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隧道 — meaning in English: tunnel

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

Guess the translation for tunnel
比赛
bǐsài
基督教
jīdūjiào
视图
shìtú
的支持者
de zhīchí zhě
隧道
suìdào
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neutral common
Usage
The word 隧道 (suìdào) is commonly used in contexts related to transportation, construction, and urban planning. For example, when discussing the construction of a new subway line in a city, a native speaker might say, 'The 隧道 will connect these two neighborhoods.' It's also used in casual conversations about traveling through a tunnel while driving or biking.
Synonyms & nuances
A close synonym for 隧道 is 通道 (tōngdào), which translates to 'passage' or 'channel.' However, 隧道 specifically refers to underground tunnels, while 通道 can also refer to above-ground pathways. You would choose 隧道 when emphasizing the underground nature of the passage.
Culture
The word 隧道 has an interesting etymology, where 隧 (suì) means 'to tunnel through' and 道 (dào) means 'way' or 'path.' This reflects the functionality of a tunnel as a passageway beneath the earth. Tunnels have played a significant role in Chinese history, especially during the construction of railways and roads that connect remote regions, showcasing human ingenuity in overcoming natural barriers.
FAQ
Q.What is the correct pronunciation of 隧道?
The word 隧道 is pronounced as suìdào, where 'suì' has a falling tone, and 'dào' has a falling tone as well. Practice saying it slowly to get the tone right!
Q.How do you use 隧道 in a sentence?
You can use 隧道 in sentences like, '我们通过隧道到达了对面' (Wǒmen tōngguò suìdào dàodàle duìmiàn), which means 'We reached the other side through the tunnel.'
Q.Are there any common mistakes with using 隧道?
One common mistake is confusing 隧道 with other types of pathways. Remember that 隧道 specifically refers to tunnels, while other synonyms might imply different types of routes.
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