Meaning and Usage
"小气" (xiǎo qì) primarily means "stingy" or "tight-fisted," describing someone who is reluctant to spend money or share resources. It often carries a negative connotation, implying a lack of generosity.
Common Contexts
This word is frequently used in everyday conversations to criticize or describe someone who is unwilling to spend money even on small things, such as buying coffee or sharing costs.
Collocations and Patterns
- 小气鬼 (xiǎo qì guǐ): a stingy person (colloquial, somewhat humorous)
- 小气得很: very stingy
- 不小气: not stingy, generous
Usage Notes
When using 小气, the tone is usually informal and can be mildly critical or teasing. It is not typically used in formal writing. Be careful not to confuse 小气 with 节约 (jiéyuē), which means "thrifty" or "economical" and has a positive connotation.
Summary
Use 小气 to describe someone who is unwilling to spend money or share, especially in social or casual contexts. It highlights a negative trait related to money and generosity.