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    Chinese Grammar

    Expressing 'wrong' or 'mistaken' with 错误 (cuòwù) as an adjective

    Description & Modification
    Negation

    Structure

    错误 + 的 + Noun

    Explanation

    The adjective 错误 (cuòwù) means 'wrong,' 'mistaken,' or 'erroneous' and is used to describe decisions, ideas, or actions that are incorrect. It is more formal than the simpler 错 (cuò) and typically modifies nouns in written or formal contexts. It conveys a stronger sense of judgment than a simple factual error.

    Examples

    • 这是一个错误的决定，我们应该重新考虑。

      Zhè shì yí gè cuòwù de juédìng, wǒmen yīnggāi chóngxīn kǎolǜ.

      This is a wrong decision; we should reconsider.

    • 他的做法是错误的，但没人敢指出来。

      Tā de zuòfǎ shì cuòwù de, dàn méi rén gǎn zhǐ chūlái.

      His approach was wrong, but nobody dared to point it out.

    • 老师说我的理解是错误的，需要再看一遍课文。

      Lǎoshī shuō wǒ de lǐjiě shì cuòwù de, xūyào zài kàn yí biàn kèwén.

      The teacher said my understanding was wrong and that I need to read the text again.

    Often Confused With

    Expressing 'wrong' or 'mistaken' with 错误 (cuòwù) as an adjective | Chinese Grammar