写作

xiě zuò

to write

HSK 6

Character Breakdown

Meaning and Usage

"写作" primarily means "to write" or "to compose" texts such as essays, stories, or articles. It often refers to the creative or formal act of producing written content rather than casual writing like notes or messages.

Common Contexts

You will see "写作" used when discussing literary creation, academic writing, or professional writing skills. It is common in educational and professional settings.

Collocations and Patterns

  • 写作能力 (writing ability): refers to one's skill in writing.
  • 写作风格 (writing style): describes the characteristic way someone writes.
  • 坚持写作 (persist in writing): emphasizes regular or disciplined writing practice.

Usage Notes

"写作" is more formal and often implies a deliberate, structured writing process. It contrasts with casual writing verbs like "" which can mean simply "to write" in any context. Avoid confusing "写作" with "" (to write a letter) or "" (to write characters), which are more specific.

Summary

Use "写作" when referring to the act of composing texts, especially in contexts emphasizing skill, style, or creative effort.

Example Sentences

他每天坚持写作,已经写了三本小说。

Tā měitiān jiānchí xiězuò, yǐjīng xiě le sān běn xiǎoshuō.

He insists on writing every day and has already written three novels.

写作能力是很多职业都需要的重要技能。

Xiězuò nénglì shì hěn duō zhíyè dōu xūyào de zhòngyào jìnéng.

Writing skills are important abilities required in many professions.

这篇文章的写作风格非常独特。

Zhè piān wénzhāng de xiězuò fēnggé fēicháng dútè.

The writing style of this article is very unique.