Meaning and Usage
"书面" means "in writing" or "written form." It is commonly used to describe documents, reports, contracts, or any communication that is formally recorded on paper or digitally as text.
Common Contexts
You will often see "书面" in legal, academic, or official contexts where something must be documented rather than spoken. For example, "书面合同" (written contract) or "书面报告" (written report).
Collocations and Patterns
- 书面报告: a written report, used in work or school settings.
- 书面合同: a written contract, emphasizing legal formality.
- 书面通知: a written notice, official communication.
Usage Notes
"书面" is an adjective or adverbial phrase describing the form of communication. It contrasts with oral or verbal forms (口头). When using "书面," the speaker emphasizes the importance of having a formal, tangible record.
Avoid confusing "书面" with "书" alone, which means "book" or "to write." "书面" specifically refers to the written format or medium.