In 15 Seconds
- A formal way to say 'bestow' or 'grant' a gift.
- Used for blessings from God, nature, or a superior.
- Implies the gift is precious and the giver is powerful.
- Too dramatic for everyday objects like pens or snacks.
Meaning
This phrase describes the act of a higher power or a superior giving something precious to someone below them. It feels like a 'gift from above' or a grand gesture of generosity.
Key Examples
3 of 6Expressing religious gratitude
感谢上帝赐予我们食物。
Thank God for bestowing this food upon us.
Accepting a major award
感谢生活赐予我这个机会。
I am grateful to life for granting me this opportunity.
Describing a natural talent
这是上天赐予他的歌声。
This is a voice bestowed upon him by heaven.
Cultural Background
The Emperor was the ultimate giver. Refers to blessings from Buddha. Refers to the gifts of nature/Tao. Used to add gravitas to a character's journey.
The 'King' Rule
If you wouldn't say it in a royal court, don't use 赐予.
In 15 Seconds
- A formal way to say 'bestow' or 'grant' a gift.
- Used for blessings from God, nature, or a superior.
- Implies the gift is precious and the giver is powerful.
- Too dramatic for everyday objects like pens or snacks.
What It Means
赐予 is a heavy-duty word for giving. It is not for handing someone a napkin. It means to bestow or grant something significant. Think of a king granting land. Or think of nature giving us life. It implies a gap in status. The giver is usually powerful or divine. The receiver is usually humble or grateful.
How To Use It
You use it like a standard verb. Put the giver first, then 赐予, then the receiver, then the gift. For example: 上帝赐予我力量 (God gives me strength). You can also use it for abstract things. It works for courage, life, opportunities, or even a beautiful day. It makes the 'giving' feel like a sacred event.
When To Use It
Use it when you feel deep gratitude. Use it in speeches or formal writing. It is perfect for religious or spiritual contexts. You can also use it when talking about nature. For instance, 'Nature bestows us with resources.' It adds a touch of class to your Chinese. It shows you understand the weight of the gift.
When NOT To Use It
Never use this with your friends for small things. Do not say 赐予我那支笔 (Bestow that pen upon me). You will sound like a time-traveling emperor. It is too heavy for casual transactions. Avoid it in business emails unless you are being very dramatic. Using it for a sandwich is just weird. Keep it for the big, meaningful stuff.
Cultural Background
This word comes from ancient imperial China. Only the Emperor could 赐 things to his subjects. It carries the DNA of old court dramas. Today, that 'Emperor' is often replaced by 'Fate' or 'God'. It reflects a culture that values hierarchy and gratitude. It suggests that good things are blessings, not just luck.
Common Variations
You might see just 赐 in historical TV shows. You will see 赏赐 when a boss gives a reward. 天赐 means 'heaven-sent' or a natural talent. If someone is 'gifted,' they are 有天赐的才华. These variations all keep that 'gift from a higher place' vibe.
Usage Notes
This is a high-register word. Use it when you want to sound poetic, deeply grateful, or when referring to spiritual blessings. Avoid in casual daily errands.
The 'King' Rule
If you wouldn't say it in a royal court, don't use 赐予.
Examples
6感谢上帝赐予我们食物。
Thank God for bestowing this food upon us.
Standard religious usage for grace before meals.
感谢生活赐予我这个机会。
I am grateful to life for granting me this opportunity.
Used to show humility during a big moment.
这是上天赐予他的歌声。
This is a voice bestowed upon him by heaven.
Used to describe someone with immense natural ability.
请赐予我一点零食吧，大王！
Please bestow some snacks upon me, Your Majesty!
Using formal language for a snack makes it funny.
大地赐予了万物生命。
The earth bestowed life upon all things.
Very common in literature and poetic descriptions.
感谢您赐予的宝贵建议。
Thank you for the precious advice you granted me.
Shows extreme respect to a teacher or mentor.
Test Yourself
Which sentence uses {赐予|cìyǔ} correctly?
A) 请赐予我一支笔。 B) 上天赐予他非凡的才华。
A is too casual for this formal verb; B fits the 'divine/grand' context.
🎉 Score: /1
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
1 exercisesA) 请赐予我一支笔。 B) 上天赐予他非凡的才华。
A is too casual for this formal verb; B fits the 'divine/grand' context.
🎉 Score: /1
Frequently Asked Questions
1 questionsOnly if you are being very dramatic or sarcastic.
Related Phrases
天赐良机
builds onA gift from heaven (great opportunity)
给予
similarTo give
赏赐
similarTo reward/bestow
恩赐
similarGrace/Mercy
