透明的
透明的 30초 만에
- Literally means 'see-through' (e.g., glass, water).
- Metaphorically means 'open' or 'honest' (e.g., rules, government).
- Commonly used in business to describe clear pricing or management.
- The noun form is '透明度' (transparency).
The Chinese term 透明的 (tòumíng de) is a versatile adjective that primarily translates to 'transparent' in English. At its most literal level, it describes physical objects that allow light to pass through so that objects behind can be distinctly seen, such as glass, water, or clear plastic. However, its usage extends far beyond the physical realm, permeating discussions about governance, business ethics, and interpersonal relationships. In a metaphorical sense, it refers to openness, clarity, and the absence of hidden agendas or secrets. When a process is described as tòumíng, it implies that every step is visible and accountable to the public or relevant stakeholders. This dual nature makes it a crucial word for intermediate learners who are moving from describing their physical surroundings to discussing abstract concepts and social structures.
- Physical Transparency
- Used to describe materials like glass (玻璃), crystal (水晶), or clear liquids. It emphasizes the quality of being see-through.
窗户是透明的,我们可以看到外面的花园。(The window is transparent; we can see the garden outside.)
- Institutional Transparency
- Refers to the 'openness' of a government or organization. It is a key term in political science and corporate social responsibility.
In modern Chinese society, the demand for tòumíng has grown significantly. Whether it is the transparency of food safety reports, the transparency of charity donations, or the transparency of government spending, the word carries a heavy weight of trust and integrity. When you use this word in a professional setting, you are often advocating for honesty and the removal of 'black-box' operations (黑箱操作). For example, a company might promise that its hiring process is 'completely transparent' to attract talent and build a positive reputation. Understanding the nuance of this word requires recognizing that while 'clear' (清澈) might describe water, 'transparent' (透明) is the standard for systems and rules.
我们需要一个更加透明的选举过程。(We need a more transparent election process.)
Furthermore, in the digital age, 'transparent' is used in technology and design. A 'transparent background' in Photoshop is called a tòumíng bèijǐng. A user interface might have 'transparent layers'. This technical application is very common in the tech hubs of Shenzhen and Beijing. Even in fashion, 'transparent fabrics' (透明面料) are a recurring trend. Thus, from the mundane act of looking through a window to the complex demands of a modern democracy, tòumíng de is a linguistic bridge connecting the visible world with the ethical ideal of clarity. It is a word that signals sophistication in your Chinese vocabulary, showing that you can navigate both descriptive and conceptual discussions with ease. By mastering its use, you can express complex ideas about fairness, visibility, and physical properties in a single, well-understood term.
- Emotional Transparency
- Sometimes used to describe a person who is easy to read. If someone 'has no secrets' or 'is like an open book', you might say they are very 'transparent'.
他在朋友面前总是非常透明的。(He is always very transparent in front of his friends.)
Using 透明的 (tòumíng de) effectively requires an understanding of Chinese adjective structures and the specific contexts where 'transparency' is required. Grammatically, '透明' is the core adjective, and '的' is the structural particle used to modify a noun or to complete a predicate. The most basic structure is [Noun] + 是 + 透明的, which asserts that the noun possesses the quality of transparency. For example, '水是透明的' (Water is transparent). When using it to modify a noun directly, you place it before the noun: 透明的 + [Noun], such as '透明的塑料袋' (a transparent plastic bag).
- The Predicative Use
- When '透明' follows '是' (to be), it describes a state. This is common when identifying materials or describing the nature of a system.
这些规则应该是透明的,让每个人都明白。(These rules should be transparent, so everyone understands.)
One important grammatical nuance is the use of degree adverbs like '非常' (very), '极其' (extremely), or '不够' (not enough). You can say '非常透明' to emphasize total clarity. Conversely, '不透明' (bù tòumíng) is the standard way to say 'opaque' or 'lack of transparency'. In political and business discourse, '不够透明' (not transparent enough) is a common critique of organizations that hide information. If you want to talk about the 'level' of transparency, you transition from the adjective to the noun '透明度' (tòumíngdù). For instance, '提高透明度' (tígāo tòumíngdù) means 'to increase transparency'.
- Attributive Use with '的'
- When '透明' describes a noun, the '的' is almost always required because '透明' is a two-syllable adjective. This creates a clear link between the quality and the object.
请给我一个透明的杯子。(Please give me a transparent cup.)
