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才
cái
What does "才" mean in English?
just/only他才十五岁。
He is just fifteen years old.
How to use "才" correctly: definitions and examples in English?
informal
only; just (indicating a small number or amount)
这本书才五块钱。
This book is only five yuan.
我才不去呢！
I just won't go!
Often used to emphasize a small quantity or to express refusal.
formal
ability; talent; aptitude
她很有才。
She is very talented.
这个孩子很有音乐才能。
This child has great musical talent.
Used as a noun to describe innate ability or skill.
formal
a moment ago; just now
他才到。
He just arrived.
我才知道这件事。
I just found out about this.
Used to indicate recent past action, similar to '刚刚'.
formal
not until; only when
他才肯帮忙。
He won't help until...
你才能理解。
Only you can understand.
Used to emphasize a condition or requirement.
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Distinguish '才' and '刚'
'才' emphasizes the small quantity or recent timing, while '刚' emphasizes the immediacy of an action. Compare: '他才十岁' (He is only ten) vs '他刚十岁' (He just turned ten).
Gold Rule
Position matters
When '才' means 'only/just', it typically appears before a number, time expression, or verb. When it means 'ability', it often follows a noun or verb.
Word Origin
From Old Chinese '才', originally meaning 'talent' or 'ability', later extended to indicate 'just/only' and 'a moment ago'.
Usage Notes
才 is a versatile word used in multiple contexts. Its meaning shifts significantly based on tone, position in a sentence, and accompanying words. Pay attention to context to avoid misinterpretation.
Word Breakdown
才
talent/ability (original meaning)
root汉英词典