neutral
very common
Usage
Native speakers of Mandarin often use the word 女人 (nǚrén) in everyday conversations to refer to women in general, such as when discussing topics related to gender roles or women’s issues. For example, one might say, "这个女人很聪明" (This woman is very smart) in both casual settings and formal discussions.
Synonyms & nuances
While 女人 (nǚrén) is the standard term for 'woman', another synonym is 妇女 (fùnǚ), which often refers to women in a more formal or collective sense, particularly in discussions of women's rights or social issues. You would use 女人 in everyday conversation, while 妇女 might arise in more formal contexts or discussions.
Culture
The character 女人 (nǚrén) combines 女 (nǚ), meaning 'female' or 'woman', and 人 (rén), meaning 'person'. This construction reflects the essential role women play within society. Historically, the perception of women in China has evolved greatly, moving from traditional roles to more empowered positions, showcasing a significant cultural shift in gender dynamics.
FAQ
Q.What is the pronunciation of 女人?
女人 is pronounced as nǚrén, with the first character having a rising tone and the second character having a flat tone. It's important to practice the tones to convey the correct meaning.
Q.Are there any phrases that use 女人?
Yes, phrases like "女人的权利" (nǚrén de quánlì) meaning 'women's rights' are common. This highlights the importance of women in discussions about equality and empowerment.
Q.Is 女人 used to refer to girls as well?
No, 女人 specifically refers to adult women. For girls, you would use 女孩 (nǚhái), which denotes a younger female. It's essential to choose the right term based on age.