bad

JLPT N5 7 strokes

Words with this Kanji

Meaning and Usage

The character (huài) primarily means "bad" or "broken." It is commonly used to describe something that is physically damaged or not functioning, such as a broken phone or computer. It also describes moral qualities, referring to a person with bad character or intentions.

Common Collocations

  • (huài le): indicates something is broken or spoiled.
  • (huài rén): a bad person, someone with bad intentions.
  • 天气 (tiānqì huài le): the weather has turned bad.

Usage Notes

is versatile and can describe physical states (broken objects), moral judgments (bad people), and abstract conditions (bad weather). When used for objects, it often pairs with to indicate a change of state. For people, it conveys negative character traits. Avoid confusing with , which is more neutral and less strong in negative judgment.

Tone and Register

is neutral in tone and widely used in everyday speech. It can be informal when describing people’s character but is common in all registers.

Summary

Use to describe broken things, bad weather, or bad people. Pay attention to context to understand whether it refers to physical damage or moral quality.

Example Sentences

This phone is broken and can't be used.

He is a bad person and often bullies others.

The weather has turned bad; let's stay at home.

This computer is broken and needs repair.

He has a bad heart and often speaks ill of others.