Definition
扩散 (kuòsàn) means 'to spread, to diffuse' and focuses on outward expansion from a center — often neutral, as in sound, gas, or news. It contrasts with 传播 (chuánbō), which emphasizes transmission via a medium, and 蔓延 (mànyán), which implies a gradual, uncontrolled spread of something negative like fire or disease.
verb
to spreadto diffuseto proliferate
Easily confused
- 扩展kuò zhǎnlook-aliketo extend, to expand
Examples
- 扩散。Zhè zhǒng xiāoxi zài wǎngluò shàng kuàisù kuò sàn.This kind of news spreads quickly on the internet.
- 扩散。Shēngyīn zài kōngqì zhōng xiàng sìzhōu kuò sàn.Sound spreads in all directions in the air.
- 扩散，。Wèile bìmiǎn bìngdú kuò sàn, dàjiā dōu yào dài kǒuzhào.To prevent the virus from spreading, everyone should wear a mask.
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