Meaning and Usage
"夸张" (kuāzhāng) means to exaggerate or overstate something beyond the truth. It is often used to describe speech, behavior, or artistic expression that amplifies reality for effect.
Common Contexts
It can describe someone exaggerating facts in conversation, or artistic styles that use bold, overstated elements like colors or shapes.
Collocations and Patterns
- 夸张的说法 (exaggerated way of speaking): used when someone overstates facts.
- 夸张的表情 (exaggerated expression): often used in acting or cartoons.
- 不要夸张 (don’t exaggerate): a common phrase to ask someone to be more realistic.
Usage Notes
When using 夸张, speakers often imply that the exaggeration is somewhat obvious or intentional. It can carry a slightly negative tone if used to criticize someone’s honesty, but in art or humor, it can be neutral or positive.
Avoid confusing 夸张 with similar words like "吹牛" (chuīniú, bragging), which implies boasting rather than just exaggeration.