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noun / verb HSK 4
Traditional 務
wù
affair · business · task · to be engaged in · must

Meaning

务 is a formal character that appears frequently in compound words related to work, duties, and obligations. As a standalone character, it can mean 'affair' or 'task,' but it's most commonly seen in two-character compounds. It carries a sense of something that requires attention or effort.

Usage

This character is rarely used alone in modern spoken Chinese. It appears in formal contexts, written language, and established compound words like 服务 (service), 任务 (mission/task), and 务必 (must/be sure to). In classical Chinese, it could also function as a verb meaning 'to be engaged in' or 'to devote oneself to.'

Examples

  1. 01
    你务必要按时完成这个任务。
    Nǐ wù bì yào àn shí wán chéng zhège rèn wù.
    You must complete this task on time.
  2. 02
    他现在专务研究工作。
    Tā xiàn zài zhuān wù yán jiū gōng zuò.
    He is now devoted exclusively to research work.

Common collocations

  • 务必
    wù bì
    must, be sure to
  • 业务
    yè wù
    business, professional work
  • 家务
    jiā wù
    household chores
  • 外务
    wài wù
    foreign affairs

Origin

The traditional form 務 combines elements suggesting forceful action toward a purpose. The character has ancient roots in classical Chinese where it meant 'to pursue' or 'to be engaged in.'

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