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    Chinese Grammar

    Understanding the noun 动物 (dòngwù) for 'animal'

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    Explanation

    动物 (dòngwù) means "animal" and is the standard general term for all animals in Chinese. It combines 动 (to move) and 物 (thing/creature), literally "moving thing." Related terms include 动物园 (dòngwùyuán, "zoo") and 野生动物 (yěshēng dòngwù, "wild animal").

    Examples

    • 孩子们在动物园里看到了大象和长颈鹿。

      háizimen zài dòngwùyuán lǐ kàn dào le dàxiàng hé chángjǐnglù.

      The children saw elephants and giraffes at the zoo.

    • 猫和狗是最常见的家养动物。

      māo hé gǒu shì zuì chángjiàn de jiāyǎng dòngwù.

      Cats and dogs are the most common domestic animals.

    • 保护野生动物是每个人的责任。

      bǎohù yěshēng dòngwù shì měi gè rén de zérèn.

      Protecting wild animals is everyone's responsibility.

    Understanding the noun 动物 (dòngwù) for 'animal' | Chinese Grammar