沉重
沉重 30초 만에
- 沉重 (chénzhòng) means 'heavy' or 'burdensome', used for both physical weight and emotional gravity.
- It commonly describes a sad mood (心情沉重), a serious atmosphere, or a difficult responsibility.
- Unlike the simple '重', it implies a sense of being weighed down or oppressed by circumstances.
- It is a formal word frequently found in news, literature, and serious discussions.
The Chinese term 沉重 (chénzhòng) is a profound and multi-layered word that primarily translates to 'heaviness' or 'burdensome' in English. While it can describe physical weight, its most frequent and culturally significant usage lies in the realm of emotions, responsibilities, and atmospheres. At its core, the word is composed of two characters: 沉 (chén), meaning to sink or submerge, and 重 (zhòng), meaning heavy or serious. Together, they evoke the image of something so heavy that it causes one to sink, whether that be a physical object sinking into water or a heart sinking under the weight of sorrow. In modern Mandarin, when a person says their heart is 沉重, they aren't talking about a medical condition; they are describing a state of deep psychological or emotional pressure. This word is essential for learners because it bridges the gap between simple physical descriptions and complex emotional expression.
- Physical Weight
- In a literal sense, 沉重 describes objects that are not just heavy, but significantly so, often implying that the weight is difficult to manage or move. For example, a massive piece of machinery or a leaden trunk would be described as 沉重. However, in daily conversation, for simple heavy objects like a bag of groceries, people usually just use '重'. Using '沉重' adds a layer of formal or emphasized weight.
- Emotional Burden
- This is where the word truly shines. It describes a mood that is somber, serious, or weighed down by grief, guilt, or worry. If someone receives bad news, their mood (心情) becomes 沉重. It is the opposite of '轻松' (qīngsōng - light/relaxed).
听到这个不幸的消息,我的心情十分沉重。(Upon hearing this unfortunate news, my heart felt very heavy.)
Furthermore, 沉重 is used to describe abstract concepts like 'responsibility' (责任) or 'tasks' (任务). When a task is 沉重, it implies that it is not only large in scale but also carries significant consequences if not completed. It suggests a gravity that demands full attention and serious effort. In historical contexts, you might hear about the '沉重' lessons of history, meaning lessons that were learned through great suffering and should never be forgotten. This usage highlights the word's ability to convey depth and seriousness across different domains of life.
他肩上的负担非常沉重。(The burden on his shoulders is very heavy.)
- Atmospheric Usage
- It can also describe the 'air' or 'atmosphere' (气氛) of a room or event. A funeral, a serious board meeting, or the aftermath of an argument can all be described as having a 沉重的气氛. This indicates a lack of joy and a presence of tension or solemnity.
会议室里的气氛变得非常沉重。(The atmosphere in the meeting room became very heavy.)
In summary, 沉重 is a versatile descriptor for anything that weighs down—physically, emotionally, or metaphorically. It is a word of gravity and significance. Whether you are reading a classic novel or listening to a news broadcast about economic pressures, 沉重 will appear frequently to signal that the topic is serious and consequential. Understanding this word allows you to perceive the emotional weight behind Chinese sentences, moving beyond literal translations to the heart of the speaker's intent.
迈着沉重的脚步走回家。(Walking home with heavy steps.)
- Economic and Social Contexts
- In news reports, you will often hear about '沉重的经济压力' (heavy economic pressure) or '沉重的债务' (heavy debt). In these contexts, the word emphasizes the struggle and the potential for failure if the weight is not alleviated.
这些债务对他来说是一个沉重的打击。(These debts were a heavy blow to him.)
Using 沉重 (chénzhòng) effectively in a sentence requires an understanding of its typical grammatical partners. While it primarily functions as an adjective, its usage patterns often follow specific structures that help convey its full meaning of 'heaviness' or 'seriousness'. The most common way to use 沉重 is to place it before a noun, separated by the particle '的' (de), or to use it as a predicate with the help of '很' (hěn) or '十分' (shífēn). However, because 沉重 carries a strong emotional or formal weight, it is rarely used for trivial things. You wouldn't say your pencil is 沉重; you would say your responsibilities are 沉重.
- Structure 1: [Noun] + [Adverb] + 沉重
- This is the simplest way to describe a state. The noun is usually something abstract like mood (心情), atmosphere (气氛), or a burden (负担). Example: '他的心情很沉重' (His mood is very heavy). Here, '很' acts as a necessary link in the adjective-predicate structure.
老人的脚步显得格外沉重。(The old man's steps appeared exceptionally heavy.)
- Structure 2: 沉重的 + [Noun]
- This structure is used to modify a noun directly. It is very common in literature and formal writing. Common nouns modified this way include '打击' (blow/setback), '代价' (price/cost), and '责任' (responsibility). Example: '沉重的打击' (A heavy blow).
