Understanding "通知" - Chinese Word Explanation

1. Basic Information

• Word: 通知
• Pinyin: tōng zhī
• Literal Meaning: "To pass on knowledge/information"
• Primary Meaning: "Notice" or "Notification" (noun); "To inform" or "To notify" (verb)

2. In-depth Explanation

Context and Usage

"通知" is a versatile word used in both formal and informal settings to refer to a notice or the act of informing someone. It can be a written announcement (e.g., a school notice) or a verbal message (e.g., informing a colleague about a meeting).

• As a noun, it refers to the notice itself (e.g., 一个通知 - "a notice").
• As a verb, it means to notify or inform someone (e.g., 通知大家 - "to inform everyone").

Nuances:
- More formal than casual words like 告诉 (gào su, "to tell").
- Often used in workplaces, schools, and official communications.

Character Breakdown

• 通 (tōng): Means "to pass through" or "to connect."
• 知 (zhī): Means "to know" or "knowledge."
  Together, they imply "passing knowledge to someone," hence "to notify" or "notice."

3. Example Sentences

1. Chinese: 学校发了一个关于考试的通知。
   Pinyin: Xuéxiào fā le yī gè guānyú kǎoshì de tōngzhī.
   English: The school issued a notice about the exam.

2. Chinese: 请通知所有同事明天开会。
   Pinyin: Qǐng tōngzhī suǒyǒu tóngshì míngtiān kāihuì.
   English: Please notify all colleagues about tomorrow’s meeting.

3. Chinese: 我收到了你的通知，会准时到达。
   Pinyin: Wǒ shōu dào le nǐ de tōngzhī, huì zhǔnshí dàodá.
   English: I received your notice and will arrive on time.

Cultural Notes

• In China, written "通知" (notices) are commonly posted in workplaces, schools, and residential areas for official announcements.
• Digital notifications (e.g., via WeChat or email) are now widely used, but printed notices are still prevalent in traditional settings.

Conclusion

"通知" (tōng zhī) is a practical word meaning "notice" (noun) or "to inform" (verb). It’s essential for formal communication in Chinese. Remember: 通 (pass) + 知 (know) = passing information! Use it for announcements, reminders, or official updates.