Meaning and Usage
The character 贱 (jiàn) primarily means "cheap" or "inexpensive," often referring to low price or low value. It can also carry a negative connotation implying something or someone is lowly, base, or vulgar.
Common Contexts
贱 is frequently used to describe goods or services that are inexpensive but sometimes of poor quality. It can also describe behavior or language that is considered vulgar or disrespectful.
Collocations and Patterns
- 贱价 (jiàn jià): low price, cheap cost — used when emphasizing the inexpensive nature of something.
- 贱人 (jiàn rén): a derogatory term meaning "despicable person" — very strong and offensive, used carefully.
- 贱语 (jiàn yǔ): vulgar or offensive language — used to warn against rude speech.
Usage Notes
When using 贱 to describe price, it is neutral or slightly negative, implying cheapness but possibly poor quality. When used to describe people or language, it is derogatory and should be used cautiously to avoid offense. It is different from 便宜 (piányi), which is a more neutral term for "cheap" or "affordable."