状态

• Pinyin: zhuàng tài
• Hanzi breakdown: 状 = 丬 (side) + 犬 (dog); 态 = simplified from 態, 心 (heart) + 能 (ability), indicating a state of mind or being

Meaning

State; condition; status. The current mode or condition of a person, thing, or system.

Describes the current state of being, whether physical, mental, or operational. Commonly used for a person's physical or emotional state, a machine's operating condition, or an abstract state of affairs. Slightly more focused on the internal condition compared to 状况 which leans toward external circumstances.

Examples

1. 他今天的精神状态很好。 He is in very good spirits today.
2. 手机现在处于飞行模式状态。 The phone is currently in aeroplane mode.
3. 运动员需要保持最好的状态。 Athletes need to maintain their best condition.

Usage Guide

Context: health, technology, sports, everyday

Tone: descriptive

Do Say

• 她最近的工作状态非常好。(Her work state has been very good recently.)
• 你现在是什么状态？(What state are you in right now?)

Don't Say

• 这个苹果的状态是红色的。(Don't use 状态 for fixed physical attributes like colour — 状态 describes changeable conditions, not permanent characteristics; just say 这个苹果是红色的)

Origin & History

状 (form, shape, condition) + 态 (manner, attitude, state). Together: the manner or form of a condition.

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal