Meanings of 拖欠
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Podcast: 拖欠
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AI study notes for 拖欠
欠 (qiàn) vs 拖延 (tuōyán): Use 拖欠 when specifically referring to unpaid debts, while 欠 can refer to any kind of lack or deficiency, and 拖延 implies a delay rather than a financial obligation.
Be careful to use 拖欠 in formal contexts, especially in business or financial discussions. A common mistake is using it in casual conversations where simpler terms for being late might suffice. Remember that it can carry a serious tone, so avoid using it lightly.
Although 拖欠 is not directly included in the HSK vocabulary lists, it connects well to HSK Level 4 financial terms like 贷款 (loan) and 借款 (borrow). When studying, focus on the contexts in which debts and payments are discussed, as these will help reinforce the term's usage.
Learners sometimes confuse 拖欠 with 逾期. For example, saying '我拖欠了我的账单' (I delayed my bill) should be corrected to '我逾期了我的账单' (I am overdue on my bill) if there's no debt issue.
Pronunciation of 拖欠
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Component characters
How to say in arrears in Chinese
“in arrears” in Chinese is拖欠
拖欠 refers to being in arrears or behind in payments, particularly in financial contexts. This term is commonly used when an individual or organization fails to meet their payment obligations on loans, bills, or other debts. It carries a negative connotation, implying irresponsibility or financial distress.
When to use 拖欠
Be careful to use 拖欠 in formal contexts, especially in business or financial discussions. A common mistake is using it in casual conversations where simpler terms for being late might suffice. Remember that it can carry a serious tone, so avoid using it lightly.
拖欠 or something close to it
欠 (qiàn) vs 拖延 (tuōyán): Use 拖欠 when specifically referring to unpaid debts, while 欠 can refer to any kind of lack or deficiency, and 拖延 implies a delay rather than a financial obligation.
What learners get wrong
Learners sometimes confuse 拖欠 with 逾期. For example, saying '我拖欠了我的账单' (I delayed my bill) should be corrected to '我逾期了我的账单' (I am overdue on my bill) if there's no debt issue.
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Frequently asked questions about 拖欠
No, 拖欠 applies to both personal and commercial debts, including loans and bills.
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