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差
chā/chà/chāi/chài
What does "差" mean in English?
difference, mistake, or to be inferior这两个答案有什么差别？
What's the difference between these two answers?
How to use "差" correctly: definitions and examples in English?
general
Difference or discrepancy between things
他们之间的差别很大。
There's a big difference between them.
Often used with '有' (to have) or '没有' (no difference)
general
Mistake or error
你的答案有差。
Your answer has a mistake.
Common in academic or professional contexts
comparative
To be inferior or not as good as
这部电影差多了。
This movie is much worse.
Often used with '多了' (much worse) or '一点' (a little worse)
general
To be lacking or insufficient
这件衣服差了一点。
This piece of clothing is a little lacking.
Used when something is not quite right or complete
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Tone Matters
The meaning of '差' changes drastically with tone. '差' (chā) means 'to send', while '差' (chà) means 'difference' or 'mistake'.
Gold Rule
Context is Key
Always pay attention to the context to determine whether '差' refers to a difference, mistake, or inferiority.
Word Origin
From Middle Chinese 'tsyheX', meaning 'to be inferior' or 'to lack'. The character combines '人' (person) and '己' (self), originally referring to a person's shortcomings.
Usage Notes
The pronunciation and meaning vary significantly based on tone. '差' (chā) typically means 'to send', while '差' (chà) means 'difference' or 'mistake'.
Word Breakdown
人
person
radical己
self
radical汉英词典