本质 (běnzhì)

本质 refers to the essential nature or fundamental character of something, what something truly is at its core.

Meanings

[noun] essence; nature; the intrinsic, fundamental quality of a person or thing

Example Sentences

我们要认清问题的本质。 Wǒmen yào rènqīng wèntí de běnzhì. We need to clearly understand the essence of the problem.

这两件事的本质是一样的。 Zhè liǎng jiàn shì de běnzhì shì yīyàng de. The nature of these two things is the same.

他的本质是善良的。 Tā de běnzhì shì shànliáng de. His fundamental nature is kind.

表面现象掩盖不了事物的本质。 Biǎomiàn xiànxiàng yǎngài bù liǎo shìwù de běnzhì. Surface appearances cannot conceal the true nature of things.

Collocations

Collocation	Meaning
问题的本质	the essence of the problem
本质区别	essential difference
本质上	essentially; fundamentally
揭示本质	to reveal the essence

Usage Notes

本质 is often used in analytical and philosophical contexts when discussing the deeper nature of issues or phenomena. The phrase 本质上 (essentially, fundamentally) is very common in written Chinese. It contrasts with 表面 (surface) or 现象 (phenomenon).

Memory Hook

本 means "root/origin" and 质 means "substance/quality": 本质 is the root substance, what lies at the very origin of a thing.