贬值

• Pinyin: biǎn zhí
• Hanzi breakdown: 贬 = 贝 (shell/money) + 乏 (lack); 值 = 亻 (person) + 直 (straight)

Meaning

To depreciate; to devalue; to lose value.

Primarily used for currency devaluation or asset depreciation. Can also be used metaphorically for things losing their worth or significance. Common in economic, financial, and business contexts.

Examples

1. 美元贬值对出口企业来说其实是个好消息。 Dollar depreciation is actually good news for export businesses.
2. 这辆车买了三年，已经贬值了一半了。 This car was bought three years ago and has already lost half its value.
3. 如果一直印钞票，货币就会大幅贬值。 If you keep printing money, the currency will depreciate significantly.

Usage Guide

Context: economics, finance, business

Tone: analytical

Do Say

• 人民币最近贬值了不少。(The yuan has depreciated quite a bit recently.)
• 房产会贬值吗？(Will real estate depreciate?)

Don't Say

• 用贬值形容精神价值降低 (In formal writing, avoid 贬值 for abstract/spiritual value — use 贬低 or 降低)

Origin & History

贬 (reduce/demote) + 值 (value). To reduce in value.

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal