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    Chinese Grammar

    Referring to "life" with 生命 (shēngmìng)

    Existence & Possession

    Explanation

    生命 (shēngmìng) means life, referring to the state of being alive or a living existence. It is used in both concrete and abstract contexts, such as saving a life (挽救生命) or discussing the meaning of life. It is more formal than 命 alone.

    Examples

    • 每一个生命都是宝贵的。

      měi yí ge shēngmìng dōu shì bǎoguì de.

      Every life is precious.

    • 音乐给了她的生命新的意义。

      yīnyuè gěi le tā de shēngmìng xīn de yìyì.

      Music gave her life new meaning.

    • 这场事故夺走了三条生命。

      zhè chǎng shìgù duózǒu le sān tiáo shēngmìng.

      This accident took three lives.

    Often Confused With