Understanding "搜索" - Chinese Word Explanation

1. Basic Information

• Word: 搜索
• Pinyin: sōu suǒ
• Literal Meaning: "Search and seek"
• Primary Meaning: To search, look up, or scan (often used in digital or investigative contexts).

2. In-depth Explanation

Context and Usage

"搜索" is commonly used in both everyday and technical contexts, particularly related to searching for information, objects, or people. It can refer to:
- Online searches: Using search engines like Google or Baidu (e.g., 在百度上搜索 "sōu suǒ on Baidu").
- Physical searches: Looking for lost items or conducting investigations (e.g., 警察搜索了整栋楼 "The police searched the entire building").
- General exploration: Scanning or examining something thoroughly.

Unlike the simpler term "找" (zhǎo, "to look for"), "搜索" implies a more systematic or extensive search.

Character Breakdown

• 搜 (sōu): Means "to search" or "to gather," often with a methodical approach.
• 索 (suǒ): Means "to seek" or "to demand," emphasizing the act of pursuing something.
  Together, they reinforce the idea of an active, thorough search.

3. Example Sentences

1. Chinese: 我在网上搜索了这家餐厅的评论。
   Pinyin: Wǒ zài wǎngshàng sōusuǒle zhè jiā cāntīng de pínglùn.
   English: I searched online for reviews of this restaurant.

2. Chinese: 警察正在搜索失踪的孩子。
   Pinyin: Jǐngchá zhèngzài sōusuǒ shīzōng de háizi.
   English: The police are searching for the missing child.

3. Chinese: 他用手机搜索了那个单词的意思。
   Pinyin: Tā yòng shǒujī sōusuǒle nàge dāncí de yìsi.
   English: He used his phone to look up the meaning of that word.

Cultural Notes

• Digital Culture: "搜索" is heavily associated with China's tech-savvy culture, where platforms like Baidu dominate online searches.
• Historical Context: The term has military origins (e.g., "搜索敌人" "search for enemies") but is now more commonly used in civilian life.

Conclusion

"搜索" (sōu suǒ) is a versatile word meaning "to search," often used for digital queries or systematic investigations. Remember it by breaking it down: 搜 (search) + 索 (seek) = a thorough hunt for information or objects. Try using it next time you look something up online!