Understanding "寒冷" - Chinese Word Explanation

1. Basic Information

• Word: 寒冷
• Pinyin: hán lěng
• Literal Meaning: "Cold" (寒) + "Cold" (冷) → "Extreme cold" or "Chilly"
• Primary Meaning: Refers to very low temperatures or a freezing climate; describes physical coldness or a bleak atmosphere.

2. In-depth Explanation

Context and Usage

"寒冷" is used to describe weather, environments, or even metaphorical situations (e.g., emotions) that feel intensely cold. It’s stronger than just "冷" (lěng), emphasizing severity. Common in weather forecasts, descriptions of winters, or poetic expressions of loneliness.

Character Breakdown

• 寒 (hán): Means "cold," often associated with winter or hardship.
• 冷 (lěng): Also means "cold," but focuses on the physical sensation. Together, they intensify the meaning.

3. Example Sentences

1. Chinese: 冬天的早晨非常寒冷。
   Pinyin: Dōngtiān de zǎochen fēicháng hánlěng.
   English: Winter mornings are extremely cold.

2. Chinese: 她感到心里一阵寒冷。
   Pinyin: Tā gǎndào xīnlǐ yīzhèn hánlěng.
   English: She felt a chill in her heart (metaphorical loneliness).

3. Chinese: 寒冷的天气让人不想出门。
   Pinyin: Hánlěng de tiānqì ràng rén bùxiǎng chūmén.
   English: The freezing weather makes people reluctant to go outside.

Cultural Notes

In Chinese culture, "寒冷" often appears in poetry to symbolize desolation or emotional distance. For example, the phrase "寒风刺骨" (hánfēng cìgǔ, "a piercing cold wind") describes both physical pain and emotional hardship.

Conclusion

"寒冷" (hánlěng) is a vivid word for "extreme cold," useful for describing weather, environments, or metaphorical coldness. Remember: 寒 + 冷 = intensified chill!