声音 — meaning in English: sound

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

Guess the translation for voice

健康

jiànkāng

地图

dìtú

总和

zǒnghé

声音

shēngyīn

线索

xiànsuǒ

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neutral very common

Usage

Native speakers often use the word 声音 in everyday conversations to describe sounds in various contexts, such as music, nature, or during discussions about technology. For instance, someone might say, '这首歌的声音很动人' (The sound of this song is very moving) when discussing a favorite track.

Synonyms & nuances

A close synonym for 声音 is 噪音 (zàoyīn), which specifically refers to noise, often in a negative context. While 声音 can refer to any sound, 噪音 usually implies an unwanted or disruptive sound. Therefore, in a situation where you want to appreciate a pleasant sound, 声音 would be the appropriate choice.

Culture

The character 声 (shēng) means 'voice' or 'sound,' while 音 (yīn) refers specifically to 'tone' or 'noise.' Together, 声音 encapsulates a broad spectrum of auditory experiences. In Chinese culture, sound plays a significant role in art and literature, often symbolizing emotions or aspects of nature, such as a gentle breeze or a thunderous storm.

FAQ

Q.What is the pronunciation of 声音?

声 (shēng) is pronounced with a high level tone, and 音 (yīn) is pronounced with a rising tone. Together, they form the word 声音, which means 'sound.'

Q.Can 声音 be used in a formal context?

Yes, 声音 is versatile and can be used in both formal and informal settings. For example, in a presentation, you might discuss the 声音 of different musical instruments.

Q.Are there any common mistakes when using 声音?

Learners might confuse 声音 with other sound-related words like 噪音. Remember that 声音 is neutral and positive, while 噪音 often carries negative connotations.

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