三维

• Pinyin: sān wéi
• Hanzi breakdown: 三 = three; 维 = 纟(thread/silk) + 隹 (bird) = a binding thread, extended to mean dimension

Meaning

Three-dimensional; 3D. Relating to or existing in three dimensions of space: length, width, and height.

Used in science, technology, art, and everyday language. Key compound: 三维空间 (three-dimensional space), 三维模型 (3D model), 三维打印 (3D printing), 三维动画 (3D animation). In contrast with 二维 (two-dimensional/2D) and 平面 (flat/planar). Also used figuratively in academic discourse to mean a multi-dimensional analytical perspective.

Examples

1. 工程师利用三维建模软件精确模拟了建筑结构在不同荷载条件下的受力状况，为设计优化提供了可靠依据。 Using 3D modeling software, the engineers precisely simulated how the building structure would bear loads under different conditions, providing a reliable basis for optimizing the design.
2. 这部动画电影采用最新的三维渲染技术，将每一个场景都还原得极为逼真，令观众仿佛身临其境。 This animated film uses the latest 3D rendering technology, recreating every scene with remarkable realism and making viewers feel as if they’re truly there.
3. 三维打印技术的快速普及正在深刻改变制造业的生产模式，使个性化定制生产成为可能。 The rapid spread of 3D printing is profoundly reshaping manufacturing, making personalized, made-to-order production possible.

Usage Guide

Context: technology, science, art, engineering

Tone: neutral

Do Say

• 医学影像技术的进步使医生能够利用三维重建技术，对患者体内的病灶进行精确定位和立体化分析。(Advances in medical imaging technology allow doctors to use three-dimensional reconstruction to precisely locate and analyse lesions inside the patient's body in a spatial way.)
• 这款三维建模软件操作界面直观，即使是没有专业背景的设计爱好者也能快速上手创作出精细的立体作品。(The intuitive interface of this 3D modelling software means that even design enthusiasts without a professional background can quickly create detailed three-dimensional works.)

Don't Say

• 这个故事是三维的 — while 三维 can be used figuratively in academic contexts, in everyday narrative contexts use 立体 (vivid/three-dimensional) or 丰富 (rich/layered) instead

Origin & History

三 (three) + 维 (dimension — 纟silk thread + 隹 bird = a thread that ties and organises space, extended to mean 'dimension') — three binding/organising dimensions

Cultural Context

Era: Modern

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal