Meaning
生命 refers to life in the biological and philosophical sense—the state of being alive, the essence of living organisms, or the period from birth to death. It encompasses both physical existence and the vitality or spirit that animates living beings. This term is more formal and profound than 生活 (daily life).
Usage
生命 is used in formal, philosophical, medical, or emotional contexts when discussing the value, meaning, or fragility of life itself. Common in expressions about protecting life, the miracle of life, or life and death situations. It appears frequently in literature, news reports about accidents or disasters, and discussions of biology or ethics.
Examples
- 01医生尽全力拯救每一个病人的生命。.Doctors do their utmost to save every patient's life.
- 02我们应该珍惜生命，热爱生活。, .We should cherish life and love living.
Characters
Measure words
- 条一条生命
- 个一个生命
Common collocations
- 生命力vitality, life force
- 珍惜生命to cherish life
- 拯救生命to save a life
- 生命危险life-threatening danger
Antonyms
Origin
The compound combines 生 (birth, life) with 命 (life, fate), reinforcing the concept of the vital force and destiny of living beings. Both characters individually carry meanings related to existence and living.