Understanding "坏" - Chinese Word Explanation

1. Basic Information

• Word: 坏
• Pinyin: huài
• Literal Meaning: "bad," "broken," or "spoiled"
• Primary Meaning: The word "坏" primarily means "bad" or "not good" in a general sense. It can also describe something that is broken, spoiled, or morally corrupt.

2. In-depth Explanation

Context and Usage

"坏" is a versatile word used in various contexts:
1. Describing Objects: Indicates something is broken or not functioning properly (e.g., "我的手机坏了" – "My phone is broken").
2. Describing People or Behavior: Refers to someone being "bad" or "naughty" (e.g., "他是个坏人" – "He is a bad person").
3. Describing Food: Means "spoiled" or "rotten" (e.g., "牛奶坏了" – "The milk has gone bad").
4. Abstract Concepts: Can describe negative situations or outcomes (e.g., "事情变坏了" – "Things have turned bad").

Character Breakdown

"坏" is a single-character word, but its components can be analyzed:
- Left Radical (⻖): Derived from "土" (tǔ, "earth"), suggesting something related to material or physical state.
- Right Component (不): Resembles "不" (bù, "not"), reinforcing the negative connotation.

3. Example Sentences

Example 1: Describing a Broken Object

• Chinese: 我的电脑坏了。
• Pinyin: Wǒ de diànnǎo huài le.
• English: My computer is broken.

Example 2: Describing a Person

• Chinese: 不要相信他，他是个坏人。
• Pinyin: Bùyào xiāngxìn tā, tā shì gè huàirén.
• English: Don’t trust him; he’s a bad person.

Example 3: Describing Spoiled Food

• Chinese: 这些水果坏了，不能吃了。
• Pinyin: Zhèxiē shuǐguǒ huài le, bù néng chī le.
• English: These fruits have gone bad; you can’t eat them anymore.

Cultural Notes

• In Chinese culture, calling someone "坏人" (huàirén) is a strong accusation, implying moral wrongdoing. It’s not used lightly.
• The phrase "坏蛋" (huàidàn, literally "bad egg") is a colloquial and somewhat playful way to call someone "naughty" or a "rascal," often used among friends or for children.

Conclusion

"坏" (huài) is a fundamental Chinese word meaning "bad," "broken," or "spoiled." It’s used in everyday conversations to describe objects, people, or situations negatively. Remember its versatility, and practice with the examples to master its usage!