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The Chinese word **生锈 (shēngxiù)**, meaning "to rust," is a compound formed through a logical verb-object construction. The first character **生** means "to produce" or "to grow," and the second character **锈** specifically means "rust." Combined, they create a vivid semantic unit where **生** acts as the verb and **锈** as its object, literally describing the process of "producing/growing rust" on a metal surface. This formation is typical in Chinese for creating descriptive verbs from tangible processes.

Word Definition - 生锈

shēng xiù (of metal) to rust; to become rusty; (fig.) (of a skill etc) to get rusty; to deteriorate

Individual Character Details