依附

No base JSON record found for this token.

Character Breakdown

Meaning and Usage

The verb 依附 (yīfù) means to rely on or attach oneself to someone or something, often implying dependence or affiliation. It can describe physical attachment, like a small animal clinging to its mother, or metaphorical attachment, such as a company affiliating with a larger enterprise for support.

Common Contexts

  • Business or organizational affiliation: companies or groups that depend on larger entities.
  • Emotional or physical dependence: individuals or animals relying on others for safety or support.
  • Social dynamics: people seeking favor or attention by attaching themselves to influential figures.

Collocations and Patterns

  • 依附 + noun (entity): to be affiliated with or attached to something.
  • 依附 + noun (person/place): physically or emotionally cling to someone or somewhere.

Nuances

Using 依附 often carries a nuance of dependence that may imply a lack of independence or autonomy. It is more formal and less casual than simply saying 依靠 (to rely on). Avoid confusing 依附 with 附属, which emphasizes formal subordination or being a subsidiary.

Summary

Use 依附 when emphasizing a close, often dependent attachment or affiliation, whether physical, emotional, or organizational. It is common in formal or written contexts and highlights the relationship of reliance or attachment.

Example Sentences

This company is affiliated with a large corporation and has gained more

The little animal clings to its mother and feels very safe.

Some students depend on the teacher, hoping to gain more attention through