Definition
世间 (shì jiān) refers to the mortal world or earthly realm, often with a literary or philosophical tone — it emphasizes human life and society as transient. It is more specific and poetic than the general 世界 (shì jiè 'world'), and similar to 人间 (rén jiān 'human world') but slightly more formal and reflective, often used in set phrases or classical-style expressions.
noun
the world (of mortals)this earthly realmhuman society
Easily confused
- 时间shí jiānsound-aliketime; period (a length or duration of time)
- 事件shì jiànsound-alikeevent; incident
- 实践shí jiànsound-aliketo put into practice; to carry out (a plan, theory, promise)
Examples
- 世间。shì jiān wànwù jiē yǒu líng.All things in this world have a spirit.
- 世间。Tā kàn tòu le shì jiān de lěng nuǎn.He has seen through the warmth and coldness of the world.
- 世间。shì jiān nándé yì zhījǐ.A true friend is hard to find in this world.
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