Used for bumpy rides, turbulence, and unstable periods.
Can be physical (roads) or metaphorical (life events).
Core Meaning
The word 颠簸 (diānbǒ) describes a state of being rough, uneven, and characterized by sudden movements or jolts. It's often used to describe physical experiences like traveling on a bumpy road or experiencing turbulence during a flight. It can also be used metaphorically to describe a difficult or unstable period.
Physical Sensations
Imagine being in a vehicle moving over an unpaved road with many potholes. The constant up-and-down and side-to-side movements would be described as 颠簸. This applies to cars, buses, trains, boats, and even airplanes. The feeling is one of instability and a lack of smooth motion. The word emphasizes the jarring nature of the movement.
Metaphorical Usage
Beyond physical movement, 颠簸 can describe a life or situation that is unstable, full of ups and downs, and lacks smoothness. For example, a company going through financial difficulties might be described as experiencing a 颠簸 period. Similarly, a relationship that is constantly facing problems could be said to be 颠簸. This metaphorical use highlights the lack of stability and the presence of frequent difficulties.
Context Examples
You'll hear this when discussing travel: 'The bus ride was very 颠簸 because the road was under construction.' Or about a project: 'The project faced many 颠簸 before its successful completion.' It captures the essence of a challenging, uneven journey, whether literal or figurative.
The mountain road was extremely 颠簸, making it difficult to drive.
After a period of financial 颠簸, the company is finally stable.
Adjective Usage
As an adjective, 颠簸 directly modifies nouns, describing them as bumpy or rough. For instance, a 颠簸的道路 (diānbǒ de dàolù) means a bumpy road. It can also describe a ride or journey, such as 颠簸的旅程 (diānbǒ de lǚchéng) - a bumpy journey.
Verb Usage
While primarily an adjective, 颠簸 can also function as a verb, meaning to jolt or shake. For example, 'The car was 颠簸ing over the rough terrain.' This usage emphasizes the action of causing or experiencing the jolts.
Describing Events
It's commonly used to describe the experience of travel, especially on less-than-ideal roads or in adverse weather conditions. The word conveys a sense of discomfort and instability associated with such situations. It’s a vivid word that helps paint a picture of a rough journey.
Describing Travel
The most common use of 颠簸 is to describe the physical experience of traveling in a vehicle that is moving over an uneven surface. This can include roads with potholes, gravel roads, unpaved paths, or even rough seas.
The old bus was shaking and 颠簸 all the way to the village.
We experienced some turbulence, making the flight quite 颠簸.
The ferry ride across the choppy water was very 颠簸.
Describing Objects or Surfaces
It can also be used to describe the surface itself or an object that is uneven and causes jolting.
The floor was uneven and 颠簸, making it hard to walk.
The old wooden table had a 颠簸 surface.
Metaphorical Usage for Life/Situations
When used metaphorically, 颠簸 describes a period of instability, difficulty, or rapid changes. It suggests that things are not smooth and are subject to frequent setbacks or unpredictable events.
His early career was marked by financial 颠簸.
The company has gone through a period of 颠簸 due to market fluctuations.
Their relationship was often 颠簸, with frequent arguments.
As a Verb
In some contexts, 颠簸 can be used as a verb to describe the act of shaking or jolting.
The truck's engine was making a noise as it 颠簸 down the road.
Travel Narratives
You'll frequently encounter 颠簸 when people recount their travel experiences, particularly those involving less-than-ideal transportation. Imagine a tourist sharing stories about a bus journey through rural areas with unpaved roads, or a sailor describing a rough sea voyage. They might say, 'The road to the ancient ruins was incredibly 颠簸, and we were shaking the whole time.' Or, 'The small boat ride was quite 颠簸 due to the strong waves.' This word vividly captures the physical discomfort and instability associated with such journeys.
Our flight experienced significant 颠簸 during the thunderstorm.
Discussions about Infrastructure
When people discuss road conditions, construction projects, or the quality of transportation infrastructure, 颠簸 is a natural choice of word. For example, a local resident might complain, 'This section of the highway is still under construction, so it's very 颠簸 to drive on.' Or a city planner might mention efforts to reduce road 颠簸 for a smoother commute.
The unpaved road made the entire journey 颠簸.
Business and Economic News
In a more abstract sense, 颠簸 is used to describe periods of instability or difficulty in business, finance, or even politics. News reports might state, 'The stock market has experienced significant 颠簸 in recent weeks,' or 'The company is navigating a period of 颠簸 following the merger.' This usage conveys a sense of unpredictability and challenges.
The startup faced a lot of 颠簸 in its early stages.
Personal Anecdotes and Life Stories
People often use 颠簸 to describe challenging phases in their personal lives, relationships, or careers. A person might say, 'My twenties were a bit 颠簸, full of unexpected turns and lessons.' This highlights the non-linear, sometimes difficult, nature of life's journey.
The relationship had its share of 颠簸 but ultimately strengthened.
Describing Physical Objects
Less commonly, but still possible, is the use of 颠簸 to describe an object that is inherently uneven or causes a bumpy sensation when touched or used. For example, a poorly made piece of furniture might have a 颠簸 surface.
The old wooden toy had a rough and 颠簸 texture.
Confusing with Similar-Sounding Words
Learners might confuse 颠簸 (diānbǒ) with words that have similar sounds or characters but different meanings. For example, a beginner might mix it up with 颠倒 (diāndǎo - to invert, reverse) or 担保 (dānbǎo - to guarantee). It's crucial to remember that 颠簸 specifically refers to jolting or rough motion, not reversal or guarantees.
Mistake: The car was 颠倒 on the bumpy road. Correct: The car was 颠簸 on the bumpy road.
Overusing in Metaphorical Contexts
While 颠簸 can be used metaphorically for difficult periods, overusing it can make your language sound repetitive or less precise. For general difficulties, words like 困难 (kùnnán - difficult), 挑战 (tiǎozhàn - challenge), or 艰难 (jiānnán - hard, difficult) might be more appropriate depending on the nuance. 颠簸 implies a specific kind of instability and jolting, not just general hardship.
Mistake: My life has been very 颠簸 all the time. (Too general) Better: My early career was a period of financial 颠簸.
Incorrect Grammatical Structures
As an adjective, 颠簸 often needs the particle 的 (de) when modifying a noun directly. Omitting it can lead to grammatically incorrect sentences.
Mistake: The road was 颠簸. Correct: The road was 颠簸的.
Similarly, when used as a verb describing an action, it might need appropriate verb complements or structures.
Mistake: The car 颠簸ed. Correct: The car was 颠簸 down the rough road.
Using it for Smoothness
The most fundamental mistake would be to use 颠簸 to describe something that is smooth or stable. 颠簸 inherently means rough and unsteady. If you want to describe smoothness, you should use words like 平稳 (píngwěn - steady, smooth) or 流畅 (liúchàng - smooth, fluent).
Mistake: The new car has a very 颠簸 ride. Correct: The new car has a very 平稳 ride.
Literal vs. Figurative Confusion
While the metaphorical use is common, it's important not to force it. If the situation is a simple, ongoing difficulty without the sense of jolting or instability, a more direct word might be better. 颠簸 implies a dynamic, uneven experience.
Mistake: My homework was very 颠簸. (Doesn't make sense) Correct: The homework was very difficult.
平稳 (píngwěn)
Meaning: Steady, smooth, stable. Comparison: This is the direct opposite of 颠簸. While 颠簸 describes rough, unsteady movement, 平稳 describes smooth, predictable, and stable movement. Usage: 颠簸: The car ride was very 颠簸 due to the potholes. 平稳: The new car offers a remarkably 平稳 ride.
崎岖 (qíqū)
Meaning: Rugged, uneven, rough (often used for terrain). Comparison: 崎岖 is very similar to 颠簸 when describing terrain or roads. 崎岖 describes the physical unevenness of the surface itself, while 颠簸 describes the resulting sensation of jolting and shaking. You can have a 崎岖的山路 (qíqū de shān lù - rugged mountain road), and traveling on it would be 颠簸.
动荡 (dòngdàng)
Meaning: Unrest, turmoil, turbulence (often used for political or social situations, or abstract concepts). Comparison: This is a metaphorical alternative for 颠簸 when referring to unstable periods. While 颠簸 implies a sense of jolting and instability, 动荡 suggests a more widespread and potentially chaotic state of unrest or upheaval. Usage: 颠簸: The company experienced a period of financial 颠簸. 动荡: The country is facing political 动荡.
震动 (zhèndòng)
Meaning: To shake, to vibrate, tremor. Comparison: 震动 focuses on the act or sensation of shaking or vibrating. 颠簸 is a specific type of shaking that is irregular and jolting, often experienced during movement. You can feel 震动 from an earthquake, but you experience 颠簸 on a rough road.
不平 (bùpíng)
Meaning: Uneven, not level. Comparison: Similar to 崎岖, 不平 describes the state of being uneven. A surface can be 不平, and this unevenness leads to 颠簸 movement. It's a more general term for lack of flatness. Usage: 不平: The ground was 不平 and difficult to walk on. 颠簸: The uneven ground made the ride very 颠簸.
跌宕起伏 (diēdàng qǐfú)
Meaning: Ups and downs, vicissitudes (idiom, often for life, career, or plot). Comparison: This idiom is a strong metaphorical alternative for 颠簸 when describing life's journey or a narrative. It emphasizes the cyclical nature of good and bad times, highs and lows. While 颠簸 implies a more constant, jarring instability, 跌宕起伏 suggests a series of distinct ups and downs. Usage: 颠簸: His early career was marked by financial 颠簸. 跌宕起伏: Her life story was full of 跌宕起伏.
起伏 (qǐfú)
Meaning: Undulating, rising and falling. Comparison: Similar to 颠簸, but less intense. 起伏 can describe gentle waves or rolling hills, whereas 颠簸 implies more significant jolts. A road can have 起伏 (gentle hills), but if it's very rough, it's 颠簸.
颠沛流离 (diānpèi liúlí)
Meaning: To be displaced and homeless; to live in misery and hardship. Comparison: This idiom uses the character 颠 from 颠簸 but has a completely different meaning related to hardship and displacement, often due to war or disaster. It's a much stronger and more severe term for suffering and lack of stability.
How Formal Is It?
재미있는 사실
The character 颠 (diān) itself can mean 'to be unbalanced' or 'to be reckless', contributing to the sense of instability in 颠簸. The character 簸 (bǒ) is related to the action of sifting grain, which involves shaking and tossing.
발음 가이드
UK/ˈdi̯ən.pʰɔː/
US/ˈdi̯ən.pʰɔ/
The stress is on the first syllable: 颠 (diān).
난이도
독해3/5
The word itself is relatively straightforward in its core meaning. However, understanding its metaphorical extensions requires context and exposure. Recognizing the nuances between physical and abstract 'bumpiness' can be challenging for learners.
쓰기3/5
Using 颠簸 correctly in writing, especially in metaphorical contexts, requires a good grasp of its connotations and appropriate grammatical structures. Overuse or misuse can lead to awkward phrasing.
말하기3/5
Pronunciation is manageable, but using it spontaneously in conversation, particularly distinguishing between literal and figurative uses, requires practice and listening comprehension.
듣기3/5
Recognizing 颠簸 in spoken Chinese is usually straightforward, especially in contexts related to travel. However, understanding its metaphorical use depends on the speaker's clarity and the listener's comprehension of abstract concepts.
震动 (zhèndòng - to shake, vibrate)摇晃 (yáohuàng - to sway, shake)不平 (bùpíng - uneven)坎坷 (kǎnkě - rough, bumpy)
알아야 할 문법
Using 的 (de) with Adjectives
When 颠簸 modifies a noun directly, the particle 的 is often used: 颠簸的路 (diānbǒ de lù - bumpy road). However, when 颠簸 is used predicatively (after the subject and verb 'to be' or implied 'to be'), 的 is often omitted: 这条路很颠簸。(Zhè tiáo lù hěn diānbǒ.) - This road is very bumpy.
Verb Complements of Degree
To express the degree of the action or state, complements like '得 (de)' can be used with adjectives: 飞机飞得颠簸。(Fēijī fēi de diānbǒ.) - The plane flew bumpy. (Meaning: The plane's flight was bumpy).
Using 颠簸 as a Verb
When used as a verb, 颠簸 describes the action of jolting or shaking: 汽车在石子路上颠簸。(Qìchē zài shízǐ lù shàng diānbǒ.) - The car jolted along the gravel road.
Noun Phrases with 颠簸
You can form noun phrases like '颠簸的路' (bumpy road) or use 颠簸 as a noun to describe the state of being bumpy: '旅途的颠簸' (the bumpiness of the journey).
Metaphorical Usage with Abstract Nouns
颠簸 can be used with abstract nouns like '生活' (life), '事业' (career), '市场' (market) to describe instability: '生活中的颠簸' (ups and downs in life).
During the thunderstorm, the plane flew very bumpy.
3
坐这种老式公交车，一路都很颠簸。
Riding this old-fashioned bus, it's bumpy all the way.
4
船在海上颠簸得很厉害。
The boat is rocking very violently at sea.
5
山路崎岖，感觉很颠簸。
The mountain road is rugged, it feels very bumpy.
