Meaning
悬崖 refers to a steep, vertical or nearly vertical rock face, typically at a high elevation. It describes a dangerous edge where the ground drops off sharply. The word evokes a sense of danger and is commonly used both literally (geographical features) and metaphorically (critical situations).
Usage
This word is used in both literal contexts (describing natural landscapes) and figurative contexts (describing dangerous or critical situations). It often appears in the phrase 悬崖勒马 (to rein in at the edge of a cliff), meaning to stop just in time before disaster. The word carries a strong connotation of danger and precariousness.
Examples
- 01他们在悬崖边上拍照，真是太危险了。, .They were taking photos at the edge of the cliff—it was really too dangerous.
- 02这个公司已经到了悬崖边缘，必须马上改革。, .This company has reached the edge of the precipice and must reform immediately.
Characters
Measure words
- 座一座悬崖
- 处一处悬崖
Common collocations
- 悬崖峭壁steep cliffs and precipices
- 悬崖勒马to rein in at the brink, to pull back before disaster
- 悬崖边edge of a cliff
- 站在悬崖上to stand on a cliff
Antonyms
Origin
The character 悬 means 'to hang' or 'suspended in air,' while 崖 means 'cliff' or 'precipice.' Together they form a compound meaning 'suspended cliff' or 'hanging precipice,' emphasizing the vertical drop and dangerous height.