Understanding "肮脏" - Chinese Word Explanation

1. Basic Information

• Word: 肮脏
• Pinyin: āng zāng
• Literal Meaning: "Filthy" or "dirty" (both characters contribute to the meaning of uncleanliness).
• Primary Meaning: Describes something physically dirty, morally corrupt, or emotionally foul.

2. In-depth Explanation

• Context and Usage:
• Physical Dirt: Used for objects, places, or people that are physically unclean (e.g., muddy clothes, a polluted river).
• Moral/Emotional Dirt: Can describe unethical behavior (e.g., corruption, deceit) or vulgar language/thoughts.

• Nuance: Stronger than "脏 (zāng)" alone—carries a more negative, sometimes disgusted tone.

• Character Breakdown:

• 肮 (āng): Originally meant "neck" but evolved to mean "filth" in modern usage.
• 脏 (zāng): Means "dirty" or "unclean." Together, the characters intensify the meaning.

3. Example Sentences

1. Chinese: 这个房间太肮脏了，需要打扫。
   Pinyin: Zhè ge fángjiān tài āngzāng le, xūyào dǎsǎo.
   English: This room is too dirty; it needs cleaning.

2. Chinese: 他参与了肮脏的政治交易。
   Pinyin: Tā cānyù le āngzāng de zhèngzhì jiāoyì.
   English: He was involved in a corrupt political deal.

3. Chinese: 别用那么肮脏的词汇！
   Pinyin: Bié yòng nàme āngzāng de cíhuì!
   English: Don’t use such foul language!

Cultural Notes

• In Chinese culture, cleanliness is highly valued (e.g., sweeping before New Year symbolizes removing bad luck). Calling something "肮脏" can imply strong disapproval.
• Used metaphorically in literature/cinema to critique societal issues like greed or injustice.

Conclusion

"肮脏 (āngzāng)" is a versatile word for dirtiness—whether literal or metaphorical. Remember it for describing grime, corruption, or vulgarity, but use cautiously due to its strong tone.