科学

• Pinyin: kē xué
• Hanzi breakdown: 科 = 禾 (grain) + 斗 (measure); 学 = 子 (child) under a roof with hands — learning

Meaning

Science; scientific. Refers to systematic knowledge of the natural or physical world, or describes something that follows scientific principles.

As a noun, 科学 means 'science' as a field of study. As an adjective, it means 'scientific' or 'rational' and is often used to describe methods, approaches, or ways of thinking that are logical and evidence-based. In everyday speech, 很科学 can mean 'makes good sense' or 'is well-reasoned.'

Examples

1. 我弟弟对科学很感兴趣。 My younger brother is very interested in science.
2. 这个方法很科学。 This method is very scientific.
3. 他在大学学的是科学。 He studied science at university.

Usage Guide

Context: education, work, everyday

Tone: informational

Do Say

• 科学课是我最喜欢的课。(Science class is my favourite class.)
• 我们要用科学的方法解决问题。(We should use scientific methods to solve problems.)

Don't Say

• 他是一个科学人。(Don't say 科学人 for 'scientist' — the correct word is 科学家. 科学 as an adjective modifies methods or approaches, not people directly.)

Origin & History

Compound of 科 (branch of study, category) and 学 (study, learning), literally 'the study of classified knowledge.' Borrowed concept from Japanese translation of Western 'science.'

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal