写作

• Pinyin: xiě zuò
• Hanzi breakdown: 写 = 冖 (cover) + 与 (simplified component); 作 = 亻 (person) + 乍 (suddenly, phonetic)

Meaning

To write; writing; composition. The act or process of creating written works.

Refers to the skill, activity, or process of writing, particularly creative or formal writing such as essays, articles, or literature. More specific than 写 (to write in general). Common in academic contexts: 写作能力 (writing ability), 写作水平 (writing level), 写作风格 (writing style).

Examples

1. 她从小就对写作很感兴趣。 She has been interested in writing since she was little.
2. 老师让我们练习英语写作。 The teacher asked us to practise English writing.
3. 他的写作水平提高了很多。 His writing level has improved a lot.

Usage Guide

Context: education, literature, creative

Tone: neutral

Do Say

• 我正在学习写作技巧。(I am learning writing techniques.)
• 写作需要多读书多练习。(Writing requires reading more and practising more.)

Don't Say

• 我写作了一封信。(Don't use 写作 as a transitive verb with a direct object — say 我写了一封信. 写作 is used as an intransitive verb or noun.)

Origin & History

写 means 'to write' and 作 means 'to make' or 'to create'. Together they describe the creative act of producing written work.

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal