Kunming (english) - meaning, definition, translation, pronunciation

Part of Speech

Noun

Phonetic Transcription

/kʊnˈmɪŋ/

Meaning and Usage

Kunming is the capital city of Yunnan province in China. It serves as a critical transportation and cultural hub for the region, known for its mild climate, vegetation, and scenic landscapes. The city is often referred to as the "City of Eternal Spring" due to its temperate weather year-round. Kunming is a popular destination for both domestic and international tourists, showcasing beautiful sites such as the Stone Forest and Dianchi Lake.

In terms of frequency of use, "Kunming" is typically more common in written contexts, such as guidebooks, travel literature, and academic texts, although it does appear in conversation among people discussing travel or geography.

Example Sentences

• Kunming is known for its vibrant flower market.
  知名的昆明以其充满活力的花卉市场而闻名。

• I visited Kunming last summer, and the weather was perfect.
  我去年夏天去昆明旅游，天气非常好。

• Many ethnic minorities live in and around Kunming.
  很多少数民族住在昆明及周边地区。

Idiomatic Expressions

While "Kunming" itself might not appear in many idiomatic expressions, it can be referenced within conversations discussing travel or experiences related to the city. Here are some idiomatic or colloquial usages that may include Kunming:

• "To be off to Kunming" - meaning to go on a trip or vacation, usually to experience something pleasant.

• Example: I can’t wait to be off to Kunming for my vacation!
  我迫不及待想去昆明度假了！

• "When in Kunming, do as the locals do" - suggesting that one should embrace the local customs and attractions.

• Example: When in Kunming, do as the locals do and eat at the street markets!
  在昆明就要像当地人一样，去街边市场吃东西！

Etymology

The name Kunming (昆明) has Chinese origins, where "昆" (kun) can mean 'dry land' or 'to arrive' and "明" (ming) means 'bright.' The combined meaning may refer to the city’s geographical significance and its bright, vibrant character.

Synonyms and Antonyms

• Synonyms: None in the geographical sense, but it can be associated with phrases like "City of Eternal Spring."
• Antonyms: As a proper noun, it lacks direct antonyms; however, contrasting it with other cities known for extreme climates (like Harbin) could serve as metaphorical opposites.

This comprehensive overview of Kunming provides insights into its significance as a city in China, its cultural identity, and linguistic usage.