计算
To calculate
Littéralement: 计 (to count/plan) + 算 (to calculate/reckon)
Use `计算` whenever you are doing math or figuring out a numerical result.
En 15 secondes
- Used for any mathematical process or finding a total.
- Functions as both a formal verb and a noun.
- Commonly found in business, shopping, and academic settings.
Signification
This word is your go-to for anything involving numbers, math, or figuring out a total. It is like saying 'let me crunch the numbers' or 'do the math' in English.
Exemples clés
3 sur 6At a restaurant with friends
我们计算一下一共多少钱。
Let's calculate how much it is in total.
In a math class
请计算这个三角形的面积。
Please calculate the area of this triangle.
Talking about computer speed
这台电脑计算速度很快。
This computer's calculation speed is very fast.
Contexte culturel
The concept of calculation is tied to the 'Suanpan' (abacus), which was the calculator of ancient China. Historically, being proficient in calculation was a requirement for imperial officials managing the state's grain and taxes. Today, it reflects the high value placed on STEM education in modern Chinese society.
The 'Short' Version
In daily speech, people often just say `算` (suàn) instead of the full `计算`. It's faster and sounds more natural in casual settings.
Don't count your chickens...
If you are physically counting objects (1, 2, 3...), use `数` (shǔ). `计算` is for the mental or digital process of math.
En 15 secondes
- Used for any mathematical process or finding a total.
- Functions as both a formal verb and a noun.
- Commonly found in business, shopping, and academic settings.
What It Means
计算 is the bread and butter of logic. It is the process of using math to find an answer. You use it for simple addition or complex physics. It feels precise and intentional. Think of it as the 'brain work' behind a result.
How To Use It
Put it before the thing you are measuring. You can 计算 the price, the time, or the distance. It works as a verb or a noun. In a sentence, it usually follows a subject like 'I' or 'The computer'. It is very straightforward.
When To Use It
You will use this at the supermarket checkout. Use it when splitting a bill with friends. It is perfect for office meetings about budgets. If you are doing homework, this is your word. It is the sound of gears turning in your head.
When NOT To Use It
Do not use it for 'counting' items one by one. For that, use 数. Do not use it for 'planning' a sneaky trick. While it can mean 'calculating' in a mean way, that is more advanced. Stick to math for now. Avoid it when just 'thinking' about a problem.
Cultural Background
Chinese culture has a deep history with calculation. Think of the ancient abacus or 算盘. Being good at 计算 is highly respected. It implies you are smart and careful with resources. It is not just math; it is a life skill.
Common Variations
You will often see 计算机 which means computer. Literally, it is a 'calculation machine'. You might also hear 算一下. This is a softer, more casual way to say 'let me check the math'. It sounds much friendlier over coffee.
Notes d'usage
The word is neutral and safe for all situations. In spoken Chinese, it is frequently softened with 'yixia' to sound less like a textbook command.
The 'Short' Version
In daily speech, people often just say `算` (suàn) instead of the full `计算`. It's faster and sounds more natural in casual settings.
Don't count your chickens...
If you are physically counting objects (1, 2, 3...), use `数` (shǔ). `计算` is for the mental or digital process of math.
The 'Scheming' Side
Be careful! In some contexts, calling someone `爱计算` (likes to calculate) can imply they are 'calculating' or 'scheming' in a selfish way.
Exemples
6我们计算一下一共多少钱。
Let's calculate how much it is in total.
Using it to split the bill fairly.
请计算这个三角形的面积。
Please calculate the area of this triangle.
Standard academic usage.
这台电脑计算速度很快。
This computer's calculation speed is very fast.
Here it acts as a noun describing a process.
我计算了一下，开车要两小时。
I did the math; it takes two hours to drive.
Casual way to share a conclusion.
我的钱包说它不想被计算。
My wallet says it doesn't want to be calculated.
Personifying the wallet to joke about being broke.
我们需要仔细计算结婚的开销。
We need to carefully calculate the wedding expenses.
Used for serious financial planning.
Teste-toi
Choose the correct word to complete the sentence about a math problem.
请你___一下，三加五是多少？
Since the sentence asks for the sum of 3+5, '计算' (calculate) is the only logical choice.
Which word fits a computer's main function?
这台___机很好用。
The word for computer is '计算机' (Calculation Machine).
🎉 Score : /2
Aides visuelles
From Casual to Formal Calculation
Quick check with friends
Let's see the bill.
Standard term for math/logic
Calculate the total cost.
Formal accounting/auditing
Audit the annual budget.
Where to use 计算
Grocery Store
Totaling items
Classroom
Solving equations
Office
Budgeting
Home
Measuring for furniture
Questions fréquentes
10 questionsMostly yes, but it can also mean 'to plan' or 'to consider' in more formal or literary contexts. For beginners, stick to math and numbers.
Yes! A calculator is called 计算器 (jì suàn qì). It literally means 'calculation tool'.
It's fine, but 算一下 is more common. For example, 算一下时间 sounds more relaxed than 计算时间.
数 (shǔ) is for counting things you can see, like 数钱 (counting physical bills). 计算 is for the math, like 计算利息 (calculating interest).
No. Use 觉得 or 想 for thinking. 计算 is strictly for logical or numerical processing.
You can say 计算一下 (jì suàn yí xià). Adding 一下 makes it sound like a quick, casual action.
Constantly. You'll hear it for 计算成本 (calculating costs) or 计算利润 (calculating profit).
Sometimes. 算计 (suàn ji) — swapping the characters — often means to plot against someone. 计算 is usually neutral.
Yes, for durations. Like 计算飞行时间 (calculating flight time).
Yes, it's a fundamental verb that you'll encounter early on, especially when learning about shopping and numbers.
Expressions liées
计算机 (Computer)
计算器 (Calculator)
算账 (To settle accounts/bills)
总计 (Total)
估计 (To estimate)
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