地狱 — meaning in English: hell

dìyù · Learn this word with quizzes, examples and more on Maspeak.

Guess the translation for hell

地狱

dìyù

福利

fúlì

狩猎

shòuliè

外观

wàiguān

联赛

liánsài

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neutral common

Usage

Native speakers often use 地狱 (dìyù) in discussions about morality, religion, or when expressing frustration or disappointment in a metaphorical sense. For example, someone might say, '这件事情真像地狱' (This situation is really like hell) during a particularly tough meeting.

Synonyms & nuances

A close synonym is 恶地 (èdì), which refers to a place of suffering but carries a more poetic and literary tone. 地狱 (dìyù) is more commonly used in everyday speech, while 恶地 (èdì) might appear in classical texts or discussions of literature.

Culture

The word 地狱 (dìyù) literally translates to 'earth prison,' reflecting traditional Chinese beliefs about the afterlife where souls undergo punishment for their sins. In Buddhism and Taoism, the concept of hell serves as a cautionary tale about morality, shaping its use in both literature and daily conversations.

FAQ

Q.What does 地狱 (dìyù) mean in English?

地狱 (dìyù) translates to 'hell' in English, referring to a place of punishment in various religious beliefs, especially in Buddhism and Taoism.

Q.How do you use 地狱 (dìyù) in a sentence?

You can use 地狱 (dìyù) in a sentence like, '他觉得工作像地狱' (He feels that work is like hell) to express extreme stress or dissatisfaction.

Q.Are there any common mistakes when using 地狱 (dìyù)?

A common mistake is using 地狱 (dìyù) literally in non-religious contexts. It's often used metaphorically to convey frustration, so ensure the context is appropriate.

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