Chinese Grammar Reference logo

    Chinese Grammar

    Referring to an elephant with 大象 (dàxiàng)

    Description & Modification

    Explanation

    The noun 大象 (dàxiàng) means "elephant." It combines 大 (big) with 象 (elephant), literally meaning "big elephant." It is the standard word for referring to elephants in everyday Chinese.

    Examples

    • 动物园里的大象正在用鼻子喷水玩。

      Dòngwùyuán lǐ de dàxiàng zhèngzài yòng bízi pēn shuǐ wán.

      The elephant at the zoo is spraying water with its trunk for fun.

    • 非洲大象是陆地上最大的动物。

      Fēizhōu dàxiàng shì lùdì shàng zuì dà de dòngwù.

      The African elephant is the largest animal on land.

    • 小朋友们围着大象兴奋地拍照。

      Xiǎo péngyoumen wéizhe dàxiàng xīngfèn de pāizhào.

      The children gathered around the elephant, excitedly taking photos.

    Referring to an elephant with 大象 (dàxiàng) | Chinese Grammar