Usage and Nuance
"惊动" is a verb that means to alarm or startle someone, often implying causing a disturbance or attracting attention unexpectedly. It is commonly used when someone or something causes others to be alerted or disturbed, usually in a negative or urgent context.
Common Contexts
It is often used in situations where you want to avoid disturbing someone (e.g., "别惊动他"), or to describe an event that caused widespread alarm or attention (e.g., "惊动了整个社区").
Collocations
- 惊动 + 人 (to alarm someone): used when someone is unexpectedly disturbed.
- 惊动 + 社区/群众 (to alarm a community/crowd): used for larger scale disturbances.
- 不要惊动 (do not alarm): a polite or cautious request to avoid causing disturbance.
Register and Tone
"惊动" is neutral but often used in formal or written contexts. It carries a slightly serious tone because it implies causing alarm or disturbance.
Common Confusion
Do not confuse "惊动" with "惊讶" (jīng yà), which means 'to be surprised' or 'astonished.' "惊动" focuses on causing alarm or disturbance to others, not the feeling of surprise itself.