传世

傳世

chuánshì

verb #33,683

Meanings

1 to be handed down through the generations
2 to be passed on as a family heirloom or cultural treasure
3 (adjective) timeless; of enduring value

Characters

to pass down; transmit

generation; world

Examples

这本古籍传世已逾千年。

Zhè běn gǔjí chuánshì yǐ yú qiān nián.

This ancient book has been passed down for over a thousand years.

他留下了一部传世之作。

Tā liú xiàle yī bù chuánshì zhī zuò.

He left behind a work for the ages.

这枚玉器是家中的传世珍宝。

Zhè méi yùqì shì jiā zhōng de chuánshì zhēnbǎo.

This jade piece is a family heirloom.

Tips

register

Literary register. Most common as an attributive in 传世之作 (a 'work for the ages') and 传世珍品 (a treasured heirloom). Used in art criticism, antique appraisal, and obituary writing — contrast with the everyday 流传 (to circulate).

Stroke Order

传 chuán

世 shì