Meaning and Usage
"祸害" (huòhai) refers to a person or thing that causes harm, trouble, or disaster. It often carries a strong negative connotation, implying serious damage or misfortune brought upon others.
Common Contexts
It can describe a troublesome individual, such as a family member who causes problems, or broader harmful phenomena like environmental pollution or war.
Collocations and Patterns
- 家里的祸害: a troublemaker in the family, often used colloquially to describe someone who causes constant problems.
- 社会的祸害: a disaster or harm to society, used in formal or serious contexts.
- 带来祸害: to bring disaster or harm, common in news or historical descriptions.
Nuances
Using "祸害" emphasizes the severity and negative impact of the subject. It is stronger than simply "problem" and often implies lasting or serious consequences. Avoid using it lightly for minor issues.
Common Confusion
Do not confuse "祸害" with "坏人" (bad person); "祸害" stresses the harmful effects caused, not just bad character. Also, it is not used for self-reference but to describe others or external factors.