Understanding "电视" - Chinese Word Explanation

1. Basic Information

• Word: 电视
• Pinyin: diànshì
• Literal Meaning: "Electric vision"
• Primary Meaning: Television (the device or the medium of broadcasting)

2. In-depth Explanation

Context and Usage

The word "电视" is used in Mandarin Chinese to refer to both the physical television set and the content broadcasted on it (e.g., TV shows, news). It is a neutral term and can be used in formal and informal contexts. For example:
- Watching TV: 看电视 (kàn diànshì)
- Buying a TV: 买电视 (mǎi diànshì)
- TV program: 电视节目 (diànshì jiémù)

Character Breakdown

• 电 (diàn): Means "electricity" or "electric."
• 视 (shì): Means "vision," "sight," or "to look at."
  Together, they form "electric vision," which logically translates to "television."

3. Example Sentences

1. Chinese: 我每天晚上都看电视。
   Pinyin: Wǒ měi tiān wǎnshang dōu kàn diànshì.
   English: I watch TV every evening.

2. Chinese: 这台电视很贵。
   Pinyin: Zhè tái diànshì hěn guì.
   English: This television is very expensive.

3. Chinese: 你喜欢看什么电视节目？
   Pinyin: Nǐ xǐhuān kàn shénme diànshì jiémù?
   English: What kind of TV shows do you like to watch?

Cultural Notes

Television has played a significant role in modern Chinese culture, especially since the 1980s when it became widely accessible. State-run channels like CCTV (China Central Television) are influential in news and entertainment. Popular TV genres include historical dramas, variety shows, and news programs. Streaming platforms are now competing with traditional TV, but "电视" remains a commonly used term.

Conclusion

"电视" (diànshì) is a straightforward yet essential word in Chinese, referring to both the television set and its content. Remember its characters: 电 (electric) + 视 (vision) = "television." Use it in sentences like 看电视 (watch TV) or 买电视 (buy a TV) to practice!