Meaning and Usage
"茎" (jīng) primarily refers to the stalk or stem of a plant. It is a botanical term used to describe the main support structure that connects roots and leaves or flowers. In everyday conversation, it is often used in scientific or gardening contexts.
Common Collocations
- "植物的茎" (plant stalk): refers to the stalk part of a plant.
- "一茎花" (a stalk of flowers): used as a measure word for flowers or plants with stalks.
Usage Notes
"茎" is a formal term mostly used in written or academic contexts rather than casual speech. It contrasts with "杆" (gǎn), which can also mean stalk but is more general and used for rods or poles. When counting plants or flowers, "茎" can function as a measure word, similar to "枝" (zhī).
Common Confusions
Do not confuse "茎" with "根" (gēn), which means root. "茎" is above ground, supporting the plant, while "根" is underground. Also, "茎" is not used for human anatomy despite sometimes being translated as "stem" in English.