考验

• 拼音: kǎo yàn
• 汉字拆解: 考 = 耂 (old) + 丂 (bent), originally meaning elderly, extended to examine; 验 = 马 (horse) + 佥 (all), originally inspecting horses

含义

To test; to put to the test; a trial or ordeal. Refers to a difficult experience that tests one's ability, character, or endurance.

Can be used as both a verb and a noun. As a verb, it means to test or challenge someone. As a noun, it refers to the test or trial itself. Unlike 考试 (exam), 考验 implies a broader, often more serious challenge to one's character, patience, or resilience.

例句

1. 这次比赛是对我们团队的一次考验。
2. 困难可以考验一个人的意志。
3. 他经历了很多考验，变得更坚强了。

用法指南

语境: challenge, growth, motivation

语气: serious

正确说法

• 这件事是对我耐心的考验。(This matter is a test of my patience.)
• 生活总是在考验我们。(Life is always testing us.)

错误说法

• 明天有一个数学考验。(Don't use 考验 for school exams — use 考试. Say 明天有一个数学考试.)

起源与历史

Compound of 考 (to test/examine) and 验 (to verify/examine). Together they emphasise a thorough testing process, originally used in imperial examination contexts and later broadened to any challenging test.

文化背景

世代: All ages

社会背景: Universal