Meanings of 差
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About 差
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Podcast: 差
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AI Study Notes for 差
差 (chà) vs 错 (cuò) — use 差 to indicate a difference or shortfall, while 错 specifically refers to a mistake.
Imagine a messenger (差) delivering a message that is different from what was intended. The character has a simple form, with a horizontal line at the top suggesting a division or gap, reinforcing the idea of difference.
Learners often confuse 差 with similar-sounding words, particularly in tone. It is typically used in both formal and informal settings. Common collocations include '差别' (chābié, difference) and '差劲' (chājìn, inferior).
As an HSK 3 word, 差 connects well with other words that express comparison and measurement, such as 好 (hǎo, good) and 多 (duō, many). Focus on practicing it in sentences that compare qualities or quantities.
In Chinese culture, the concept of 'difference' can be particularly relevant in discussions about quality and standards, where being '差' (chā) might imply a need for improvement or adjustment.
Learners often incorrectly use 差 as a direct synonym for 'bad,' whereas it conveys a more nuanced meaning of difference or shortfall. For instance, saying '这个地方差' (zhège dìfāng chā) to mean 'This place is bad' is incorrect; it's better to say '这个地方不好' (zhège dìfāng bù hǎo).
Pronunciation of 差
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Etymology of 差
Depicts grain (麥) being rolled between the fingers in the left hand (左). Based on the original meaning "rub between fingers", now written as 搓. The meaning later shifted to "uneven" and "error".
Work 工 done by a sheep 羊; incompetence
Character Formation Type
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Decomposition of 差
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Write 差
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Practice writing 差 stroke by stroke. Watch the animation to learn the stroke order, then try writing it yourself.
Grammar Patterns of 差
差 functions as an adjective. In Chinese it behaves like a stative verb: place it directly after the subject without 是 (我很高，not 我是高). Use 不 to negate (不高) and pair it with 很 in plain affirmative sentences. It carries 16 related meanings, each with its own usage notes below. The example sentences below show it in action, with practice buttons (Listen, Practice Writing, Practice Speaking) on every line.
Complete the Sentence
____两分八点。
Two minutes to eight (7:58).
Example Sentences for 差 (10)
Cultural Notes for 差
In Chinese culture, the concept of 'difference' can be particularly relevant in discussions about quality and standards, where being '差' (chā) might imply a need for improvement or adjustment.
Word Family of 差
Compound Meaning
What does 搓 mean?
Frequently Asked Questions about 差
In business, 差 often refers to discrepancies in reports or performance, indicating areas that need attention.