Understanding "渡汉江" - Chinese Word Explanation

1. Basic Information

• Word: 渡汉江
• Pinyin: Dù Hàn Jiāng
• Literal Meaning: "Crossing the Han River"
• Primary Meaning: Refers to the act of crossing or ferrying across the Han River, a major tributary of the Yangtze River in China. It can also evoke historical or poetic imagery related to journeys, separation, or nostalgia.

2. In-depth Explanation

Context and Usage

"渡汉江" is often used in historical, literary, or geographical contexts. It may describe the physical act of crossing the Han River or symbolize a metaphorical journey, especially in classical poetry. The phrase carries a sense of movement, transition, or even emotional weight, as the Han River has been a significant cultural and geographical landmark in Chinese history.

Character Breakdown

• 渡 (Dù): Means "to cross" or "to ferry" (e.g., crossing a river).
• 汉 (Hàn): Refers to the Han River (汉江) or the Han ethnic group, but here it specifically denotes the river.
• 江 (Jiāng): Means "river," often referring to large rivers like the Yangtze (长江) or, in this case, the Han River.

Together, the phrase emphasizes the action of traversing the Han River.

3. Example Sentences

1. Chinese: 他乘船渡汉江，前往襄阳。
   Pinyin: Tā chéng chuán dù Hàn Jiāng, qiánwǎng Xiāngyáng.
   English: He crossed the Han River by boat to reach Xiangyang.

2. Chinese: 古代诗人常写渡汉江时的思乡之情。
   Pinyin: Gǔdài shīrén cháng xiě dù Hàn Jiāng shí de sīxiāng zhī qíng.
   English: Ancient poets often wrote of homesickness while crossing the Han River.

3. Chinese: 渡汉江是这条商路上的重要环节。
   Pinyin: Dù Hàn Jiāng shì zhè tiáo shānglù shàng de zhòngyào huánjié.
   English: Crossing the Han River was a crucial part of this trade route.

Cultural Notes

The Han River (汉江) is one of the longest tributaries of the Yangtze and has played a vital role in Chinese history, agriculture, and transportation. It is often mentioned in classical poetry, where crossing it symbolizes a journey, separation, or reflection. For example, the Tang Dynasty poet Song Zhiwen wrote a famous poem titled "渡汉江" about the anxiety of returning home after exile.

Conclusion

"渡汉江" (Dù Hàn Jiāng) literally means "crossing the Han River" and can refer to both the physical act and its symbolic meaning in literature. Understanding this phrase enriches your knowledge of Chinese geography, history, and poetic expression. Remember the characters 渡 (cross), 汉 (Han), and 江 (river) to grasp its essence!