Meaning and Usage
"典型" (diǎn xíng) means "typical" or "model" and is used to describe something that represents a common or standard example of a category. It often appears before nouns to indicate that the noun is a classic or representative case.
Common Collocations
- 典型案例 (diǎn xíng ànlì): typical case, often used in legal or academic contexts.
- 典型特征 (diǎn xíng tèzhēng): typical characteristic, describing defining features.
- 典型人物 (diǎn xíng rénwù): typical figure or character, often in literature or history.
Usage Notes
"典型" is more formal and objective than words like "普通" (ordinary) or "一般" (general). It emphasizes that the example is representative and can be used to illustrate a broader category. Avoid confusing it with "典礼" (ceremony) which sounds similar but has a different meaning.
Register and Tone
This word is neutral and suitable for both spoken and written Chinese, especially in academic, journalistic, or formal contexts.