Understanding "瘦弱" - Chinese Word Explanation

1. Basic Information

• Word: 瘦弱
• Pinyin: shòu ruò
• Literal Meaning: "thin and weak"
• Primary Meaning: Describes a person or living being who is physically frail, underweight, and lacking strength.

2. In-depth Explanation

• Context and Usage:
  "瘦弱" is used to describe someone or something (like an animal) that appears thin and feeble, often due to illness, malnutrition, or lack of physical conditioning. It carries a slightly negative or sympathetic connotation, implying vulnerability. It’s commonly used in both spoken and written Chinese.

• Character Breakdown:

• 瘦 (shòu): Means "thin" or "lean," often referring to a lack of flesh or muscle.
• 弱 (ruò): Means "weak" or "feeble," indicating a lack of strength or vitality.
  Together, they emphasize a combination of physical thinness and weakness.

3. Example Sentences

1. Chinese: 那个孩子看起来很瘦弱。
   Pinyin: Nàge háizi kàn qǐlái hěn shòu ruò.
   English: That child looks very thin and weak.

2. Chinese: 他病后变得十分瘦弱。
   Pinyin: Tā bìng hòu biàn dé shífēn shòu ruò.
   English: He became very frail after his illness.

3. Chinese: 这只瘦弱的小猫需要好好照顾。
   Pinyin: Zhè zhī shòu ruò de xiǎo māo xūyào hǎohǎo zhàogù.
   English: This thin and weak kitten needs to be taken good care of.

Cultural Notes

In Chinese culture, being "瘦弱" is often associated with poor health or hardship. Traditionally, plumpness was sometimes seen as a sign of prosperity, while thinness could imply struggle. Today, while attitudes toward body image are evolving, "瘦弱" still carries a tone of concern or pity.

Conclusion

"瘦弱" (shòu ruò) describes someone or something that is thin and weak, often due to health or nutritional issues. Remember the characters 瘦 (thin) and 弱 (weak) to grasp its meaning fully. Use it when expressing concern or observing frailty in people or animals.