代价: meaning, pinyin, and usage

Title: Understanding "代价" - Chinese Word Explanation

1. Basic Information

• Word: 代价
• Pinyin: dàijià
• Literal Meaning: “substitute/replace” + “price/value”
• Primary Meaning: cost; price; sacrifice; the price one pays for something

2. In-depth Explanation

• Context and Usage:
  代价 is used to describe the “price” or “cost” of achieving, obtaining, or doing something. It often does not refer to money directly. Instead, it commonly means a sacrifice, consequence, or loss that must be accepted in exchange for something.

In English, 代价 can often be translated as:
- “cost”
- “price”
- “sacrifice”
- “consequence”
- “the price to pay”

For example, if someone becomes successful but loses their health or personal relationships, Chinese speakers may say they “paid a great 代价.”

A common phrase is:

付出代价
fùchū dàijià
“to pay a price” / “to make a sacrifice”

Another common phrase is:

沉重的代价
chénzhòng de dàijià
“a heavy price” / “a serious cost”

代价 is usually used in serious or meaningful contexts. It often emphasizes that something valuable was lost or sacrificed.

• Character Breakdown:
  代 means “to replace,” “to substitute,” or “on behalf of.” It can also relate to exchange or taking the place of something.
  价 means “price” or “value.” It is also seen in words related to cost, value, and evaluation.

Together, 代价 suggests the “price exchanged” for something, especially the cost or sacrifice required to achieve a result.

3. Example Sentences

• Chinese: 他为了成功付出了很大的代价。
• Pinyin: Tā wèile chénggōng fùchūle hěn dà de dàijià.

• English: He paid a great price for success.

• Chinese: 这场战争让人民付出了沉重的代价。

• Pinyin: Zhè chǎng zhànzhēng ràng rénmín fùchūle chénzhòng de dàijià.

• English: This war made the people pay a heavy price.

• Chinese: 如果你不注意健康，将来可能会付出代价。

• Pinyin: Rúguǒ nǐ bù zhùyì jiànkāng, jiānglái kěnéng huì fùchū dàijià.
• English: If you do not pay attention to your health, you may pay the price in the future.

Cultural Notes (if applicable)

In Chinese, 代价 is often used in moral, social, historical, or personal reflection. It appears frequently in discussions about success, war, development, environmental damage, health, and relationships.

For example, people may discuss whether rapid economic development came with an environmental 代价, meaning an environmental cost. Similarly, someone may say that chasing wealth at the expense of family requires a 代价.

The word often carries a serious tone. It reminds listeners that every gain may involve some kind of loss or sacrifice.

Conclusion

代价 means the cost, price, or sacrifice paid for something. It is often used beyond money, especially when talking about consequences or losses. To remember it, think of 代价 as “the price one must pay” for a choice, action, or result.