Meaning and Usage
The character 贪 (tān) primarily means 'to be greedy' or 'to covet.' It often describes a negative trait related to excessive desire for wealth, food, or other benefits. It can be used both literally (e.g., greedy for food) and figuratively (e.g., greedy for power).
Common Collocations
- 贪图 (tāntú): to covet or seek after something, often with a negative connotation.
- 贪心 (tānxīn): greediness, an insatiable desire.
- 贪吃 (tānchī): gluttonous, greedy in eating.
Usage Notes
贪 is usually used to criticize or warn against excessive desire. It often appears in moral or cautionary contexts. When combined with 心 (heart/mind), it emphasizes the internal greediness. Avoid confusing 贪 with similar words like 爱 (love) or 喜欢 (like), which have positive or neutral meanings.
Tone and Register
贪 is generally neutral in tone but carries a negative moral judgment. It is common in both spoken and written Chinese, especially in formal or literary contexts discussing character or behavior.