照顾

zhào gu

to take care of

HSK 3

Character Breakdown

Usage of 照顾

The verb 照顾 (zhào gu) primarily means "to take care of" or "to look after" someone or something. It is commonly used in contexts involving caregiving, such as looking after children, the elderly, or someone who is ill.

Common Collocations

  • 照顾孩子 (take care of children): very common in family or childcare contexts.
  • 照顾 (take care of a patient): used in medical or home care situations.
  • 照顾 (take care of the elderly): often used in social or family contexts.

Notes on Usage

When using 照顾, the focus is on providing attention and care, often implying responsibility and concern. It can be used both formally and informally. Unlike some synonyms that might emphasize physical care only, 照顾 can also imply emotional support.

Common Confusion

Do not confuse 照顾 with 关心 (guānxīn), which means "to care about" or "to be concerned about" but does not necessarily imply active caregiving. 照顾 involves direct action or responsibility.

Example Sentences

请你帮我照顾一下孩子。

Qǐng nǐ bāng wǒ zhàogù yíxià háizi.

Please help me take care of the child for a while.

他生病了,需要有人照顾。

Tā shēngbìng le, xūyào yǒu rén zhàogù.

He is sick and needs someone to take care of him.

我们应该照顾老人和小孩。

Wǒmen yīnggāi zhàogù lǎorén hé xiǎohái.

We should take care of the elderly and children.