In more advanced sentences, tòumíng de can be used in comparative structures. '这个方案比那个方案更透明' (This plan is more transparent than that one). It can also be used in 'make' or 'cause' structures using '使' (shǐ) or '让' (ràng). For example, '政府采取措施使财政支出更加透明' (The government took measures to make financial spending more transparent). This shows how the word functions within the logic of governance and policy-making. Furthermore, when describing materials that are only partially see-through, you would use '半透明的' (bàn tòumíng de), meaning 'translucent'. Mastering these variations allows you to be precise in your descriptions.
- Comparative and Resultative
- Using '变得' (biànde) to show a change in state: '随着改革,市场变得越来越透明了' (With the reforms, the market has become more and more transparent).
这种材料在加热后会变成透明的。(This material becomes transparent after being heated.)
Finally, consider the word order in complex sentences. If you have multiple adjectives, '透明的' usually comes closer to the noun than adjectives describing size or opinion, but further than adjectives describing the material itself if '透明' is seen as a secondary characteristic. However, usually '透明' is the primary characteristic being highlighted. For example, '一个大而透明的玻璃球' (a large and transparent glass ball). By practicing these various sentence patterns, you will move beyond simple identification to being able to discuss the nuance of clarity in both the physical and abstract worlds.
In contemporary China, you will encounter the word 透明的 (tòumíng de) in a wide variety of settings, ranging from daily shopping trips to high-level corporate boardrooms. If you are walking through a shopping mall in Shanghai, you might see '透明的' used in advertisements for skincare products, promising 'transparent' or 'crystal clear' skin (though '晶莹剔透' is more poetic, '透明感' is a common marketing term for a 'clear' look). You will also see it on product packaging—clear containers are often marketed as allowing you to see the 'transparent quality' of the ingredients inside.
- The Business Environment
- In meetings, managers often discuss '透明化管理' (tòumínghuà guǎnlǐ), or 'transparent management'. This refers to sharing information with employees and shareholders to build trust.
我们的财务报表是完全透明的。(Our financial statements are completely transparent.)
In the news, specifically regarding government policy, '透明' is a frequent buzzword. You will hear news anchors talking about '政务透明' (zhèngwù tòumíng - government affairs transparency). This is a major part of the 'Open Government' initiatives in China, where departments are encouraged to publish their budgets and decision-making processes online. If there is a public outcry about a lack of information, the media will often criticize the situation as '不透明' (bù tòumíng), demanding more '透明度'. This makes the word essential for anyone following Chinese current events or working in public relations.
In the world of technology and social media, '透明' is used to describe data privacy and algorithm clarity. With the rise of apps like TikTok (Douyin) and WeChat, there is constant discussion about how 'transparent' these platforms are with user data. Tech reviews might describe a new phone case as '透明的' or discuss the 'transparency mode' (透明模式) on noise-canceling headphones (like AirPods), which allows ambient sound to pass through. This technical usage is ubiquitous among the younger, tech-savvy generation.
- Art and Design
- Artists use '透明水彩' (tòumíng shuǐcǎi) for transparent watercolors. Architects discuss '透明性' (tòumíngxìng) when designing buildings with lots of glass to create a sense of space and connection with the outside.
这座建筑采用了大量的透明玻璃。(This building uses a large amount of transparent glass.)
Finally, you will hear it in everyday conversations about personality. If someone says '他这个人很透明' (Tā zhège rén hěn tòumíng), they mean he is honest, straightforward, and doesn't hide his feelings. It is a compliment, suggesting that the person is trustworthy. Conversely, if a situation is '不透明', it usually implies that something 'fishy' or 'shady' is going on. Whether you are at a construction site looking at windows, in a bank discussing fees, or at a dinner party discussing a friend's character, '透明的' is the word that captures the essence of visibility and integrity.
While 透明的 (tòumíng de) seems straightforward, English speakers often make several common errors when applying it in Chinese. The most frequent mistake is confusing '透明' (transparent) with '清澈' (qīngchè - clear/limpid). While both can describe water, '清澈' is specifically for liquids and emphasizes purity and the absence of sediment. You would describe a mountain stream as '清澈的', but you would describe a glass window as '透明的'. You cannot describe a window as '清澈' because '清澈' has a poetic, liquid-focused connotation. Using '透明' for water is grammatically correct but sounds more 'scientific' than '清澈'.
