noun / adjective HSK 4
Traditional 現代
modern · contemporary · modern times · the present age
Meaning
现代 refers to the current era or modern times, typically meaning the period from the late 19th or early 20th century to the present. As an adjective, it describes things that are modern, contemporary, or characteristic of the present age.
Usage
Commonly used to contrast with 古代 (ancient times) or 传统 (traditional). It frequently appears in compound words like 现代化 (modernization) and 现代人 (modern people). Used in both formal and informal contexts to describe contemporary society, technology, lifestyle, or thinking.
Examples
- 01现代科技改变了我们的生活方式。.Modern technology has changed our way of life.
- 02这座城市既保留了传统文化，又充满了现代气息。, .This city both preserves traditional culture and is full of modern atmosphere.
Characters
Common collocations
- 现代社会modern society
- 现代科技modern technology
- 现代化建设modernization construction
- 现代生活modern life
Antonyms
Origin
Formed from 现 (present/current) and 代 (era/generation), literally meaning 'the present era.' This term became widely used in Chinese during the early 20th century as China engaged with Western concepts of modernity.