现象 (xiànxiàng) — phenomenon, occurrence

现象 (xiànxiàng)

现象 refers to an observable phenomenon, event, or occurrence, especially one that is noteworthy, widespread, or in need of explanation.

Meanings

1. [noun] phenomenon, occurrence (something observable)
2. [noun] symptom, manifestation (of a deeper underlying cause)

Example Sentences

全球气候变暖是当今世界最受关注的环境现象之一。 Quánqiú qìhòu biànnuǎn shì dāngjīn shìjiè zuì shòu guānzhù de huánjìng xiànxiàng zhī yī. Global warming is one of the most widely discussed environmental phenomena in the world today.

社会上存在的贫富差距现象需要引起高度重视。 Shèhuì shàng cúnzài de pínfù chājù xiànxiàng xūyào yǐnqǐ gāodù zhòngshì. The phenomenon of wealth inequality in society needs to be given a high degree of attention.

这种文化现象的背后反映了深层次的社会变迁。 Zhè zhǒng wénhuà xiànxiàng de bèihòu fǎnyìng le shēn céngcì de shèhuì biànqiān. Behind this cultural phenomenon lies a reflection of deep-seated social change.

科学家尝试解释这种奇特的自然现象。 Kēxuéjiā chángshì jiěshì zhè zhǒng qítè de zìrán xiànxiàng. Scientists are trying to explain this peculiar natural phenomenon.

网络购物已经成为一种普遍的社会现象。 Wǎnglù gòuwù yǐjīng chéngwéi yī zhǒng pǔbiàn de shèhuì xiànxiàng. Online shopping has already become a widespread social phenomenon.

表面现象往往会掩盖事物的本质。 Biǎomiàn xiànxiàng wǎngwǎng huì yǎngài shìwù de běnzhì. Surface phenomena often conceal the essence of things.

Collocations

Usage Notes

现象 is a neutral, descriptive term used to identify and label observable occurrences. In philosophical usage (especially in discussions of Marxism or phenomenology), 现象 contrasts with 本质 (essence): phenomena are the observable surface manifestations, while 本质 is the underlying truth. This 现象/本质 distinction is important in academic Chinese writing at B2 level and above.

At B2 level, 现象 is essential for discussing social trends, scientific observations, and cultural analysis.

Memory Hook

现 means to appear or be visible, and 象 means image or form -- 现象 is what appears and takes visible form before your eyes, the observable face of a deeper reality.