Meanings of 少数
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Podcast: 少数
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AI Study Notes for 少数
少数 (shǎoshù) vs 小部分 (xiǎo bùfen) — use 少数 when emphasizing a minority or scarcity; use 小部分 for a smaller segment of a whole without the minority implication.
少数 is commonly used in both formal and informal contexts, particularly in social sciences or discussions about demographics. A common mistake is to confuse it with 多数 (duōshù), which means 'majority'; ensure you understand the context of the conversation to use the correct term.
While 少数 is not explicitly listed in HSK levels, it relates to other HSK vocabulary that discusses quantity and categorization. Students should focus on its usage in phrases and collocations, such as 少数民族 (minority ethnic groups) to deepen understanding.
Learners often misuse 少数 when they mean to refer to a larger group, such as saying '少数人参加' (Few people participated) when the correct term should be '多数人参加' (Most people participated). Always clarify the intended meaning.
Pronunciation of 少数
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Component Characters
How to say small number in Chinese
“small number” in Chinese is少数
少数 (shǎoshù) refers to a small number of people or things, often used to describe a minority group within a larger population. It can also imply scarcity or a limited quantity in various contexts, such as in discussions about demographics, opinions, or resources.
When to use 少数
少数 is commonly used in both formal and informal contexts, particularly in social sciences or discussions about demographics. A common mistake is to confuse it with 多数 (duōshù), which means 'majority'; ensure you understand the context of the conversation to use the correct term.
少数 or something close to it
少数 (shǎoshù) vs 小部分 (xiǎo bùfen) — use 少数 when emphasizing a minority or scarcity; use 小部分 for a smaller segment of a whole without the minority implication.
What learners get wrong
Learners often misuse 少数 when they mean to refer to a larger group, such as saying '少数人参加' (Few people participated) when the correct term should be '多数人参加' (Most people participated). Always clarify the intended meaning.
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Frequently Asked Questions about 少数
You can say '在这个城市，少数人说英语' (In this city, few people speak English).
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