Meanings of 缩短
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Podcast: 缩短
Podcast: 缩短
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AI study notes for 缩短
缩小 (suōxiǎo) - use 缩短 when referring to reducing duration or time, while 缩小 specifically refers to reducing size or dimensions.
When using 缩短, ensure the context is clear, as it can pertain to both time and physical length. A common mistake is using it inappropriately in contexts that don’t involve reduction, such as in 'expanding' ideas. Remember, it is more suitable in formal situations.
As a level 5 word, 缩短 connects well with other verbs related to change and transformation, like 改变 (gǎibiàn, to change) or 发展 (fāzhǎn, to develop). Students should focus on using it in sentences that involve comparison, such as '缩短时间比增加预算更有效' (Shortening time is more effective than increasing the budget).
Learners often confuse 缩短 with 增长 (zēngzhǎng), which means 'to increase.' For example, saying '我们需要缩短预算' (Wǒmen xūyào suōduǎn yùsuàn - We need to shorten the budget) is incorrect; instead, you should refer to '缩减' (xiānjiǎn - to reduce the budget).
Pronunciation of 缩短
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Jason Explains 缩短 to you
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Component characters
How to say to curtail in Chinese
“to curtail” in Chinese is缩短
缩短 (suōduǎn) means to reduce the length or duration of something. It can refer to both physical dimensions, such as shortening a piece of fabric, or abstract concepts, like reducing the time for a project. This verb is commonly used in both everyday conversations and formal contexts, such as business meetings or academic discussions.
When to use 缩短
When using 缩短, ensure the context is clear, as it can pertain to both time and physical length. A common mistake is using it inappropriately in contexts that don’t involve reduction, such as in 'expanding' ideas. Remember, it is more suitable in formal situations.
缩短 or something close to it
缩小 (suōxiǎo) - use 缩短 when referring to reducing duration or time, while 缩小 specifically refers to reducing size or dimensions.
What learners get wrong
Learners often confuse 缩短 with 增长 (zēngzhǎng), which means 'to increase.' For example, saying '我们需要缩短预算' (Wǒmen xūyào suōduǎn yùsuàn - We need to shorten the budget) is incorrect; instead, you should refer to '缩减' (xiānjiǎn - to reduce the budget).
Write 缩短
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Grammar patterns of 缩短
缩短 functions as a verb — the action or state of the sentence. The Chinese order is Subject + Verb + Object (我吃饭). Negate it with 不 (habitual / future) or 没(有) (completed action). Add aspect markers like 了, 过, 着 directly after the verb. It carries 2 related meanings, each with its own usage notes below. The example sentences below show it in action, with practice buttons (Listen, Practice Writing, Practice Speaking) on every line.
Fill the gap
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他将世界纪录____了10秒。
He has knocked 10 seconds off the world record.
Example sentences for 缩短 (2)
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Frequently asked questions about 缩短
Yes, 缩短 can refer to reducing both the duration of time and the length of physical objects.
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