Meanings of 毁灭
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About 毁灭
Podcast: 毁灭
Podcast: 毁灭
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AI Study Notes for 毁灭
毁坏 (huǐhuài) refers to causing damage or destruction but does not imply total annihilation like 毁灭 (huǐmiè) does.
Imagine a huge meteor (the character 毁) crashing down and causing a massive explosion (灭) that wipes out everything in its path. The visual of destruction helps you remember that 毁灭 means 'to destroy' or 'to perish'.
This term is often used in serious contexts, so avoid using it in casual conversation. Be cautious with its tone, as it can sound overly dramatic if misused. Common collocations include 毁灭人类 (huǐmiè rénlèi - to destroy humanity) and 毁灭战争 (huǐmiè zhànzhēng - to end a war).
As an HSK 6 word, 毁灭 connects with other advanced vocabulary related to destruction and disaster, such as 灭绝 (mièjué - to become extinct) and 破坏 (pòhuài - to damage). Focus on its usage in literary and formal contexts.
In Chinese culture, the concept of 毁灭 is often tied to discussions about environmental destruction and the consequences of war, reflecting a deep concern for nature and humanity's survival.
Learners often confuse 毁灭 with 破坏 (pòhuài), using them interchangeably. For example, saying '这场战争破坏了城市' (This war destroyed the city) should use 毁灭 instead to emphasize total destruction: '这场战争毁灭了城市'.
Pronunciation of 毁灭
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Component Characters
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Grammar Patterns of 毁灭
毁灭 functions as a verb — the action or state of the sentence. The Chinese order is Subject + Verb + Object (我吃饭). Negate it with 不 (habitual / future) or 没(有) (completed action). Add aspect markers like 了, 过, 着 directly after the verb. It carries 3 related meanings, each with its own usage notes below. The example sentences below show it in action, with practice buttons (Listen, Practice Writing, Practice Speaking) on every line.
Complete the Sentence
马力大的汽车到了缺乏经验的司机手中便成了____性的武器。
High-powered cars are lethal weapons in the hands of inexperienced drivers.
Example Sentences for 毁灭 (3)
Cultural Notes for 毁灭
In Chinese culture, the concept of 毁灭 is often tied to discussions about environmental destruction and the consequences of war, reflecting a deep concern for nature and humanity's survival.
Frequently Asked Questions about 毁灭
It's generally too strong for casual conversation; it's better suited for serious topics.