我们为此付出了沉重的代价。(We paid a heavy price for this.)
One interesting aspect of 沉重 is how it modifies verbs of movement, particularly 'walking'. When you use it as an adverb (沉重地), it describes a manner of walking that suggests tiredness, sadness, or extreme physical weight. For example, '他沉重地叹了一口气' (He sighed heavily). The use of '地' (de) here turns 沉重 into an adverbial modifier for the action of sighing, adding a layer of exhaustion or despair to the action.
他沉重地走进了办公室。(He walked into the office with heavy steps/heavily.)
- Structure 3: [Verb] + 得 + 沉重
- This is a complement of degree. It describes the result or state of an action. For example, '他的心跳得沉重' (His heart beats heavily). This is less common than the first two structures but very evocative in descriptive writing.
这一声巨响,听起来非常沉重。(This loud noise sounded very heavy/leaden.)
In formal speeches or news, you might see 沉重 used to describe the gravity of a situation. For instance, '形势沉重' (The situation is grave). This usage is similar to '严峻' (yánjùn), but 沉重 emphasizes the oppressive nature of the situation rather than just its difficulty. When learning to use 沉重, try to pair it with nouns that represent things you 'carry'—whether it's a backpack, a secret, a debt, or a feeling of guilt. By associating it with the act of carrying, you will use it correctly in both physical and metaphorical contexts.
悼念仪式在沉重的气氛中开始。(The memorial ceremony began in a heavy atmosphere.)
- Collocation: 沉重的负担
- This is perhaps the most frequent pairing. '负担' (fùdān) means burden. Together, they describe anything from high taxes to the emotional toll of caring for a sick relative. It is a very powerful way to express that something is overwhelming.
高额的学费成了家庭沉重的负担。(High tuition fees became a heavy burden for the family.)
The word 沉重 (chénzhòng) is not just a textbook term; it is deeply embedded in various facets of Chinese life, from the evening news to the pages of classic and contemporary literature. Understanding where you encounter this word will help you grasp its nuances and frequency. It is a word that carries 'gravitas', and as such, it is frequently used in contexts that require a serious tone. You will rarely hear it in a joke or a lighthearted conversation among friends, unless they are being intentionally dramatic or discussing a serious life event.
- News and Media
- In news broadcasts, 沉重 is used to describe the impact of natural disasters, economic downturns, or the passing of a significant public figure. News anchors might describe the '沉重打击' (heavy blow) an earthquake has dealt to a region, or the '沉重哀悼' (profound mourning) of the nation. It sets a tone of solemnity and respect, signaling to the audience that the news is of great importance and sadness.
新闻报道了这次事故造成的沉重伤亡。(The news reported the heavy casualties caused by this accident.)
In the workplace, you might hear 沉重 in the context of project management or financial reporting. If a company is struggling, a manager might speak of the '沉重的债务' (heavy debt) or the '沉重的竞争压力' (heavy competitive pressure). In these instances, 沉重 conveys a sense of urgency and the high stakes involved. It's a word that demands a solution, as the 'weight' described is often unsustainable.
他感到肩上的责任非常沉重。(He feels the responsibility on his shoulders is very heavy.)
- Literature and Art
- In Chinese novels, authors use 沉重 to paint a picture of a character's internal struggle. You might read about a character's '沉重的叹息' (heavy sigh) or their '沉重的心事' (heavy matters on one's mind). It is a staple of 'scar literature' (伤痕文学) and other genres that deal with the trauma of the past. It helps the reader feel the emotional density of the character's world.
书中的描写带有一种沉重的历史感。(The descriptions in the book carry a heavy sense of history.)
In daily life, you will hear it when people discuss their personal hardships. A student might talk about the '沉重的课业负担' (heavy schoolwork burden), or a parent might discuss the '沉重的家庭支出' (heavy family expenses). In these cases, the word is used to seek empathy or to explain why someone might be feeling stressed or tired. It's a way of saying, 'Life is hard right now, and I'm feeling the weight of it.'
他的每一步都显得那么沉重。(Each of his steps seemed so heavy.)
- Formal Ceremonies
- During memorial services, the master of ceremonies will often use the phrase '带着沉重的心情' (with a heavy heart) to open the proceedings. This is a standard, respectful way to acknowledge the collective grief of the attendees. It is a formal linguistic marker that the event is not a social gathering but a solemn commemoration.
我们怀着沉重的心情向他告别。(We bid him farewell with heavy hearts.)
Learning to use 沉重 (chénzhòng) correctly involves navigating its specific semantic boundaries. Because it translates to 'heavy' in English, many learners mistakenly use it as a direct substitute for the simpler word '重' (zhòng) in all contexts. However, 沉重 is far more specialized and carries a distinct emotional and formal tone. Using it incorrectly can make your Chinese sound overly dramatic, unnaturally formal, or simply confusing. Here are the most common pitfalls to avoid when incorporating this word into your vocabulary.
- Mistake 1: Using it for simple physical weight
- This is the most frequent error. If you are picking up a box of books and want to say it's heavy, you should say '这箱书很重' (Zhè xiāng shū hěn zhòng). If you say '这箱书很沉重', it sounds as if the books are filled with lead or carry some profound, tragic significance. Use '重' for physical weight in everyday life, and reserve '沉重' for weight that is oppressive or significant.
Wrong: 书包太沉重了。(The backpack is too 'profoundly heavy'.)
Correct: 书包太重了。(The backpack is too heavy.)
Another common mistake is confusing 沉重 with '繁重' (fánzhòng). While both mean 'heavy', '繁重' specifically refers to work or tasks that are both heavy in volume and complicated or tiring. '沉重' focuses more on the 'weight' or 'pressure' of the task, while '繁重' focuses on the 'laborious' nature of it. For example, '繁重的工作' (laborious work) vs '沉重的责任' (heavy responsibility). Using them interchangeably can blur the specific nuance you intend to convey.
Wrong: 他的生活很沉重。(His life is very 'heavy' - ambiguous.)
Correct: 他的生活负担很沉重。(His life burden is very heavy.)
- Mistake 2: Overusing it in casual conversation
- Because 沉重 is a formal and literary word, using it in a casual chat about a minor inconvenience can sound sarcastic or weird. For example, if you missed the bus, saying '我的心情很沉重' (My mood is very heavy) is a massive overstatement. It would be like saying 'I am in a state of profound despair' because you missed a bus. Stick to '不开心' (bù kāixīn) or '难过' (nánguò) for small things.
注意:不要在琐事上使用“沉重”。(Note: Do not use '沉重' for trivial matters.)
Lastly, learners sometimes forget the necessary particles. As an adjective, when describing a noun directly, '的' is almost always required (沉重的负担). When used as a predicate, an adverb of degree like '很' or '十分' is usually needed to make the sentence sound natural. '心情沉重' is a fixed collocation that can stand alone in some literary contexts, but '他的心情沉重' sounds slightly incomplete without '很' in spoken Chinese.
错误:他有一个沉重的问题。(He has a 'heavy' problem - unclear.)
正确:他面临一个严重的问题。(He faces a serious problem.)
- Confusion with '严重' (yánzhòng)
- '严重' means 'serious' or 'grave' in terms of the severity of a situation (like an illness or a mistake). '沉重' is the emotional or physical 'weight'. You have a '严重' illness which causes a '沉重' mood. They are related but not interchangeable.
病情很严重,心情很沉重。(The illness is serious, and the mood is heavy.)
To truly master 沉重 (chénzhòng), you must understand its position within a family of words that describe weight, seriousness, and burden. Chinese is a language of nuances, and choosing the right synonym can drastically change the tone of your sentence. While 沉重 is a versatile word, there are several alternatives that might be more precise depending on whether you are talking about work, physical weight, or the severity of a crisis.
- 沉重 vs. 重 (zhòng)
- '重' is the most basic word for 'heavy'. It is used for physical weight (This box is 5kg, it's very heavy). '沉重' is more formal and usually implies that the weight is a burden. You use '重' for a suitcase, but '沉重' for the 'weight of responsibility'.
- 沉重 vs. 繁重 (fánzhòng)
- '繁重' combines '繁' (numerous/complicated) and '重' (heavy). It is specifically used for work, tasks, or schoolwork. If you have ten different assignments due tomorrow, your work is '繁重'. If you feel the emotional pressure of those assignments, your heart is '沉重'.
他的工作非常繁重,这让他感到压力沉重。(His work is very laborious, which makes him feel heavy pressure.)
Another important comparison is with '严重' (yánzhòng). '严重' means 'serious' or 'critical'. It describes the state of a problem, a mistake, or an illness. You wouldn't say a mood is '严重'; you say it's '沉重'. Conversely, you wouldn't say a traffic accident is '沉重'; you say it's '严重'. However, a '严重' accident can lead to a '沉重' atmosphere.
这是一个严重的错误,后果非常沉重。(This is a serious mistake, and the consequences are very heavy/grave.)
- 沉重 vs. 庄重 (zhuāngzhòng)
- '庄重' means 'serious' in a positive way, like 'solemn' or 'dignified'. A person's behavior or a ceremony can be '庄重'. '沉重' is usually negative or sad. A funeral is '庄重' because it is respectful, but the mood is '沉重' because it is sad.
