Definitions
(adjective)
sparse; thin; scattered
(adjective)
distant (relation); not close
(verb)
to neglect; to be negligent
(verb)
to dredge; to clear away obstruction
About
The character "疏" consists of the component 疋 (originally pictographic of a foot) combined with 㐬 (representing flowing or dispersion), structurally conveying the idea of opening a path or clearing an obstruction. Its core meaning, derived from this composition, was "to dredge" or "to clear out", as in making waterways passable. This concept of creating space or removing blockages extended metaphorically to meanings such as "to disperse", "to separate", and "to explain" or "commentate" (as in elucidating a dense text). From the sense of physical separation and openness, it acquired the abstract meanings of "distant" (as in relationships) and "sparse" (as in distribution), while also being used in classical texts to denote a memorial or formal presentation to the emperor. The traditional form remains identical to the one described, and its modern semantic range still reflects these interconnected ideas of opening, separating, and spreading apart.
Etymology Hide
Example Sentences Hide
他疏忽了重要细节。
我们需要疏通这条堵塞的管道。
这篇文章结构有些松散。
他因疏于练习而退步了。
志愿者们帮忙疏散人群。
她对陌生人总是很疏远。
政府采取措施疏导交通。
多年的分离带来了疏离感。