Usage and Nuances
The verb '拖欠' (tuōqiàn) specifically refers to the act of delaying or failing to pay money or debts on time. It is commonly used in financial or contractual contexts, such as salaries, rent, loans, or bills. When someone '拖欠' payments, it implies a negative situation where obligations are not fulfilled punctually.
Common Collocations
- 拖欠工资 (delay salary payments): often used when employers do not pay employees on time.
- 拖欠房租 (delay rent payments): used in landlord-tenant contexts.
- 拖欠债务 (delay debt repayment): common in financial or credit discussions.
Register and Tone
'拖欠' is formal and often appears in written or official contexts like contracts, news reports, or legal documents. It carries a negative connotation, implying irresponsibility or breach of agreement.
Avoiding Confusion
Do not confuse '拖欠' with general verbs for 'delay' like '延迟' or '耽搁'. '拖欠' specifically involves owing money or obligations that are overdue, not just any kind of delay.