沟通 gōutōng to join
to join; to connect; to link up; to communicate
How to remember 沟通: 沟 ditch + 通 pass through = to join.
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How it is used
- To communicate / talk things through - 好好沟通 (hǎohǎo gōutōng) to communicate properly, 缺乏沟通 lack of communication.
- 沟通 stresses mutual exchange to reach understanding; 交流 (jiāoliú) is broader 'exchange (of ideas/culture),' 交谈 is just chatting.
- Very common in workplace/relationship contexts: 沟通不畅 (gōutōng bú chàng) poor communication.
- Literally 'to link ditches/channels' - connecting two sides.