Word Explanation
享有 is a formal, written verb meaning 'to enjoy'—not in the casual sense of pleasure, but specifically to possess or benefit from a right, privilege, status, or reputation by virtue of one's position, achievement, or legal standing. The character 享 (xiǎng) originally meant 'to offer sacrifices' and evolved to convey 'to partake of' or 'to enjoy'; 有 (yǒu) means 'to have'. Together, they emphasize legitimate possession or entitlement—not mere desire or temporary use.
This word appears frequently in official documents, news reports, and academic writing, especially when discussing rights (e.g., human rights, medical rights), social status (e.g., international reputation), or institutional privileges (e.g., tax exemptions). It is rarely used in casual speech; native speakers would say 有 or 可以享受 instead for everyday contexts like 'enjoying a meal' or 'having fun'.
Example Sentences
Related Words
国语
‘Guó yǔ’ literally means 'national language'—
面条
‘面条’ (miàn tiáo) literally means ‘flour str
无论谁
‘无论谁’ (wú lùn shéi) is a pronoun meaning
不对
不对 (bù duì) literally combines 不 (bù), meani
外语
‘外语’ literally means ‘outside language’ —
认同
‘认同’ (tóng rèn) is a verb meaning ‘to ident
中学
'Zhōngxué' literally combines 'zhōng' (middle)
背后
背后 literally means 'back + behind' and functions