演变 yǎnbiàn to develop
to develop; to evolve
How to remember 演变: 演 perform + 变 change = to develop.
Characters
How it is used
- To evolve/develop over time, usually of situations, systems, or events - 局势逐渐演变 (júshì zhújiàn yǎnbiàn) the situation gradually evolved.
- Covers social/historical change; compare 演化 (yǎnhuà) which skews biological.
- Often paired with 逐渐 (gradually) or 最终 (in the end); implies a directional, multi-stage process, not a sudden change.
Example sentences
- 地球在不断地演变。 Dìqiú zài búduàn de yǎnbiàn.The earth is constantly evolving.