HSK Level 4

业余

yè yú

spare time; amateur

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Example Sentences

我喜欢在业余时间看书。

wǒ xǐhuān zài yèyú shíjiān kànshū.

I like to read books in my spare time.

他业余时间喜欢踢足球。

tā yèyú shíjiān xǐhuān tī zúqiú.

He likes to play football in his spare time.

她业余时间喜欢唱歌。

tā yèyú shíjiān xǐhuān chànggē.

She likes to sing in her spare time.

Synonyms

副业 (fùyè)

sideline

业外 (yèwài)

extracurricular

Antonyms

专业 (zhuānyè)

professional

全职 (quánzhí)

full-time

Etymology & Components

The Chinese word "业余" is composed of two characters: "业" and "余". "业" means "occupation" or "profession", while "余" means "spare time" or "leisure". Together, they form the compound word "业余", which literally means "spare time occupation" or "hobby".The word "业余" is often used to describe activities that are done in one's free time, as opposed to one's main occupation. For example, someone who plays the piano as a hobby might be described as an "业余钢琴家" (amateur pianist).The word "业余" can also be used to describe people who are not professional in a particular field. For example, someone who writes articles for a magazine as a hobby might be described as an "业余作家" (amateur writer).In addition to its literal meaning, the word "业余" can also have a figurative meaning. For example, it can be used to describe something that is not very important or serious. For example, someone might say that they are only interested in "业余爱好" (casual interests), rather than anything serious.The word "业余" is a versatile word that can be used in a variety of contexts. It is a useful word to know for HSK learners, as it can help them to understand the difference between professional and amateur activities, as well as the difference between important and unimportant things.