天使 — meaning in English: angel

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

Guess the translation for angel

工人

gōngrén

公式

gōngshì

官方

guānfāng

建设

jiànshè

天使

tiānshǐ

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neutral common

Usage

Native speakers often use the word 天使 (tiānshǐ) in religious or spiritual conversations, especially when discussing concepts of goodness and protection. For example, it might come up in a context where someone shares a touching story of kindness or support, likening a person to an 'angel' for their selfless actions.

Synonyms & nuances

A close synonym is 使者 (shǐzhě), which translates to 'messenger.' However, 使者 can refer to any kind of messenger, while 天使 specifically conveys a spiritual or benevolent connotation, making it more appropriate in contexts that emphasize virtue and kindness.

Culture

The character 天 (tiān) means 'heaven' and 使 (shǐ) means 'messenger' or 'to make use of,' which together perfectly embody the idea of an angel as a heavenly messenger. In Chinese culture, 天使 (tiānshǐ) is not only used in religious contexts but also in everyday life, such as referring to someone who provides help or support during tough times, akin to a metaphorical angel.

FAQ

Q.What is the literal meaning of 天使 in English?

The literal translation of 天使 (tiānshǐ) is 'heavenly messenger,' which reflects its connotation in both religious and metaphorical contexts.

Q.How do I use 天使 in a sentence?

You can use 天使 (tiānshǐ) in a sentence like, '她是我的天使' (Tā shì wǒ de tiānshǐ), meaning 'She is my angel,' to express gratitude for someone's help or kindness.

Q.Are there any common mistakes when using the word 天使?

A common mistake is to use 天使 (tiānshǐ) in casual or sarcastic contexts where it might not be appropriate. Ensure that the tone is sincere when referring to someone as an angel to avoid misunderstandings.

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