心理

しんり

mentality

JLPT N3

Character Breakdown

Understanding 心理 (xīn lǐ)

心理 literally combines (heart/mind) and (reason/logic), referring to the mental or psychological state. It is commonly used to talk about psychology as a science, mental health, or emotional states.

Common Uses

  1. Referring to the academic field of psychology (心理).
  2. Describing mental or emotional states, such as psychological pressure (心理压力).
  3. Talking about professionals like psychologists (心理医生).

Collocations and Patterns

  • 心理 (xīnlǐxué): psychology as a discipline.
  • 心理压力 (xīnlǐ yālì): psychological pressure or stress.
  • 心理医生 (xīnlǐ yīshēng): psychologist.

Usage Notes

When using 心理, it often relates to internal mental or emotional conditions rather than external behaviors. It is more formal and scientific compared to words like 心情 (mood) or 情绪 (emotion). Avoid confusing 心理 with 心情, which refers more to temporary mood states.

Summary

心理 is a versatile term essential for discussing mental health, psychology, and emotional well-being in Mandarin. It appears frequently in academic, medical, and everyday contexts related to the mind.

Example Sentences

He is very interested in psychology and is reading related books.

Excessive psychological pressure can affect physical health.

Psychologists help patients resolve inner troubles.