Definition
外缘 has two main clusters of meaning. In concrete contexts it refers to the outer edge, rim, or periphery of an object or area — like the outskirts of a city or the outer rim of a wheel. In Buddhist philosophy it means the external cause or condition that influences an event, as opposed to 内缘 (internal cause). The Buddhist sense is also extended to outside temptations that stir desires. When reading classical or religious texts, watch for the philosophical meaning; in everyday use, it's usually the physical edge.
noun
outer edgerimperipheryoutskirts
n.
(Buddhism) external causeexternal condition (opposite of 内缘)
Examples
- ，外缘。Zhège chéngshì kuòzhāng hěn kuài, wài yuán yǐjīng jiàn le xǔduō xīn lóupán.This city is expanding quickly; many new residential buildings have been built in its outskirts.
- 外缘，。Bōlibēi de wài yuán mó de hěn guānghuá, bù huì gēshāng shǒu.The rim of the glass is ground very smooth and won't cut your hand.
- 外缘。Fójiào rènwéi yíqiè xiànxiàng dōu shì yóu nèiyuán hé wài yuán héhé ér shēng.Buddhism holds that all phenomena arise from the combination of internal and external conditions.
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