Definition
需 (xū) is a formal, written verb meaning 'to need, to require', often used in fixed expressions or with a following verb. It is more concise and literary than 需要 (xūyào, HSK3), which is the everyday spoken word for 'need'. 需 is not used alone in casual conversation; 需要 or 要 (yào, HSK1) are preferred there.
verb
to needto require
Easily confused
- 雷léilook-alikethunder
- 许xǔsound-aliketo allow, to permit
- 耍shuǎlook-aliketo play with; to wield (a weapon, object)
- 须xūsound-alikemust, have to (formal, literary)
- 虚xūsound-alike(adjective) empty; void; unoccupied
- 续xùsound-aliketo continue (a contract, subscription, or membership)
- 序xùsound-alike(bound form) order; sequence
Examples
- ？Nǐ xūyào dài hùzhào ma?Do you need to bring your passport?
- 。Zhège gōngzuò xūyào gèng duō shíjiān.This job needs more time.
- 。Tā xūyào xiūxi yíxià.He needs to rest a bit.
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