健康的 in 30 Seconds
- Adjective: healthy, in good health.
- Used for people, animals, plants, lifestyles, and environments.
- Implies vitality and absence of illness.
- Often translated as 'healthy'.
- Meaning
- The Chinese adjective "健康的" (jiànkāng de) translates to "healthy" in English. It describes a state of well-being, both physically and mentally. It can refer to people, animals, plants, or even abstract concepts like a lifestyle or an environment.
- Usage Scenarios
- People use "健康的" in various contexts. You'll hear it when discussing diet and exercise: "我每天都吃健康的食物" (Wǒ měitiān dōu chī jiànkāng de shíwù - I eat healthy food every day). It's also used to talk about general well-being: "保持健康的身体很重要" (Bǎochí jiànkāng de shēntǐ hěn zhòngyào - Maintaining a healthy body is very important). In a broader sense, it can describe a positive and thriving state: "这是一个健康的社会" (Zhè shì yīgè jiànkāng de shèhuì - This is a healthy society). The word emphasizes vitality, robustness, and the absence of illness or disease. It's a fundamental term for discussing life quality and well-being. When someone asks about your health or the health of something, "健康的" is the adjective you'd use to describe a positive state. It's a positive descriptor that people are happy to associate with themselves or things they care about. For instance, when discussing children's development, parents often hope for their children to be "健康的" (jiànkāng de - healthy). This word is versatile and can be applied to a wide range of subjects, from the smallest organism to large societal structures. It's a core concept in discussions about personal care, public health, and environmental sustainability. The opposite, "不健康的" (bù jiànkāng de), means unhealthy, highlighting the importance of "健康的" as a desirable state. This adjective is frequently encountered in health-related articles, discussions about lifestyle choices, and general conversations about personal well-being. It's a common and essential word for anyone learning Chinese, as it touches upon a universal human concern: health.
The doctor confirmed that the patient's condition was 健康的.
- Basic Sentence Structure
- The most straightforward way to use "健康的" is to place it directly before the noun it modifies. For example, "健康的食物" (jiànkāng de shíwù) means "healthy food." The particle "的" (de) is crucial here, connecting the adjective "健康" (jiànkāng - health/healthy) to the noun. You can also use "健康的" as a predicate adjective, following a subject and the verb "是" (shì - to be) or simply standing alone after the subject to describe its state. For instance, "他很健康的" (Tā hěn jiànkāng de - He is very healthy).
- Describing People and Animals
- When talking about people, "健康的" emphasizes their physical and mental well-being. "她有一个健康的身体" (Tā yǒu yīgè jiànkāng de shēntǐ - She has a healthy body). For animals, it indicates they are not sick and are thriving. "我的猫咪很健康的" (Wǒ de māomī hěn jiànkāng de - My cat is very healthy). You might also hear it in the context of children's development: "孩子们的健康成长是父母最大的愿望" (Háizimen de jiànkāng chéngzhǎng shì fùmǔ zuìdà de yuànwàng - The healthy growth of children is parents' greatest wish.
- Describing Lifestyles and Habits
- "健康的" is frequently used to describe positive habits and lifestyles. "健康的饮食" (jiànkāng de yǐnshí) means "healthy diet." Similarly, "健康的生活方式" (jiànkāng de shēnghuó fāngshì) refers to a "healthy lifestyle." This implies choices that promote well-being, such as regular exercise, balanced nutrition, and adequate rest. For example, "我正在努力养成健康的饮食习惯" (Wǒ zhèngzài nǔlì yǎngchéng jiànkāng de yǐnshí xíguàn - I am trying hard to develop healthy eating habits.
- Describing Environments and Concepts
- Beyond personal health, "健康的" can describe environments or abstract concepts that are thriving and free from negative influences. A "健康的社会" (jiànkāng de shèhuì) is a healthy society, implying stability and prosperity. A "健康的竞争" (jiànkāng de jìngzhēng) is healthy competition, meaning it's fair and constructive. The word can also apply to plants and nature: "这片森林看起来很健康的" (Zhè piàn sēnlín kàn qǐlái hěn jiànkāng de - This forest looks very healthy.
- Using with Adverbs
- You can intensify "健康的" with adverbs like "很" (hěn - very) or "非常" (fēicháng - extremely). For instance, "她的身体非常健康的" (Tā de shēntǐ fēicháng jiànkāng de - Her body is extremely healthy). This adds emphasis to the state of well-being being described.
To maintain a 健康的 body, one must exercise regularly.
- Doctor's Offices and Hospitals
- In a medical setting, "健康的" is a primary term. Doctors use it to describe a patient's condition after an examination: "您的身体很健康的" (Nín de shēntǐ hěn jiànkāng de - Your body is very healthy). They might also use it when discussing preventative care or treatment outcomes. For example, a doctor might advise, "保持健康的饮食对您的恢复很有帮助" (Bǎochí jiànkāng de yǐnshí duì nín de huīfù hěn yǒu bāngzhù - Maintaining a healthy diet will be very helpful for your recovery).
- Gyms and Fitness Centers
- Fitness instructors and health enthusiasts frequently use "健康的" when talking about exercise routines and their benefits. You'll hear phrases like "健康的运动" (jiànkāng de yùndòng - healthy exercise) or "健康的体魄" (jiànkāng de tǐpò - a healthy physique). The goal of many fitness programs is to help people achieve and maintain a "健康的" state. A trainer might say, "我们的目标是帮助您拥有一个更健康的身体" (Wǒmen de mùbiāo shì bāngzhù nín yǒngyǒu yīgè gèng jiànkāng de shēntǐ - Our goal is to help you have a healthier body).
- Supermarkets and Health Food Stores
- When browsing for food, you'll see labels and advertisements promoting "健康的食品" (jiànkāng de shípǐn - healthy foods). This includes organic produce, low-fat options, and whole grains. Store employees might recommend products as being "健康的" choices for their customers. For instance, "这款酸奶是低糖的，非常健康的" (Zhè kuǎn suānnǎi shì dī táng de, fēicháng jiànkāng de - This yogurt is low in sugar and very healthy).
- Parenting and Childcare
- Parents are often concerned with their children's well-being. Discussions about nutrition, sleep, and activities will often involve "健康的". You might hear a parent say, "我希望我的孩子能健康地成长" (Wǒ xīwàng wǒ de háizi néng jiànkāng de chéngzhǎng - I hope my child can grow up healthily). This emphasizes the desire for a robust and disease-free development.
- Environmental Discussions
- In conversations about the environment, "健康的" can describe ecosystems that are thriving and balanced. For example, "一个健康的生态系统" (yīgè jiànkāng de shēngtài xìtǒng) refers to a healthy ecosystem. This implies biodiversity and the absence of pollution or degradation. Environmentalists might advocate for policies that promote "健康的地球" (jiànkāng de dìqiú - a healthy planet).
- General Well-being and Lifestyle
- In everyday conversations, people use "健康的" to describe a positive state of being or a lifestyle that promotes it. "我最近的生活很健康的" (Wǒ zuìjìn de shēnghuó hěn jiànkāng de - My life recently has been very healthy). This could encompass diet, exercise, mental state, and social interactions. It's a versatile adjective that conveys a sense of vitality and flourishing.
The nutritionist recommended a 健康的 diet rich in fruits and vegetables.
- Omitting the Particle '的' (de)
- A common mistake for learners is to omit the particle "的" (de) when using "健康" (jiànkāng) as an adjective before a noun. While "健康" itself means health or healthy, it functions most naturally as an adjective when followed by "的". For example, instead of saying "健康食物" (jiànkāng shíwù), it should be "健康的食物" (jiànkāng de shíwù - healthy food). The "的" helps to smoothly connect the adjective to the noun, indicating possession or modification. Similarly, "健康的生活" (jiànkāng de shēnghuó - healthy life) is preferred over "健康生活" when describing a lifestyle.
- Confusing with Verbs or Nouns
- "健康" can also function as a noun (health) or, in some contexts, can be part of verb phrases. Learners might misuse it as a standalone verb or confuse its adjectival form with its noun form. For instance, saying "我健康" (Wǒ jiànkāng) to mean "I am healthy" is grammatically awkward. It should be "我身体很健康" (Wǒ shēntǐ hěn jiànkāng - My body is very healthy) or "我很健康" (Wǒ hěn jiànkāng - I am healthy, referring to one's overall state). The noun form would be used in sentences like "健康是财富" (Jiànkāng shì cáifù - Health is wealth).
- Overuse or Underuse of Adverbs
- Some learners might not use adverbs like "很" (hěn - very) or "非常" (fēicháng - extremely) when describing something as healthy, leading to sentences that sound a bit flat or incomplete in certain contexts. For instance, simply saying "这是健康的" (Zhè shì jiànkāng de - This is healthy) can sometimes sound too direct. Adding "很" (hěn) to make it "这是很健康的" (Zhè shì hěn jiànkāng de - This is very healthy) often sounds more natural and complete, especially in spoken Chinese where "很" is frequently used even when the degree of health is not exceptionally high.
- Incorrect Placement in Sentences
- While "健康的" typically precedes the noun it modifies, learners might place it incorrectly, especially in more complex sentence structures. For example, putting it after the noun without proper grammatical construction. The standard structure is Adjective + 的 + Noun. When used as a predicate adjective (describing the subject after the verb 'to be'), it can follow the subject directly or after "是" (shì) or "很" (hěn). For example, "他的饮食健康的" (Tā de yǐnshí jiànkāng de - His diet is healthy) is a correct structure.
- Using without '的' in Predicate Form
- Another mistake is omitting "的" when "健康" is used as a predicate adjective in certain contexts, especially when it's the sole descriptor. While sometimes acceptable in very casual speech, it's generally safer and more standard to include it. For instance, saying "他健康的" (Tā jiànkāng de - He is healthy) is more common and grammatically sound than just "他健康" (Tā jiànkāng) when referring to his state of health.
Incorrect: 我吃健康食物. Correct: 我吃健康的食物.
- 强壮 (qiángzhuàng) - Strong, Robust
- While "健康的" focuses on overall well-being and absence of illness, "强壮" emphasizes physical strength and robustness. You can be "健康的" without being particularly "强壮", and vice versa. For example, an elderly person might be "健康的" (healthy) but not "强壮" (strong). Conversely, an athlete might be very "强壮" but could still have an unhealthy habit.
