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    Chinese Grammar

    Expressing "heavy" or "somber" with 沉重 (chénzhòng)

    Degree & Intensity
    Description & Modification

    Structure

    沉重 + 的 + Noun

    Explanation

    The adjective 沉重 (chénzhòng) means "heavy" in a physical sense, but it is also widely used to describe a somber, weighty emotional state. When describing feelings, 沉重 conveys gravity or heaviness of heart. For example, 沉重的心情 means "a heavy mood" or "a somber state of mind."

    Examples

    • 听到这个坏消息，他的心情非常沉重。

      Tīng dào zhège huài xiāoxī, tā de xīnqíng fēicháng chénzhòng.

      Upon hearing the bad news, he felt very heavy-hearted.

    • 这个箱子太沉重了，我搬不动。

      Zhège xiāngzi tài chénzhòng le, wǒ bān bù dòng.

      This box is too heavy; I can't move it.

    • 她迈着沉重的脚步走出了办公室。

      Tā mài zhe chénzhòng de jiǎobù zǒu chū le bàngōngshì.

      She walked out of the office with heavy steps.

    Often Confused With

    Expressing "heavy" or "somber" with 沉重 (chénzhòng) | Chinese Grammar