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学生
xuésheng
student
他是一名大学学生。
He is a university student.
formal
A person who is studying at a school, college, or university.
这位学生非常努力。
This student is very hardworking.
学生们正在上课。
The students are in class.
Commonly used in educational contexts. Can refer to any level of education (primary, secondary, university).
Pro Tip
Distinguish from '学徒'
'学生' refers to anyone studying in an educational institution, while '学徒' (apprentice) specifically refers to someone learning a trade or skill through hands-on experience, often outside formal education.
Gold Rule
Pluralization
Unlike English, Chinese nouns like '学生' do not change form in plural. Context or classifiers (e.g., '个' for people) are used to indicate quantity.
Word Origin
From Chinese 学 (xué, 'to study') + 生 (shēng, 'person' or 'life'), literally 'a person who studies'. The term has been used in Chinese since ancient times to refer to learners.
Usage Notes
In Chinese, '学生' can be used formally or informally. It is neutral and does not carry any negative connotations. Unlike in English, it does not imply a specific age group unless modified (e.g., '小学生' for elementary students).
Word Breakdown
学
to study
root生
person/life
root汉英词典