Meaning and Usage
"挖掘" primarily means "to excavate" or "to dig out," often used in literal contexts such as archaeology or construction. Beyond the physical sense, it is frequently used metaphorically to mean "to uncover" or "to tap into" something hidden, such as potential, information, or truth.
Common Collocations
- 挖掘潜力 (wājué qiánlì): to tap into potential, often used in business or personal development.
- 挖掘真相 (wājué zhēnxiàng): to uncover the truth, common in journalism or investigation.
- 挖掘文物 (wājué wénwù): to excavate artifacts, typical in archaeology.
Usage Notes
When used metaphorically, 挖掘 implies a process of careful searching or discovery, not just casual finding. It often suggests effort and depth. It is more formal and specific than simply "找" (to find) or "发现" (to discover).
Common Confusion
Don't confuse 挖掘 with 挖 (wā) alone, which means "to dig" but is more general and physical. 挖掘 often implies a more systematic or purposeful excavation or discovery.