Usage and Nuances
The verb 小看 (xiǎokàn) means "to underestimate" or "to look down on" someone or something. It often implies a mistaken judgment about the ability, importance, or difficulty of a person or matter.
Common Contexts
It is frequently used when warning someone not to undervalue others' skills or the challenge of a task. For example, 小看能力 (underestimate ability) or 小看困难 (underestimate difficulty).
Collocations and Patterns
- 小看 + 人/能力/事情: to underestimate a person, ability, or matter.
- 不要小看 + 名词: a common warning phrase meaning "don't underestimate..."
Register and Tone
This word is neutral but often carries a cautionary tone. It is common in both spoken and written Mandarin.
Common Confusion
小看 should not be confused with 轻视 (qīngshì), which also means "to despise" but is stronger and more negative in tone. 小看 is more about underestimation rather than outright contempt.