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    Chinese Grammar

    Describing something as shallow with 浅 (qiǎn)

    Comparison
    Description & Modification

    Structure

    Subject + 浅

    Explanation

    The adjective 浅 (qiǎn) means "shallow" and can describe physical depth (such as shallow water) or figurative depth (such as limited knowledge or experience). It is the opposite of 深 (deep). Use 浅 to describe things that lack depth, whether literally or metaphorically.

    Examples

    • 这条河很浅，小孩子也能趟过去。

      Zhè tiáo hé hěn qiǎn, xiǎo háizi yě néng tāng guòqù.

      This river is very shallow; even children can wade across it.

    • 他对这个问题的理解还很浅，需要多学习。

      Tā duì zhège wèntí de lǐjiě hái hěn qiǎn, xūyào duō xuéxí.

      His understanding of this issue is still quite shallow; he needs to study more.

    • 浅水区比较安全，适合初学者游泳。

      Qiǎn shuǐ qū bǐjiào ānquán, shìhé chūxuézhě yóuyǒng.

      The shallow water area is relatively safe and suitable for beginners to swim.

    Often Confused With