6
我的新自行车骑起来不颠簸。
My new bicycle doesn't feel bumpy to ride.
7
这个路段正在维修，所以有点颠簸。
This section of the road is under repair, so it's a bit bumpy.
8
他抓紧了座位，因为 estaba 颠簸。
He held tightly to his seat because it was bumpy.
1
这段乡间小路非常颠簸，我们不得不减慢车速。
This country lane is very bumpy, we had to slow down.
2
由于天气恶劣，我们的航班在空中经历了剧烈的颠簸。
Due to bad weather, our flight experienced severe turbulence in the air.
3
乘坐老式火车穿越山区，一路上的颠簸感让人印象深刻。
Riding an old train through the mountains, the bumpy feeling all along the way was impressive.
4
这次海上航行相当颠簸，许多乘客都感到不适。
This sea voyage was quite bumpy, and many passengers felt unwell.
5
这条古老的石板路很不平坦，走在上面十分颠簸。
This ancient stone-paved road is very uneven, walking on it is quite bumpy.
6
虽然生活有过颠簸，但他从未放弃自己的梦想。
Although life has had its ups and downs, he never gave up on his dream.
Metaphorical use of 颠簸.
7
工程师们正在努力改善道路的颠簸状况。
Engineers are working hard to improve the bumpy condition of the road.
8
孩子在颠簸的车里睡着了。
The child fell asleep in the bumpy car.
1
这条新修的公路虽然路况良好，但在经过施工区域时，依然会感受到一阵阵的颠簸。
Although this newly built highway has good road conditions, when passing through construction areas, you can still feel waves of jolting.
2
在穿越大西洋的航班中，我们遭遇了长达数小时的强烈颠簸。
During our flight across the Atlantic, we encountered several hours of intense turbulence.
3
乘坐这种古老的马车，其颠簸的乘坐体验是对历史的一种独特感受。
Riding in this old-fashioned horse-drawn carriage, its bumpy riding experience is a unique way to feel history.
4
由于海面风浪较大，这艘小型游艇的航行异常颠簸。
Due to the strong winds and waves on the sea surface, the voyage of this small yacht was exceptionally bumpy.
5
这片区域的地形十分崎岖，车辆在行驶过程中会经历持续的颠簸。
The terrain in this area is very rugged, and vehicles will experience continuous jolting during travel.
6
尽管他的创业之路充满了颠簸，但他最终还是取得了巨大的成功。
Although his entrepreneurial journey was full of ups and downs, he eventually achieved great success.
Metaphorical use of 颠簸.
7
政府承诺将投入更多资源来改善全国范围内的道路颠簸问题。
The government has pledged to invest more resources to improve the problem of road bumpiness nationwide.
8
对于习惯了平稳驾驶的人来说，在这样的路况下行驶无疑是一种挑战。
For those accustomed to smooth driving, driving in such road conditions is undoubtedly a challenge.
Implies the opposite of 颠簸.
1
随着城市化进程的加速，许多老旧的道路正在被更新，以减少车辆行驶中的颠簸感。
With the acceleration of urbanization, many old roads are being updated to reduce the feeling of jolting while vehicles are driving.
2
在强对流天气的影响下，飞机穿越云层时，乘客们不得不忍受长达数小时的剧烈颠簸。
Under the influence of severe convective weather, passengers had to endure several hours of violent jolting while the plane traversed the clouds.
3
她回忆起童年时乘坐颠簸的乡村巴士去探望祖母的经历，那段记忆至今仍清晰。
She recalled her childhood experience of riding a bumpy country bus to visit her grandmother, a memory that remains vivid to this day.
4
这次远洋航行充满了挑战，尤其是在遇到季风季节时，船体承受着持续的颠簸。
This ocean voyage was full of challenges, especially when encountering the monsoon season, the ship's hull endured continuous jolting.
5
探索这片未知的山区，需要一辆四驱越野车，因为这里的路况极其崎岖，车辆会经历反复的颠簸。
Exploring this unknown mountainous region requires a four-wheel-drive off-road vehicle, as the road conditions here are extremely rugged, and vehicles will experience repeated jolting.
6
尽管他的政治生涯经历了多次颠簸，但他始终坚守着自己的政治理念。
Although his political career experienced multiple upheavals, he always adhered to his political ideals.
Metaphorical use of 颠簸.
7
城市规划部门正致力于改善城市道路的平整度，以消除不必要的颠簸，提升居民出行体验。
The urban planning department is committed to improving the flatness of city roads to eliminate unnecessary bumpiness and enhance residents' travel experience.
