HSK 6
嫌
xián
to dislike
Structure
Subject + 嫌 + (Object) + [Reason/Adjective/Clause]
How it works
The word '嫌' (xián) is a verb used to express dislike, dissatisfaction, or a feeling that something is inadequate. It is often followed by a clause explaining the specific reason for the dislike, such as something being too expensive, too slow, or of poor quality.
Examples
他总是嫌弃食堂的饭菜不好吃。
Tā zǒngshì xiánqì shítáng de fàncài bù hǎochī.
He is always complaining that the cafeteria food doesn't taste good.
你要是嫌这件衣服贵，咱们就再看看别的。
Nǐ yàoshi xián zhè jiàn yīfu guì, zánmen jiù zài kànkan bié de.
If you think this piece of clothing is too expensive, let's look at others.
哥哥嫌我走路太慢，不肯带我一起去。
Gēge xián wǒ zǒulù tài màn, bù kěn dài wǒ yìqǐ qù.
My older brother complained that I walk too slowly and refused to take me along.
Common mistakes
Do not treat '嫌' as a simple 'to hate' (like 讨厌); it must be followed by a specific reason or attribute that causes the dissatisfaction.
Tip
Think of '嫌' as meaning 'to dislike because...' or 'to find something to be too...'. It is frequently used with '太' (tài) or '不够' (bùgòu) to specify the flaw.
More HSK 6 grammar
See 嫌 in real Chinese
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