运转

• Pinyin: yùn zhuǎn
• Hanzi breakdown: 运 = 辶 + 云 (to move); 转 = 车 + 专 (to turn/revolve)

Meaning

To run; to operate; to function. Describes the working or revolving of a machine, system, or mechanism.

Used for both mechanical rotation (wheels, engines) and broader system functioning (government, economy, organization). Implies smooth, ongoing operation.

Examples

1. 工厂的机器二十四小时不间断运转，以满足旺盛的市场需求。 The factory’s machines run nonstop around the clock to meet strong market demand.
2. 只有各部门协调配合，整个公司才能高效运转。 Only when all departments work together can the whole company run efficiently.
3. 这台精密仪器已连续稳定运转超过一万小时。 This precision instrument has run steadily for more than 10,000 hours.

Usage Guide

Context: engineering, business, systems

Tone: neutral

Do Say

• 制度的正常运转依赖于每个环节的严格执行。(The normal functioning of the system depends on strict execution at every link.)
• 电网在暴风雪后迅速恢复正常运转，保障了居民的用电需求。(The power grid quickly resumed normal operation after the blizzard, ensuring residents' electricity needs were met.)

Don't Say

• 运转得很开心 — 运转 is for systems/machines, not emotional states; use 生活得很开心 for people

Origin & History

运 (to move) + 转 (to turn/revolve)

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal