Understanding "白色" - Chinese Word Explanation

1. Basic Information

• Word: 白色
• Pinyin: bái sè
• Literal Meaning: "white color"
• Primary Meaning: The color white; often used to describe objects, emotions, or symbolic meanings associated with whiteness.

2. In-depth Explanation

Context and Usage

"白色" is a common term used to describe the color white in everyday contexts, such as clothing, objects, or nature (e.g., snow, clouds). It can also carry symbolic meanings in Chinese culture, representing purity, cleanliness, or even mourning (in some contexts, like funerals).

In modern slang, "白色" might appear in phrases like "白色污染" (bái sè wū rǎn, "white pollution"), referring to plastic waste, due to the color of many disposable plastic products.

Character Breakdown

• 白 (bái): Means "white" or "clear." It can also imply "plain" or "unadulterated."
• 色 (sè): Means "color" or "appearance." Together, "白色" directly translates to "white color."

3. Example Sentences

1. Chinese: 她穿了一件白色的裙子。
   Pinyin: Tā chuān le yī jiàn bái sè de qúnzi.
   English: She is wearing a white dress.

2. Chinese: 冬天的雪是白色的。
   Pinyin: Dōngtiān de xuě shì bái sè de.
   English: The snow in winter is white.

3. Chinese: 白色在中国传统文化中象征纯洁。
   Pinyin: Bái sè zài Zhōngguó chuántǒng wénhuà zhōng xiàngzhēng chúnjié.
   English: In traditional Chinese culture, white symbolizes purity.

Cultural Notes

In Chinese culture, white has dual symbolism:
- Positive: Purity, innocence, and simplicity (e.g., bridal dresses in modern weddings).
- Negative: Associated with mourning and funerals (traditionally, white is worn to funerals, unlike Western cultures where black is common).

Additionally, white is one of the five traditional colors in Chinese philosophy (along with black, red, green, and yellow), representing the element of metal and the direction west.

Conclusion

"白色" (bái sè) is a straightforward term for the color white but carries rich cultural connotations. Remember its dual symbolism—both purity and mourning—and practice using it in descriptive sentences to master its usage.