Understanding "危险" - Chinese Word Explanation

1. Basic Information

• Word: 危险
• Pinyin: wēi xiǎn
• Literal Meaning: "Perilous danger" (危 = danger, 险 = risk)
• Primary Meaning: "Dangerous" or "hazardous"; refers to situations, objects, or actions that could cause harm or risk.

2. In-depth Explanation

• Context and Usage:
• "危险" is commonly used to describe anything that poses a threat to safety, such as slippery roads, high-voltage areas, or reckless behavior.
• It can function as an adjective (e.g., "危险的地方" - "a dangerous place") or a noun (e.g., "有危险" - "there is danger").

• In warnings, it often appears on signs (e.g., "危险！禁止入内" - "Danger! No entry").

• Character Breakdown:

• 危 (wēi): Means "danger," "peril," or "precarious."
• 险 (xiǎn): Means "risk," "dangerous," or "narrow pass" (historically used for treacherous terrain).
  Together, they emphasize a high level of threat.

3. Example Sentences

1. Chinese: 开车时玩手机很危险。
   Pinyin: Kāi chē shí wán shǒujī hěn wēixiǎn.
   English: Playing with your phone while driving is very dangerous.

2. Chinese: 这个地方有危险，快离开！
   Pinyin: Zhège dìfāng yǒu wēixiǎn, kuài líkāi!
   English: This place is dangerous, leave quickly!

3. Chinese: 探险家经常面对危险。
   Pinyin: Tànxiǎnjiā jīngcháng miànduì wēixiǎn.
   English: Explorers often face danger.

Cultural Notes

• In China, "危险" is frequently seen on construction sites, electrical equipment, and natural hazard zones (e.g., cliffs, flood areas).
• The word reflects a cultural emphasis on collective safety, as public warnings often use "危险" to urge caution.

Conclusion

"危险" (wēi xiǎn) is a vital word for describing danger or risky situations. Remember it by breaking it down: 危 (danger) + 险 (risk) = "dangerous." Use it to warn others or identify hazards in daily life!