8
对于那些容易晕车的人来说，长途旅行的颠簸感是他们最担心的问题。
For those who easily get motion sickness, the bumpy feeling of long-distance travel is their biggest concern.
1
在穿越喜马拉雅山脉的崎岖地带时，车辆的每一次转向和爬升都伴随着令人晕眩的颠簸。
When traversing the rugged terrain of the Himalayas, every turn and ascent of the vehicle was accompanied by dizzying jolts.
2
面对全球经济的剧烈波动，许多新兴市场的企业都经历了前所未有的财务颠簸。
Facing the drastic fluctuations of the global economy, many companies in emerging markets have experienced unprecedented financial turbulence.
Metaphorical use of 颠簸.
3
她以诗意的笔触描绘了人生旅途中的跌宕起伏，那些颠簸的时刻塑造了她坚韧的品格。
She depicted the ups and downs of life's journey with poetic language; those bumpy moments shaped her resilient character.
Metaphorical use of 颠簸.
4
虽然航海技术不断进步，但在极端天气条件下，海上航行依然无法完全避免其固有的颠簸性。
Although navigation technology continues to advance, under extreme weather conditions, sea voyages still cannot completely avoid their inherent bumpiness.
5
这段考古学家们开辟的临时道路，其不平整的路面和陡峭的坡度，使得车辆在行进中不断颠簸。
The temporary road opened by archaeologists, with its uneven surface and steep slopes, caused vehicles to continuously jolt while moving.
6
他的艺术创作生涯并非一帆风顺，而是充满了颠簸与探索，每一次的转型都标志着一次突破。
His artistic career was not smooth sailing but full of turbulence and exploration; each transformation marked a breakthrough.
Metaphorical use of 颠簸.
7
城市交通系统的升级改造，旨在最大程度地减少车辆行驶的颠簸，从而提高整体的通行效率和舒适度。
The upgrade and renovation of the urban transportation system aim to minimize vehicle travel bumpiness to the greatest extent, thereby improving overall traffic efficiency and comfort.
8
对于长期在颠簸环境中工作的人员，例如矿工或海上平台工人，他们需要特殊的健康监测。
For personnel who work long-term in bumpy environments, such as miners or offshore platform workers, they require special health monitoring.
자주 쓰는 조합
颠簸的路
颠簸的旅程
颠簸的飞行
颠簸的海面
颠簸的乘坐
生活颠簸
市场颠簸
经历颠簸
感觉颠簸
路况颠簸
자주 쓰는 구문
路很颠簸
— The road is very bumpy.
Be careful when you drive there, the road is very 颠簸.
飞机颠簸
— The plane is experiencing turbulence.
The captain announced that the plane might be 颠簸 due to weather.
坐车颠簸
— The car ride is bumpy.
I don't like 坐车 颠簸, it makes me feel sick.
生活颠簸
— Life is unstable or difficult.
After losing his job, his life became very 颠簸.
一段颠簸
— A period of instability or difficulty.
The company went through a difficult period of 颠簸.
路况颠簸
— The road conditions are bumpy.
The 路况 is very 颠簸, so drive slowly.
感觉颠簸
— It feels bumpy/jolting.
I can feel the car 颠簸ing over the stones.
海上颠簸
— Bumpy/rough conditions at sea.
The boat ride was quite 海上 颠簸.
旅途颠簸
— A bumpy journey.
We had a long and 旅途 颠簸.
路面颠簸
— The road surface is bumpy.
The 路面 is very 颠簸 after the rain.
자주 혼동되는 단어
颠簸vs颠倒 (diāndǎo)
Shares the first character '颠' but means 'to invert' or 'to reverse', completely different from the meaning of jolting or rough movement.
颠簸vs担保 (dānbǎo)
Has a similar sound structure but means 'to guarantee' or 'to be responsible for', unrelated to physical motion.
颠簸vs颠沛流离 (diānpèi liúlí)
While it uses the character '颠', this idiom refers to extreme hardship, displacement, and misery, a much more severe state than the physical or metaphorical 'bumpiness' of 颠簸.
— To talk nonsense; to be in a muddle; to be topsy-turvy. This idiom uses the first character '颠' but has a meaning related to confusion or disorder, not physical jolting.
— To distort the truth; to confuse right and wrong; to call black white. This idiom uses '颠倒' (invert/reverse) and refers to misrepresenting facts, not physical movement.
