对称
duìchèn
The Chinese word for "symmetrical" is 对称 (duìchèn).
对称 is used to describe something that exhibits symmetry. You can also use related forms to change the meaning: adding the suffix 性 creates the abstract noun 对称性, which means "symmetry".
Meaning: exhibiting symmetry (adj)
Is it said differently in some regions?
In Hong Kong, the term 對稱 is used to describe something that is symmetrical. In Macau, the term 對稱的 is used.
How does it change in a sentence?
To use the word as an adjective to describe a noun, such as "a symmetrical pattern", you can add the particle 的 after 对称 to form 对称的.
How do you pronounce it?
duìchèn
Did you know?
- In the context of Chinese calligraphy, perfect 对称 is often avoided in favor of 'dynamic balance'. Professional calligraphers believe that absolute symmetry makes a piece of art feel lifeless or 'dead'.
- In traditional Chinese architecture, 对称 is considered a physical manifestation of order and social hierarchy. The most symmetrical buildings were historically reserved for the emperor to symbolize his central role in the universe.
- The character 对 (duì) is also the word for 'correct' or 'right', meaning that symmetry in Chinese literally carries the connotation of being 'correctly matched'.
Examples in context
- 这幅画的两侧是对称的。Both sides of this painting are symmetrical.
- 这双鞋子看起来很对称的。These shoes look very symmetrical.
- 這間建築物非常對稱。This building is very symmetrical.
- 这个图形是对称的。This shape is symmetrical.
- 这两片叶子很对称。Zhè liǎng piàn yèzi hěn duìchèn.These two leaves are very symmetrical.
- 这个图案非常对称。Zhège tú'àn fēicháng duìchèn.This pattern is very symmetrical.
- 我喜欢这种对称的设计。Wǒ xǐhuān zhè zhǒng duìchèn de shèjì.I like this kind of symmetrical design.
Example conversation
Yuting and Haoran are looking at a piece of modern art in a gallery.
- 雨婷 Yuting这个雕塑很对称，对吧？Zhège diāosù hěn duìchèn, duì ba?This sculpture is very symmetrical, right?
- 浩然 Haoran是的，看起来很完美。Shì de, kàn qǐlái hěn wánměi.Yes, it looks perfect.
- 雨婷 Yuting我喜欢这种感觉。Wǒ xǐhuān zhè zhǒng gǎnjué.I like this feeling.
- 浩然 Haoran我也觉得很美。Wǒ yě juédé hěn měi.I also think it is beautiful.
