Meaning and Usage
The verb 奔波 (bēn bō) means "to rush about" or "to be busy running around." It often describes someone moving quickly and busily between places, usually due to work, study, or family responsibilities.
Common Contexts
奔波 is frequently used to express the physical and mental effort involved in managing multiple tasks or obligations. It often carries a slightly sympathetic tone, implying that the person is working hard and may be tired.
Collocations and Patterns
- 奔波劳累: to rush about and become tired; emphasizes the exhausting nature of the activity.
- 为了...奔波: to rush about for the sake of something; shows purpose or motivation.
- 在城市里奔波: rushing about in the city; a common setting for busy urban life.
Usage Notes
奔波 is more formal and literary than simply saying 忙 or 跑来跑去. It often implies a sustained period of busy activity rather than a momentary rush. Avoid using it for casual or trivial movements.
Common Confusion
Don't confuse 奔波 with 奔跑 (bēnpǎo), which means "to run fast" physically. 奔波 emphasizes the busy, often stressful nature of moving around for tasks, not just speed.