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— meaning in English: door

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

Guess the translation for gate
步伐
bùfá
hǎo
mén
完成
wánchéng
时尚
shíshàng
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neutral very common
Usage
Native speakers use the word 门 (mén) in various everyday situations, such as when they are talking about entering or exiting a building. For example, one might say '请关门' (qǐng guān mén) meaning 'Please close the door' when entering a room or home. It’s commonly used in both casual conversations and more formal settings, such as in business or school environments.
Synonyms & nuances
A close synonym for 门 (mén) is 窗 (chuāng), which means 'window.' While both are openings, 门 specifically refers to doors that allow entry and exit, whereas 窗 refers to openings that provide light and air but do not serve as entry points. You would use 门 when discussing access, while 窗 is used when discussing ventilation or views.
Culture
The character 门 (mén) is not just a physical door; it holds significant cultural meaning in Chinese society. Traditionally, doors are seen as gateways to new opportunities, and they often represent a transition from one state to another. The concept of doors is also prominent in Chinese architecture, where they are designed to symbolize prosperity and protection from negative energy.
FAQ
Q.What is the pronunciation of 门 in Mandarin?
门 is pronounced as 'mén' with a rising tone. It's important to get the tone right as it can change the meaning in Mandarin.
Q.How do you use 门 in a sentence?
You can use 门 in a sentence like '门在哪里?' (mén zài nǎlǐ?), which means 'Where is the door?' This is a common question when entering unfamiliar places.
Q.Are there any common phrases that include 门?
Yes, there are several phrases. One common example is '开门' (kāi mén), meaning 'open the door,' and '关门' (guān mén), meaning 'close the door.' These phrases are frequently used in daily conversations.
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