畅通

• Pinyin: chàng tōng
• Hanzi breakdown: 畅 = 申 (extend) + 昜 (bright), smooth; 通 = 辶 (walk) + 甬, to pass through

Meaning

Unobstructed; smooth; flowing freely. Describes movement or communication without barriers.

An adjective describing the state of being free from obstruction or hindrance. Commonly used for traffic, communication channels, blood flow, and information systems. Emphasizes the absence of blockages and the smooth flow of movement or transmission.

Examples

1. 新修的立交桥使这一带的交通更加畅通。 The newly built interchange has made traffic in this area much smoother.
2. 保持信息畅通是团队合作的关键。 Keeping information flowing freely is key to team collaboration.
3. 适当运动可以促进血液畅通。 Moderate exercise can promote smooth blood circulation.

Usage Guide

Context: traffic, communication, health

Tone: positive

Do Say

• 确保渠道畅通，问题才能及时解决。(Only when channels are kept open can problems be resolved in time.)
• 早高峰过后，道路逐渐畅通起来。(After the morning rush hour, the roads gradually became clear.)

Don't Say

• 不要把'畅通'用于描述人的性格 (Don't use 畅通 to describe someone's personality — it's for physical or systemic flow, not personal traits)

Origin & History

Compound of 畅 (unimpeded, smooth) + 通 (to pass through, open). Both characters relate to free passage, reinforcing the meaning.

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal