Meaning and Usage
"苛刻" describes a strict, harsh, or demanding attitude or standard. It often refers to rules, requirements, or evaluations that are difficult to meet or tolerate.
Common Contexts
It is frequently used to describe strict teachers, harsh self-standards, or demanding conditions in work or study environments.
Collocations
- 苛刻的要求 (strict demands): used when describing high or difficult standards.
- 苛刻的条件 (harsh conditions): often used in job recruitment or contracts.
- 苛刻的批评 (harsh criticism): describing severe or unforgiving feedback.
Nuance
Using "苛刻" implies a negative tone, suggesting that the strictness may be excessive or hard to bear. It is stronger than just "严格" (strict) and often carries a sense of severity or harshness.
Common Confusion
Do not confuse "苛刻" with "严格". While both mean strict, "苛刻" emphasizes harshness and difficulty, whereas "严格" can be neutral or positive, focusing on precision and discipline.