消费 — meaning in English: consumption

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

Guess the translation for consumption

消费

xiāofèi

经销商

jīngxiāo shāng

损失

sǔnshī

空间

kōngjiān

模式

móshì

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neutral common

Usage

Native speakers often use '消费' (xiāofèi) in discussions about shopping, dining out, or when talking about economic policies. For instance, in a conversation about the rising costs of living, someone might say, '我们的消费水平在不断提高,' meaning 'Our consumption level is continuously rising.'

Synonyms & nuances

'消费' primarily refers to consumption in an economic context, while '消耗' (xiāohào) connotes a more physical depletion, such as resources or energy. You would choose '消费' when discussing economic behaviors, whereas '消耗' is better for discussing the usage of materials or energy.

Culture

'消费' has roots in the traditional Chinese economic framework, reflecting the importance of consumption in a rapidly modernizing society. The term gained prominence in the late 20th century as China opened up its economy, and it is often associated with the burgeoning middle class and their increasing purchasing power.

FAQ

Q.What does 消费 mean in English?

'消费' translates to 'consumption' in English, referring to the act of using goods and services, typically in an economic context.

Q.How do you use 消费 in a sentence?

You can use '消费' in sentences like, '这家餐厅的消费很高,' meaning 'The consumption at this restaurant is high.' It's commonly used in conversations about spending and economic activities.

Q.Are there common mistakes when using 消费?

A common mistake is using '消费' interchangeably with '购物' (gòuwù), which means 'shopping.' Remember, '消费' encompasses a broader concept of consumption, not just the act of buying.

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