Meaning
启示 means a revelation or insight that enlightens someone's understanding. It refers to important knowledge or truth that is disclosed or discovered, often bringing clarity or understanding to a problem or situation. The word carries a somewhat formal or literary tone and is commonly used in intellectual, religious, or philosophical contexts.
Usage
启示 is frequently used in written Chinese and formal speech. It often appears in contexts discussing lessons learned from experiences, spiritual or religious revelations, or intellectual insights. Common patterns include '给...启示' (to give inspiration to...) and '得到启示' (to gain enlightenment). The word has a more serious, contemplative tone than casual synonyms like 灵感.
Examples
- 01这个故事给了我很大的启示。.This story gave me great inspiration.
- 02他从失败中得到了重要的启示。.He gained important insights from his failure.
Characters
Measure words
- 个一个启示
- 种一种启示
Common collocations
- 得到启示to gain enlightenment/inspiration
- 给予启示to provide revelation
- 宗教启示religious revelation
- 深刻的启示profound revelation
Antonyms
Origin
启 originally meant to open or begin, while 示 means to show or display. Together they form a word meaning to open up and show knowledge or truth, hence revelation or enlightenment.