短

duǎn
HSK 3
#887 most
frequent character
short or brief, to lack, weak point
adjective

Character breakdown

Source: Make Me a Hanzi.

短 combines 矢 arrow as the meaning part with 豆 dòu as the sound part. It first meant short, the opposite of long. The meaning grew to lack or be weak, and then to brief.

Ask DeepSeek

Example Sentences

这条裙子太短了。
zhè tiáo qúnzǐ tàiduǎn le 。
This dress is too short.
他的演讲很短。
tāde yǎnjiǎng hěnduǎn 。
His speech was very brief.
我觉得这个故事有点短。
wǒ juéde zhègè gùshì yǒudiǎn duǎn 。
I think this story is a bit short.

Words with similar meanings

短暂duǎnzàn
brief
This word emphasizes a temporary duration or existence, often used in contexts like moments or events.
简短jiǎnduǎn
concise
This word is often used to describe something that is not only short but also clear and to the point.

Words Starting With 短

短信duǎn xìn
text message; SMS
短促duǎn cù
short in time; fleeting; brief

Your word lists

Sign in to add this word to your private lists.

Public Lists with 短

HSK 3
All words for the HSK 3 test
Common Adjectives
Descriptive words for size, quality, temperature, mood, and more.