下意识 xiàyìshí subconscious mind
How to remember 下意识: 下 down + 意 idea + 识 recognize = subconscious mind.
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How it is used
- 'Subconscious(ly)', usually adverbial for reflexive actions - 他下意识地后退了一步 (tā xiàyìshí de hòutuì le yí bù) he instinctively stepped back.
- Describes automatic, unthought reactions rather than the psychoanalytic 潜意识.