HSK 7
极为
jí wéi
极为 (jíwéi) - Extremely, exceedingly
Explanation
极为 (jíwéi) is a degree adverb (a word that modifies a verb or adjective) used to emphasize a very high degree, equivalent to 'extremely' or 'exceedingly' in English.
极为 (jíwéi) + adjective / verb (e.g. 极为杰出 jíwéi jiéchū = extremely outstanding). It does not take a degree complement (the element after an adjective that indicates degree) such as 得很.
mainly in formal/written usage (found in books and documents, rarely spoken) such as journalism, reviews, and argumentative writing. In everyday conversation people use 非常 (fēicháng) or 特别 (tèbié).
极为 (jíwéi) is formal and can only stand BEFORE an adjective/verb; whereas 极了 (jíle) is colloquial and stands AFTER an adjective (好极了 = extremely good).
placing 极为 after an adjective like 极了 (wrong: 杰出极为) — 极为 always precedes it; and avoid using 极为 in casual speech, since it sounds overly 'stiff' and unnatural.
Examples
Qi Baishi was an exceptionally outstanding painter.
The development prospects of new-energy vehicles are extremely broad.
Practice
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Learn “极为” effectively
The grammar point “极为” (极为 (jíwéi) - Extremely, exceedingly) is one of the key structures at HSK 7. To use it fluently, you need to understand the contexts where it's used and practice regularly.
Study tip: read the examples aloud many times to build a natural reflex. Then try making your own sentences for your own situations. Use the audio button to hear and practice accurate pronunciation.
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