Meaning and Usage
"生涯" (shēngyá) refers to the span of a person's life in terms of their career or major life activities. It often emphasizes the duration and experience accumulated in a particular profession or role.
Common Contexts
It is frequently used to talk about someone's professional career, such as in education, sports, or public service. The term carries a formal tone and is common in written and spoken Chinese when reflecting on life achievements or career paths.
Collocations and Patterns
- "职业生涯" (zhíyè shēngyá): professional career, used to specify the career aspect.
- "结束生涯" (jiéshù shēngyá): to end one's career, often used when retiring or changing professions.
- "度过生涯" (dùguò shēngyá): to spend one's career/life in a certain field.
Nuances
Using "生涯" implies a long-term commitment or significant period of time devoted to an activity or profession. It is more formal and reflective than simply saying "工作" (work). Avoid confusing it with "生活" (life in general), as "生涯" focuses on career or life path rather than daily living.