Tian Shan
- proper noun
:
Tian Shan
- The Tian Shan mountains are a stunning feature of Central Asia, stretching through China and Kyrgyzstan.
Examples
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The Tian Shan rises dramatically along the border between China and Kyrgyzstan.
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Glaciers in the Tian Shan are a vital source of water for Central Asia.
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Many rare plants and animals inhabit the remote valleys of the Tian Shan.
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The Tian Shan mountains are breathtaking.
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Have you ever visited the Tian Shan?
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Hikers often travel to the Tian Shan to experience its breathtaking landscapes and unique biodiversity.
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In winter, the Tian Shan is covered in snow, making it a popular destination for skiing and snowboarding.
Synonyms
A high mountain range in Central Asia with tall snowy peaks and glaciers
A large mountain range in Central Asia that stretches about 1,500 miles
Surface Forms
Morphology
Tian + shan
Tian Shan is a Chinese place name composed of morphemes (tian ~ 'heaven/sky', shan = 'mountain'), so a learner who knows both constituents could infer it refers to mountains. As a specific proper name for a major transnational mountain range, however, the precise geographic reference and scope are not fully predictable from the parts alone, so understanding is only partial.
Etymology
Tian Shan comes from the Chinese words tian meaning 'heaven' and shan meaning 'mountain'. This gives the picture of tall mountains that seem to touch the sky, so the name means 'Heavenly Mountains' and fits the large mountain range in Central Asia.
