líng
nounBeginner💡 zero
general

The numeral representing the absence of quantity or value.

温度计显示零度。

The thermometer shows zero degrees.

💡

In Chinese, '零' is used in various contexts including mathematics, temperature, and as a prefix in compound words.

general

A prefix in compound words indicating smallness or insignificance.

零食是小吃。

Snacks are small eats.

💡

In this context, '零' modifies the noun to indicate something small or minor.

Collocations

零度zero degrees零食snacks零钱small change

Synonyms

Antonyms

Related Phrases

零零落落phrase
scattered or sparse
零散phrase
scattered or loose

💡Pro Tip

Numerical Use

'零' is used to represent the number zero in Chinese, similar to '0' in English.

Prefix Use

When used as a prefix, '零' often indicates something small or minor, such as '零食' (snacks) or '零钱' (small change).

Gold Rule

Context Matters

The meaning of '零' depends heavily on its context. Always consider whether it is being used numerically or as a prefix.

📖Word Origin

The character '零' originates from the ancient Chinese numeral system and represents the concept of nothingness or the absence of quantity.

📝Usage Notes

'零' is a versatile character used in both numerical and non-numerical contexts. It can represent the number zero, indicate smallness, or serve as a prefix in compound words.

Word Breakdown

zero or small
root
汉英词典