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三维 — pronunciations, definitions, and tags
HanziPinyinEnglishTags
三维sānwéithree-dimensionalHSK 7, unknown, 14 strokes, rank #18481, Very Hard
三维sānwéi3DHSK 7, unknown, 14 strokes, rank #18481, Very Hard
sānwéi(san1wei2)san wei T1
  1. 1three-dimensional
  2. 23D
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March 24, 2026

三维(三維)sānwéi(san1wei2)

三维 (sān wéi) refers to the concept of three dimensions, commonly used in contexts such as geometry, art, and virtual reality. It describes objects that have length, width, and height, distinguishing them from two-dimensional objects. This term is frequently encountered in discussions about design, modeling, and visual representation.

Strokes14Frequency#18481DifficultyVery Hard
Cultural note

In contemporary China, the use of three-dimensional technology is prevalent in industries such as gaming, film, and architecture, reflecting the country’s rapid technological advancements and interest in modern design. The prevalence of 3D films and virtual reality experiences showcases the cultural shift towards immersive visual experiences.

Memory tip

Think of 三 (three) as a triangle, representing the three axes (length, width, height) that define a three-dimensional space. The character 维 (wéi) resembles a chain, which can symbolize how dimensions interconnect to create volume. Together, visualize a 3D shape, like a cube, rising up from a flat surface.

Meanings of 三维

sānwéi(san1wei2)
1three-dimensional
23D
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About 三维

三维Simplified
三維Traditional
14Strokes
—Radical
名词míngcínoun (n.)Part of Speech
#—Frequency Rank
HSK 3.0L7AdvancedCEFRC2

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Podcast: 三维

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AI study notes for 三维

Quick Contrast

二维 (èrwéi) refers to two dimensions, used when discussing flat shapes without depth, while 三维 (sānwéi) indicates the presence of depth.

Usage Notes

Be cautious with the pronunciation, as the tone of both characters must be correct: sān (first tone) and wéi (second tone). This term is used in both formal and informal contexts, but it's essential to use it appropriately when discussing technical subjects like architecture or gaming. Common collocations include 三维图 (three-dimensional image) and 三维模型 (three-dimensional model).

HSK Study Tips

Although 三维 is not part of the HSK vocabulary lists, understanding this term is beneficial for students at HSK 4 or higher, especially those interested in technology and design. Students should focus on how 三维 connects with related terms like 二维 (èr wéi, two-dimensional) to grasp the contrasts between dimensions.

Common Mistakes

Learners often confuse 三维 with 二维, mistakenly using them interchangeably. For example, saying '这个图是三维的' (This image is three-dimensional) when it is actually flat should be corrected to '这个图是二维的'.

AI-enhanced 2026-03-24

Pronunciation of 三维

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Component characters

三sānthree
HSK 13 strokes一
View full entry
维wéito preserve
11 strokes纟
View full entry

How to say three-dimensional in Chinese

“three-dimensional” in Chinese is三维sānwéi

三维 (sān wéi) refers to the concept of three dimensions, commonly used in contexts such as geometry, art, and virtual reality. It describes objects that have length, width, and height, distinguishing them from two-dimensional objects. This term is frequently encountered in discussions about design, modeling, and visual representation.

When to use 三维

Be cautious with the pronunciation, as the tone of both characters must be correct: sān (first tone) and wéi (second tone). This term is used in both formal and informal contexts, but it's essential to use it appropriately when discussing technical subjects like architecture or gaming. Common collocations include 三维图 (three-dimensional image) and 三维模型 (three-dimensional model).

三维 or something close to it

二维 (èrwéi) refers to two dimensions, used when discussing flat shapes without depth, while 三维 (sānwéi) indicates the presence of depth.

What learners get wrong

Learners often confuse 三维 with 二维, mistakenly using them interchangeably. For example, saying '这个图是三维的' (This image is three-dimensional) when it is actually flat should be corrected to '这个图是二维的'.

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三
维

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Cultural Notes for 三维

🌏Cross-cultural Insight

While 3D technology is embraced globally, Western cultures may have different levels of access and integration in various industries compared to China, where rapid development often leads to quick adoption of new technologies.

Frequently asked questions about 三维

You can say: '这个模型是三维的' (This model is three-dimensional).

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