层次

• Pinyin: céng cì
• Hanzi breakdown: 层 (layer, floor) + 次 (order, sequence)

Meaning

Level; hierarchy; layer. Refers to grades, strata, or dimensions.

Used to describe stratification in society, organizations, thinking, or analysis. Also describes depth and richness in art, music, or food. Common in academic and professional contexts.

Examples

1. 这篇文章的论述层次分明，逻辑清晰。 This article has clear hierarchical structure and logical clarity.
2. 这道菜的味道很有层次感，先甜后辣。 This dish has layered flavors — sweet first, then spicy.
3. 公司管理层次太多，影响了决策效率。 The company has too many management levels, affecting decision-making efficiency.

Usage Guide

Context: analysis, organization, art criticism

Tone: analytical

Do Say

• 我们需要从多个层次来分析这个问题。(We need to analyze this issue from multiple levels.)
• 这幅画很有层次感。(This painting has great depth.)

Don't Say

• 口语中用'层次'代替'级别'——在日常对话中'级别'更常用 (Don't use 层次 instead of 级别 in casual speech — 级别 is more common in daily conversation)

Origin & History

Compound of 层 (layer/floor) + 次 (order/sequence), meaning 'levels in order.'

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal