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ecosystem
/ˈiːkəʊˌsɪstəm/
In its biological sense, the word evokes a delicate balance. It isn't just a list of animals, but the invisible web of dependencies between living things and their surroundings. The connotation is often one of fragility; when an "ecosystem" is mentioned, there is usually an implicit warning that removing one piece can collapse the whole. In business and technology, the term is a metaphor for exclusivity and synergy. It describes a "walled garden" where products are designed to be more valuable when used together than separately. While biological ecosystems are natural, tech ecosystems are engineered to create user loyalty through seamless integration.
Countable when referring to a specific biological habitat (e.g., 'the rainforest is one of many ecosystems') or a specific business environment ('the Android ecosystem'). Uncountable when discussing the general concept of ecological balance and systemic interaction.
意味
A biological community of interacting organisms and their physical environment.
"The coral reef is a fragile ecosystem that is highly sensitive to temperature changes."
A complex network or interconnected system of components, often used in business or technology to describe integrated products and services.
"Apple has created a seamless ecosystem where the iPhone, Mac, and Apple Watch work together effortlessly."