Meaning
宣传 means to spread information, ideas, or messages to the public, often for promotional or political purposes. It can refer to positive publicity campaigns or neutral advertising, but also carries connotations of propaganda when used in political contexts. The word combines 宣 (to declare) and 传 (to transmit), literally meaning 'to declare and spread.'
Usage
宣传 is commonly used in both commercial and political contexts. In modern usage, it can be neutral (advertising, PR) or carry negative implications (propaganda, manipulation). Businesses use it for marketing campaigns, while governments use it for policy communication. Common patterns include 宣传活动 (publicity campaign) and 大力宣传 (vigorously promote).
Examples
- 01公司正在大力宣传新产品。.The company is vigorously promoting its new product.
- 02他们通过社交媒体宣传环保理念。.They publicize environmental protection concepts through social media.
Characters
Measure words
- 次一次宣传活动
- 场一场宣传活动
Common collocations
- 宣传部propaganda/publicity department
- 宣传活动publicity campaign
- 大力宣传to vigorously publicize
- 宣传材料promotional materials
Antonyms
Origin
The term combines classical Chinese elements: 宣 originally meant to proclaim imperial edicts, while 传 meant to pass down or transmit. Together they formed a modern compound for spreading information systematically.