他的表情既庄重又沉重。(His expression was both solemn and heavy.)
For more literary or high-level Chinese, you might encounter '凝重' (níngzhòng). This word implies a thickness or a frozen quality to the heaviness, often used for atmosphere or facial expressions. It's like the air is so heavy it's almost solid. In contrast, '沉重' is more about the downward pull of the weight. Understanding these subtle differences will help you move from a basic learner to a more nuanced speaker of Chinese.
面对沉重的压力,他没有放弃。(Facing heavy pressure, he did not give up.)
How Formal Is It?
재미있는 사실
The character 沉 (chén) also means 'to sink'. In ancient times, it was used to describe the act of sacrificial objects being sunk into a river to appease water deities.
발음 가이드
- Pronouncing 'chén' with a flat tone (1st tone) instead of a rising tone.
- Confusing the 'zh' in 'zhòng' with the 'z' sound (no tongue curl).
- Pronouncing 'en' in 'chén' like the 'an' in 'can'.
- Failing to make the 4th tone on 'zhòng' sharp and falling.
- Merging the two syllables into one sound.
난이도
Easy to recognize the characters, but nuances in meaning require attention.
The character '沉' has many strokes and '重' is a common but multi-stroke character.
Tones are clear, but using it in the right context is key.
Easily distinguishable in speech due to the distinct 'ch' and 'zh' sounds.
다음에 무엇을 배울까
선수 학습
다음에 배울 것
고급
알아야 할 문법
Adjective + 的 + Noun
沉重的负担 (Heavy burden)
Subject + 很 + Adjective
心情很沉重 (Mood is very heavy)
Adjective + 地 + Verb
沉重地叹气 (Sigh heavily)
Verb + 得 + Adjective (Complement of degree)
走得沉重 (Walk heavily)
Using '感' to form abstract nouns
沉重感 (Sense of heaviness)
수준별 예문
这个书包很沉重。
This backpack is very heavy.
Using '很' (very) before the adjective.
我的心情很沉重。
My mood is very heavy.
Common phrase for feeling sad.
这箱子太沉重了。
This box is too heavy.
Using '太...了' for emphasis.
他的脚步很沉重。
His steps are very heavy.
Describes the manner of walking.
天气很闷,感觉很沉重。
The weather is stuffy, it feels very heavy.
Describing the atmosphere.
这块石头非常沉重。
This stone is extremely heavy.
Using '非常' for 'extremely'.
听到这个消息,他心情沉重。
Hearing this news, his mood was heavy.
Cause and effect with mood.
那个大机器很沉重。
That big machine is very heavy.
Describing a physical object.
生活负担有时很沉重。
Life's burden is sometimes very heavy.
Abstract noun 'burden'.
他带着沉重的心情离开了。
He left with a heavy heart.
Using '带着...的心情' (with a ... mood).
这是一个沉重的任务。
This is a heavy task.
Modifying a noun with '的'.
他叹了一口沉重的气。
He gave a heavy sigh.
Describing a sigh.
他的责任非常沉重。
His responsibility is very heavy.
Describing responsibility.
老人迈着沉重的步子。
The old man took heavy steps.
Verb '迈' (to step) with '沉重的'.
这里的气氛有些沉重。
The atmosphere here is a bit heavy.
Describing the 'air' of a place.
他感到肩上的压力很沉重。
He feels the pressure on his shoulders is very heavy.
Metaphorical weight on shoulders.
这次失败是一个沉重的打击。
This failure is a heavy blow.
Common collocation '沉重的打击'.
我们必须面对沉重的现实。
We must face the heavy reality.
Abstract noun 'reality'.
他付出了沉重的代价才获得成功。
He paid a heavy price to achieve success.
Common collocation '沉重的代价'.
他的话让大家心情沉重。
His words made everyone's mood heavy.
Causative structure with '让'.
这种债务负担太沉重了。
This debt burden is too heavy.
Economic context.
电影的结局让人感到很沉重。
The ending of the movie makes people feel very heavy.
Describing the emotional impact of art.
他沉重地叹了一口气。
He sighed heavily.
Using '地' to form an adverb.
这个消息对她来说太沉重了。
This news was too heavy for her.
Using '对...来说' (for someone).
历史的教训是沉重的。
The lessons of history are heavy.
Abstract philosophical usage.
他背负着沉重的历史使命。
He carries a heavy historical mission.
Formal/Political context.
空气中弥漫着沉重的忧郁。
The air was filled with heavy melancholy.
Literary description.
这场灾难给国家带来了沉重的损失。
This disaster brought heavy losses to the country.
Describing economic/human loss.
他迈着沉重而坚定的步伐。
He took heavy yet firm steps.
