Meaning and Usage
"寻常" means "ordinary" or "common" and is used to describe things, situations, or lives that are normal and not special or extraordinary. It often appears in contexts contrasting the usual with the exceptional.
Common Collocations
- 寻常小事: ordinary small matter, used to downplay the importance of something.
- 寻常生活: ordinary life, describing everyday living without special events.
- 寻常情况下: under normal circumstances, indicating typical or expected conditions.
Usage Notes
"寻常" is generally neutral and formal, suitable for both spoken and written Chinese. It often appears in descriptive sentences to emphasize normality. Avoid confusing it with "普通" which is similar but slightly more general; "寻常" can carry a subtle nuance of something being usual or habitual.
Common Confusion
Do not confuse "寻常" with "寻求" (to seek). Although they share the character "寻", their meanings and usage differ significantly.