背景 (bèijǐng)

背景 means "background" or "context" and can refer to the visual background of a scene, the historical or social context of an event, or a person's personal background.

Meanings

[noun] background; backdrop (visual)
[noun] context; background (of an event or situation)
[noun] personal background; connections; backing

Example Sentences

这张照片的背景非常漂亮。 Zhè zhāng zhàopiàn de bèijǐng fēicháng piàoliang. The background of this photo is very beautiful.

了解历史背景有助于理解这部电影。 Liǎojiě lìshǐ bèijǐng yǒuzhù yú lǐjiě zhè bù diànyǐng. Understanding the historical background helps to understand this film.

她有很好的教育背景。 Tā yǒu hěn hǎo de jiàoyù bèijǐng. She has a very good educational background.

在这个社会背景下，这个问题更加复杂。 Zài zhège shèhuì bèijǐng xià, zhège wèntí gèngjiā fùzá. In this social context, the issue is even more complex.

Collocations

Collocation	Meaning
历史背景	historical background
教育背景	educational background
社会背景	social context
背景知识	background knowledge

Usage Notes

背景 is versatile and used across many domains. In photography and design it refers to a visual backdrop. In history or literature, it sets the context. In HR or social settings it refers to a person's background or connections. The third meaning (personal connections or "backing") can carry a slightly informal or political tone.

Memory Hook

背 (bèi) means "back" and 景 (jǐng) means "scenery": the "scenery at the back" is the background.