— Ups and downs; vicissitudes. While not directly using 颠簸, this idiom captures the metaphorical sense of instability and change in life or a narrative, similar to the metaphorical use of 颠簸.
— To be displaced and homeless; to live in misery and hardship. This idiom uses the first character '颠' but denotes extreme suffering and lack of stability, far more severe than the typical use of 颠簸.
— To lean precariously; to be askew; to be in a mess. This describes a state of imbalance or disarray, which can be a result of bumpy movement, but it focuses on the state of being tilted rather than the motion itself.
— To be in a state of anxiety; to have butterflies in one's stomach. This describes a feeling of unease and nervousness, which can sometimes accompany a bumpy ride, but it's about emotional state, not physical motion.
— To be in a precarious state; to be buffeted by winds and rain. This idiom metaphorically describes instability and vulnerability, similar to the metaphorical use of 颠簸 for difficult periods.
The company was in a state of 风雨飘摇 during the economic downturn.
— To be on the verge of collapse; tottering. This describes something unstable and about to fall, which can be a consequence of being jolted, but it focuses on the imminent collapse.
— To travel through wind and rain; to press on regardless of difficulties. This idiom describes enduring hardship during a journey, which might involve a 颠簸 journey, but focuses on perseverance.
They had to travel through wind and rain to reach their destination.
— Rough and uneven; full of obstacles. This idiom directly describes a difficult and uneven path or journey, very similar in meaning to 颠簸 when referring to roads.
His career path was 坎坷不平.
descriptive
혼동하기 쉬운
颠簸vs崎岖 (qíqū)
Both describe rough terrain or difficult journeys.
崎岖 primarily describes the physical unevenness of the terrain itself (e.g., a rugged mountain path). 颠簸 describes the resulting sensation of jolting and shaking experienced when traveling over such terrain. You travel on a 崎岖 road, and the journey is 颠簸.
The 崎岖的山路 made the hike arduous, and the constant 颠簸 made the car ride uncomfortable.
颠簸vs动荡 (dòngdàng)
Both can be used metaphorically to describe unstable periods.
动荡 refers to turmoil, unrest, or instability, often in a broader, more chaotic sense (e.g., political unrest, economic turmoil). 颠簸, when metaphorical, implies a more specific kind of instability characterized by jolts, ups and downs, and unpredictable changes, like a bumpy ride through a difficult phase.
The country was in political 动荡, and the economy experienced significant 颠簸.
颠簸vs震动 (zhèndòng)
Both involve shaking.
震动 means to shake or vibrate, and can describe phenomena like earthquakes or machinery. 颠簸 is a specific type of shaking that is irregular, jolting, and usually experienced during movement over an uneven surface or through turbulence. You might feel 震动 from a passing truck, but you experience 颠簸 on a potholed road.
The building experienced 震动 during the earthquake, but the car ride home was 颠簸.
颠簸vs起伏 (qǐfú)
Both describe unevenness or changes.
起伏 means rising and falling, or undulating. It can describe gentler movements like rolling hills or waves. 颠簸 implies a more pronounced, jarring, and unstable kind of movement or state. A road can have 起伏 (gentle hills), but if it's very rough, it's 颠簸.
The landscape had gentle 起伏, but the dirt track was very 颠簸.
颠簸vs平稳 (píngwěn)
It's a direct antonym, so understanding it helps define 颠簸.
平稳 means smooth, steady, and stable. It is the direct opposite of 颠簸, which means rough, jolting, and unstable. A smooth flight is 平稳, while a turbulent one is 颠簸.
The new car offers a 平稳 ride, unlike the old one which was quite 颠簸.
Using 颠簸 to describe something smooth.→Use words like 平稳 (píngwěn) or 流畅 (liúchàng).
颠簸 inherently means rough and unsteady. Using it for smoothness is a direct contradiction of its meaning.
Confusing 颠簸 with 颠倒 (diāndǎo).→颠倒 means to invert or reverse. 颠簸 means bumpy or jolting.
They share the first character but have entirely different meanings. Pay attention to the second character and context.
Omitting '的' when 颠簸 acts as a pre-noun adjective.→颠簸的路 (diānbǒ de lù).
While '这条路很颠簸' (This road is bumpy) is correct, when modifying a noun directly before it, '的' is usually required for clarity and grammatical correctness.
Overusing 颠簸 metaphorically for any difficulty.→Use more specific words like 困难 (kùnnán - difficult) or 挑战 (tiǎozhàn - challenge) if the 'jolting' aspect isn't present.
