About
The character "堑", originating from its traditional form "塹", is structurally composed of the earth radical combined with a component meaning to cut or sever, directly indicating its primary sense as a trench excavated into the ground. This etymological construction conveys the idea of a defensive moat fashioned by cutting into the soil, which historically served as a military fortification. Over time, the meaning extended from specific military earthworks to encompass any deep ditch or ravine, while also developing a metaphorical dimension where it represents obstacles or hardships, as illustrated in common phrases where encountering a "堑" symbolizes a learning experience gained through adversity.
Etymology Hide
Example Sentences Hide
长江是一道天堑。
古代城墙外都有护城堑。
工程队正在挖掘一条深堑。
楚汉相争时，鸿沟成为军事天堑。
他们克服了技术上的重重堑壕。
这段路堑的边坡需要加固。
人生的沟堑有时需要勇气才能跨越。
工程师们设计了一条穿过山脊的路堑。