HSK · Level 36
120 words
Chinese word
处在
Pronunciation
Pinyinchǔ zài
Meaning
- verbbe in
Example
他现在处在困境中tā xiàn zài chǔ zài kùn jìng zhōng
He is in a difficult situation now.
More examples
公司目前处在有利地位。gōng sī mù qián chǔ zài yǒu lì dì wèi
The company is currently in a favorable position.
Core concept
Being situated in a particular place, condition, or position.
Common phrases
处在关键时期chǔ zài guān jiàn shí qī
be in a critical period
处在有利地位chǔ zài yǒu lì dì wèi
be in a favorable position
处在危险中chǔ zài wēi xiǎn zhōng
be in danger
Similar words
处于chǔ yú: Be in a particular condition, situation, or stage.
位于wèi yú: Be located in a particular physical place, such as a site or facility.
身处shēn chù: Be in a particular environment, situation, or personal position.
在zài: Exist or be present in a particular place.
Definition in Chinese
表示处于某处或某种情形，既可以指具体位置，也可以指抽象状态，但多用于描述处境或立场。biǎo shì chǔ yú mǒu chù huò móu zhǒng qíng xíng jì ké yǐ zhǐ jù tǐ wèi zhì yě ké yǐ zhǐ chōu xiàng zhuàng tài dàn duō yòng yú miáo shù chǔ jìng huò lì chǎng
Word origin
处 (chǔ, "be situated") + 在 (zài, "be at") combines the ideas of position and presence, so the compound applies to places as well as circumstances.
Usage tips
- A following noun phrase often names a circumstance or standpoint, so this pattern helps describe a person's current situation rather than the placement of an object.