Meaning and Usage
"追尾" (zhuīwěi) specifically refers to a rear-end collision, where one vehicle crashes into the back of another. It is commonly used in traffic accident reports and everyday conversation about driving safety.
Common Contexts
This term is often seen in news about traffic accidents, police warnings, and insurance claims. It implies a failure to maintain a safe following distance or inattentive driving.
Collocations and Patterns
- 追尾事故 (zhuīwěi shìgù): rear-end collision accident
- 发生追尾 (fāshēng zhuīwěi): to have a rear-end collision
- 避免追尾 (bìmiǎn zhuīwěi): to avoid rear-end collisions
Usage Notes
"追尾" is a noun and verb compound used mostly in formal or semi-formal contexts related to traffic. It is not used metaphorically. Avoid confusing it with general "追" (to chase) or "尾" (tail) alone. The focus is on the collision aspect, not just following or tailing.