专心

zhuānxīn

to focus one's attention; to concentrate on (doing sth)

HSK 5

Character Breakdown

Meaning and Usage

"专心" means to focus one's attention or concentrate on a single task or subject. It implies dedicating mental energy without distraction.

Common Contexts

It is often used in academic or work settings where concentration is essential, such as studying, working, or preparing for competitions.

Collocations and Patterns

  • 专心学习 (focus on studying): used when emphasizing dedication to learning.
  • 专心 (concentrate wholeheartedly): a formal phrase emphasizing deep focus.
  • 专心工作 (focus on work): used in professional contexts.

Nuances

Using "专心" suggests a deliberate effort to avoid distractions. It is stronger than just "注意" (pay attention) because it implies sustained mental engagement.

Common Confusion

Do not confuse "专心" with "" which also means to be attentive but often implies care or effort rather than pure focus. "专心" stresses undivided attention.

Example Sentences

考试的时候,我必须专心答题,不能分心。

Kǎoshì de shíhòu, wǒ bìxū zhuānxīn dátí, bùnéng fēnxīn.

During the exam, I must focus on answering the questions and not get

他专心学习汉语,进步很快。

Tā zhuānxīn xuéxí Hànyǔ, jìnbù hěn kuài.

He concentrates on studying Chinese and makes rapid progress.

专心致志地工作,才能取得好成绩。

Zhuānxīn zhìzhì de gōngzuò, cáinéng qǔdé hǎo chéngjì.

Only by working with full concentration can one achieve good results.

孩子们专心听老师讲课,没有一点儿走神。

Háizimen zhuānxīn tīng lǎoshī jiǎngkè, méiyǒu yīdiǎnr zǒushén.

The children listened attentively to the teacher without any distraction.

他专心致志地准备比赛,最终赢得了冠军。

Tā zhuānxīn zhìzhì de zhǔnbèi bǐsài, zuìzhōng yíngdé le guànjūn.

He prepared for the competition with full concentration and finally won the