Meaning and Usage
The adjective 疲惫 (pí bèi) describes a state of extreme physical or mental exhaustion. It is stronger than just being tired and often implies a deep, overwhelming fatigue.
Common Contexts
This word is frequently used to describe someone who has been working hard, exercising intensely, or enduring a long period of stress or effort. It can apply to both physical and emotional exhaustion.
Collocations and Patterns
- 疲惫不堪: extremely exhausted, unable to bear any more fatigue
- 感到疲惫: to feel exhausted
- 工作疲惫: work-related exhaustion
These collocations emphasize the intensity of tiredness and are common in both spoken and written Chinese.
Nuances
Using 疲惫 conveys a more serious level of tiredness than 疲倦 or 累. It often suggests that rest or recovery is needed. Avoid confusing it with casual tiredness; 疲惫 implies a deeper depletion of energy.
Register and Tone
This word is neutral and appropriate in formal and informal contexts. It is often used in news reports, literature, and everyday speech when emphasizing fatigue.