中性

• Pinyin: zhōng xìng
• Hanzi breakdown: 中 = 口 + 丨 (middle); 性 = 忄+ 生 (nature)

Meaning

Neutral; neuter. Neither acidic nor basic; neither masculine nor feminine.

Used in chemistry for pH-neutral substances, in grammar for neuter gender, in fashion for unisex/gender-neutral styles, and in personalities for balanced or non-extreme characteristics.

Examples

1. 这款洗面奶是中性配方，适合各种肤质。 This facial cleanser has a neutral formula and is suitable for all skin types.
2. 某些语言中存在中性名词。 Some languages have neuter nouns.
3. 她偏爱中性风格的穿搭。 She prefers a gender-neutral style of dressing.

Usage Guide

Context: chemistry, fashion, grammar

Tone: technical

Do Say

• 纯净水的pH值是中性的。(The pH of pure water is neutral.)
• 中性色调的服装更容易搭配。(Neutral-toned clothing is easier to match.)

Don't Say

• 他的态度很中性 — for attitude neutrality, use 中立 instead of 中性

Origin & History

中 (middle) + 性 (nature/property)

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal