Usage and Nuance
The verb 辜负 (gū fù) is commonly used to express the idea of failing to live up to someone's expectations, trust, or kindness. It often carries a sense of regret or apology from the speaker, implying that they or someone else has disappointed others.
Common Contexts
- Personal relationships: When someone feels they have let down a friend or family member.
- Work or study: When failing to meet goals or expectations set by others.
- Opportunities: When someone fails to make good use of a valuable chance.
Collocations and Patterns
- 辜负期望 (gūfù qīwàng): to disappoint expectations
- 辜负信任 (gūfù xìnrèn): to betray trust
- 辜负厚望 (gūfù hòuwàng): to fail to live up to high hopes
Register and Tone
This word is formal and often appears in written or serious spoken contexts. It is not casual and usually implies a moral or emotional weight.
Common Confusion
Do not confuse 辜负 with 负担 (fùdān, burden) or 负面 (fùmiàn, negative). 辜负 specifically relates to disappointing or betraying expectations or trust, not just carrying a burden or being negative.