Understanding "坚硬" - Chinese Word Explanation

1. Basic Information

• Word: 坚硬
• Pinyin: jiān yìng
• Literal Meaning: "坚" means hard or firm, and "硬" means hard or stiff. Together, they emphasize the idea of hardness.
• Primary Meaning: "坚硬" describes something that is physically hard, rigid, or unyielding, such as rock, metal, or other solid materials.

2. In-depth Explanation

• Context and Usage:
• "坚硬" is commonly used to describe objects that are physically hard and resistant to pressure or deformation. It can refer to natural materials (e.g., stone, ice) or man-made objects (e.g., steel, concrete).
• It can also be used metaphorically to describe something unyielding, such as a person's will or resolve (e.g., "坚硬的意志" - firm determination).

• Unlike "硬" (yìng), which can sometimes imply stubbornness, "坚硬" is more neutral and focuses on physical hardness.

• Character Breakdown:

• 坚 (jiān): Means "firm," "solid," or "hard." Often used in words like "坚定" (firm, resolute) or "坚固" (sturdy).
• 硬 (yìng): Means "hard" or "stiff." Can also imply stubbornness in certain contexts (e.g., "嘴硬" - stubborn in speech).

3. Example Sentences

1. Chinese: 这块石头非常坚硬。
   Pinyin: Zhè kuài shítou fēicháng jiān yìng.
   English: This piece of stone is very hard.

2. Chinese: 冰在低温下会变得坚硬。
   Pinyin: Bīng zài dī wēn xià huì biàn de jiān yìng.
   English: Ice becomes hard at low temperatures.

3. Chinese: 他的意志像钢铁一样坚硬。
   Pinyin: Tā de yìzhì xiàng gāngtiě yíyàng jiān yìng.
   English: His will is as hard as steel.

Cultural Notes

• In Chinese culture, hardness (坚硬) is often associated with strength and resilience. For example, jade (玉) is prized not only for its beauty but also for its toughness, symbolizing moral integrity.
• The metaphor of "坚硬的意志" (unyielding will) reflects the cultural value of perseverance, often admired in historical figures and heroes.

Conclusion

"坚硬" (jiān yìng) is a useful word to describe physical hardness or metaphorical firmness. Remember it by breaking it down: "坚" (firm) + "硬" (hard) = "坚硬" (hard/rigid). Use it for objects like rocks or metals, or to describe strong determination!