Understanding "实验" - Chinese Word Explanation

1. Basic Information

• Word: 实验
• Pinyin: shí yàn
• Literal Meaning: "实" (shí) means "real" or "actual," and "验" (yàn) means "test" or "verify." Together, they form "actual test."
• Primary Meaning: "Experiment" or "practical test," referring to a scientific or hands-on trial to verify a hypothesis or learn something new.

2. In-depth Explanation

Context and Usage

"实验" is commonly used in academic, scientific, and everyday contexts to describe experiments or practical tests. It emphasizes the process of testing or verifying something through action, often in a controlled setting (e.g., in a lab). Unlike "试验" (shì yàn), which can imply a trial run or preliminary test, "实验" usually refers to a formal or systematic experiment.

Character Breakdown

• 实 (shí): Real, actual, solid.
• 验 (yàn): To test, examine, or verify.
  Together, they convey the idea of "testing something in reality."

3. Example Sentences

1. Chinese: 我们在化学课上做了一个有趣的实验。
   Pinyin: Wǒmen zài huàxué kè shàng zuò le yīgè yǒuqù de shíyàn.
   English: We conducted an interesting experiment in chemistry class.

2. Chinese: 这个实验证明了光的波动性。
   Pinyin: Zhège shíyàn zhèngmíng le guāng de bōdòng xìng.
   English: This experiment demonstrated the wave nature of light.

3. Chinese: 孩子们喜欢做简单的科学实验。
   Pinyin: Háizimen xǐhuān zuò jiǎndān de kēxué shíyàn.
   English: Children enjoy doing simple science experiments.

Cultural Notes

In Chinese education, "实验" is a key part of STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) learning. Many schools have "实验班" (shíyàn bān, "experimental classes") for advanced students. The word reflects China's emphasis on practical, hands-on learning in scientific fields.

Conclusion

"实验" (shí yàn) is a versatile word meaning "experiment" or "practical test," rooted in the idea of verifying reality. Remember it by breaking it down: "实" (real) + "验" (test) = "real test." Use it for scientific, academic, or everyday testing contexts!