Example: 他虽然不强壮，但是身体很健康的。(Tā suīrán bù qiángzhuàng, dànshì shēntǐ hěn jiànkāng de. - Although he is not strong, his body is very healthy.) - 活力 (huólì) - Vitality, Energy (used as a noun or in phrases)
- "活力" is a noun referring to liveliness, energy, and vigor, which are components of being "健康的". You would say someone has "活力" (huólì), rather than saying they are "活力的" (huólì de). A person with "活力" is likely to be "健康的".
Example: 保持充足的睡眠有助于增加身体的活力。(Bǎochí chōngzú de shuìmián yǒu zhù yú zēngjiā shēntǐ de huólì. - Getting enough sleep helps increase the body's vitality.) - 安康 (ānkāng) - Safe and Healthy (often used in blessings or formal contexts)
- "安康" is a more formal term that combines "安全" (ānquán - safe) and "健康" (jiànkāng - healthy). It's often used in wishes, blessings, or formal greetings, like "祝您安康" (Zhù nín ānkāng - Wishing you safety and health). It's less common in everyday descriptive sentences compared to "健康的".
Example: 新年快乐，身体安康！(Xīnnián kuàilè, shēntǐ ānkāng! - Happy New Year, may your body be safe and healthy!) - 健壮 (jiànzhuàng) - Sturdy, Robust, Healthy
- "健壮" is very similar to "强壮" but also carries a stronger connotation of being generally healthy and well-built. It's a good alternative for describing a physically strong and healthy person or animal. It implies both good health and physical sturdiness.
Example: 他的孩子从小就长得很健壮。(Tā de háizi cóngxiǎo jiù zhǎng dé hěn jiànzhuàng. - His child has grown up to be very sturdy and healthy since childhood.) - 文明 (wénmíng) - Civilized, Cultured (for abstract concepts)
- When describing abstract concepts like a society or an environment, "健康的" implies a positive, thriving, and well-functioning state. In such contexts, words like "文明" (wénmíng - civilized) might be used if the focus is on social order and progress, but "健康的" specifically relates to well-being and absence of decay or illness. A "健康的社会" (jiànkāng de shèhuì) is one that is functioning well and is prosperous, while a "文明的社会" (wénmíng de shèhuì) is one with advanced culture and social norms.
Example: 促进健康的社会发展。(Cùjìn jiànkāng de shèhuì fāzhǎn. - Promoting healthy social development.)
While 健康的 describes overall well-being, 强壮 emphasizes physical strength.
How Formal Is It?
Fun Fact
The character '康' (kāng) is often found in names and terms related to well-being and prosperity, such as '安康' (ānkāng - safe and healthy) and '小康' (xiǎokāng - a moderately prosperous society). This highlights the deep-rooted cultural importance of health and peace in Chinese society.
Pronunciation Guide
- Pronouncing 'jiàn' as 'jian' without the aspiration.
- Not pronouncing the 'k' sound clearly in 'kāng'.
- Adding an unnecessary strong vowel sound to 'de'.
Difficulty Rating
The word '健康的' is a common adjective encountered in everyday texts. Understanding its meaning and usage is relatively straightforward for learners at the A2 level and above. Its presence in articles about lifestyle, health, and news makes it a frequent sight.
What to Learn Next
Prerequisites
Learn Next
Advanced
Grammar to Know
The use of the particle '的' (de) after adjectives.
健康的食物 (jiànkāng de shíwù - healthy food). '健康的' modifies '食物'.
Using '很' (hěn) with adjectives.
他很健康。(Tā hěn jiànkāng. - He is very healthy.) '很' often precedes adjectives in neutral statements.
Using adjectives as predicate adjectives.
她的身体健康的。(Tā de shēntǐ jiànkāng de. - Her body is healthy.) '健康的' describes the subject '她的身体'.
Forming antonyms with '不' (bù).
不健康 (bù jiànkāng - unhealthy).
Using '地' (de) with adjectives to form adverbs.
她健康地成长。(Tā jiànkāng de chéngzhǎng. - She grew up healthily.) Here, '健康地' modifies the verb '成长'.
Examples by Level
我吃健康的食物。
I eat healthy food.
健康的 (jiànkāng de) modifies 食物 (shíwù - food).
他很健康。
He is very healthy.
健康 (jiànkāng) used as a predicate adjective.
猫是健康的。
The cat is healthy.
健康的 (jiànkāng de) describes the cat.
健康的身体很重要。
A healthy body is important.
健康的 (jiànkāng de) modifies 身体 (shēntǐ - body).
这是健康的。
This is healthy.
健康的 (jiànkāng de) describes 'this'.
她有健康的笑容。
She has a healthy smile.
健康的 (jiànkāng de) modifies 笑容 (xiàoróng - smile).
我想健康的。
I want to be healthy.
健康的 (jiànkāng de) describes the desired state.
健康的宝宝。
A healthy baby.
健康的 (jiànkāng de) modifies 宝宝 (bǎobao - baby).
为了身体健康，我每天跑步。
For a healthy body, I run every day.
