Understanding "降低" - Chinese Word Explanation

1. Basic Information

• Word: 降低
• Pinyin: jiàng dī
• Literal Meaning: "Descend" (降) + "Low" (低) = "to lower" or "to reduce"
• Primary Meaning: To decrease, reduce, or bring down (e.g., levels, prices, standards).

2. In-depth Explanation

Context and Usage

"降低" is a verb used to describe the action of making something lesser in quantity, quality, or degree. It is commonly used in both formal and informal contexts, such as:
- Economics: Reducing prices, costs, or taxes.
- Health: Lowering blood pressure or cholesterol.
- Technology: Decreasing energy consumption or noise levels.

Nuances:
- It implies an intentional or controlled reduction (unlike words like "减少," which can also imply natural decline).
- Often paired with abstract nouns (e.g., 降低风险 jiàng dī fēng xiǎn, "reduce risk").

Character Breakdown

• 降 (jiàng): Means "to descend," "to fall," or "to lower."
• 低 (dī): Means "low" or "to lower." Together, they emphasize the act of bringing something down.

3. Example Sentences

1. Chinese: 公司决定降低产品价格。
   Pinyin: Gōngsī juédìng jiàngdī chǎnpǐn jiàgé.
   English: The company decided to reduce the product price.

2. Chinese: 运动可以帮助降低血压。
   Pinyin: Yùndòng kěyǐ bāngzhù jiàngdī xuèyā.
   English: Exercise can help lower blood pressure.

3. Chinese: 政府采取措施降低污染。
   Pinyin: Zhèngfǔ cǎiqǔ cuòshī jiàngdī wūrǎn.
   English: The government took measures to reduce pollution.

Cultural Notes

• In Chinese business culture, "降低" is often used in negotiations to discuss cost-cutting or compromises.
• Environmental policies in China frequently highlight "降低碳排放" (jiàng dī tàn páifàng, "reduce carbon emissions"), reflecting national sustainability goals.

Conclusion

"降低" (jiàng dī) is a versatile verb meaning "to reduce" or "to lower," often used for intentional decreases in quantity or quality. Remember its characters 降 (descend) and 低 (low) to grasp its meaning easily. Practice with the examples to master its usage!