形式

• Pinyin: xíng shì
• Hanzi breakdown: 形 = 开 (open) + 彡 (lines), depicting visible form; 式 = 弋 (to shoot) + 工 (work), meaning a model or method

Meaning

Form; format; type. The outward appearance, structure, or method of something.

Used to describe the way something is organised, presented, or structured. Common phrases: 各种形式 (various forms), 表现形式 (form of expression), 形式多样 (diverse in form). Often contrasted with 内容 (content) — 形式和内容 (form and content).

Examples

1. 这次考试的形式是笔试加口试。 The format of this exam is a written test plus an oral test.
2. 不要只注重形式，内容更重要。 Don't focus only on form; content is more important.
3. 网上教学是一种新的教育形式。 Online teaching is a new form of education.

Usage Guide

Context: education, work, discussion

Tone: analytical

Do Say

• 活动的形式可以多样化。(The format of the event can be diversified.)
• 学习的形式有很多种。(There are many forms of learning.)

Don't Say

• 这个形式很好看。(Don't use 形式 for physical appearance or aesthetics — use 外形 or 样子. 形式 refers to the structural format or method.)

Origin & History

形 means 'shape' or 'form' and 式 means 'style' or 'pattern'. Together they describe the outward structure or format of something.

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal