网络

• Pinyin: wǎng luò
• Hanzi breakdown: 网 = pictograph of a fishing net; 络 = 纟(thread) + 各 (each, phonetic)

Meaning

Network; internet; web.

Refers to both physical networks (road networks, telecommunications networks) and the internet. In modern usage, 网络 most commonly means the internet or 'online' — 网络购物 (online shopping), 网络安全 (cybersecurity), 网络游戏 (online gaming). 网络 is slightly more formal than 网 (wǎng) alone.

Examples

1. 现在很多人通过网络学习新技能，不必专门去上课。 Many people now learn new skills online without needing to attend classes in person.
2. 他的团队由来自世界各地的成员组成，完全依靠网络协作。 His team is made up of members from around the world and relies entirely on online collaboration.
3. 这个偏远地区的网络信号很差，手机几乎无法上网。 The internet signal in this remote area is very poor and mobile phones can barely connect.

Usage Guide

Context: technology, everyday, business

Tone: neutral

Do Say

• 你家的网络速度怎么样？(How is the internet speed at your place?)
• 这家公司建立了一个覆盖全国的销售网络。(This company has built a nationwide sales network.)

Don't Say

• 网络 ≠ 网站 — 网络 is the network/internet itself; 网站 (wǎngzhàn) is a specific website. Don't use them interchangeably.

Origin & History

Compound of 网 (net, pictograph of a net) and 络 (to connect/link, from 纟 thread + 各 each, phonetic), together conveying a system of interconnected threads or nodes.

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal