苛刻

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Character Breakdown

Meaning and Usage

"苛刻" describes a strict, harsh, or demanding attitude or standard. It often refers to rules, requirements, or evaluations that are difficult to meet or tolerate.

Common Contexts

It is frequently used to describe strict teachers, harsh self-standards, or demanding conditions in work or study environments.

Collocations

  • 苛刻要求 (strict demands): used when describing high or difficult standards.
  • 苛刻条件 (harsh conditions): often used in job recruitment or contracts.
  • 苛刻批评 (harsh criticism): describing severe or unforgiving feedback.

Nuance

Using "苛刻" implies a negative tone, suggesting that the strictness may be excessive or hard to bear. It is stronger than just "严格" (strict) and often carries a sense of severity or harshness.

Common Confusion

Do not confuse "苛刻" with "严格". While both mean strict, "苛刻" emphasizes harshness and difficulty, whereas "严格" can be neutral or positive, focusing on precision and discipline.

Example Sentences

The teacher is very strict about the students' homework.

He is harsh with his own standards and never allows himself to make

The company's hiring conditions are very strict; only top talents can pass.