Meaning and Usage
The word "残缺" (cánquē) describes something that is incomplete, damaged, or missing parts. It often refers to physical objects like paintings, machines, or memories that are not whole or perfect.
Common Contexts
It is frequently used to describe valuable items that have lost parts but still retain significance, such as an ancient artifact or a damaged artwork. It can also describe abstract concepts like incomplete memories.
Collocations and Patterns
These collocations emphasize the state of lacking or being imperfect.
Nuances
Using "残缺" implies a sense of imperfection but often with an emotional or evaluative tone, such as valuing something despite its flaws. It is more formal and literary than casual words for "broken" or "missing."
Common Confusion
Do not confuse "残缺" with "缺少" which means simply "to lack" or "to be short of." "残缺" stresses the incomplete or damaged state, often visually or physically evident.