种族

zhǒngzú

race

HSK 7

Character Breakdown

Meaning and Usage

The word "种族" (zhǒngzú) primarily refers to "race" or "ethnicity". It is commonly used in discussions about social groups distinguished by physical characteristics or cultural heritage.

Common Contexts

You will often see "种族" in contexts related to social issues, such as "种族歧视" (racial discrimination) or "种族平等" (racial equality). It is also used in demographic descriptions to talk about the diversity of populations.

Collocations and Patterns

  • 种族歧视 (racial discrimination): highlights social injustice based on race.
  • 种族 (racial integration): refers to the mixing or blending of races.
  • 种族 (different races): used to emphasize diversity.

Usage Notes

When using "种族", it is important to be sensitive to the social implications, especially in conversations about discrimination or equality. It is a formal term and often appears in news, academic, or official contexts rather than casual speech.

Avoid confusing "种族" with "民族" (mínzú), which often emphasizes ethnic groups with shared culture and language, while "种族" focuses more on biological or racial classification.

Example Sentences

我们应该尊重不同的种族和文化。

Wǒmen yīnggāi zūnzhòng bùtóng de zhǒngzú hé wénhuà.

We should respect different races and cultures.

种族歧视是社会中的一个严重问题。

Zhǒngzú qíshì shì shèhuì zhōng de yīgè yánzhòng wèntí.

Racial discrimination is a serious problem in society.

这个国家有很多不同的种族和民族。

Zhège guójiā yǒu hěn duō bùtóng de zhǒngzú hé mínzú.

This country has many different races and ethnic groups.