Meaning and Usage
"潜伏" means to hide or lie in wait secretly, often with the intention of surprise or stealth. It is commonly used in military, espionage, or biological contexts, such as enemies hiding, spies infiltrating, or viruses lying dormant.
Common Collocations
- 潜伏在 + place: to lurk or hide in a location
- 潜伏期: incubation or latent period (especially for diseases)
- 潜伏敌人/间谍: hidden enemy/spy
Usage Notes
"潜伏" emphasizes the act of hiding quietly and waiting, often for a strategic purpose. It differs from simply "隐藏" (to hide) by implying a longer, more deliberate concealment. It is more formal and often used in written or serious contexts.
Common Confusion
Do not confuse "潜伏" with "潜水" (to dive underwater) or "躲藏" (to hide casually). "潜伏" implies a purposeful, often secretive waiting period.