残缺

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Character Breakdown

Meaning and Usage

The word "残缺" (cánquē) describes something that is incomplete, damaged, or missing parts. It often refers to physical objects like paintings, machines, or memories that are not whole or perfect.

Common Contexts

It is frequently used to describe valuable items that have lost parts but still retain significance, such as an ancient artifact or a damaged artwork. It can also describe abstract concepts like incomplete memories.

Collocations and Patterns

These collocations emphasize the state of lacking or being imperfect.

Nuances

Using "残缺" implies a sense of imperfection but often with an emotional or evaluative tone, such as valuing something despite its flaws. It is more formal and literary than casual words for "broken" or "missing."

Common Confusion

Do not confuse "残缺" with "缺少" which means simply "to lack" or "to be short of." "残缺" stresses the incomplete or damaged state, often visually or physically evident.

Example Sentences

This painting is even more precious because it is incomplete.

His memory is somewhat incomplete and he cannot recall all the details.

This machine cannot be used temporarily because some parts are missing.