Using '而' to connect contrasting adjectives.
这种沉重感一直挥之不去。
This sense of heaviness lingered and wouldn't go away.
Using '感' to turn it into a noun.
他沉重地低下了头。
He lowered his head heavily.
Describing physical movement with emotional weight.
这篇文章讨论了沉重的社会问题。
This article discusses heavy social issues.
Describing intellectual content.
整座城市笼罩在沉重的阴影中。
The entire city was shrouded in a heavy shadow.
Metaphorical use of 'shadow'.
他沉重地意识到自己的错误。
He became heavily/profoundly aware of his mistake.
Modifying a verb of cognition.
这部作品充满了沉重的人文关怀。
This work is full of heavy/profound humanistic concern.
Academic/Literary critique.
他无法摆脱那段沉重的记忆。
He could not escape that heavy memory.
Describing psychological weight.
会议在一种沉重而肃穆的气氛中进行。
The meeting proceeded in a heavy and solemn atmosphere.
Formal descriptive pairing.
这钟声听起来格外沉重。
The sound of the bell seemed exceptionally heavy.
Describing the quality of sound.
他肩负着振兴家族的沉重担子。
He shoulders the heavy burden of reviving the family.
Using '担子' (load/burden).
由于沉重的税赋,农民生活困苦。
Due to heavy taxes, the farmers lived in hardship.
Formal historical context.
其辞藻虽华丽,却难掩内心的沉重。
Though the rhetoric is ornate, it cannot hide the inner heaviness.
Classical-style contrast.
他以沉重的笔触描绘了战争的残酷。
He depicted the cruelty of war with heavy brushstrokes.
Artistic metaphor.
那种沉重感如铅般压在他的心头。
That sense of heaviness pressed on his heart like lead.
Simile with '如...般'.
面对时代的变迁,他感到一种沉重的失落。
Facing the changes of the era, he felt a heavy sense of loss.
Existential description.
历史的沉重感让每一个参观者都陷入了沉思。
The heavy sense of history plunged every visitor into deep thought.
Describing collective psychological impact.
他不得不做出那个沉重而艰难的抉择。
He had to make that heavy and difficult choice.
Describing a life-altering decision.
作品中蕴含着沉重的民族苦难。
The work contains the heavy suffering of the nation.
Describing historical/national themes.
在沉重的暮色中,他独自前行。
In the heavy twilight, he walked on alone.
Poetic description of nature.
자주 쓰는 조합
자주 쓰는 구문
— With a heavy heart; usually used when leaving or starting a sad event.
他带着沉重的心情离开了故乡。
— A heavy burden; can be physical, financial, or emotional.
高房价成了年轻人的沉重负担。
— A heavy blow; a major setback or tragedy.
母亲的去世对他是个沉重的打击。
— A heavy price; a significant loss incurred to achieve or fix something.
战争让双方都付出了沉重的代价。
— Heavy steps; implies tiredness or sadness while walking.
他迈着沉重的脚步走进考场。
— Heavy atmosphere; a lack of joy or presence of tension.
家里现在的气氛非常沉重。
— Heavy history; refers to a past filled with suffering or significance.
这是一段沉重的历史,我们不能忘记。
— Heavy pressure; intense stress from work, life, or expectations.
他承受着沉重的工作压力。
— A heavy sigh; a sigh expressing deep worry or grief.
屋里传来一声沉重的叹息。
— To announce heavily/solemnly; used for bad news.
医生沉重地宣布了手术失败的消息。
자주 혼동되는 단어
Use '重' for simple physical weight. Use '沉重' for burdensome weight or mood.
Use '严重' for the severity of problems or illnesses. Use '沉重' for the feeling of being weighed down.
Use '繁重' specifically for heavy and numerous tasks or work.
관용어 및 표현
— The burden is heavy and the road is long. It means to have a heavy responsibility and a long way to go.
国家建设任重道远。
Formal— As if relieved of a heavy burden. To feel very relaxed after finishing a difficult task.
考试结束后,他感到如释重负。
Neutral— A heavy injustice that has not been cleared. (Uses '沉' for depth/heaviness).
这个案件多年来沉冤莫雪。
Literary— To speak with heavy/sincere heart and long-lasting meaning. (Advice given with deep concern).
老师语重心长地叮嘱我们要好好学习。
Formal— Steady and heavy (referring to personality); reliable and mature.
他是一个办事稳重的人。
Neutral— To endure humiliation and carry a heavy load (for a greater purpose).
为了完成任务,他只能忍辱负重。
Formal— To carry weight with every step. To be of vital importance.
他在公司里是一个举足轻重的人物。
Formal— To reorganize the flags and drums. To start again after a heavy defeat.
失败后,他们决定重整旗鼓。
Neutral— To carry a heavy load to a distant place. To be capable of handling big responsibilities.
我们需要负重致远的人才。
Literary— Deep/heavy thinking and silent reflection.
他坐在窗前沉思默想。
Literary혼동하기 쉬운
Sounds similar and both involve '重'.
'郑重' means serious and conscientious in terms of attitude or declaration. '沉重' means heavy in weight or mood.
他郑重地向我道歉。
Both relate to weight.
'重量' is a noun meaning the physical weight measurement. '沉重' is an adjective describing the feeling of weight.
这个物体的重量是十公斤。
Similar meaning of 'heavy/deep'.
'深重' is usually used for negative abstract concepts like '苦难' (suffering) or '罪孽' (sin). It emphasizes the depth.
深重的苦难磨练了他的意志。
Both used for serious contexts.
'庄重' means dignified or solemn in behavior. '沉重' means heavy or sad.
他在典礼上的表现非常庄重。
Both imply significance.
'重大' means great, major, or significant. '沉重' means burdensome or heavy.
这是一个重大的发现。
문장 패턴
我的心情很沉重。
听到这个消息,我的心情很沉重。
这是沉重的[Noun]。
这是沉重的负担。
[Event] 是一个沉重的打击。
他的离开是一个沉重的打击。
他付出了沉重的代价。
为了赢,他付出了沉重的代价。
他沉重地[Verb]。
他沉重地点了点头。
气氛变得沉重起来。
大家都不说话,气氛变得沉重起来。
面对沉重的[Abstract Noun]...
面对沉重的历史,我们必须反思。
其[Noun]之沉重,令人[Verb]。
其代价之沉重,令人触目惊心。
어휘 가족
명사
동사
형용사
관련
사용법
High in written Chinese and formal speech; medium in daily casual speech.
-
我的书很沉重。
→
我的书很重。
Unless the book has a very sad story that makes you feel burdened, just use '重' for physical weight.
-
他的病很沉重。
→
他的病很严重。
For illnesses, use '严重' (serious). '沉重' describes the mood caused by the illness.
-
沉重的工作。
→
繁重的工作。
'繁重' is the specific term for heavy workloads. '沉重' is for the pressure the work causes.
-
他是一个沉重的人。
→
他是一个稳重的人。
If you mean he is reliable and mature, use '稳重'. '沉重' makes him sound like a sad burden.
-
我心情沉重因为我丢了五块钱。
→
我心情不好因为我丢了五块钱。
'沉重' is too dramatic for losing a small amount of money. Use '心情不好' or '难过'.
팁
Pair with Abstract Nouns
To sound more native, pair '沉重' with nouns like '心情' (mood), '气氛' (atmosphere), or '负担' (burden). These are the most natural collocations.
Don't Forget '的'
When '沉重' comes before a noun, remember to use the particle '的'. For example, '沉重的打击', not just '沉重打击' (though the latter is sometimes seen in headlines).
Tone of Voice
When speaking, try to lower your pitch slightly when saying '沉重' to match its meaning of gravity and seriousness.
Choose the Right 'Heavy'
Always ask yourself: Is this physical weight (use 重) or an emotional/burdensome weight (use 沉重)?
Work vs. Mood
If you are complaining about having too much work, '繁重' (fánzhòng) is often more accurate than '沉重'.
Show Respect
Using '心情沉重' in a condolence message is a very polite and appropriate way to show you care.
Adverbial Use
Use '沉重地' to describe actions like nodding, sighing, or walking to add an emotional layer to the movement.
Expand to '感'
Add '感' (gǎn) to make '沉重感' when you want to talk about the 'feeling of heaviness' as a subject in your sentence.
Listen for News
Watch Chinese news about the economy; you will hear '沉重' used for debt and taxes almost every day.
Review Antonyms
Keep '轻松' (light/relaxed) in mind as the direct opposite to help you remember the 'burdened' nature of '沉重'.
암기하기
기억법
Think of a 'sink' (沉 - chén) and a 'ton' (重 - zhòng). If a ton of weight is in a sink, it is very 'chénzhòng' (heavy/sinking).
시각적 연상
Imagine a person walking through deep water (沉) while carrying a huge boulder (重) on their back. Their steps are slow and heavy.
Word Web
챌린지
Try to use '沉重' in three different ways today: once for a physical object, once for your mood, and once for a task you have to do.
어원
The word is a combination of two ancient Chinese characters. '沉' (chén) originally depicted an object sinking in water, later evolving to mean deep or profound. '重' (zhòng) originally depicted a person standing on a large bag or bundle, symbolizing weight or importance.
원래 의미: The original combined meaning referred to something that is both physically deep/sinking and heavy.
Sino-Tibetan, Sinitic (Mandarin Chinese).문화적 맥락
Be careful when using '沉重' to describe someone else's life; it can sound like you are pitying them too much. Use it mostly to describe your own feelings or general situations.
English speakers might just say 'heavy' or 'sad'. '沉重' is more like 'leaden' or 'burdensome'. It sounds more formal than the average English use of 'heavy'.
실생활에서 연습하기
실제 사용 상황
Funerals or Memorials
- 心情沉重
- 沉痛哀悼
- 气氛沉重
- 带着沉重的心情
Work and Responsibility
- 任务沉重
- 责任沉重
- 负担沉重
- 压力沉重
Economics and Finance
- 债务沉重
- 税收沉重
- 经济压力沉重
- 损失沉重
Literature and Art
- 沉重的笔触
- 沉重的历史感
- 沉重的叹息
- 画面沉重
Physical Description
- 脚步沉重
- 呼吸沉重
- 箱子沉重
- 身体沉重
대화 시작하기
"你觉得现在的学业负担沉重吗? (Do you think your schoolwork burden is heavy?)"
"听到那个新闻后,你的心情沉重吗? (Was your mood heavy after hearing that news?)"
"你曾经为了什么事付出过沉重的代价? (What have you paid a heavy price for?)"
"你觉得照顾宠物是一项沉重的责任吗? (Do you think taking care of a pet is a heavy responsibility?)"
"在你的国家,哪段历史最让人感到沉重? (In your country, which part of history makes people feel the heaviest?)"
일기 주제
描述一次你感到心情沉重的经历,发生了什么? (Describe a time you felt a heavy mood, what happened?)
你认为现代人面临的最沉重的负担是什么? (What do you think is the heaviest burden modern people face?)
写一段话,用‘沉重的脚步’来描述一个人的疲惫。 (Write a paragraph using 'heavy steps' to describe someone's exhaustion.)
如果你必须承担一项沉重的任务,你会如何面对? (If you had to undertake a heavy task, how would you face it?)
讨论一下‘沉重的代价’与‘成功’之间的关系。 (Discuss the relationship between 'heavy price' and 'success'.)
자주 묻는 질문
10 질문Generally, no. For a person's weight, use '胖' (pàng - fat) or '重' (zhòng - heavy). If you say a person is '沉重', it might mean they are emotionally heavy or their personality is very serious and burdensome.
Mostly, yes. It almost always implies a burden, sadness, or a difficult situation. However, in some contexts, it can imply a respectable 'gravity' or 'seriousness', such as a '沉重' historical responsibility.
'心情不好' (xīnqíng bù hǎo) means 'in a bad mood' and is very general. '心情沉重' (xīnqíng chénzhòng) is more specific, meaning your heart feels heavy due to grief, guilt, or serious worry.
In Chinese, 沉重 is primarily an adjective. To use it as a noun (heaviness), you usually add '感' (gǎn) to make '沉重感' (chénzhòng gǎn).
You say '沉重的叹息' (chénzhòng de tànxī) or '沉重地叹了一口气' (chénzhòng de tànle yīkǒu qì).
Sometimes. In art, a '沉重' color (like dark gray or deep brown) implies a heavy or somber feeling, but it's more of a descriptive metaphor than a standard color term.
Yes, very often. It's used to describe '沉重的债务' (heavy debt), '沉重的税负' (heavy tax burden), or '沉重的竞争' (heavy competition).
The most common opposite is '轻松' (qīngsōng), meaning 'light' or 'relaxed'.
Yes, to describe an oppressive, humid, or dark and cloudy atmosphere. '天气沉重' implies it feels like it might rain or is very stuffy.
You can say '我的作业负担很沉重' (My homework burden is very heavy).
셀프 테스트 200 질문
Write a sentence using '心情沉重' to describe someone hearing bad news.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Translate: 'He carried a heavy burden on his shoulders.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Write a short paragraph (3 sentences) about a sad movie using '沉重'.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Use '沉重地' as an adverb in a sentence about sighing.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Describe a heavy physical object using '沉重'.
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Translate: 'We paid a heavy price for this victory.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Write a formal sentence for a memorial service using '沉重'.
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Explain the difference between '重' and '沉重' in Chinese.
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Use '沉重感' in a sentence about history.
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Translate: 'The atmosphere in the room was very heavy.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Write a sentence about economic debt using '沉重'.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Use '脚步沉重' to describe an exhausted worker.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Translate: 'This is a heavy responsibility.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Write a sentence about a 'heavy blow' in sports or life.
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Translate: 'He nodded heavily.'
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Write a sentence using '沉重' to describe a voice or sound.
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Use '沉重' to describe the weight of a secret.
