逼近

• Pinyin: bī jìn
• Hanzi breakdown: 逼 = 辶 (walk) + 畐 (phonetic); 近 = 辶 (walk) + 斤 (axe)

Meaning

To approach; to close in on; to draw near (often with pressure or threat implied).

Describes something getting closer, often with a sense of urgency, pressure, or inevitability. Used for deadlines approaching, enemies closing in, temperatures reaching extremes, or any threatening advance. More intense than simple 接近.

Examples

1. 截止日期正在逼近，大家都在加班赶进度。 The deadline is approaching fast — everyone is working overtime to catch up.
2. 台风逼近沿海地区，居民已经开始撤离。 The typhoon is closing in on the coastal area, and residents have started evacuating.
3. 敌军逼近城门，守军严阵以待。 Enemy forces closed in on the city gates as defenders braced themselves.

Usage Guide

Context: news, military, deadlines, weather

Tone: urgent

Do Say

• 冬天逼近了。(Winter is closing in.)
• 敌人正在逼近我们的阵地。(The enemy is approaching our position.)

Don't Say

• 用'逼近'表示友好的接近 (Don't use 逼近 for friendly approaches — it implies pressure or threat)

Origin & History

逼 (to press/force) + 近 (near). Together meaning to press closer, approach with force.

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal