Meaning and Usage
"千家万户" literally means "thousands of families and ten thousands of households," and it is used to refer to a very large number of families or households collectively. It often appears in contexts describing widespread phenomena or events affecting many people.
Common Contexts
This phrase is frequently used in news reports, literature, and speeches to emphasize the broad impact or participation of many families, such as during festivals, policy effects, or social changes.
Collocations and Patterns
- 千家万户 + 动词 (e.g., 张灯结彩, 影响, 普及): to describe actions or effects involving many households.
- 春节期间千家万户: a common phrase to depict the festive atmosphere during Chinese New Year.
Nuances
Using "千家万户" conveys a sense of inclusiveness and scale, highlighting that something is not limited to a few but widespread. It is more formal and literary than simply saying "很多家庭" (many families).
Common Confusion
Do not confuse "千家万户" with specific numbers; it is a figurative expression meaning "countless" or "numerous," not a precise count.