noun HSK 5
fēn
divergence · difference (of opinion) · disagreement · discrepancy

Meaning

分歧 refers to a divergence or difference, most commonly in opinions, views, or paths. It describes situations where two or more parties have differing perspectives or where things branch off in different directions. The word carries a neutral tone and is frequently used in formal contexts to discuss disagreements without implying hostility.

Usage

This word is common in formal speech, writing, news reports, and diplomatic language. It often appears in phrases like 产生分歧 (to develop differences) or 存在分歧 (differences exist). While it indicates disagreement, it's less confrontational than words like 争论 (argument) and is appropriate for professional settings.

Examples

  1. 01
    双方在这个问题上存在严重分歧
    Shuāng fāng zài zhège wèntí shàng cún zài yánzhòng fēn .
    The two sides have serious differences on this issue.
  2. 02
    我们需要坐下来讨论,解决彼此之间的分歧
    Wǒmen yào zuò xiàlái tǎolùn, jiějué bǐcǐ zhī jiān de fēn .
    We need to sit down and discuss to resolve the differences between us.

Characters

Measure words

  • 一个分歧
  • chù几处分歧

Common collocations

  • 产生分歧
    chǎn shēng fēn
    to develop differences/disagreement
  • 存在分歧
    cún zài fēn
    differences exist
  • 解决分歧
    jiě jué fēn
    to resolve differences
  • 意见分歧
    jiàn fēn
    difference of opinion

Antonyms

Origin

The compound combines 分 (to divide/separate) with 歧 (forked path/divergent), literally meaning a forking or branching apart. This concrete image of paths splitting naturally extended to abstract differences in opinion or perspective.

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