颠簸 implies a specific kind of instability and jarring change, not just general hardship. Ensure the metaphorical usage captures this sense of unevenness.
Incorrect pronunciation, especially the 'p' sound.→Aspirate the 'p' sound (diān-pō) with a puff of air.
The aspirated 'p' is crucial for correct pronunciation and distinguishing it from similar-sounding words or incorrect versions.
팁
Aspirated 'P'
Remember to aspirate the 'p' sound in 颠簸 (diānpǒ). It should have a puff of air, similar to the 'p' in 'pin' in English. This is a key feature of the pronunciation.
Literal vs. Metaphorical
Pay close attention to context. 颠簸 is frequently used literally for physical jolting (roads, flights, seas), but its metaphorical use for unstable periods in life, business, or politics is also very common and important to understand.
Adjective + 的 + Noun
When 颠簸 directly modifies a noun, especially in descriptive sentences, it's often followed by 的. For example, '一条颠簸的路' (a bumpy road). However, when used predicatively (e.g., 'The road is bumpy'), the 的 might be omitted: '这条路很颠簸.'
Visualize the Jolt
Imagine a strong, sudden movement – like a car hitting a massive pothole or an airplane dropping suddenly. This visceral image of being jolted can help you remember the meaning of 颠簸.
Opposites for Clarity
Understanding the antonyms like 平稳 (píngwěn - smooth, steady) can greatly solidify your grasp of 颠簸. Contrasting the rough, unstable feeling with a smooth, stable one makes the meaning of 颠簸 clearer.
Travel Stories are Key
Listen to or read travel narratives, especially those about challenging journeys. This is where 颠簸 is most frequently and naturally used, providing excellent examples for learning.
Describe Your Journeys
When you travel, try to describe the experience in Chinese, using 颠簸 if applicable. Even if it's just in your head, actively applying the word helps embed it in your active vocabulary.
Intensity Matters
Consider the intensity. 颠簸 usually implies a significant level of roughness. For very minor unevenness, other words might be more appropriate. It's about the sensation of being jolted.
Life's Uneven Path
Think of life as a journey. When that journey has unexpected difficulties, setbacks, or dramatic changes, it can be described as 颠簸. This metaphorical use is very common.
Vs. Other Roughness Words
Distinguish 颠簸 from words like 崎岖 (rugged terrain) or 动荡 (turmoil). 颠簸 focuses on the sensation of jolting and instability during movement or a period of change.
암기하기
기억법
Imagine a 'dinosaur' (diān) 'bumping' (bǒ) into things, causing a very bumpy ride. Or, think of 'din' (diān) and 'boa' (bǒ) – a bumpy ride on a boa constrictor that's making a lot of noise!
시각적 연상
Picture a rough, unpaved road with large potholes. A car driving over it is constantly jolting up and down. Alternatively, visualize a plane being tossed around violently in a storm.
Try to describe a recent travel experience, focusing on any moments that were 颠簸. If you can't recall a physical one, think of a time in your life that felt metaphorically 颠簸 and describe it using the word.
어원
The word 颠簸 (diānbǒ) is composed of two characters. The character 颠 (diān) originally referred to the top of the head or to ascend. It later developed meanings related to imbalance, instability, or being at the peak. The character 簸 (bǒ) means to winnow or to shake. Together, they vividly convey the sense of being shaken or jolted unevenly, as if being winnowed or tossed around.
원래 의미: The combination suggests a forceful shaking or tossing, leading to an unstable or unsteady state.
Sino-Tibetan
문화적 맥락
The term is generally neutral and descriptive. However, when used metaphorically for personal hardship, it should be used with empathy, acknowledging the difficulty of the experience.
In English, we use words like 'bumpy,' 'jolting,' 'rough,' 'turbulent,' or 'unstable' depending on the context. 'Bumpy' is a very close equivalent for road travel, while 'turbulent' is used for flights and metaphorical situations.
Travelogues often describe journeys on rough roads or seas using 颠簸.News reports discussing economic downturns or political instability might use 颠簸 metaphorically.Literature and personal anecdotes frequently employ 颠簸 to describe challenging life phases.
실생활에서 연습하기
실제 사용 상황
Discussing road trips or travel experiences.
这条路很颠簸。
坐车颠簸。
路况颠簸。
Talking about flights or boat rides.
飞机颠簸。
海上颠簸。
船很颠簸。
Describing difficult or unstable periods (metaphorical).