- Confusion with '公开' (gōngkāi)
- Learners often use '透明' when they mean '公开' (public/open). While a 'transparent process' is usually 'public', '公开' refers to the act of making something known to everyone, whereas '透明' refers to the quality of the process being easy to see through and understand.
Mistake: 这个秘密现在是透明的。 (The secret is now transparent.)
Correction: 这个秘密现在是公开的。 (The secret is now public.)
Another common error is the misuse of '的'. As mentioned before, because '透明' is a disyllabic (two-syllable) adjective, it almost always requires '的' when modifying a noun. Beginners often forget this, saying '透明杯子' instead of '透明的杯子'. While '透明杯子' might be understood, it sounds clipped and informal, like a label on a box rather than a natural sentence. Furthermore, learners sometimes struggle with the noun form. In English, we use 'transparency' for both the state and the object (like a projector transparency). In Chinese, '透明度' (tòumíngdù) is the state/degree, and '透明片' (tòumíngpiàn) is the physical object used in projectors.
There is also a subtle difference between '透明' and '通透' (tōngtòu). '通透' is often used in art, architecture, and even when describing jade or jewelry. It implies a sense of 'thorough transparency' where light seems to penetrate the object completely, giving it a glowing quality. Using '透明' for a high-quality piece of jade might sound a bit too 'industrial' or 'plain'. Similarly, when describing a person's character, '透明' means they are honest, but '通透' means they are wise and have a clear understanding of life's complexities. Confusing these two can lead to a loss of the specific nuance you intend to convey.
- The 'Invisible' Mistake
- Sometimes learners use '透明' to mean 'invisible'. If something is 'invisible', it is '看不见的' (kàn bù jiàn de) or '隐形的' (yǐnxíng de). A 'transparent' man is see-through, but an 'invisible' man cannot be seen at all.
虽然玻璃是透明的,但它不是看不见的。(Although glass is transparent, it is not invisible.)
Lastly, be careful with the word '透明' in the context of 'clear skin'. While '透明感' (tòumíng gǎn) is a common term in beauty ads (meaning a 'translucent' or 'radiant' look), calling someone's skin '透明的' (tòumíng de) literally would imply you can see their veins and muscles through it, which sounds more like a medical condition than a compliment! Stick to '皮肤很好' (pífu hěn hǎo) or '皮肤很亮' (pífu hěn liàng) unless you are specifically discussing the 'translucent' quality in a makeup context.
To truly master the concept of 透明的 (tòumíng de), it is helpful to compare it with its synonyms and related terms. The Chinese language has a rich vocabulary for describing clarity, and choosing the right word can change the tone of your sentence significantly. The most common alternatives include '清澈' (qīngchè), '通透' (tōngtòu), '公开' (gōngkāi), and '直率' (zhíshuài). Each of these overlaps with '透明' but has its own specific domain of usage.
- 透明 (tòumíng) vs. 清澈 (qīngchè)
- '透明' is the general word for 'transparent' (glass, plastic, systems). '清澈' is specifically for clear, pure water or sometimes clear eyes. You wouldn't call a glass '清澈', but you would call a lake '清澈'.
那里的湖水非常清澈,而不是透明。(The lake water there is very clear/limpid, rather than [just] transparent.)
When discussing people or processes, '透明' is often used interchangeably with '公开' (gōngkāi). However, '公开' means 'public' or 'open to the public'. A process can be '公开' (everyone can attend the meeting) without being '透明' (the decisions are still made in a way that is hard to follow). Conversely, a process can be '透明' (all the logic is explained) but only to a select group of people, not '公开'. In modern ethics, we usually want things to be both. For a person's personality, '透明' means they don't hide things, while '直率' (zhíshuài) means they are 'straightforward' or 'blunt' in the way they speak.
- 透明 (tòumíng) vs. 通透 (tōngtòu)
- '通透' is a more sophisticated word. In design, it means 'airy and bright'. In personality, it means someone who has 'seen through' the vanities of the world and has a clear, wise mind. '透明' is more about the absence of secrets; '通透' is about the presence of wisdom.
这位老人家看问题非常通透。(This elderly person sees issues very clearly/wisely.)
Another related term is '晶莹' (jīngyíng), which means 'sparkling and translucent'. This is often used for dew drops, gems, or tears. It adds a layer of beauty and light reflection that '透明' lacks. If you are writing poetry or descriptive prose, '晶莹' or '剔透' (tītòu) would be much better choices. However, for a scientific report or a business contract, '透明' is the only appropriate term. Understanding these distinctions allows you to choose the word that fits the 'register' (formality and style) of your conversation. In summary, use '透明' for literal transparency and institutional openness, '清澈' for pure water, '公开' for public access, and '通透' for wisdom or architectural brightness.
- Summary Table
-
- 透明 (tòumíng): General/Scientific/Institutional transparency.
- 清澈 (qīngchè): Purity of liquids/eyes.
- 通透 (tōngtòu): Wisdom/Architectural clarity.
- 公开 (gōngkāi): Publicly available.
How Formal Is It?
재미있는 사실
The character '透' contains the movement radical (辶), suggesting the idea of light 'traveling through' an object.
발음 가이드
- Pronouncing 'tòu' as 'dòu' (forgetting the aspiration).
- Failing to rise enough on the second tone of 'míng'.
- Giving 'de' a full tone instead of keeping it neutral.
- Confusing 'míng' with 'mǐn'.
- Merging the two syllables into one blurred sound.
난이도
The characters are moderate in difficulty; '透' has many strokes but '明' is basic.
Writing '透' correctly requires attention to the radical and the inner component.
Pronunciation is relatively straightforward for most learners.
Commonly used in news and daily life, so it's easy to recognize.
다음에 무엇을 배울까
선수 학습
다음에 배울 것
고급
알아야 할 문법
Use of '的' with double-syllable adjectives.
透明的玻璃 (Correct) vs 透明玻璃 (Less common in sentences).
The 'Noun + 是 + Adjective + 的' pattern for describing properties.
这种材料是透明的。
Using degree adverbs with adjectives.
非常透明,极其透明。
Negation with '不'.
这种液体是不透明的。
Noun formation using '度' (degree).
我们需要提高透明度。
수준별 예문
玻璃是透明的。
Glass is transparent.
Noun + 是 + Adjective + 的
我有一个透明的杯子。
I have a transparent cup.
Adjective + 的 + Noun
水是透明的吗?
Is water transparent?
Question with 吗
那是透明的塑料袋。
That is a transparent plastic bag.
Demonstrative + 是 + Noun phrase
这把雨伞是透明的。
This umbrella is transparent.
Measure word 把 used for umbrellas
请用透明的尺子。
Please use a transparent ruler.
Imperative sentence with 请
盒子里的东西是透明的。
The thing in the box is transparent.
Possessive phrase with 里的
我不喜欢透明的衣服。
I don't like transparent clothes.
Negative verb 不喜欢
湖水非常透明,能看到鱼。
The lake water is very transparent; you can see the fish.
Adverb 非常 used for emphasis
这种纸是不透明的。
This kind of paper is opaque.
Negative prefix 不 before the adjective
你可以看到透明的胶水。
You can see the transparent glue.
Modal verb 可以
这个窗帘半透明的。
This curtain is translucent.
Prefix 半 (half) makes it translucent
我们需要透明的包装。
We need transparent packaging.
Verb 需要 + Object
天空是透明的蓝色。
The sky is a transparent blue.
Compound adjective phrase
这个透明的盒子很轻。
This transparent box is very light.
Adjective 很 describing weight
鱼缸里的水不够透明。
The water in the fish tank is not transparent enough.
不够 (not enough) + Adjective
政府的预算应该是透明的。
The government's budget should be transparent.
Modal verb 应该 (should)
我们需要一个透明的选拔过程。
We need a transparent selection process.
Abstract noun modified by 透明的
这家公司的收费非常透明。
This company's charges are very transparent.
Describing business practices
透明的沟通可以减少误会。
Transparent communication can reduce misunderstandings.
Subject is an abstract phrase
这个计划的细节不够透明。
The details of this plan are not transparent enough.
Noun + 的 + Noun structure
我们要提高政策的透明度。
We need to increase the transparency of the policy.
Noun form 透明度
这种材料在阳光下变得透明。
This material becomes transparent under sunlight.
Resultative 变得 (become)
他的性格很透明,想什么都写在脸上。
His personality is very transparent; whatever he thinks is written on his face.
Metaphorical use for personality
建立透明的机制是防止腐败的关键。
Establishing a transparent mechanism is the key to preventing corruption.
Verb phrase as subject
市场信息应该对所有投资者透明。
Market information should be transparent to all investors.
Preposition 对 (to/for)
为了增加透明度,公司公布了所有数据。
To increase transparency, the company published all data.
Purpose clause with 为了
这种透明的商业模式吸引了很多客户。
This transparent business model attracted many customers.
Subject-Verb-Object with complex subject
法律程序必须保持公开和透明。
Legal procedures must remain public and transparent.
Parallel adjectives 公开 and 透明
这个软件有一个透明的用户界面。
This software has a transparent user interface.
Technical terminology
他主张实行透明化管理。
He advocates for the implementation of transparent management.
Noun suffix 化 (-ize/-ization)
这种透明的面料最近很流行。
This transparent fabric has been very popular lately.
Fashion and design context
该项目的资金运作完全处于透明状态。
The project's financial operations are in a completely transparent state.
Formal phrase 处于...状态
透明的定价策略赢得了消费者的信任。
The transparent pricing strategy won the trust of consumers.
Abstract cause and effect
在信息时代,个人隐私与透明度之间存在矛盾。
In the information age, there is a conflict between personal privacy and transparency.
Structure 之间存在矛盾
这种透明胶片的质量符合国际标准。
The quality of this transparent film meets international standards.
Compound noun 透明胶片
我们需要对算法的透明性进行深入探讨。
We need to conduct an in-depth discussion on the transparency of algorithms.
Formal verb 进行
这种通透而透明的质感是艺术家的追求。
This thorough and transparent texture is what the artist pursues.
Nuanced use of 通透 and 透明
选举过程的透明是不容置疑的原则。
The transparency of the election process is an unquestionable principle.
Adjective acting as a noun subject
他那透明的灵魂让人感到无比纯净。
His transparent soul makes one feel incredibly pure.
Poetic/Metaphorical use
在全球治理中,透明度不仅是手段,更是目的。
In global governance, transparency is not just a means, but an end in itself.
Structure 不仅是...更是...
数字化转型迫使企业走向更加透明的运营模式。
Digital transformation forces enterprises toward more transparent operating models.
Causative verb 迫使
这种高度透明的政治生态有助于社会的长期稳定。
This highly transparent political ecology contributes to long-term social stability.
Metaphorical noun phrase 政治生态
透明的本质在于消除信息不对称。
The essence of transparency lies in eliminating information asymmetry.
Philosophical definition structure
通过透明的司法审查,可以确保权力的正当行使。
Through transparent judicial review, the legitimate exercise of power can be ensured.
Formal prepositional phrase 通过...
他那洞察一切的目光,仿佛能看穿所有不透明的迷雾。
His all-seeing gaze seemed able to pierce through all opaque mists.
Literary contrast between 透明 and 不透明
区块链技术的应用,从根本上解决了数据透明的问题。
The application of blockchain technology fundamentally solves the issue of data transparency.
Adverbial phrase 从根本上
在追求透明的过程中,我们必须警惕对隐私的侵犯。
In the pursuit of transparency, we must be wary of infringements on privacy.
Gerund-like structure ...的过程中
자주 쓰는 조합
자주 쓰는 구문
— Open and transparent. Often used to describe government or corporate actions.
我们要确保整个过程公开透明。
— Transparent management. A management style that shares info with employees.
公司实行透明管理,深受欢迎。
— Transparent film or slide. Used in projectors or printing.
老师在透明胶片上写字。
— Transparency mode. A feature in headphones to hear outside sound.
戴上耳机,开启透明模式。
— Transparent texture. Used in art or product design.
这款手机壳有透明质感。
— Transparent election. An election without cheating or hidden steps.
国际观察员监督透明选举。
— Transparent plastic. Common material for packaging.
用透明塑料包装食物。
— Transparent mechanism. A clear system of rules.
我们需要建立透明机制。
— Transparent pricing. No hidden costs for customers.
透明定价是我们的核心优势。
— Transparent liquid. Used in science or medicine.
瓶子里装着透明液体。
자주 혼동되는 단어
Clear/limpid. Used for water and eyes, whereas '透明' is for materials and systems.
Public. Means everyone can see/access it, whereas '透明' means the internal logic is clear.
Invisible. '透明' things can still be seen (like glass), but '隐形' things cannot be seen at all.
관용어 및 표현
— Sparkling and crystal clear. Used for gems, water, or skin.
这块玉石晶莹剔透,非常名贵。
Formal/Literary— Black box operation. The antonymous concept of doing things in secret.
我们要坚决杜绝黑箱操作。
Formal/Political— Obvious at a glance. Related to the result of transparency.
这个表格让数据一目了然。
Neutral— Seeing things as clearly as looking at a fire. Very high clarity of mind.
他对局势的分析洞若观火。
Formal/Literary— To speak frankly and sincerely. Related to personal transparency.
大家开诚布公地谈一谈吧。
Formal— Honest and aboveboard. Doing things openly.
他的行为光明正大,不怕人看。
Neutral— When water is too clear, there are no fish. Metaphor for being too strict or transparent.
管理要适度,水清则无鱼。
Literary/Proverb— To see the whole from a small part. Related to deep clarity.
他能从细节中见微知著。
Formal— External appearance matches internal reality. Personal transparency.
他是一个表里如一的人。
Neutral— To understand without words. When things are clear between people.
两人心领神会地对视了一眼。
Literary혼동하기 쉬운
Both mean 'clear'.
清楚 means 'easy to understand' or 'distinct' (like a voice or image). 透明 means 'see-through' or 'open system'.
他说得很清楚 (He spoke clearly). 这块玻璃很透明 (This glass is transparent).
Both relate to clarity.
明白 is a verb (to understand) or an adjective for 'obvious'. 透明 is a property of an object or system.
我明白了 (I understand). 这是一个透明的过程 (This is a transparent process).
Both relate to things being visible.
显然 is an adverb meaning 'obviously'. 透明 is an adjective.
显然他是对的 (Obviously he is right). 规则必须透明 (Rules must be transparent).
Both relate to honesty.
坦诚 describes a person's attitude (candid/honest). 透明 describes the state of information or a system.
他很坦诚 (He is candid). 信息很透明 (The information is transparent).
Both can describe things that are hard to see.
稀薄 means 'thin' (like air or fog). 透明 means see-through.
高山上的空气很稀薄 (Air on high mountains is thin).
문장 패턴
A 是 透明的。
窗户是透明的。
透明的 + Noun + 很 + Adjective。
透明的杯子很漂亮。
为了...,我们需要透明的...。
为了公平,我们需要透明的规则。
提高...的透明度。
我们要提高管理的透明度。
...处于透明状态。
资金运作处于透明状态。
透明度不仅是...更是...。
透明度不仅是手段,更是目的。
...变得越来越透明。
市场变得越来越透明。
请给我一个透明的...。
请给我一个透明的袋子。
어휘 가족
명사
동사
형용사
관련
사용법
Very high in both daily conversation and professional/political discourse.
-
Using 透明 for clear weather.
→
晴朗 (qínglǎng)
You can't say '透明的天气'. Use '晴朗' for a clear, sunny day.
-
Saying 透明人 to mean a person who is honest.
→
他的人很透明。
'透明人' usually means someone who is ignored or invisible (like a social ghost).
-
Confusing 透明 with 清楚.
→
他说得很清楚。
'清楚' is for understanding or visual clarity of details. '透明' is for being see-through.
-
Omitting '的' in '透明的杯子'.
→
透明的杯子
Two-syllable adjectives usually require '的' before a noun.
-
Using 透明 for 'obvious'.
→
显然 (xiǎnrán)
'透明' is not an adverb for 'obviously'. Use '显然' or '显而易见'.
팁
Adjective + 的
Always remember to use '的' when '透明' comes before a noun. It links the quality to the object properly in Mandarin grammar.
Artistic Nuance
If you are describing a beautiful gemstone, use '晶莹剔透' instead of just '透明的' to sound more poetic and advanced.
Business Context
Use '透明度' (tòumíngdù) when discussing corporate governance or project management to sound more professional.
Shopping for Tape
If you need clear tape, ask for '透明胶带' (tòumíng jiāodài). It's a very common household item.
Tone Accuracy
Practice the transition from the 4th tone (tòu) to the 2nd tone (míng). This falling-rising pattern is key to being understood.
Abstract Use
Don't be afraid to use '透明' for abstract things like 'rules' or 'prices'. It's very common in modern Chinese.
Opaque vs Transparent
Learn '不透明' (opaque) at the same time to describe materials like wood or metal in contrast to glass.
UI Design
In design software, '透明度' is the word for 'opacity'. Setting it to 100% makes it '不透明', and 0% makes it '透明'.
Social Compliment
Calling a friend '透明' is a high compliment for their honesty and lack of hidden agendas.
Essay Writing
In essays, use '透明化' to discuss social progress or institutional reforms.
암기하기
기억법
Think of '透' (tòu) as 'Through' and '明' (míng) as 'Moon/Sun light'. If light goes 'Through' and stays 'Bright', it is 'Transparent'.
시각적 연상
Imagine a clear glass window (透明的窗户) through which you see a bright sun (明).
Word Web
챌린지
Try to find three things in your room that are '透明的' and one system in your life that is '不透明的'.
어원
The word is composed of two characters: '透' (tòu) and '明' (míng). '透' originally meant to pass through or penetrate. '明' originally meant bright or clear (composed of the sun and moon).
원래 의미: To be bright and allow light to pass through completely.
Sino-Tibetan (Mandarin Chinese).문화적 맥락
Be careful when criticizing a specific organization as '不透明' (not transparent) in a formal Chinese setting, as it can be taken as a very strong accusation of corruption or incompetence.
English speakers often use 'transparent' as a buzzword in corporate culture. In Chinese, it carries a similar weight but is also heavily linked to the 'rule of law' (法治) movement.
실생활에서 연습하기
실제 사용 상황
Science/Physics
- 透明介质 (transparent medium)
- 折射率 (refractive index)
- 透光率 (light transmittance)
- 光学透明 (optically transparent)
Business/Finance
- 价格透明 (price transparency)
- 财务透明 (financial transparency)
- 透明审计 (transparent audit)
- 信息披露 (information disclosure)
Politics/Law
- 政务透明 (government transparency)
- 司法透明 (judicial transparency)
- 选举透明 (election transparency)
- 公开听证 (public hearing)
Daily Life/Shopping
- 透明胶带 (clear tape)
- 透明塑料袋 (clear plastic bag)
- 透明包装 (clear packaging)
- 透明雨伞 (clear umbrella)
Technology/Design
- 透明背景 (transparent background)
- 透明图层 (transparent layer)
- 透明模式 (transparency mode)
- 用户界面 (UI)
대화 시작하기
"你觉得现在的社交媒体足够透明吗? (Do you think current social media is transparent enough?)"
"在你们国家,政府的开支是透明的吗? (In your country, is government spending transparent?)"
"你喜欢透明的手机壳还是不透明的? (Do you like transparent phone cases or opaque ones?)"
"你认为在一段关系中,透明度重要吗? (Do you think transparency is important in a relationship?)"
"如果一个人的性格太透明,你觉得是好事吗? (If a person's character is too transparent, do you think it's a good thing?)"
일기 주제
描述一个你认为非常透明的系统,并解释为什么它有效。 (Describe a system you think is very transparent and explain why it works.)
写一写你对‘隐私’与‘透明’之间关系的看法。 (Write about your views on the relationship between privacy and transparency.)
描述一件你拥有的透明物品,并描述它如何改变了光线。 (Describe a transparent object you own and how it changes the light.)
在工作中,你如何努力做到沟通透明? (In your work, how do you strive for transparent communication?)
谈谈你对‘水清则无鱼’这句话的理解。 (Talk about your understanding of the phrase 'when water is too clear, there are no fish.')
자주 묻는 질문
10 질문Yes, you can, but '清澈' (qīngchè) is more common and sounds more natural for water in a lake or stream. Use '透明' if you are talking about the physical property of the water in a glass.
Mostly, yes. It implies honesty and clarity. However, in a social context, saying someone is '透明人' (invisible person) is negative, meaning they are ignored.
透明 (tòumíng) is 'transparent' (completely see-through). 半透明 (bàn tòumíng) is 'translucent' (lets light through but blurs the image, like frosted glass).
Use '透明度' (tòumíngdù). For example: '我们需要更高的透明度' (We need higher transparency).
No. Use '隐形' (yǐnxíng) or '看不见' (kàn bù jiàn) for invisible. A transparent object is still visible.
In most sentences where it modifies a noun, yes. '透明的杯子' is correct. In some fixed technical terms like '透明胶', it can be omitted.
Yes, it means they are honest and have nothing to hide. '他的人很透明' (He is very transparent).
It means 'to make transparent' or 'transparency-ization'. It's often used in business management: '流程透明化' (making processes transparent).
The most common way is '不透明的' (bù tòumíng de).
No, '透明' is strictly visual or metaphorical for information. For clear sounds, use '清脆' (qīngcuì) or '清晰' (qīngxī).
셀프 테스트 200 질문
Write a sentence describing a glass of water.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Write a sentence about government transparency.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Translate: 'I need a transparent plastic bag.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Write a sentence about a person you trust.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Translate: 'The rules of the game are not transparent enough.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Describe a window using 'tòumíng'.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Translate: 'We must increase the transparency of the process.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Explain why transparency is important in business.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Translate: 'This is a transparent watercolor painting.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Write a sentence using 'bàn tòumíng' (translucent).
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Translate: 'The background of the image is transparent.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Write a sentence using 'tòumínghuà'.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Translate: 'He is an honest and transparent leader.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Describe a clear sky using 'tòumíng'.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Translate: 'The financial report is completely transparent.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Write a sentence about transparent tape.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Translate: 'Transparency is the key to preventing corruption.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Write a sentence using 'jīngyíng tìtòu'.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Translate: 'The glass in the office is transparent.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Write a sentence about a transparent umbrella.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Pronounce: 透明 (tòumíng)
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Say 'The water is transparent' in Chinese.
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Say 'transparent plastic bag' in Chinese.
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Pronounce: 透明度 (tòumíngdù)
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Say 'The rules are transparent' in Chinese.
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Describe your phone case using 'tòumíng'.
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Say 'We need more transparency' in Chinese.
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Say 'transparent management' in Chinese.
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Pronounce: 晶莹剔透 (jīngyíng tìtòu)
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Say 'This cup is opaque' in Chinese.
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Say 'transparent background' in Chinese.
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Discuss why a transparent government is good.
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Say 'transparent pricing' in Chinese.
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Say 'The window is very clear' in Chinese.
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Say 'transparent election' in Chinese.
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Pronounce: 透明胶带 (tòumíng jiāodài)
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Say 'His heart is transparent' in Chinese.
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Say 'translucent curtains' in Chinese.
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Say 'completely transparent' in Chinese.
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Say 'increase transparency' in Chinese.
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Listen and identify: tòumíng
Listen and identify: tòumíngdù
Listen to the sentence: 玻璃是透明的。
Listen to the sentence: 提高透明度。
Listen and identify: bù tòumíng
Listen to the sentence: 请给我一个透明的杯子。
Listen to the sentence: 管理必须透明化。
Listen and identify: bàn tòumíng
Listen to the sentence: 这种材料不透明。
Listen to the sentence: 价格非常透明。
Listen to the sentence: 我们需要透明的沟通。
Listen and identify: jīngyíng tìtòu
Listen to the sentence: 背景是透明的。
Listen to the sentence: 规则不够透明。
Listen to the sentence: 透明选举很重要。
/ 200 correct
Perfect score!
Summary
The word '透明的' (tòumíng de) is essential for describing both the physical world (clear materials) and the ethical world (open systems). For example, '透明的规则' (transparent rules) ensures everyone knows the standards.
- Literally means 'see-through' (e.g., glass, water).
- Metaphorically means 'open' or 'honest' (e.g., rules, government).
- Commonly used in business to describe clear pricing or management.
- The noun form is '透明度' (transparency).
Adjective + 的
Always remember to use '的' when '透明' comes before a noun. It links the quality to the object properly in Mandarin grammar.
Artistic Nuance
If you are describing a beautiful gemstone, use '晶莹剔透' instead of just '透明的' to sound more poetic and advanced.
Business Context
Use '透明度' (tòumíngdù) when discussing corporate governance or project management to sound more professional.
Shopping for Tape
If you need clear tape, ask for '透明胶带' (tòumíng jiāodài). It's a very common household item.
관련 콘텐츠
business 관련 단어
本事
A2Skill; ability; capability.
相应地
B1그에 따라 / 상응하게. 앞의 변화나 상황에 맞춰서 뒤의 행동이 이루어짐을 나타낼 때 사용합니다.
账号
A2은행 계좌 번호 또는 온라인 서비스에 접속하는 데 사용되는 사용자 아이디.
客户经理
A2고객과의 관계를 관리하고 요구 사항을 해결하는 고객 매니저.
账户
B1A record of financial transactions for an individual or business, usually at a bank; or a user profile for a digital service.
会计
A2회계사는 재무 기록을 관리하는 사람입니다.
收购
B1기업을 인수하다.
商业活动
A2Business activity.
广告费
A2광고비. 제품이나 서비스를 홍보하기 위해 지출하는 비용.
调整
B1우리는 다음 분기의 마케팅 전략을 조정해야 합니다.