Understanding "种植" - Chinese Word Explanation

1. Basic Information

• Word: 种植
• Pinyin: zhòng zhí
• Literal Meaning: "to plant" (种) + "to cultivate" (植)
• Primary Meaning: "to plant," "to grow," or "to cultivate" (referring to the act of growing crops, trees, or other plants).

2. In-depth Explanation

Context and Usage

"种植" is a verb used to describe the process of planting and cultivating plants, whether for agriculture, gardening, or forestry. It is commonly used in contexts like farming, gardening, or environmental conservation.

• Nuances: While it generally means "to plant," it implies a more deliberate and sustained effort in cultivation, not just a one-time act of sowing seeds.

Character Breakdown

• 种 (zhòng): Means "to plant" or "to grow." It can also mean "seed" or "kind" (as in type or variety) in other contexts.
• 植 (zhí): Means "to plant," "to cultivate," or "to establish." It often refers to the long-term growth and care of plants.

Together, "种植" emphasizes the full process of planting and nurturing plants.

3. Example Sentences

1. Chinese: 农民在田里种植水稻。
   Pinyin: Nóngmín zài tián lǐ zhòngzhí shuǐdào.
   English: Farmers grow rice in the fields.

2. Chinese: 我们在后院种植了一些蔬菜。
   Pinyin: Wǒmen zài hòuyuàn zhòngzhí le yīxiē shūcài.
   English: We planted some vegetables in the backyard.

3. Chinese: 政府鼓励人们多植树造林，种植更多的树木。
   Pinyin: Zhèngfǔ gǔlì rénmen duō zhí shù zàolín, zhòngzhí gèng duō de shùmù.
   English: The government encourages people to plant more trees for afforestation.

Cultural Notes

• Agriculture has always been central to Chinese culture, and "种植" reflects the deep connection between people and the land.
• Traditional festivals like the Qingming Festival (Tomb-Sweeping Day) often involve planting trees as a symbol of renewal and respect for nature.
• In modern China, "种植" is also associated with sustainable farming and environmental protection efforts.

Conclusion

"种植" (zhòng zhí) means "to plant" or "to cultivate," emphasizing the process of growing plants. It is widely used in farming, gardening, and environmental contexts. Remember the characters 种 (plant) and 植 (cultivate) to understand its full meaning!