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March 24, 2026
简陋(簡陋)jiǎnlòu(jian3lou4)
简陋 (jiǎn lòu) refers to something that is simple, basic, or crude in design or quality. It often conveys a sense of inadequacy or lack of refinement, commonly used to describe living conditions, furniture, or architecture that are minimal and lacking in comfort or aesthetics.
Frequency#17559DifficultyHard
Cultural Note
In China, the concept of 简陋 is often associated with rural living conditions, especially in contrast to urban lifestyles. It reflects the disparity in development and can evoke feelings of nostalgia for simpler times.
Memory Tip
Think of '简' (jian) as 'simple' and '陋' (lou) as 'rough or crude.' Visualize a simple, rustic hut in a forest, with rough wooden walls and minimal furniture. This image helps you remember the idea of simplicity and crudeness associated with this term.
Meanings of 简陋
jiǎnlòu(jian3lou4)
1simple and crude
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About 简陋
简陋Simplified
簡陋Traditional
—Strokes
—Radical
形容词xíngróngcíadjective (adj.)Part of Speech
#17559Frequency Rank
HSK 2.0L6HSK 3.0L7AdvancedCEFRC2
Podcast: 简陋
Podcast: 简陋
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AI Study Notes for 简陋
Quick Contrast
粗糙 (cūcāo) - use 简陋 for simplicity or basicness in design, while 粗糙 emphasizes roughness or lack of smoothness.
Memory Mnemonic
Think of '简' (jian) as 'simple' and '陋' (lou) as 'rough or crude.' Visualize a simple, rustic hut in a forest, with rough wooden walls and minimal furniture. This image helps you remember the idea of simplicity and crudeness associated with this term.
Usage Notes
简陋 is typically used in informal contexts to describe something that lacks sophistication. A common mistake is confusing it with '简单' (jiǎn dān), which means 'simple' but without the negative connotation. Be mindful of the tone; make sure to pronounce it with the correct third and fourth tones.
HSK Study Tips
As an HSK 6 word, 学生 should focus on its usage in descriptive contexts, particularly when discussing living conditions or comparing different places. Connecting it with other HSK 6 adjectives can enhance vocabulary and allow for more nuanced descriptions.
Cultural Note
In China, the concept of 简陋 is often associated with rural living conditions, especially in contrast to urban lifestyles. It reflects the disparity in development and can evoke feelings of nostalgia for simpler times.
Common Mistakes
Learners often confuse 简陋 with '简单' (jiǎn dān). For example, saying '这家餐厅的环境很简单' (This restaurant's environment is very simple) might be misleading; instead, if the restaurant is also crude, use '简陋'.
AI-enhanced 2026-03-24
Pronunciation of 简陋
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Grammar Patterns of 简陋
简陋 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. The example sentences below show it in action, with practice buttons (Listen, Practice Writing, Practice Speaking) on every line.
Exercise 1 of 4
Complete the Sentence
从那以后他们拆掉了____的棚屋。
They have since knocked down the shack.
Example Sentences for 简陋 (5)
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1
从那以后他们拆掉了简陋的棚屋。
cóng nà yǐ hòu tā mén chāi diào le jiǎn lòu de péng wū。
They have since knocked down the shack.
2
她那仅有一张窄床的简陋卧室
tā nà jǐn yǒu yī zhāng zhǎi chuáng de jiǎn lòu wò shì
her austere bedroom with its simple narrow bed
3
往轻里说是住宿条件简陋。
wǎng qīng lǐ shuō shì zhù sù tiáo jiàn jiǎn lòu。
Accommodation was basic to say the least.
4
她一路穿过简陋的过道, 在嘉莉家的房门上敲了敲.
tā yī lù chuān guò jiǎn lòu de guò dào, , zài jiā lì jiā de fáng mén shàng qiāo le.
Making her way up the commonplace hall, she knocked at Carrie's door.
5
你不嫌简陋,尽管来. ”
nǐ bù xián jiǎn lòu, , jìn guǎn.”
If you don't mind visiting a modest home , come by all means. "
Cultural Notes for 简陋
🏮Cultural insight
In China, the concept of 简陋 is often associated with rural living conditions, especially in contrast to urban lifestyles. It reflects the disparity in development and can evoke feelings of nostalgia for simpler times.
Frequently Asked Questions about 简陋
Typically, 简陋 is not used for food; it focuses more on physical objects or places. For food, you might use '简单' (jiǎn dān) to describe something simple.
Yes, it generally carries a negative connotation, implying that something is inadequate or lacking in quality.
