Table of Contents

ānwěn: 安稳 - Stable, Secure, Peaceful

Quick Summary

Core Meaning

Character Breakdown

When combined, 安 (peace/security) + 稳 (steady/firm) = 安稳 (ānwěn), creating a powerful term that signifies a state of unshakable peace and dependable stability.

Cultural Context and Significance

In Chinese culture, the pursuit of an 安稳 (ānwěn) life is a deeply ingrained value. It stands in contrast to the Western, particularly American, cultural narrative that often glorifies risk-taking, disruption, and “chasing your passion” no matter the instability it creates. For many Chinese people, 安稳 is a primary life goal and a key component of success. This desire influences major decisions:

Comparison to Western “Stability”: While English has the word “stable,” 安稳 (ānwěn) carries a much warmer, more personal, and more aspirational connotation. “Stable” can sound a bit boring or static in English (e.g., “a stable but dull job”). In Chinese, achieving 安稳 is a source of comfort, pride, and peace of mind. It's seen as a wise and responsible way to live.

Practical Usage in Modern China

安稳 (ānwěn) is a versatile and common word used in various contexts.

The connotation is almost always positive, representing a desirable state of being.

Example Sentences

Nuances and Common Mistakes

A common point of confusion for learners is the difference between 安稳 (ānwěn) and 安全 (ānquán).

Key Distinction: You can be 安全 (safe) at a stressful, high-pressure job with no job security, but your life is not 安稳 (stable/secure). A firefighter's job is to ensure others are 安全, but their own work life might not be considered 安稳. Incorrect Usage Example:

Think of it this way: `安全` is a prerequisite for `安稳`. You cannot feel `安稳` if you are not first `安全`.