Understanding "结果" - Chinese Word Explanation

1. Basic Information

• Word: 结果
• Pinyin: jié guǒ
• Literal Meaning: "knot fruit" (结 = knot/tie; 果 = fruit)
• Primary Meaning: "result," "outcome," or "consequence." It refers to the final product or conclusion of an action, event, or process.

2. In-depth Explanation

Context and Usage

"结果" is a versatile word used in both formal and informal contexts to describe the end result of something. It can be neutral (e.g., "the result of an experiment"), positive (e.g., "a good outcome"), or negative (e.g., "a bad consequence").

Nuances:
- When used as a noun, it emphasizes the final state or conclusion.
- It can also function as a conjunction meaning "in the end" or "as a result," similar to "so" or "therefore" in English.

Character Breakdown

• 结 (jié): Means "knot," "tie," or "conclude." It implies something being brought together or finalized.
• 果 (guǒ): Means "fruit" or "result." It symbolizes the tangible outcome of a process, like fruit from a tree.

Together, "结果" metaphorically represents the "fruit" of an effort or event—what is produced in the end.

3. Example Sentences

1. Chinese: 我们等待了很长时间，结果他却没有来。
   Pinyin: Wǒmen děngdàile hěn cháng shíjiān, jiéguǒ tā què méiyǒu lái.
   English: We waited for a long time, but in the end, he didn’t come.

2. Chinese: 这个项目的最终结果非常成功。
   Pinyin: Zhège xiàngmù de zuìzhōng jiéguǒ fēicháng chénggōng.
   English: The final result of this project was very successful.

3. Chinese: 他每天练习钢琴，结果成为了优秀的钢琴家。
   Pinyin: Tā měitiān liànxí gāngqín, jiéguǒ chéngwéile yōuxiù de gāngqínjiā.
   English: He practiced piano every day, and as a result, he became an excellent pianist.

Cultural Notes

In Chinese culture, the concept of "结果" aligns with the idea of cause and effect (因果, yīn guǒ), which is rooted in both Confucianism and Buddhism. People often emphasize the importance of hard work and patience to achieve a desirable "结果." The word’s literal meaning ("knot fruit") also reflects the agricultural heritage of China, where patience and care yield tangible rewards.

Conclusion

"结果" (jié guǒ) is a practical and frequently used word meaning "result" or "outcome." Whether describing the conclusion of an event or connecting cause and effect, it’s essential for expressing finality in Chinese. Remember its dual roles as a noun and conjunction, and note its cultural ties to patience and effort.