noun HSK 3
Traditional 機會
huì
opportunity · chance · occasion

Meaning

机会 refers to a favorable circumstance or moment when something becomes possible. It emphasizes the timing and possibility for action, whether in career, relationships, or any life situation. The word combines 机 (opportunity, moment) and 会 (meeting, gathering), suggesting the meeting of favorable conditions.

Usage

机会 is widely used in both formal and informal contexts. It often appears with verbs like 有 (to have), 抓住 (to seize), 失去 (to lose), or 错过 (to miss). Native speakers frequently use it when discussing career advancement, business opportunities, or life chances. It's neutral in register and appropriate for all situations.

Examples

  1. 01
    这是一个很好的学习机会
    Zhè shì hěn hǎo de xué huì.
    This is a very good learning opportunity.
  2. 02
    如果有机会,我想去中国旅游。
    guǒ yǒu huì, xiǎng Zhōng guó yóu.
    If I have the chance, I'd like to travel to China.

Characters

Measure words

  • 一个机会
  • 一次难得的机会

Common collocations

  • 抓住机会
    zhuā zhù huì
    to seize the opportunity
  • 错过机会
    cuò guò huì
    to miss the opportunity
  • 难得的机会
    nán de huì
    a rare opportunity
  • 机会
    yǒu huì
    to have the chance

Origin

The character 机 originally meant 'crucial point' or 'pivot,' while 会 means 'to meet' or 'gathering.' Together they create the meaning of 'a meeting of favorable conditions' or 'the right moment when things come together.'

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