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杂色
zá sè
mottled
这块布料有点杂色，不适合做正式的衣服。
This fabric is a bit mottled and not suitable for formal clothing.
neutral
Having a variety of colors or shades; multicolored.
这件毛衣的杂色图案很独特。
The mottled pattern on this sweater is unique.
这块石头表面杂色斑驳，看起来很古老。
The surface of this stone is mottled and patchy, giving it an ancient appearance.
杂色 can describe objects with uneven color distribution, often implying a lack of uniformity.
informal
Of inferior quality due to mixed or inferior materials.
这批产品有点杂色，质量不太稳定。
This batch of products is a bit mottled, and the quality is unstable.
Used to describe products or materials that are not uniform in quality or composition.
Pro Tip
Avoiding Misuse
Do not use 杂色 to describe abstract concepts like 'chaotic' or 'disorganized.' It specifically refers to color or material uniformity.
Gold Rule
Literal vs. Figurative Meaning
杂色 primarily describes physical color patterns. Avoid using it metaphorically unless referring to literal color mixing.
Word Origin
杂色 is a compound word in Chinese, combining 杂 (zá, meaning 'mixed' or 'varied') and 色 (sè, meaning 'color'). The term reflects the idea of mixed colors or shades.
Usage Notes
杂色 is commonly used to describe objects with uneven coloration, such as fabrics, stones, or surfaces. It can also imply a lack of uniformity in quality, particularly in informal contexts.
Word Breakdown
杂
mixed, varied
root色
color
root汉英词典