Understanding "旧" - Chinese Word Explanation

1. Basic Information

• Word: 旧
• Pinyin: jiù
• Literal Meaning: old, former, past
• Primary Meaning: The word "旧" primarily means "old" or "used" in contrast to "new." It can also refer to something from the past, a former state, or a previous relationship.

2. In-depth Explanation

• Context and Usage:
• "旧" is commonly used to describe objects that are not new (e.g., 旧书 - old book).
• It can refer to past times or former conditions (e.g., 旧社会 - old society).
• In relationships, it can imply a long-standing connection (e.g., 老朋友 - old friend).

• Unlike "老" (lǎo), which can also mean "old" but often emphasizes age or respect, "旧" focuses more on the state of being used or no longer new.

• Character Breakdown:

• "旧" is a single-character word, but its structure includes the radical "丨" (a vertical stroke) and the component "日" (rì, meaning "sun" or "day"), hinting at the passage of time.

3. Example Sentences

1. Chinese: 这本书很旧了。
   Pinyin: Zhè běn shū hěn jiù le.
   English: This book is very old.

2. Chinese: 他住在旧房子里。
   Pinyin: Tā zhù zài jiù fángzi lǐ.
   English: He lives in an old house.

3. Chinese: 我们怀念旧时光。
   Pinyin: Wǒmen huáiniàn jiù shíguāng.
   English: We miss the old days.

Cultural Notes

• In Chinese culture, "旧" can carry nostalgic or sentimental value, especially when referring to traditions or memories.
• The phrase "旧的不去，新的不来" (jiù de bù qù, xīn de bù lái) translates to "If the old doesn’t go, the new won’t come," reflecting a pragmatic attitude toward change.

Conclusion

"旧" (jiù) is a versatile word meaning "old" or "former," used for objects, times, and relationships. Remember it contrasts with "新" (xīn, "new") and carries cultural nuances of nostalgia or practicality. Practice with the examples to master its usage!