short

JLPT N5 12 strokes

Words with this Kanji

Usage of (duǎn)

The character primarily describes something that is short in length or duration. It can refer to physical dimensions, such as a short skirt or short hair, as well as abstract measures like short time or brief content.

Common Collocations

  • 时间 (short time): used when emphasizing limited duration.
  • (short skirt): a common clothing description.
  • (short text/article): refers to brief written content.

Nuances and Tips

When using , the context usually clarifies whether it refers to physical length or time. It often carries a neutral or slightly negative tone when implying insufficiency, such as "时间" meaning not enough time or "文章" meaning the article is too brief.

Avoid confusing with (ǎi), which means "short" in height. is about length or duration, not stature.

In conversation, is frequently used to describe clothing, time constraints, or insufficient amounts, making it a versatile adjective in everyday Mandarin.

Example Sentences

This skirt is too short, not suitable for formal occasions.

The meeting time is short; we need to focus on the key points quickly.

The article he wrote is a bit short and lacks sufficient content.