生活颠簸。
经历了一段颠簸。
市场颠簸。
Describing uneven surfaces or objects.
路面颠簸。
感觉颠簸。
Complaining about infrastructure or maintenance.
路况太颠簸了。
需要修路，不然太颠簸。
대화 시작하기
"Have you ever been on a really bumpy road trip? Where did you go?"
"What's the bumpiest flight you've ever experienced? What happened?"
"Do you think life is like a bumpy road sometimes? Can you give an example?"
"When you hear the word '颠簸', what's the first image that comes to your mind?"
"If you had to describe a difficult period in your life using the word '颠簸', what would you say?"
일기 주제
Describe a time you traveled on a very bumpy road. What did you see, hear, and feel? Use the word 颠簸 in your description.
Think about a period in your life that felt unstable or challenging. How was it like a 'bumpy ride'? Write about it using the word 颠簸 metaphorically.
Compare and contrast the experience of a bumpy car ride with a bumpy flight. What are the similarities and differences in the feeling of 颠簸?
Imagine you are a travel blogger describing a journey through a remote area. Use the word 颠簸 to make your description more vivid.
Reflect on the word 颠簸. Does it evoke negative or neutral feelings for you? Why do you think this word is useful in the Chinese language?
자주 묻는 질문
10 질문
Not necessarily. While it often describes an uncomfortable or difficult experience, it can also be used neutrally to describe a physical sensation. For example, a bumpy road is just a fact of nature. However, when used metaphorically for life events, it usually implies challenges or instability.
Generally, no. 颠簸 is primarily used for physical movement or metaphorical instability. For uneven or jarring sounds, you might use words like '嘈杂' (cáozá - noisy) or '刺耳' (cì'ěr - harsh).
崎岖 (qíqū) describes the terrain itself as rugged and uneven. 颠簸 (diānbǒ) describes the sensation of jolting and shaking experienced when moving over that terrain. You travel on a 崎岖 road, and the journey is 颠簸.
Use it to describe periods of instability, difficulty, rapid change, or significant ups and downs. For example, 'His career had many 颠簸,' or 'The company went through a period of financial 颠簸.'
It functions primarily as an adjective, describing something as bumpy or jolting. However, it can also be used as a verb meaning 'to jolt' or 'to shake', especially in informal contexts or when describing the action of a vehicle. For example, 'The car was 颠簸ing down the road.'
Common phrases include '颠簸的路' (bumpy road), '颠簸的旅程' (bumpy journey), '飞机颠簸' (bumpy flight), and metaphorically, '生活颠簸' (unstable life).
Not directly. It describes the movement or situation. You wouldn't say 'I am 颠簸.' You would say 'The ride was 颠簸,' or 'My life has been 颠簸.'
The most common opposite is 平稳 (píngwěn), meaning smooth, steady, and stable. Other antonyms include 流畅 (liúchàng - smooth) and 稳定 (wěndìng - stable).
Yes, it can be used in formal writing, especially when describing physical conditions or in metaphorical contexts like economic or political analysis. However, the specific phrasing might be more elaborate in formal settings.
Try writing sentences describing different types of travel. Also, think about challenging periods in your life and try to describe them using 颠簸 metaphorically. Listening to native speakers and reading Chinese texts will also help.
颠簸 (diānbǒ) vividly describes a sensation of roughness and instability, whether it's a literal bumpy ride on a road or a metaphorical period of difficulty in life. It's the feeling of being jolted and unsteady.
Describes rough, jolting movements.
Used for bumpy rides, turbulence, and unstable periods.
Can be physical (roads) or metaphorical (life events).
🔊
Aspirated 'P'
Remember to aspirate the 'p' sound in 颠簸 (diānpǒ). It should have a puff of air, similar to the 'p' in 'pin' in English. This is a key feature of the pronunciation.
💡
Literal vs. Metaphorical
Pay close attention to context. 颠簸 is frequently used literally for physical jolting (roads, flights, seas), but its metaphorical use for unstable periods in life, business, or politics is also very common and important to understand.
✍️
Adjective + 的 + Noun
When 颠簸 directly modifies a noun, especially in descriptive sentences, it's often followed by 的. For example, '一条颠簸的路' (a bumpy road). However, when used predicatively (e.g., 'The road is bumpy'), the 的 might be omitted: '这条路很颠簸.'
🧠
Visualize the Jolt
Imagine a strong, sudden movement – like a car hitting a massive pothole or an airplane dropping suddenly. This visceral image of being jolted can help you remember the meaning of 颠簸.
