About

The word is formed by combining two characters that each contribute a vivid, concrete image to create an abstract meaning. 糟 (zāo) refers to the dregs or waste left from fermenting grain, suggesting something spoiled or ruined. 糕 (gāo) means cake or a fine pastry. Together, they paint the literal picture of a "spoiled cake" , something that should be delightful and well-made but has instead become a disappointing mess. This metaphorical combination perfectly captures the essence of the word's meaning: a situation that has gone badly wrong.

Example Sentences Hide

天气糟糕透了。

Tiānqì zāogāo tòu le.

The weather is absolutely terrible.

我忘记带作业了,真糟糕

Wǒ wàngjì dài zuòyè le, zhēn zāogāo.

I forgot to bring my homework, how awful.

这场糟糕的暴雨引发了洪水。

Zhè chǎng zāogāo de bàoyǔ yǐnfāle hóngshuǐ.

This awful rainstorm caused a flood.

事情的发展比预想的更糟糕

Shìqing de fāzhǎn bǐ yùxiǎng de gèng zāogāo.

The situation developed worse than expected.

对于那个地区的经济前景,专家们持相当糟糕的预期。

Duìyú nàgè dìqū de jīngjì qiánjǐng, zhuānjiāmen chí xiāngdāng zāogāo de yùqī.

Experts hold a rather pessimistic outlook for the economic prospects of that region.

Word Definition - 糟糕

zāo gāo too bad; how terrible; what bad luck; terrible; bad

Individual Character Details