Chinese Grammar Reference logo

    Chinese Grammar

    Expressing 'raw' or 'to grow' with 生 (shēng)

    Actions & Events
    Existence & Possession

    Explanation

    The word 生 (shēng) can mean 'raw,' 'to be born,' 'to grow,' or 'life.' It is extremely versatile and appears in many common words and classical expressions. In poetry, 同根生 means 'born from the same root,' using 生 in its sense of being born or coming into existence.

    Examples

    • 这条鱼是生的，不能直接吃。

      zhè tiáo yú shì shēng de, bù néng zhíjiē chī.

      This fish is raw and cannot be eaten directly.

    • 春天一到，院子里的花都生出了新芽。

      chūntiān yí dào, yuànzi lǐ de huā dōu shēng chū le xīn yá.

      As soon as spring arrives, the flowers in the yard sprout new buds.

    • 他在农村出生长大。

      tā zài nóngcūn chūshēng zhǎngdà.

      He was born and raised in the countryside.

    Similar Grammar

    Often Confused With

    Expressing 'raw' or 'to grow' with 生 (shēng) | Chinese Grammar