Usage and Nuances
The verb "偿还" (cháng huán) primarily means "to repay" or "to reimburse," often used in financial contexts such as repaying loans or debts. It can also be used metaphorically to express repaying kindness or obligations.
Common Collocations
- 偿还贷款 (chánghuán dàikuǎn): to repay a loan
- 偿还债务 (chánghuán zhàiwù): to repay debt
- 偿还恩情 (chánghuán ēnqíng): to repay kindness
Register and Tone
"偿还" is formal and often appears in written or formal spoken Chinese, especially in financial, legal, or official contexts. In casual conversation, people might use "还" (huán) alone instead.
Common Confusion
Do not confuse "偿还" with "还" (huán) alone, which can mean "to return" or "still/yet" depending on context. "偿还" specifically emphasizes the act of repaying a debt or obligation, often with a sense of responsibility or compensation.