发行

• Pinyin: fā xíng
• Hanzi breakdown: 发 = to send out; 行 = to circulate/go

Meaning

To issue; to publish; to distribute. Used for releasing currency, publications, stocks, or media.

Formal term for the official release and distribution of publications, currency, securities, or entertainment products. Implies authorized, large-scale distribution to the public.

Examples

1. 这本书已经在全国各大书店发行了。 This book has already been distributed to major bookstores nationwide.
2. 银行即将发行一套新版纪念币。 The bank is about to issue a new set of commemorative coins.
3. 他的新专辑下个月正式发行。 His new album will be officially released next month.

Usage Guide

Context: publishing, finance, entertainment

Tone: professional

Do Say

• 这张专辑全球同步发行。(This album will be released simultaneously worldwide.)
• 新版护照什么时候开始发行？(When will the new passport start being issued?)

Don't Say

• 我发行了一篇文章 (Don't use 发行 for personal articles — use 发表; 发行 is for official/commercial distribution)

Origin & History

Compound of 发 (to send out) + 行 (to circulate, distribute), meaning to put into circulation.

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal