Meaning and Usage
The verb 收养 (shōuyǎng) specifically means to legally adopt and raise someone, most commonly a child or sometimes animals like pets. It implies a formal process of taking responsibility for the upbringing of the adoptee.
Common Contexts
This word is often used in family and legal contexts, such as adoption of orphans or abandoned children. It can also be used when referring to adopting stray animals, emphasizing providing care and a home.
Collocations and Patterns
- 收养孩子: to adopt a child, used in legal and family discussions.
- 收养孤儿: to adopt an orphan, common in social welfare contexts.
- 收养流浪动物: to adopt stray animals, used in animal welfare.
Usage Notes
When using 收养, the focus is on the formal and legal aspect of adoption, distinguishing it from simply taking care of or fostering someone temporarily. It often involves official procedures and long-term commitment.
Avoid confusing 收养 with 养育 (yǎngyù), which means to raise or bring up a child but does not imply legal adoption.