预习

Using it is super simple. You usually put it before the thing you are studying. You can say 预习课文 (preview the text) or 预习功课 (preview homework). It acts like a verb. If you want to sound more natural, add a time. For example, 'I spent ten minutes 预习.' It is a very active word. It implies you are taking initiative. Don't just look at the pages; engage with them!

Use this whenever preparation is the goal. It is most common in schools and universities. However, it is great for the office too. If you have a big presentation, you might 预习 the slides. Use it when talking to teachers, bosses, or study buddies. It shows you are diligent and organized. It is a very positive, 'good student' kind of vibe. Even texting a friend to prep for a hobby class works perfectly.

Do not use 预习 for things you've already learned. That is 复习 (reviewing). Also, don't use it for fun things like movies or dates. You wouldn't 'preview' a Marvel movie; you'd just watch the trailer. It carries a slight 'academic' or 'work' weight. If you use it for a party, people will think you are being very nerdy. Keep it to things that require actual brainpower or learning.

In Chinese culture, being prepared is a huge deal. Teachers often assign 预习 as actual homework. There is a famous saying: 'Opportunity favors the prepared mind.' Since the education system is quite competitive, 预习 is seen as a way to stay ahead. It is not just a suggestion; it is often a requirement for success. Parents will often ask their kids, 'Did you 预习 today?' It is part of the 'hard work' DNA.

While 预习 is the standard, you might hear 提前看 (look ahead) in very casual settings. In a business context, people might say 预看 (pre-view) for documents. But 预习 remains the gold standard for any learning scenario. If you want to emphasize doing it well, say 好好预习. If you did it quickly, say 简单预习. It is a versatile little word that makes you sound very responsible.