间谍 jiàndié spy
How to remember 间谍: 间 room + 谍 to spy = spy.
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How it is used
- The standard noun for a spy / secret agent - 他被指控为间谍 (tā bèi zhǐkòng wéi jiàndié) he was accused of being a spy.
- Neutral and formal; pairs with 间谍活动 (espionage), 间谍卫星 (spy satellite). 特务 (tèwù) is a rougher, often political term for an agent.
- Note the reading jiàn dié (not jiān).