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世界
shì jiè
world
世界上最美丽的地方在哪里？
Where is the most beautiful place in the world?
formal
The Earth and all its countries, peoples, and natural features.
世界七大奇迹之一是中国的长城。
One of the Seven Wonders of the World is China's Great Wall.
全球变暖影响着整个世界。
Global warming affects the entire world.
Often used in geopolitical, environmental, or cultural contexts.
formal
A particular group of people, countries, or cultures viewed as a whole.
西方世界对这个问题的看法与东方不同。
The Western world's perspective on this issue differs from the East.
Refers to a collective identity or cultural sphere.
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Distinguish from '宇宙' (universe)
'世界' refers specifically to Earth and its inhabitants, while '宇宙' encompasses all of space, time, matter, and energy. '世界' is more commonly used in everyday contexts.
Gold Rule
Use '世界' for Earth-centric contexts
When referring to the planet or human civilization, '世界' is the default choice. For cosmic or astronomical contexts, use '宇宙'.
Word Origin
From Classical Chinese 世 ('generation, age') + 界 ('boundary, realm'). Originally referred to the human realm or society, later extended to mean the entire Earth.
Usage Notes
Used in both literal (planet Earth) and figurative (society/civilization) senses. Common in formal writing, news, and academic contexts.
Word Breakdown
世
generation, age, human society
root界
boundary, realm, domain
root汉英词典