Definition

Proper noun: 1. A province in north-central China: Gansu is an administrative region of the People's Republic of China, located in the north-central part of the country. It is historically significant as a corridor on the ancient Silk Road, connecting China to Central Asia, the Indian subcontinent, and Persia.

Usage

• As a geographical/political entity:

  • The expedition traveled through Gansu Province on its way to Dunhuang.
  • Lanzhou is the capital city of Gansu Province.

• In historical context:

  • For centuries, Gansu Province served as a vital link on the Silk Road.
  • Trade caravans crossing Gansu Province carried goods between China and Persia.

Advanced Usage

• "the Gansu corridor": This term is often used historically and geographically to refer to the Hexi Corridor, a key stretch of the Silk Road that runs through the province.
  • The Great Wall was extended to protect the Gansu corridor.

Variants and Related Words

• Gansu: The most common short form for Gansu Province.
  • The economy of Gansu is diversifying.
• 甘肅 (Gānsù): The Mandarin Chinese name for the province.

Synonyms

• Gansu: (The province itself)
• Gānsù Shěng: (The Mandarin Chinese term, meaning 'Gansu Province')

Notes on Meaning

This term refers specifically to the modern Chinese province. Its primary significance in English contexts is often historical, relating to its role as part of the Silk Road network connecting China to Turkistan (Central Asia), India, and Persia (Iran).

Noun

1. a province in north-central China; formerly part of the Silk Road to Turkistan and India and Persia