自动

• Pinyin: zì dòng
• Hanzi breakdown: 自 = pictograph of a nose, extended to mean 'self'; 动 = 云 (cloud) + 力 (strength), simplified from 動, meaning to move

Meaning

Automatic; voluntarily. Describes something that operates on its own or an action taken without being asked.

Can describe machines and systems that operate automatically, or human actions done voluntarily without prompting. Common in modern life when discussing technology and also in describing proactive behaviour.

Examples

1. 超市的门是自动的，走过去就会开。 The supermarket door is automatic; it opens when you walk up to it.
2. 他自动帮我打扫了房间。 He voluntarily helped me clean the room.
3. 这台洗衣机可以自动调节水温。 This washing machine can automatically adjust the water temperature.

Usage Guide

Context: technology, everyday, workplace

Tone: neutral

Do Say

• 这个门是自动的。(This door is automatic.)
• 他自动把垃圾扔了。(He threw out the rubbish voluntarily.)

Don't Say

• 我自动地喜欢他。(Don't use 自动 for involuntary feelings — it means voluntary action or mechanical automation. Use 自然而然 for something that happened naturally)

Origin & History

自 (self) + 动 (move). Together they mean 'self-moving' — operating by itself or acting of one's own accord.

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal