气候

• Pinyin: qì hòu
• Hanzi breakdown: 气 = simplified from 氣, depicting rising steam; 候 = 亻(person) + 侯 (marquis, phonetic), originally meaning to observe or watch

Meaning

Climate; weather patterns over a long period. Refers to the general atmospheric conditions of a region.

Distinct from 天气 (daily weather), 气候 refers to long-term weather patterns of a place. Used in geography, science, and everyday conversation about regional conditions. Also used figuratively to describe a general atmosphere or trend, such as 政治气候 (political climate).

Examples

1. 北京的气候四季分明，冬天很冷，夏天很热。 Beijing's climate has four distinct seasons — very cold winters and very hot summers.
2. 近年来全球气候变化越来越严重了。 In recent years, global climate change has become increasingly serious.
3. 海南的气候很适合冬天去度假。 Hainan's climate is perfect for a winter holiday.

Usage Guide

Context: geography, science, travel

Tone: informative

Do Say

• 这里的气候很温暖。(The climate here is very warm.)
• 气候变化是全球性的问题。(Climate change is a global issue.)

Don't Say

• 明天的气候怎么样？(Don't use 气候 for tomorrow's weather — use 天气 instead. 气候 is for long-term patterns, not daily forecasts.)

Origin & History

气 means air or atmosphere; 候 means to wait or a period of time. Together they describe the atmospheric conditions observed over time — the prevailing air patterns of a region.

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal