Understanding "转发" - Chinese Word Explanation

1. Basic Information

• Word: 转发
• Pinyin: zhuǎn fā
• Literal Meaning: "Turn/send + send/issue"
• Primary Meaning: To forward, repost, or share (content, especially online).

2. In-depth Explanation

Context and Usage

"转发" is commonly used in digital communication to describe the action of sharing content (e.g., messages, posts, articles) from one platform or person to another. It is widely used on social media (WeChat, Weibo), email, and messaging apps. Unlike "分享" (to share), "转发" emphasizes the act of passing along existing content without significant modification.

Character Breakdown

• 转 (zhuǎn): Means "to turn," "to transfer," or "to forward."
• 发 (fā): Means "to send," "to issue," or "to publish."
  Together, they form a verb meaning "to forward/send onward."

3. Example Sentences

1. Chinese: 请转发这条消息给你的朋友。
   Pinyin: Qǐng zhuǎnfā zhè tiáo xiāoxi gěi nǐ de péngyou.
   English: Please forward this message to your friends.

2. Chinese: 她在微博上转发了一篇有趣的文章。
   Pinyin: Tā zài Wēibó shàng zhuǎnfāle yī piān yǒuqù de wénzhāng.
   English: She reposted an interesting article on Weibo.

3. Chinese: 不要随意转发未经证实的新闻。
   Pinyin: Bùyào suíyì zhuǎnfā wèi jīng zhèngshí de xīnwén.
   English: Don’t casually forward unverified news.

Cultural Notes

In China, "转发" is a key feature of online interaction, reflecting the culture of collective information sharing. However, due to strict internet regulations, users are often reminded to avoid forwarding unverified or sensitive content. On platforms like WeChat, "转发" can also symbolize social endorsement (e.g., forwarding a friend’s business ad to show support).

Conclusion

"转发" (zhuǎn fā) is a practical verb for digital communication, meaning "to forward" or "repost." Remember it as "turning and sending" content onward. Use it when sharing posts, messages, or articles in Chinese online spaces!