健康 (jiànkāng) used as a noun here, meaning 'health'.
这是一个健康的饮食习惯。
This is a healthy eating habit.
健康的 (jiànkāng de) modifies 饮食习惯 (yǐnshí xíguàn - eating habit).
他看起来很健康的。
He looks very healthy.
健康的 (jiànkāng de) describes his appearance.
保持一个健康的生活方式很重要。
Maintaining a healthy lifestyle is important.
健康 (jiànkāng) is part of the compound noun 'healthy lifestyle'.
这些蔬菜都是新鲜健康的。
These vegetables are all fresh and healthy.
健康的 (jiànkāng de) describes the vegetables.
我们需要一个健康的社会。
We need a healthy society.
健康的 (jiànkāng de) modifies 社会 (shèhuì - society).
她的父母希望她健康成长。
Her parents hope she grows up healthy.
健康 (jiànkāng) used adverbially here, meaning 'healthily'.
这是一个健康的竞争环境。
This is a healthy competitive environment.
健康的 (jiànkāng de) modifies 竞争环境 (jìngzhēng huánjìng - competitive environment).
多吃水果蔬菜有助于保持身体健康的。
Eating more fruits and vegetables helps to keep the body healthy.
健康的 (jiànkāng de) describes the state of the body.
现代人越来越重视健康的饮食。
Modern people increasingly value healthy eating.
健康的 (jiànkāng de) modifies 饮食 (yǐnshí - diet/eating).
他通过规律的运动，拥有了一个健康的体魄。
Through regular exercise, he has achieved a healthy physique.
健康的 (jiànkāng de) modifies 体魄 (tǐpò - physique).
我们应该为孩子们创造一个健康成长的环境。
We should create an environment for children to grow up healthy.
健康 (jiànkāng) used adverbially, meaning 'healthily'.
心理健康和身体健康同等重要。
Mental health and physical health are equally important.
健康 (jiànkāng) used as a noun here, meaning 'health'.
这个公司提倡一种健康的文化。
This company promotes a healthy culture.
健康的 (jiànkāng de) modifies 文化 (wénhuà - culture).
只有健康的生态系统才能维持生物多样性。
Only a healthy ecosystem can maintain biodiversity.
健康的 (jiànkāng de) modifies 生态系统 (shēngtài xìtǒng - ecosystem).
他说话的语气非常健康的，没有一点颓废。
His tone of speaking is very healthy, without any hint of decadence.
健康的 (jiànkāng de) describes the tone, implying vitality and positivity.
在信息爆炸的时代，保持头脑健康的挑战越来越大。
In the era of information explosion, the challenge of keeping the mind healthy is increasing.
健康 (jiànkāng) used as a noun here, referring to mental health.
他通过冥想和瑜伽，找到了内心的平和与健康的平衡。
Through meditation and yoga, he found inner peace and a healthy balance.
健康的 (jiànkāng de) modifies 平衡 (pínghéng - balance).
政府正在推行一项计划，旨在促进全民的健康水平。
The government is implementing a plan aimed at promoting the health level of the entire population.
健康 (jiànkāng) used as a noun here, referring to the state of health.
一个真正健康的教育体系应该培养学生的批判性思维。
A truly healthy education system should cultivate students' critical thinking.
健康的 (jiànkāng de) modifies 教育体系 (jiàoyù tǐxì - education system).
过度依赖社交媒体可能对青少年的心理健康造成负面影响。
Over-reliance on social media can have a negative impact on adolescents' mental health.
健康 (jiànkāng) used as a noun here, referring to mental health.
我们需要审慎评估这种新技术的长远影响，确保其对社会是健康的。
We need to carefully evaluate the long-term impact of this new technology to ensure it is healthy for society.
健康的 (jiànkāng de) describes the impact on society.
她是一位倡导自然疗法和健康生活方式的专家。
She is an expert advocating for natural therapies and a healthy lifestyle.
健康的 (jiànkāng de) modifies 生活方式 (shēnghuó fāngshì - lifestyle).
在日益复杂的世界中，保持积极乐观的心态是实现全面健康的关键。
In an increasingly complex world, maintaining a positive and optimistic mindset is key to achieving holistic health.
健康 (jiànkāng) used as a noun here, referring to holistic health.
可持续发展的核心在于追求经济、社会和环境的健康协同。
The core of sustainable development lies in pursuing the healthy synergy of economic, social, and environmental aspects.
健康的 (jiànkāng de) modifies 协同 (xiétóng - synergy).
我们必须警惕那些可能侵蚀社会健康肌体的虚假信息。
We must be vigilant against disinformation that could erode the healthy fabric of society.
健康的 (jiànkāng de) modifies 肌体 (jītǐ - fabric/body).
这位艺术家通过其作品，深刻地探讨了现代人精神健康的困境。
Through his works, this artist profoundly explored the predicament of modern people's mental health.
健康 (jiànkāng) used as a noun here, referring to mental health.
一个真正民主的社会，其政治生态必然是健康的，能够自我净化和纠错。
A truly democratic society will inevitably have a healthy political ecosystem, capable of self-purification and error correction.
健康的 (jiànkāng de) modifies 政治生态 (zhèngzhì shēngtài - political ecosystem).
科学研究表明，适度的压力可以激发身体的健康潜能。
Scientific research indicates that moderate stress can stimulate the body's healthy potential.
健康的 (jiànkāng de) modifies 潜能 (qiánnéng - potential).
在数字时代，如何维护个人信息的健康流动和安全成为一项重要议题。
In the digital age, how to maintain the healthy flow and security of personal information has become an important issue.
健康的 (jiànkāng de) modifies 流动 (liúdòng - flow).
我们不能仅仅追求经济增长，而忽视了社会结构的健康发展。
We cannot just pursue economic growth and ignore the healthy development of the social structure.
健康的 (jiànkāng de) modifies 发展 (fāzhǎn - development).
对任何事物都持有一种健康的怀疑态度，有助于我们做出更明智的判断。
Holding a healthy skeptical attitude towards anything helps us make wiser judgments.
健康的 (jiànkāng de) modifies 怀疑态度 (huáiyí tàidù - skeptical attitude).
全球化进程中，不同文化之间的健康互动是促进相互理解的关键。
In the process of globalization, healthy interaction between different cultures is key to promoting mutual understanding.
健康的 (jiànkāng de) modifies 互动 (hùdòng - interaction).
一个成熟的民主政体，其政治 discourse 必须是健康的，能够容纳不同声音并进行建设性对话。
A mature democratic polity must have a healthy political discourse, capable of accommodating different voices and engaging in constructive dialogue.
健康的 (jiànkāng de) modifies discourse (can be translated as 论述 or 话语).
后现代社会对“健康”的定义已不再局限于生理层面，而是涵盖了心理、情感和精神的整体福祉。
The definition of 'health' in postmodern society is no longer limited to the physiological level but encompasses the overall well-being of the psychological, emotional, and spiritual aspects.
健康 (jiànkāng) used as a noun here, referring to the concept of health.
在人工智能飞速发展的今天，我们必须审慎地引导其发展方向，以确保其对人类文明的健康延续。
With the rapid development of artificial intelligence today, we must cautiously guide its direction of development to ensure its healthy continuation for human civilization.
健康的 (jiànkāng de) modifies 延续 (yánxù - continuation).
历史的经验告诉我们，一个缺乏健康社会监督的权力体系，终将走向腐败和失衡。
Historical experience tells us that a power system lacking healthy social oversight will eventually lead to corruption and imbalance.
健康的 (jiànkāng de) modifies 监督 (jiāndū - oversight).
对于任何一个复杂的系统而言，保持其内部各要素之间健康的耦合关系是至关重要的。
For any complex system, maintaining a healthy coupling relationship between its internal elements is crucial.
健康的 (jiànkāng de) modifies 耦合关系 (ǒuhé guānxì - coupling relationship).
面对全球性的挑战，各国之间需要建立一种更加健康的伙伴关系，而非零和博弈。
Facing global challenges, countries need to establish a healthier partnership rather than a zero-sum game.
健康的 (jiànkāng de) modifies 伙伴关系 (huǒbàn guānxì - partnership).
我们必须超越狭隘的民族主义，追求一种更加健康的国际秩序，以应对共同的未来。
We must transcend narrow nationalism and pursue a healthier international order to face a common future.
健康的 (jiànkāng de) modifies 国际秩序 (guójì zhìxù - international order).
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
— Physical health; healthy body.
祝你身体健康！(Zhù nǐ shēntǐ jiànkāng! - Wish you good health!)
— To stay healthy.
我每天都吃蔬菜，努力保持健康。(Wǒ měitiān dōu chī shūcài, nǔlì bǎochí jiànkāng. - I eat vegetables every day and try to stay healthy.)
— To grow up healthy.
父母最大的愿望就是孩子能够健康成长。(Fùmǔ zuìdà de yuànwàng jiùshì háizi nénggòu jiànkāng chéngzhǎng. - Parents' greatest wish is for their children to grow up healthy.)
— To pay attention to health; to value health.
现在越来越多的人开始注重健康。(Xiànzài yuè lái yuè duō de rén kāishǐ zhùzhòng jiànkāng. - More and more people are starting to pay attention to their health now.)
— Healthy diet.
健康的饮食是保持身体活力的关键。(Jiànkāng de yǐnshí shì bǎochí shēntǐ huólì de guānjiàn. - A healthy diet is key to maintaining physical vitality.)
— Mental health.
我们需要关注青少年的心理健康。(Wǒmen xūyào guānzhù qīngshàonián de xīnlǐ jiànkāng. - We need to pay attention to the mental health of adolescents.)
— A healthy life.
他过着健康的生活，每天早睡早起。(Tā guòzhe jiànkāng de shēnghuó, měitiān zǎoshuì zǎoqǐ. - He lives a healthy life, going to bed and waking up early every day.)
— Physical health is the most important thing.
常言道，身体健康最重要。(Cháng yándào, shēntǐ jiànkāng zuì zhòngyào. - As the saying goes, physical health is the most important thing.)
— Sub-health (a state between health and illness).
很多人处于亚健康状态，需要调整生活。(Hěn duō rén chǔyú yà jiànkāng zhuàngtài, xūyào tiáozhěng shēnghuó. - Many people are in a sub-health state and need to adjust their lives.)
— Whether (one is) healthy or not.
医生正在检查他的健康与否。(Yīshēng zhèngzài jiǎnchá tā de jiànkāng yǔ fǒu. - The doctor is checking whether he is healthy or not.)
Often Confused With
This is the noun form meaning 'health'. While '健康的' is the adjective 'healthy', '健康' itself refers to the state of being healthy. For example, '健康是财富' (Health is wealth).
This character means 'strong' or 'healthy' and is often part of other words related to health, like '健康' itself, '健身' (jiànshēn - fitness), or '健康' (jiànkāng - health).
This character means 'peace', 'tranquility', or 'health'. It's also part of '健康' and other words like '安康' (ānkāng - safe and healthy).
Idioms & Expressions
— Full of life and vigor; very energetic. This idiom implies excellent health and high spirits.
孩子们在户外活动时总是生龙活虎的。
Idiomatic/Informal— Radiant with health and vitality; glowing with health. It describes someone who looks particularly healthy and energetic.
经过充足的休息，她看起来容光焕发。
Descriptive— Full of spirit and vigor; in high spirits. This idiom emphasizes mental and physical alertness, a sign of good health.
尽管年事已高，他依然精神抖擞。
Descriptive— To practice what one preaches; to work hard and actively. While not directly about health, it implies the physical energy and commitment that often comes with good health.
作为领导，他总是身体力行，以身作则。
Idiomatic— Free from illness and disaster; safe and sound. This expresses a wish for complete well-being, encompassing health and safety.
希望全家人都能无病无灾，幸福平安。
Wish/Blessing— An illness so severe that it is beyond cure; terminally ill. This is the extreme opposite of being healthy.
这位病人病入膏肓，医生也无能为力了。
Medical/Figurative— Full of energy; vigorous. Similar to '生龙活虎', it describes someone who has a lot of energy, often due to good health.
他每天都精力充沛地投入到工作中。
Descriptive— Strong and healthy; robust. Emphasizes both physical strength and good health.
这位年轻的工人身强力壮，什么重活都能干。
Descriptive— Too weak to withstand the wind; frail and delicate. This describes someone who is not healthy and easily gets sick.
她看起来弱不禁风，需要好好休息。
Descriptive— To live in comfort and luxury. While this lifestyle doesn't necessarily lead to poor health, it's contrasted with the active, often more challenging, lifestyle that promotes '健康的'.
他一直养尊处优，很少经历生活的艰辛。
Descriptive/FigurativeEasily Confused
Both '健康' and '健康的' relate to the concept of health. '健康' is primarily a noun (health), while '健康的' is an adjective (healthy). Learners might confuse their grammatical functions.
Use '健康' when referring to the concept of health itself, e.g., '健康很重要' (Health is important). Use '健康的' to describe something as being healthy, e.g., '健康的食物' (healthy food).
Noun: 健康是人生最大的财富。(Jiànkāng shì rénshēng zuìdà de cáifù. - Health is life's greatest wealth.) <br> Adjective: 我想吃健康的食物。(Wǒ xiǎng chī jiànkāng de shíwù. - I want to eat healthy food.)
Both words describe a positive physical state. However, '健康的' is broader, encompassing overall well-being, while '强壮' specifically emphasizes physical strength and robustness.
'健康的' means healthy in general, free from illness. '强壮' means strong and muscular, implying physical power. You can be healthy but not strong, or strong but not entirely healthy.
他虽然不强壮，但是身体很健康的。(Tā suīrán bù qiángzhuàng, dànshì shēntǐ hěn jiànkāng de. - Although he is not strong, his body is very healthy.)
'活力' (vitality/energy) is a characteristic of being healthy, but it is a noun, not an adjective. '健康的' is the adjective describing the state of having vitality.
'活力' is the noun referring to energy and liveliness. '健康的' is the adjective used to describe something or someone that possesses vitality. You have '活力', and you are '健康的'.
她充满了活力，看起来非常健康的。(Tā chōngmǎn le huólì, kàn qǐlái fēicháng jiànkāng de. - She is full of vitality and looks very healthy.)
Both relate to health, but '卫生' specifically refers to hygiene, sanitation, and cleanliness, which contribute to health. '健康的' is a broader term for overall well-being.
'卫生' focuses on cleanliness and prevention of disease through good sanitation. '健康的' describes the state of being well, which can be a result of good hygiene but also includes other factors like diet and genetics.
保持环境的卫生很重要，这样才能更健康的。(Bǎochí huánjìng de wèishēng hěn zhòngyào, zhèyàng cáinéng gèng jiànkāng de. - Maintaining environmental hygiene is very important, so that it can be healthier.)
Both relate to well-being. However, '安康' is a more formal term, often used in blessings or wishes, and combines 'safety' with 'health'. '健康的' is a general adjective for 'healthy'.
'健康的' is a common adjective used to describe something as healthy. '安康' is a more formal phrase, often used in wishes, meaning 'safe and healthy'.
祝您新年安康！(Zhù nín xīnnián ānkāng! - Wishing you a safe and healthy New Year!) vs. 祝你身体健康的！(Zhù nǐ shēntǐ jiànkāng de! - Wish you good health!)
Sentence Patterns
Subject + 很 + 健康
他很健康。
健康的 + Noun
健康的食物。
Noun + 的 + 健康
她的身体的健康。
为了 + Noun + 健康
为了身体健康。
Adverb + 的 + 健康 + Noun
一个非常健康的饮食。
Noun + 越来越 + 健康
他的生活越来越健康。
Noun + 的 + 健康 + Noun
心理健康的问题。
Noun + 对 + Noun + 健康
这种食物对身体健康。
Word Family
Nouns
Adjectives
Related
How to Use It
Very High. '健康的' is a fundamental adjective used in everyday conversation and writing.
-
Omitting '的' (de) when modifying a noun.
→
健康的食物
Learners sometimes omit '的' after adjectives. While '健康' can be a noun, when used adjectivally before a noun like '食物' (food), '健康的' is the correct form.
-
Using '健康' as a verb.
→
他很健康。
'健康' is primarily a noun or adjective. To say someone 'is healthy', you use it as a predicate adjective, often with '很' (hěn), as in '他很健康。' You don't 'health' someone.
-
Confusing with '强壮' (qiángzhuàng).
→
他身体健康的，但不强壮。
'健康的' means healthy (free from illness), while '强壮' means strong (muscular). One can be healthy without being strong, and vice versa.
-
Using '健康' alone as an adjective.
→
这是一个健康的习惯。
While '健康' means health, as an adjective modifying a noun, it typically requires '的'. '健康的习惯' is correct for 'healthy habit'.
-
Incorrect adverbial form.
→
孩子健康地成长。
When describing how an action is done healthily (adverbially), the form '健康地' (jiànkāng de) with '地' is used, not '健康的'.
Tips
Mastering the Sounds
Pay close attention to the aspiration in '健' (jiàn) and the clear 'k' sound in '康' (kāng). Practice saying 'jiàn-kāng de' smoothly. Listening to native speakers is key to internalizing the correct pronunciation.
The Essential '的'
Remember that when '健康的' modifies a noun directly, the particle '的' is usually required. Think of it as connecting the adjective 'healthy' to the noun it describes, like 'healthy food'.
Context is King
Understand that '健康的' can apply to more than just people. It can describe food, lifestyles, environments, and even abstract concepts like societies. Consider the context to fully grasp its meaning.
Visual Association
Imagine a strong, vibrant tree ('健' for strength) with peaceful, spreading branches ('康' for peace/well-being). This visual can help you remember that '健康的' means healthy and thriving.
Beyond Physical Health
While often referring to physical health, '健康的' also extends to mental and emotional well-being. Phrases like '心理健康' (mental health) are crucial in modern discussions.
Active Recall
Try to describe everyday items or activities using '健康的'. For example, 'This apple is healthy,' or 'My exercise routine is healthy.' This active recall reinforces your understanding.
Cultural Nuances
In Chinese culture, health is highly valued. '健康的' is a term used frequently in discussions about personal well-being, family, and societal prosperity. It signifies a holistic state of flourishing.
Adverbial Use
When '健康的' is used to describe how an action is performed (e.g., growing up healthily), it often takes the form '健康地' (jiànkāng de), with the character '地' indicating an adverbial function modifying a verb.
Recognizing Antonyms
The direct antonym is '不健康的' (bù jiànkāng de - unhealthy). Knowing opposites helps solidify the meaning of the target word.
Real-World Use
Listen for '健康的' in Chinese media, conversations, or health-related articles. Noticing its usage in authentic contexts will greatly enhance your comprehension and application.
Memorize It
Mnemonic
Think of a 'Jian' (like 'Jan' from January) who is always 'Kāng' (like 'calm') and healthy. Or, imagine a strong '健' (jiàn) person who is also '康' (kāng) in spirit and body.
Visual Association
Picture a vibrant green plant with strong roots ('健' - strong) and a peaceful, blooming flower ('康' - peace/health). The whole plant represents '健康的' (healthy).
Word Web
Challenge
Try to describe three things around you as '健康的' or '不健康的' and explain why. For example, 'This apple is健康的 because it's fresh and red. My desk is not very健康的 because it's covered in dust.'
Word Origin
The word '健康' (jiànkāng) is composed of two characters. '健' (jiàn) originally referred to being strong and robust, and by extension, healthy. '康' (kāng) means peace, tranquility, and also health. Together, they form a strong concept of well-being, encompassing both physical strength and a peaceful, healthy state.
Original meaning: '健' (jiàn) implies strength and vigor, while '康' (kāng) implies peace and well-being.
Sino-TibetanCultural Context
When discussing health, it's important to be respectful. Avoid making assumptions about someone's health status. In a learning context, focus on descriptive language and objective observations rather than personal judgments.
In English-speaking cultures, health is also highly valued, with a focus on diet, exercise, and medical advancements. The concept of 'healthy' can encompass physical, mental, and emotional well-being, similar to the Chinese understanding.
Practice in Real Life
Real-World Contexts
Discussing diet and nutrition
- 健康的饮食
- 多吃健康的食物
- 健康的餐点
Talking about physical fitness and exercise
- 健康的身体
- 健康的体魄
- 健康的运动
Describing personal well-being
- 我很健康
- 身体健康的
- 保持健康
Referring to lifestyle choices
- 健康的生活方式
- 健康的生活
- 过着健康的生活
Talking about children's development
- 健康的成长
- 健康的宝宝
- 健康地成长
Conversation Starters
"你认为什么是最健康的食物？"
"你每天都做哪些事情来保持身体健康？"
"你觉得现代人的生活方式健康吗？为什么？"
"你有没有听过关于保持心理健康的建议？"
"对你来说，拥有健康的身体意味着什么？"
Journal Prompts
写下你今天吃的所有食物，并评价它们是否健康。
描述一个你认为非常健康的人，以及他们健康的原因。
你打算如何改变你的生活方式，使其更加健康？
反思一下，你认为什么对你的心理健康最重要？
想象一下你理想中的健康生活，并详细描述它。
Frequently Asked Questions
10 questions'健康' (jiànkāng) is primarily a noun meaning 'health'. For example, '健康是财富' (Health is wealth). '健康的' (jiànkāng de) is the adjective form, meaning 'healthy'. It is used to describe something or someone as being in good health. For example, '健康的食物' (healthy food) or '他很健康的' (He is very healthy).
Yes, '健康的' can be used metaphorically to describe inanimate objects or abstract concepts that are in a good, thriving state. For example, '健康的社会' (a healthy society) or '健康的生态系统' (a healthy ecosystem). It implies a state of balance, vitality, and absence of decay or problems.
The most direct opposite of '健康的' is '不健康的' (bù jiànkāng de), which means 'unhealthy'. Other related terms describing a lack of health include '生病' (shēngbìng - to be sick), '虚弱' (xūruò - weak), and '病态' (bìngtài - morbid/pathological).
Generally, yes. When '健康' functions as an adjective modifying a noun, the particle '的' (de) is usually required. For example, '健康的饮食' (healthy diet). When used as a predicate adjective describing the subject, it can sometimes appear without '的' in very casual speech, but including it is safer and more standard, like '他很健康的' (He is very healthy).
'健康的' can be used to describe mental well-being. You would say '心理健康' (xīnlǐ jiànkāng) which means 'mental health' (noun), or '心理健康的' (xīnlǐ jiànkāng de) to describe something as mentally healthy, e.g., '一个健康的心理' (a healthy mind).
Yes, absolutely. '健康的' is commonly used to describe the health of plants and animals. For example, '这盆花很健康的' (This potted plant is very healthy) or '我的狗很健康的' (My dog is very healthy).
Yes, it can be intensified with adverbs. For instance, '很健康的' (hěn jiànkāng de - very healthy), '非常健康的' (fēicháng jiànkāng de - extremely healthy), or '相对健康的' (xiāngduì jiànkāng de - relatively healthy).
Some common phrases include '健康的饮食' (healthy diet), '健康的身体' (healthy body), '健康的生活方式' (healthy lifestyle), and '健康成长' (healthy growth).
Not necessarily. While good health often correlates with strength, '健康的' primarily means free from illness and having vitality. Words like '强壮' (qiángzhuàng - strong) or '健壮' (jiànzhuàng - robust) specifically emphasize physical strength.
'健康' is a noun when it refers to the state of health itself (e.g., '健康是重要的'). '健康的' is the adjective when it modifies a noun (e.g., '健康的食物'). Sometimes, '健康' can be used adjectivally in specific contexts, but '健康的' is the standard adjectival form.
Test Yourself 10 questions
/ 10 correct
Perfect score!
Summary
The adjective "健康的" (jiànkāng de) means healthy, describing a state of well-being for living things, lifestyles, and environments. It signifies vitality and the absence of sickness.
- Adjective: healthy, in good health.
- Used for people, animals, plants, lifestyles, and environments.
- Implies vitality and absence of illness.
- Often translated as 'healthy'.
Mastering the Sounds
Pay close attention to the aspiration in '健' (jiàn) and the clear 'k' sound in '康' (kāng). Practice saying 'jiàn-kāng de' smoothly. Listening to native speakers is key to internalizing the correct pronunciation.
The Essential '的'
Remember that when '健康的' modifies a noun directly, the particle '的' is usually required. Think of it as connecting the adjective 'healthy' to the noun it describes, like 'healthy food'.
Context is King
Understand that '健康的' can apply to more than just people. It can describe food, lifestyles, environments, and even abstract concepts like societies. Consider the context to fully grasp its meaning.
Visual Association
Imagine a strong, vibrant tree ('健' for strength) with peaceful, spreading branches ('康' for peace/well-being). This visual can help you remember that '健康的' means healthy and thriving.
Related Content
This Word in Other Languages
More health words
一粒
A2One pill; a grain (for small, round objects like pills).
一片
A2One tablet; a slice (for flat objects like pills).
不正常
A2abnormal
以上
A2Above, over (a number)
酸痛
A2Sore; aching (especially muscles).
倒是
A2On the contrary; actually.
针灸
A2Acupuncture; traditional Chinese therapy.
扎针
A2to give an injection
急性
B1acute (illness)
急性病
B1Acute disease.