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Translate: 'The future of the company is a heavy burden.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Write a sentence about 'heavy history'.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Use '沉重' in a sentence about environmental issues.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Pronounce '沉重' with the correct tones.
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
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Say 'My heart is very heavy' in Chinese.
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
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Describe a heavy suitcase using '沉重'.
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
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Say 'A heavy burden' in Chinese.
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
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Use '沉重' in a sentence about responsibilities.
Read this aloud:
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Tell a short story (30 seconds) about a sad day using '沉重'.
Read this aloud:
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Pronounce the phrase '沉重的打击'.
Read this aloud:
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Say 'He sighed heavily' in Chinese.
Read this aloud:
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Describe the atmosphere of a funeral using '沉重'.
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
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Say 'We paid a heavy price' in Chinese.
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
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Ask someone: 'Do you feel your burden is heavy?'
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
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Pronounce '沉重感'.
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
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Say 'Heavy steps' in Chinese.
Read this aloud:
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Describe a serious news report using '沉重'.
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
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Say 'The debt is very heavy' in Chinese.
Read this aloud:
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Use '沉重' to describe a historical museum visit.
Read this aloud:
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Say 'He lowered his head heavily' in Chinese.
Read this aloud:
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Pronounce '沉重地叹息'.
Read this aloud:
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Say 'A heavy task' in Chinese.
Read this aloud:
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Describe a dark, oppressive sky using '沉重'.
Read this aloud:
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Listen to the sentence: '他的心情很沉重。' What is heavy?
Listen: '这是一个沉重的负担。' What is being described?
Listen: '他迈着沉重的脚步。' How is he walking?
Listen: '沉重的打击让公司倒闭了。' What caused the company to close?
Listen: '气氛变得沉重起来。' What happened to the atmosphere?
Listen: '他付出了沉重的代价。' Did he pay a small or large price?
Listen: '沉重地叹了一口气。' What did the person do?
Listen: '债务非常沉重。' What is the financial situation?
Listen: '历史的沉重感。' What does the speaker feel?
Listen: '沉重的任务交给了他。' What was given to him?
Listen: '呼吸很沉重。' How is the person's breathing?
Listen: '沉重的阴影笼罩着他。' What is covering him?
Listen: '这箱子十分沉重。' Is the box light?
Listen: '怀着沉重的心情告别。' Is the farewell happy?
Listen: '代价是沉重的。' Was the cost significant?
/ 200 correct
Perfect score!
Summary
The word 沉重 (chénzhòng) is your go-to term for describing anything that feels like a 'heavy weight' on the soul or the shoulders. Example: '面对沉重的负担,他依然坚持。' (Facing a heavy burden, he still persisted.)
- 沉重 (chénzhòng) means 'heavy' or 'burdensome', used for both physical weight and emotional gravity.
- It commonly describes a sad mood (心情沉重), a serious atmosphere, or a difficult responsibility.
- Unlike the simple '重', it implies a sense of being weighed down or oppressed by circumstances.
- It is a formal word frequently found in news, literature, and serious discussions.
Pair with Abstract Nouns
To sound more native, pair '沉重' with nouns like '心情' (mood), '气氛' (atmosphere), or '负担' (burden). These are the most natural collocations.
Don't Forget '的'
When '沉重' comes before a noun, remember to use the particle '的'. For example, '沉重的打击', not just '沉重打击' (though the latter is sometimes seen in headlines).
Tone of Voice
When speaking, try to lower your pitch slightly when saying '沉重' to match its meaning of gravity and seriousness.
Choose the Right 'Heavy'
Always ask yourself: Is this physical weight (use 重) or an emotional/burdensome weight (use 沉重)?
관련 콘텐츠
emotions 관련 단어
有点
A1조금, 약간. 형용사 앞에 쓰여 부정적인 느낌이나 불만을 나타낼 때 사용합니다.
一点
A1조금, 약간. 어떤 것의 적은 양을 나타냅니다.
可恶
A2얄밉다;가증스럽다. 강한 반감이나 화를 표현할 때 사용됩니다.
心不在焉
A2마음이 딴 데 가 있다; 건성으로 듣다.
接受地
A2그는 비판을 수용적으로 받아들였다.
成就感
B1어려운 일을 해냈을 때 느끼는 성취감.
撒娇
A2To act like a spoiled child; to act cute.
上瘾
B1어떤 것에 강한 의존성을 갖게 되어, 끊기 어렵게 되는 것. 종종 건강하지 못한 정도.
沉迷
A2그는 게임에 침미하여 학업을 소홀히 하고 있다.
敬佩
B1존경하다; 감탄하다. 누군가의 성격이나 행동에 대한 깊은 존경심을 표현할 때 사용된다.