交流

• Pinyin: jiāo liú
• Hanzi breakdown: 交 = pictograph of crossed legs, meaning to cross or exchange; 流 = 氵(water) + 㐬 (phonetic), meaning to flow

Meaning

To exchange; to communicate. The act of sharing ideas, experiences, or information with others.

Used both as a verb (to exchange or communicate) and a noun (exchange or communication). Common in contexts ranging from casual conversation to cultural or academic exchange. Often implies a two-way, mutual sharing of ideas rather than one-directional communication.

Examples

1. 我们经常用微信交流学习经验。 We often use WeChat to exchange study tips.
2. 这次文化交流活动非常有意义。 This cultural exchange event was very meaningful.
3. 他跟外国朋友交流的时候用英语。 He uses English when communicating with foreign friends.

Usage Guide

Context: everyday, academic, cultural, workplace

Tone: collaborative

Do Say

• 我们可以多交流交流。(We can communicate more with each other.)
• 这是一个很好的交流机会。(This is a great opportunity for exchange.)

Don't Say

• 我跟他交流了一个礼物。(Don't use 交流 for exchanging physical objects — use 交换. 交流 is for exchanging ideas, information, or experiences.)

Origin & History

Compound of 交 (to exchange, to cross) and 流 (to flow), together meaning 'to flow ideas back and forth' — a metaphor for mutual communication.

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal