Meaning and Usage
"陡峭" describes something very steep or precipitous, often used for natural landscapes like mountains, cliffs, or roads. It conveys a sense of sharp incline that can be challenging or intimidating.
Common Contexts
You will often hear "陡峭" when talking about hiking trails, mountain scenery, or difficult driving conditions. It emphasizes the steepness and difficulty of the terrain.
Collocations and Patterns
- 陡峭的山峰: steep mountain peaks, used to describe rugged natural features.
- 陡峭的悬崖: precipitous cliffs, often evoking danger or awe.
- 路很陡峭: the road is steep, common in travel or driving contexts.
Usage Notes
"陡峭" is more formal and descriptive than just "陡" alone, which means steep but can be used more generally. "陡峭" often appears in written descriptions or formal speech about geography or challenging environments. Avoid using it for gentle slopes or metaphorical steepness.
Common Confusion
Do not confuse "陡峭" with "陡然" (dǒurán), which means suddenly or abruptly. "陡峭" strictly describes physical steepness.