Understanding "信息" - Chinese Word Explanation

1. Basic Information

• Word: 信息
• Pinyin: xìn xī
• Literal Meaning: "信" (xìn) means "message" or "trust," and "息" (xī) means "breath" or "news." Together, they imply "message/news that is conveyed."
• Primary Meaning: "Information," "data," or "news." It refers to knowledge or details communicated or received about a particular subject.

2. In-depth Explanation

• Context and Usage:
• "信息" is a neutral and widely used term for "information" in both formal and informal contexts. It can refer to digital data (e.g., computer information), news, or general knowledge.
• In modern contexts, it often relates to technology, such as "信息技术" (xìn xī jì shù, "information technology").

• Unlike "消息" (xiāo xi, "news" or "tidings"), which often implies timely updates, "信息" is broader and can include static or processed data.

• Character Breakdown:

• 信 (xìn): Originally meant "trust" or "letter," but here it emphasizes "message" or "communication."
• 息 (xī): Means "breath" or "rest," but in this context, it extends to "news" or "flow of information."

3. Example Sentences

1. Chinese: 我需要更多信息来做决定。
   Pinyin: Wǒ xū yào gèng duō xìn xī lái zuò jué dìng.
   English: I need more information to make a decision.

2. Chinese: 这个应用程序可以收集用户的信息。
   Pinyin: Zhè gè yìng yòng chéng xù kě yǐ shōu jí yòng hù de xìn xī.
   English: This app can collect user information.

3. Chinese: 他提供了很多有用的信息。
   Pinyin: Tā tí gòng le hěn duō yǒu yòng de xìn xī.
   English: He provided a lot of useful information.

Cultural Notes

• In China's digital age, "信息" is heavily associated with technology and the internet. The term reflects the country's rapid advancements in IT and data-driven industries.
• The phrase "信息爆炸" (xìn xī bào zhà, "information explosion") is commonly used to describe the overwhelming amount of data in modern life.

Conclusion

"信息" (xìn xī) is a versatile word meaning "information" or "data," used in both everyday and technical contexts. Remember its characters: "信" (message) and "息" (news), and practice with the examples to master its usage!