Meaning and Usage
"猎物" (lièwù) specifically refers to animals or objects that are hunted or captured, commonly translated as "prey" in English. It is often used in contexts related to hunting, wildlife, and ecological relationships.
Common Collocations
- 猎物被捕获 (lièwù bèi bǔhuò): prey is caught
- 寻找猎物 (xúnzhǎo lièwù): to look for prey
- 捕食者和猎物 (bǔshízhě hé lièwù): predator and prey
Usage Notes
When using "猎物," speakers usually imply a natural or hunting context, emphasizing the relationship between hunter and hunted. It is a noun and typically appears as the object of verbs related to hunting or capturing. Avoid confusing it with general words for "animal" or "thing"; "猎物" always carries the nuance of being hunted or targeted.
Register and Tone
The term is neutral and formal, suitable for scientific, literary, or everyday contexts involving hunting or animal behavior. It is not used metaphorically in casual speech.