波涛汹涌

bō tāo xiōng yǒng

waves surging forth

HSK 6

漢字分解

Meaning and Usage

"波涛汹涌" literally describes the sea with surging, turbulent waves. It is often used to depict a powerful natural scene, especially rough seas during storms.

Figurative Use

Beyond the literal meaning, it frequently serves as a metaphor for intense emotions or situations, such as inner turmoil or life's challenges.

Common Collocations

Register and Tone

This phrase is formal and literary, suitable for written language, speeches, or poetic contexts rather than casual conversation.

Usage Tips

Avoid using "波涛汹涌" for calm or gentle waves. It always implies strong, violent motion. When describing emotions, it conveys deep unrest or conflict rather than mild feelings.

例文

海面上波涛汹涌,风暴即将来临。

Hǎimiàn shàng bōtāo xiōngyǒng, fēngbào jíjiāng láilín.

The sea surface is surging with waves; a storm is about to arrive.

他的内心波涛汹涌,难以平静。

Tā de nèixīn bōtāo xiōngyǒng, nányǐ píngjìng.

His heart is surging turbulently, hard to calm down.

波涛汹涌的大海象征着人生的挑战。

Bōtāo xiōngyǒng de dàhǎi xiàngzhēng zhe rénshēng de tiǎozhàn.

The surging waves of the ocean symbolize the challenges of life.