Definitions
(adjective)
astringent; tart
(adjective)
rough; unsmooth (surface)
(adjective)
hard to understand; obscure
About
The character "涩", derived from the traditional form "澀", has its etymological origins in describing physical sensations of astringency and roughness, such as the dry, puckering taste of certain fruits or the coarse texture of surfaces. Structurally, the traditional character incorporates the water radical, hinting at a relationship with moisture or fluidity that influences texture, combined with a component that visually implies repeated obstruction or friction, reinforcing notions of impediment. Over time, its semantic range expanded beyond tactile and gustatory experiences to encompass abstract qualities, particularly in language, where it came to denote styles of writing or speech that are awkward, obscure, or difficult to follow. The simplified form preserves the water radical while streamlining the complex right-hand element, maintaining the character's core associations with hindrance and unevenness across both sensory and cognitive domains.
Example Sentences Hide
这个柿子有点涩。
他尝到了涩涩的味道。
生活有时充满苦涩。
他回忆起青涩的青春。
她的演讲显得有点生涩。
长时间看书眼睛干涩。
这篇哲学文章非常晦涩。
初次尝试的苦涩与甘甜都令人难忘。