残留

• Pinyin: cán liú
• Hanzi breakdown: 残 = 歹 (damaged/skeleton) + 戋 (phonetic); 留 = 田 (field) + 刀 (knife) + 卯 (combined phonetic form)

Meaning

To remain; to persist as a remnant or residue. Refers to traces, substances, or effects that are left over after the main part has been removed, ended, or consumed.

Common in scientific, environmental, agricultural, and medical contexts — most notably 农药残留 (pesticide residue). Also used figuratively to describe lingering attitudes, habits, emotional trauma, or historical influences. The word emphasizes diminishment and the passage of time, often implying that what remains is unwanted or problematic.

Examples

1. 检测报告显示这批蔬菜的农药残留严重超标，相关部门已责令全部下架。 The test report showed that pesticide residue in this batch of vegetables far exceeded the safety standard, and the relevant authorities have ordered all items pulled from shelves.
2. 战争结束了几十年，那段历史在老一辈人心中留下的创伤，至今仍有深深的残留。 Decades after the war ended, the trauma that period of history left in the hearts of the older generation still lingers deeply.
3. 考古学家在遗址中发现了残留的壁画颜料，为研究古代彩绘技法提供了珍贵线索。 Archaeologists found traces of residual mural pigment at the site, providing valuable clues for researching ancient fresco techniques.

Usage Guide

Context: science, environment, agriculture, medicine, history

Tone: neutral

Do Say

• 购买的果蔬一定要仔细清洗，以去除可能存在的农药残留。(Make sure to wash purchased fruits and vegetables carefully to remove any possible pesticide residue.)
• 这种药物在体内的残留期约为七十二小时，期间应避免饮酒。(The residual period of this drug in the body is approximately seventy-two hours; avoid alcohol during this time.)

Don't Say

• 他的帮助在我心里有很多残留。(残留 refers to unwanted or diminishing remnants, not positive impressions — use 留下了深刻印象 or 让我深受感动 for emotional impact)

Origin & History

残 (incomplete/remnant) + 留 (to remain/stay; 留 = 田 field + 刀 knife + 卯 combined form). Literally 'remnants that remain,' describing what persists after most has been removed or lost.

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal