Understanding "关闭" - Chinese Word Explanation

1. Basic Information

• Word: 关闭
• Pinyin: guān bì
• Literal Meaning: "Shut" (关) + "Close" (闭)
• Primary Meaning: To close, shut down, or turn off (e.g., a door, device, or business).

2. In-depth Explanation

Context and Usage

"关闭" is a versatile verb used for physically closing objects (like doors or windows) or abstractly shutting down systems (like computers or services). It implies a deliberate action to stop or seal something.

Nuances:
- For physical objects (e.g., doors), it emphasizes sealing or securing.
- For devices/systems, it suggests terminating operation (e.g., "关闭电脑" – "turn off the computer").
- In business contexts, it can mean permanent closure (e.g., "商店关闭了" – "The shop closed down").

Character Breakdown

• 关 (guān): Means "to shut" or "related to a barrier" (e.g., 关门 – "close the door").
• 闭 (bì): Means "to close" or "seal," often used for tight closures (e.g., 闭嘴 – "shut your mouth").
  Together, they reinforce the idea of complete closure.

3. Example Sentences

1. Chinese: 请关闭窗户。
   Pinyin: Qǐng guānbì chuānghu.
   English: Please close the window.

2. Chinese: 系统将在十分钟后自动关闭。
   Pinyin: Xìtǒng jiāng zài shí fēnzhōng hòu zìdòng guānbì.
   English: The system will automatically shut down in ten minutes.

3. Chinese: 这家工厂因污染问题被政府关闭了。
   Pinyin: Zhè jiā gōngchǎng yīn wūrǎn wèntí bèi zhèngfǔ guānbì le.
   English: This factory was shut down by the government due to pollution issues.

Cultural Notes

• In Chinese culture, "关闭" can carry a sense of finality, especially in business contexts. Permanent closures are often announced with formal notices.
• The phrase "关门大吉" (guānmén dàjí, literally "shut the door for great luck") humorously refers to a business going bankrupt, reflecting a pragmatic attitude toward failure.

Conclusion

"关闭" (guānbì) is a practical word for "closing" or "shutting down" both physical and abstract things. Remember: 关 + 闭 = complete closure! Use it for doors, devices, or even businesses.