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中文
章 — meaning in English: chapter
zhāng · Learn this word with quizzes, examples and more on Maspeak.
Guess the translation for
chapter
吸引力
xīyǐn lì
容量
róngliàng
章
zhāng
飞行
fēixíng
工艺
gōngyì
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neutral
common
Usage
Native Mandarin speakers commonly use 章 (zhāng) when discussing books, essays, or reports, specifically to refer to chapters or sections within these texts. For instance, a student might say, 'In the first 章, the author introduces the main themes of the story.' This word is also used in formal settings, such as academic discussions or literary analyses.
Synonyms & nuances
While 章 (zhāng) specifically refers to 'chapters' in a book or document, it can be contrasted with 篇 (piān), which means 'piece' or 'article.' The choice between these terms often depends on the context; use 章 when emphasizing sequential segments like chapters in a novel, and 篇 when referring to standalone articles or essays.
Culture
The character 章 (zhāng) originally depicted a type of seal or emblem, symbolizing something official or significant. This connection to authority has evolved to encompass not just chapters in books, but also sections of formal documents, reflecting the importance of structured communication in Chinese culture. Interestingly, the word can also refer to a 'badge' or 'insignia,' adding layers to its contextual usage.
FAQ
