The term 稀缺 (xīquē) refers to something that is scarce or in short supply. It is commonly used in economic contexts to describe resources that are limited relative to demand, such as water, food, or natural resources. This word conveys a sense of urgency or importance regarding the management and conservation of these limited resources.
HSK 7, 16 strokes, Hard
xīquē(xi1que1) T1
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May 27, 2026
稀缺xīquē(xi1que1)
The term 稀缺 (xīquē) refers to something that is scarce or in short supply. It is commonly used in economic contexts to describe resources that are limited relative to demand, such as water, food, or natural resources. This word conveys a sense of urgency or importance regarding the management and conservation of these limited resources.
Strokes16Frequency#—DifficultyHard
Cultural Note
In China, the concept of 稀缺 is particularly relevant in discussions about environmental sustainability and resource management, reflecting the country's ongoing challenges with pollution and resource allocation as it continues to develop economically.
Memory Tip
Imagine a treasure chest filled with gold coins, but only a few coins are visible at the top — this represents the scarcity of wealth. The character 稀 (xī) looks like a small amount pouring out, while 缺 (quē) resembles an empty space, symbolizing something missing or lacking. Together, they illustrate the idea of something being both rare and insufficient.
About 稀缺
稀缺Simplified
16Strokes
—Radical
名词míngcínoun (n.)Part of Speech
#—Frequency Rank
HSK 3.0L7AdvancedCEFRC2
Podcast: 稀缺
Podcast: 稀缺
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AI Study Notes for 稀缺
Quick Contrast
稀缺 (xīquē) vs 短缺 (duǎnquē) — use 稀缺 for scarcity in general contexts, while 短缺 specifically refers to a shortage or lack of something needed.
Memory Mnemonic
Imagine a treasure chest filled with gold coins, but only a few coins are visible at the top — this represents the scarcity of wealth. The character 稀 (xī) looks like a small amount pouring out, while 缺 (quē) resembles an empty space, symbolizing something missing or lacking. Together, they illustrate the idea of something being both rare and insufficient.
Usage Notes
Learners often confuse 稀缺 with similar words like 稀有 (xīyǒu), which means rare but does not imply a lack. This term is more formal and is often used in academic or economic discussions. Be mindful of the tone and context when using it to avoid sounding overly dramatic in casual conversations.
HSK Study Tips
At HSK Level 7, students should focus on understanding the implications of scarcity in various contexts, such as environmental issues or economic discussions. Connecting this term to other HSK vocabulary related to resource management will enhance comprehension.
Cultural Note
In China, the concept of 稀缺 is particularly relevant in discussions about environmental sustainability and resource management, reflecting the country's ongoing challenges with pollution and resource allocation as it continues to develop economically.
Common Mistakes
Learners sometimes use 稀缺 to describe abundance, saying things like '资源稀缺' (zīyuán xīquē) when they mean resources are plentiful. The correct expression for abundance would be 充足 (chōngzú).
AI-enhanced 2026-05-27
Pronunciation of 稀缺
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Cultural Notes for 稀缺
🏮Cultural insight
In China, the concept of 稀缺 is particularly relevant in discussions about environmental sustainability and resource management, reflecting the country's ongoing challenges with pollution and resource allocation as it continues to develop economically.
Frequently Asked Questions about 稀缺
Some synonyms include 短缺 (duǎnquē), which also means shortage, and 稀有 (xīyǒu), which translates to rare.
While it is more commonly used in formal discussions, you can use it in conversations about resource management or environmental issues to sound knowledgeable.
Yes, it generally carries a negative connotation, indicating a problem that requires attention or action.
