Definition
安全阀 is a compound noun meaning 'safety valve' — a device that automatically releases pressure from a system (boiler, pipe, etc.) to prevent explosion. It's also used metaphorically in Chinese to describe any outlet that relieves built-up tension, like a hobby or a conversation. The word is a technical term but appears in both literal engineering contexts and figurative social/emotional ones.
n.
safety valve (mechanical device that releases excess pressure)(figurative) outlet for releasing stress or tension
Examples
- 安全阀，。Guōlú shàng de ān quán fá huài le, xūyào mǎshàng gēnghuàn.The safety valve on the boiler is broken and needs to be replaced immediately.
- 安全阀。Yùndòng shì tā shìfàng yālì de ān quán fá.Exercise is his safety valve for releasing stress.
- 安全阀。Zhège xìtǒng ānzhuāng le sān ge ān quán fá yǐ quèbǎo ānquán.This system has three safety valves installed to ensure safety.
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