增值

• Pinyin: zēng zhí
• Hanzi breakdown: 增 = 土 (earth) + 曾 (phonetic); 值 = 亻 (person) + 直 (straight)

Meaning

To appreciate in value; to add value. Used in financial contexts for asset appreciation and in business for value-added services.

In economics, refers to the increase in value of assets, property, or investments over time. Also used to describe value-added services or products that provide additional benefits beyond the basic offering. Common in discussions about real estate, stocks, and business services.

Examples

1. 这套房子在过去十年里增值了三倍，投资回报相当可观。 This property has tripled in value over the past decade, yielding a considerable return on investment.
2. 银行推出了多种增值服务来吸引高端客户群体。 The bank has launched various value-added services to attract high-end clientele.
3. 收藏艺术品不仅是爱好，还能实现财富的保值增值。 Collecting art is not only a hobby but also a way to preserve and grow wealth.

Usage Guide

Context: finance, business, economics

Tone: neutral

Do Say

• 这块地皮未来肯定会增值。(This piece of land will definitely appreciate in value in the future.)
• 我们公司提供的是增值税专用发票。(Our company provides special VAT invoices.)

Don't Say

• 我的知识增值了。(Awkward usage — for knowledge, use 增长 or 丰富 instead)

Origin & History

Compound of 增 (to increase) and 值 (value, worth). A modern term that emerged with economic development, describing the increase in monetary or economic value.

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal