Meaning and Usage
The word 运动 (yùndòng) primarily means "to exercise" or "physical activity," often referring to sports or fitness activities. It can also mean "movement" in a mechanical or physical sense, describing something that moves or operates. Additionally, 运动 can refer to a social or political "movement" or campaign.
Common Contexts
- Physical exercise: Talking about going jogging, playing sports, or any bodily activity to stay healthy.
- Mechanical movement: Describing parts of machines or objects that move.
- Social movements: Referring to organized campaigns or collective actions for causes.
Collocations and Patterns
- 做运动 (zuò yùndòng): to do exercise; a very common phrase used when talking about working out.
- 运动会 (yùndòng huì): sports meet or athletic competition, often held in schools.
- 参加运动 (cānjiā yùndòng): to participate in a movement or exercise.
- 环保运动 (huánbǎo yùndòng): environmental movement; an example of social/political usage.
Usage Notes
When using 运动 to mean "exercise," it usually implies intentional physical activity for health or sport. In contrast, when referring to mechanical movement, it is more formal and less common in daily conversation. For social movements, 运动 is often combined with specific causes.
Avoid confusing 运动 with simple verbs like "move" (动 dòng), as 运动 often implies a more organized or purposeful movement.