(yǐ wéi) - to think (mistakenly), to assume in Mandarin
yǐwéiTraditional: 以為
Translation
to think (mistakenly), to assume
Word origin
A compound of 以 (yǐ, 'to take as') and 为 (wéi, 'to be, to do'), giving 'to take to be, to assume'. The simplified 为 derives from an older form depicting a hand leading an elephant, hence 'to do, to make'.
- Origin
- compound
- Root
- 以 (yǐ, 'to take as') + 为 (wéi, 'to be, to do')
Stroke order
以
为
Examples
。
I thought you had left.
？
You think I don't know?
。
He assumed this was correct.
。
I thought today was a holiday.
。
Do not assume I did not see.
以为 (yǐ wéi) means to think (mistakenly), to assume. It is used as a verb in everyday Mandarin speech.
Where this fits
Used in
Stories
(1)Grammar articles
(1)Add to review queue
Track this word in your spaced-repetition queue and be tested on it at the right interval.
Go to my review queueMandarin · Free printables
以为: worksheet, infographic and listicle
Free printable study downloads for the Mandarin word "以为" (to think (mistakenly), to assume): a worksheet with the answer key built in, an infographic, and a sentence listicle. Open any one to view, print or save.
Free for members
The printable worksheets, infographics and PDFs are free with an account. Start a free week and download as many as you like.
Start your free weekThis word is part of lesson 5.