Meaning
自然界 refers to the natural world or nature as a whole, encompassing all living organisms, ecosystems, and natural phenomena that exist independent of human activity. It emphasizes the totality of the natural environment, including plants, animals, geological features, and natural processes.
Usage
This is a somewhat formal or academic term commonly used in scientific contexts, nature documentaries, environmental discussions, and written Chinese. In everyday conversation, people more often use 大自然 (dà zì rán) to mean 'nature.' 自然界 is frequently seen in phrases discussing natural laws, ecosystems, or contrasting the natural world with human society.
Examples
- 01自然界中有许多我们还未了解的生物。.There are many organisms in nature that we still don't understand.
- 02人类应该学会与自然界和谐共处。.Humans should learn to coexist harmoniously with the natural world.
Characters
Common collocations
- 自然界的规律laws of nature
- 自然界中in nature
- 保护自然界to protect the natural world
- 自然界的奥秘mysteries of nature
Antonyms
Origin
The word combines 自然 (nature, natural) with 界 (realm, boundary, world). The character 界 originally depicted fields separated by boundaries, and came to mean 'realm' or 'world.' Together, 自然界 literally means 'the natural realm.'