Meaning and Usage
"动物园" (dòngwùyuán) refers specifically to a zoo, a park or facility where animals are kept for public viewing and education. It is a compound of "动物" (animals) and "园" (garden or park).
Common Contexts
This word is commonly used when talking about outings, family trips, or educational visits. It often appears in contexts involving children or wildlife conservation.
Collocations and Patterns
- 动物园门票 (dòngwùyuán ménpiào): zoo entrance ticket
- 动物园里 (dòngwùyuán lǐ): inside the zoo
- 去动物园 (qù dòngwùyuán): to go to the zoo
Usage Notes
When using 动物园, speakers imply a place designed for both entertainment and learning about animals. It is distinct from 野生动物保护区 (wildlife reserve) which is more natural and less commercial. Avoid confusing 动物园 with 动物馆, which is less common and can mean an animal house or aquarium.