Meaning and Usage
The word "倒塌" (dǎotā) specifically refers to the physical collapse or falling down of buildings or structures. It is commonly used in contexts involving natural disasters like earthquakes or structural failures.
Common Collocations
- 倒塌的房屋 (collapsed houses): used to describe buildings that have fallen down.
- 建筑物倒塌 (building collapse): a formal phrase often seen in news reports.
- 倒塌事故 (collapse accident): refers to incidents involving structural failure.
Usage Notes
"倒塌" is a verb describing a sudden and complete collapse, often with serious consequences. It is not used for minor falls or tipping over of small objects. When talking about people falling, other verbs are used instead.
Common Confusions
Do not confuse "倒塌" with "倒下" which can mean to fall down but is more general and can apply to people or objects. "倒塌" is reserved for large structures collapsing.
Summary
Use "倒塌" when describing the collapse of buildings or large structures, especially in contexts of damage or disaster. It conveys a serious and often dangerous event.