.

3. Chinese: 老师建议我们分组复习。
   Pinyin: Lǎoshī jiànyì wǒmen fēn zǔ fùxí.
   English: The teacher suggested we review in groups.

Cultural Notes

In Chinese education culture, 复习 holds significant importance. There's a strong emphasis on systematic review and memorization, especially before the high-pressure gaokao (national college entrance exam). Many students create detailed 复习计划 (review schedules) and schools often dedicate weeks specifically for 复习 before major exams. The concept reflects the Confucian value of "温故而知新" (wēn gù ér zhī xīn) - "Review the old to know the new."

Conclusion

复习 (fùxí) is an essential academic term meaning "to review" or "to revise," combining the ideas of repetition and practice. Remember it as the structured process of going over learned material, particularly before tests. Use it whenever discussing study routines or exam preparation in Chinese.