Usage of 躲
The verb 躲 (duǒ) primarily means 'to hide' or 'to avoid'. It is commonly used when someone physically hides from view or tries to evade something unpleasant, such as problems or responsibilities.
Common contexts
- Physical hiding: 躲 + place (e.g., 躲在树后) indicates someone is hiding behind or inside something.
- Avoidance of abstract things: 躲避 (duǒbì) is a common collocation meaning 'to avoid' or 'to evade', often used for problems or difficult situations.
Collocations and patterns
- 躲开 (duǒ kāi): to dodge or get out of the way.
- 躲避责任 (duǒbì zérèn): to avoid responsibility.
- 躲猫猫 (duǒ māo māo): to play hide-and-seek.
Nuances
Using 躲 often implies an intentional act of hiding or avoiding, sometimes with a sense of caution or fear. It is more physical and concrete than some synonyms like 避免, which can be more abstract. Avoid confusing 躲 with 躲避; the latter is more formal and often used in written language.
Tone and register
躲 is neutral and common in both spoken and written Chinese. It can be used in casual conversations as well as formal contexts when discussing avoidance or hiding.