About
耽 is a phono-semantic compound. Its left radical, 耳 (ear), provides the semantic category, while the right component, 冘, serves as the phonetic marker. The original meaning described the physical trait of large, drooping ears, as seen in certain animals. Over time, the sense extended from a physical characteristic to a psychological state of deep absorption, indulgence, or addiction to specific pleasures. This idea of excessive indulgence naturally evolved into the modern meaning: to delay, waste time, or neglect duties due to distraction.
Etymology Hide
Example Sentences Hide
不要耽误学习的时间。
他耽搁了回家的行程。
这件事耽误了我们的计划。
她耽于幻想，不愿面对现实。
由于天气原因，航班被耽搁了。
耽误了这么久，我们必须加快进度。
他整天耽于享乐，忘记了责任。
这次会议耽搁了重要决策的制定。