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日记 — meaning in English: diary

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

Guess the translation for diary
指挥官
zhǐhuī guān
日记
rìjì
街头
jiētóu
科学家
kēxuéjiā
侧面
cèmiàn
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informal very common
Usage
Native speakers often use the word 日记 (rìjì) in casual settings, such as when discussing their daily experiences with friends or family. For example, a student might share their 日记 entries during a language exchange, or a parent may read their child's 日记 to understand their thoughts more deeply.
Synonyms & nuances
A close synonym for 日记 is 记录 (jìlù), which means 'to record' and can refer to any type of written account. However, 日记 specifically implies a personal and private reflection, making it more intimate than 记录, which could refer to more formal notes or logs.
Culture
The term 日记 (rìjì) is composed of two characters: 日 (rì), meaning 'day,' and 记 (jì), meaning 'to record.' This combination reflects a practice that has been culturally significant in China for centuries, akin to keeping a personal journal. Historically, diaries were a way for scholars to document their thoughts and experiences, providing a window into the lives of individuals across different eras.
FAQ
Q.What does 日记 mean in English?
日记 (rìjì) translates to 'diary' in English, referring to a personal record of daily events and thoughts.
Q.How do I use 日记 in a sentence?
You might say, '我每天写日记' (Wǒ měitiān xiě rìjì), which means 'I write in my diary every day.'
Q.Are there any common mistakes with the word 日记?
A common mistake is confusing 日记 with 日志 (rìzhì), which means 'log' or 'journal' and is often used in more formal contexts. Remember, 日记 refers specifically to personal diary entries.
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Chinese (Mandarin) 2000