关心

• Pinyin: guān xīn
• Hanzi breakdown: 关 = simplified from 關, to close/concern; 心 = pictograph of a heart

Meaning

To care about; to be concerned about. Showing interest in or worry for someone or something.

Expresses genuine concern or thoughtfulness. Can be directed at people (caring about someone's health) or matters (caring about an issue). A warm and positive word.

Examples

1. 谢谢你这么关心我。 Thank you for caring about me so much.
2. 父母总是关心孩子的学习。 Parents always care about their children's studies.
3. 大家都很关心这件事。 Everyone is very concerned about this matter.

Usage Guide

Context: relationships, family, social issues

Tone: warm, caring

Do Say

• 他很关心他的家人。(He cares a lot about his family.)
• 老师很关心学生。(The teacher cares a lot about the students.)

Don't Say

• 不要把关心和担心混淆 — 关心 means to care about (positive), while 担心 means to worry about (anxious). They are related but different.

Origin & History

Compound of 关 (to be related to, to concern) and 心 (heart), meaning 'the heart is involved' — to care.

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal