Meaning
年幼 describes someone who is very young in age, typically referring to young children. It emphasizes the tenderness and inexperience that comes with being at an early stage of life. The word carries a somewhat formal or literary tone and is often used when discussing childhood or early development.
Usage
This is a more formal term than simply saying 小 (xiǎo). It's commonly used in written Chinese, news reports, legal contexts, or when speaking politely about young children. Native speakers often use it when emphasizing vulnerability or innocence associated with youth, particularly when discussing children who need protection or guidance.
Examples
- 01他年幼时失去了父母，由祖父母抚养长大。, .He lost his parents when he was very young and was raised by his grandparents.
- 02这些年幼的孩子需要特别的关注和保护。.These young children need special attention and protection.
Characters
Common collocations
- 年幼无知young and ignorant
- 年幼的孩子young children
- 自幼since childhood
Antonyms
Origin
The compound combines 年 (year/age) with 幼 (young/tender), literally meaning 'young in years.' Both characters have been used since ancient Chinese to describe youth and age.