联想

• Pinyin: lián xiǎng
• Hanzi breakdown: 联 = 耳 (ear) + 关 (joint); 想 = 相 (mutual) + 心 (heart), thinking with the heart

Meaning

To associate; to think of by association. Making mental connections between ideas or things.

Refers to the cognitive process of connecting one idea, memory, or concept to another. Used in discussions of memory, creativity, psychology, and learning. Can describe both spontaneous associations and deliberate associative thinking.

Examples

1. 一看到这首歌，我就联想到了我们大学时代的美好时光。 As soon as I hear this song, I think of the wonderful times in our college days.
2. 他的画作能让人联想到梵高的风格。 His paintings make people think of Van Gogh's style.
3. 这个词让我联想到小时候在乡下生活的情景。 This word reminds me of scenes from my childhood in the countryside.

Usage Guide

Context: psychology, creativity, everyday

Tone: thoughtful

Do Say

• 这个味道让我联想到了家乡。(This taste reminds me of my hometown.)
• 通过联想记忆，学习效率会更高。(Learning efficiency improves through associative memory.)

Don't Say

• 我联想去北京。(For intentions or plans, use 想 or 打算 — 联想 is for mental associations, not desires)

Origin & History

联 (lián, connect) + 想 (xiǎng, think). Thinking by making connections.

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal