Understanding the Meaning of 短 (duǎn)
The Chinese character 短 (duǎn) has a straightforward meaning: it translates to “short” or “brief” in English. This adjective can describe length (physical or temporal) and is often used in daily conversation.
In various contexts, 短 can refer to something that is physically small in size, a brief moment in time, or even metaphorically to describe something that is lacking or insufficient.
Grammatical Structure of 短 (duǎn)
In Chinese grammar, adjectives can often function as adverbs when placed before verbs, but the structure around them may differ from English. The character 短 (duǎn) is typically used as an attributive adjective, followed by the noun it modifies.
1. Basic Sentence Structure
The basic sentence structure using 短 typically follows the Subject + Verb + Object (SVO) format. For example:
- 这条裙子很短。(Zhè tiáo qúnzi hěn duǎn.)
- Translation: This skirt is very short.
2. Comparative Structures
Comparative forms can be formed using the structure “比 (bǐ)” which means “than.” For example:
- 这条裙子比那条短。(Zhè tiáo qúnzi bǐ nà tiáo duǎn.)
- Translation: This skirt is shorter than that one.
3. Using 短 as an Adverb
When used as an adverb, 短 can modify verbs directly. For instance:
- 他跑得很短。(Tā pǎo de hěn duǎn.)
- Translation: He runs very briefly (or fast).
Example Sentences Using 短 (duǎn)
Everyday Usage
Let’s explore some practical examples that illustrate the versatility of 短 in various contexts:
- 这本书太短了。(Zhè běn shū tài duǎn le.)
- Translation: This book is too short.
- 我们的假期很短。(Wǒmen de jiàqī hěn duǎn.)
- Translation: Our vacation is very short.
- 她的头发变短了。(Tā de tóufǎ biàn duǎn le.)
- Translation: Her hair has become short.
- 这个视频很短。(Zhège shìpín hěn duǎn.)
- Translation: This video is very short.
Metaphorical Usage
Beyond physical attributes, 短 can also reflect lack or insufficiency:
- 他的经验还很短。(Tā de jīngyàn hái hěn duǎn.)
- Translation: His experience is still very short (lacking).
- 我们的时间不短,但我们还没完成。(Wǒmen de shíjiān bù duǎn, dàn wǒmen hái méi wánchéng.)
- Translation: Our time is not short, but we haven’t finished yet.
Conclusion
Understanding the meaning and grammatical structure of 短 (duǎn) enriches your Chinese vocabulary and allows for clearer communication in both written and spoken forms. By recognizing its various applications—from straightforward descriptions to metaphorical expressions—you can become more adept at utilizing this essential character in your daily life.
Further Learning Resources
To improve your knowledge of Chinese vocabulary further, consider exploring resources such as:
- Online Chinese dictionaries
- Language learning platforms like Duolingo or HelloChinese
- Chinese language textbooks that offer expanded vocabulary lists and practice exercises
By practicing with examples like those provided here, you will find that your proficiency and comfort with the Chinese language will significantly grow.

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