柏树

• Pinyin: bǎi shù
• Hanzi breakdown: 柏 = 木 (wood) + 白 (phonetic); 树 = tree

Meaning

Cypress tree; evergreen conifer.

Refers to cypress and related evergreen trees. In Chinese culture, cypress symbolizes longevity and integrity because it stays green year-round. Often planted in cemeteries and temples.

Examples

1. 墓园里种着一排排的柏树，显得庄严肃穆。 Rows of cypress trees are planted in the cemetery, creating a solemn atmosphere.
2. 柏树四季常青，象征着坚韧不拔的精神。 Cypress stays green throughout the seasons, symbolizing perseverance.
3. 这棵古柏树已经有上千年的历史了。 This ancient cypress tree is already over a thousand years old.

Usage Guide

Context: nature, cultural

Tone: descriptive

Do Say

• 柏树象征长寿。(Cypress symbolizes longevity.)
• 那片柏树林很壮观。(That cypress forest is magnificent.)

Don't Say

• 把松树说成'柏树' (Don't confuse 柏树 cypress with 松树 pine — they're different evergreens)

Origin & History

柏 (cypress) + 树 (tree). 柏 is composed of 木 (wood) + 白 (white, phonetic).

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal