Understanding "资源" - Chinese Word Explanation

1. Basic Information

• Word: 资源
• Pinyin: zī yuán
• Literal Meaning: "资" (zī) means "assets" or "capital," and "源" (yuán) means "source" or "origin." Together, they form "资源," meaning "source of assets."
• Primary Meaning: "Resources" (natural, human, or material assets that can be utilized).

2. In-depth Explanation

Context and Usage

"资源" is a broad term referring to any valuable assets or materials available for use. It can describe:
- Natural resources (e.g., water, minerals, oil).
- Human resources (e.g., labor, skills, talent).
- Digital/technical resources (e.g., data, software).

Nuances:
- Often used in formal or technical contexts (e.g., business, economics, environmental discussions).
- Collocations:
- 自然资源 (zì rán zī yuán) - natural resources
- 人力资源 (rén lì zī yuán) - human resources
- 资源分配 (zī yuán fēn pèi) - resource allocation

Character Breakdown

• 资 (zī): Assets, capital, or funding.
• 源 (yuán): Source, origin, or root.
  Together, they emphasize the idea of "valuable origins" or "usable sources."

3. Example Sentences

1. Chinese: 中国有丰富的自然资源。
   Pinyin: Zhōngguó yǒu fēngfù de zìrán zīyuán.
   English: China has abundant natural resources.

2. Chinese: 公司需要合理分配人力资源。
   Pinyin: Gōngsī xūyào hélǐ fēnpèi rénlì zīyuán.
   English: The company needs to allocate human resources reasonably.

3. Chinese: 互联网是重要的学习资源。
   Pinyin: Hùliánwǎng shì zhòngyào de xuéxí zīyuán.
   English: The internet is an important learning resource.

Cultural Notes

• In China, "资源" is a key concept in policies like sustainable development (e.g., protecting 自然资源) and economic planning (e.g., managing 人力资源).
• The term reflects China’s focus on balancing resource utilization with environmental conservation.

Conclusion

"资源" (zī yuán) is a versatile word meaning "resources," encompassing natural, human, and technical assets. Remember it as "source of capital" (资 + 源), and practice using it in contexts like business, education, or environmental discussions.