空白

kòng bái

blank space

HSK 6

Character Breakdown

Meaning and Usage

"空白" (kòng bái) literally means "empty white" and refers to a blank space or gap where nothing is written or filled. It is commonly used to describe empty areas on forms, documents, or in abstract contexts like memory or time.

Common Contexts

  1. Forms and Documents: Used to indicate spaces that need to be filled in, such as "空白" (blank space).
  2. Reports or Texts: Refers to missing information or gaps that require completion.
  3. Memory or Abstract Gaps: Describes a mental blank or missing recollection.

Collocations and Patterns

Usage Notes

"空白" is a noun and can be used both literally and metaphorically. It is neutral in tone and suitable for formal and informal contexts. Avoid confusing it with "空闲" (free time) or "空洞" (hollow) which have different nuances.

Example Sentences

请在表格的空白处填写你的姓名。

Qǐng zài biǎogé de kòngbái chù tiánxiě nǐ de xìngmíng.

Please fill in your name in the blank space on the form.

这份报告中有很多空白需要补充数据。

Zhè fèn bàogào zhōng yǒu hěn duō kòngbái xūyào bǔchōng shùjù.

There are many blanks in this report that need to be filled with data.

他的记忆中有一片空白,什么都想不起来。

Tā de jìyì zhōng yǒu yī piàn kòngbái, shénme dōu xiǎng bù qǐlái.

There is a blank in his memory; he can't remember anything.