姐妹

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Character Breakdown

Meaning and Usage

The word 姐妹 (jiěmèi) literally means 'elder sister and younger sister' and is commonly used to refer to female siblings. Beyond the literal family relationship, it is also frequently used to describe close female friends who share a sister-like bond.

Common Contexts

  • Family: Refers to biological or legal sisters.
  • Friendship: Used to express a deep, sisterly friendship between women.

Collocations and Patterns

Nuances

When used outside family contexts, 姐妹 implies a strong emotional connection and mutual support, often highlighting loyalty and closeness. It is a warm and affectionate term.

Common Confusion

Do not confuse 姐妹 with 兄弟 (xiōngdì), which means brothers or male siblings. Also, 姐妹 specifically refers to females, so it is not used for mixed-gender sibling groups.

Example Sentences

She has two sisters, one elder sister and one younger sister.

We have been close like sisters for many years.

The two of them care for each other like sisters.