It refers to something that is not the main priority or the most critical element.
Word in 30 Seconds
- Used to describe something of lower importance.
- Helps prioritize tasks or arguments.
- Often contrasted with primary or core elements.
Overview
- 1概述：在中文语境中，“次要的”是一个非常实用的词汇，用于区分事物的轻重缓急。它不仅可以描述具体的事物，也可以描述抽象的因素、原因或角色。当我们在处理复杂问题时，区分“主要的”和“次要的”是提高效率的关键。2) 使用模式：该词通常作为定语修饰名词，例如“次要因素”、“次要原因”。它也可以放在系动词之后作为表语，例如“这个问题是次要的”。3) 常见语境：在商务会议中，人们常说“这只是次要问题，我们先讨论核心议题”；在学习规划时，学生会把“次要任务”放在最后完成。4) 近义词辨析：与“不重要的”相比，“次要的”语气更客观，强调的是一种层级关系而非简单的好坏评价。与“辅助的”相比，“次要的”更侧重于重要性较低，而“辅助的”侧重于功能上的支撑作用。
Examples
这只是一个次要的因素。
everydayThis is just a secondary factor.
我们将次要任务留到下午处理。
formalWe will leave secondary tasks for the afternoon.
那件事是次要的，别担心。
informalThat matter is secondary, don't worry.
次要变量对实验结果影响较小。
academicSecondary variables have a smaller impact on experimental results.
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
分清主次
Distinguish between primary and secondary
次要矛盾
Secondary contradiction
无关紧要
Insignificant
Often Confused With
Refers to something that provides support (auxiliary), whereas 'secondary' refers to importance level.
Means irrelevant, while 'secondary' means it is relevant but not the main focus.
Grammar Patterns
How to Use It
Usage Notes
The word is neutral and commonly used in both professional and casual settings. It is often used to contrast with '主要的' (primary). It is an adjective that functions as a modifier for nouns or as a predicate.
Common Mistakes
Some learners confuse it with 'unimportant'. Remember that 'secondary' does not mean 'useless', just 'less important'. Ensure you use it to compare two things rather than just dismissing one.
Tips
Use to prioritize your daily tasks
When managing your time, clearly label tasks as primary or secondary. This helps you focus on what truly matters first.
Avoid using it to dismiss others
Be careful when calling someone's input 'secondary' in a meeting, as it may sound dismissive. Use softer language like 'less urgent' instead.
Cultural focus on hierarchy
Chinese culture places high value on order and priority. Using '次要的' correctly shows that you understand the structure of a discussion.
Word Origin
Derived from the Chinese character '次' (next/second) and '要' (important), combined with the possessive '的'. It literally translates to 'second-rank importance'.
Cultural Context
In Chinese society, prioritizing tasks is often linked to wisdom and efficiency. Distinguishing between 'primary' and 'secondary' is a standard way of demonstrating analytical thinking.
Memory Tip
Think of a 'Second' place winner; they are excellent, but they are not the 'First' (primary) winner. 'Secondary' is the 'Second' layer of importance.
Frequently Asked Questions
4 questions“次要的”强调层级关系，表示它虽然存在但不是首要的；“不重要的”则表达主观评价，认为该事物完全没有价值。
它通常放在名词前作定语，如“次要因素”，或者放在“是”字后作表语，如“这点是次要的”。
非常常用。无论是在工作讨论还是日常生活中，当你想表达某事不是重点时，它都是最恰当的选择。
有的，最直接的反义词是“主要的”或“核心的”。
Test Yourself
在这次会议中，预算问题是主要的，而时间安排只是___。
根据上下文的对比关系，这里需要一个表示非核心的词。
下列哪个词可以替换“次要的”？
从属的表示地位较低，与次要的含义一致。
请选择逻辑正确的句子。
该选项语法正确且语义逻辑通顺。
Score: /3
Summary
It refers to something that is not the main priority or the most critical element.
- Used to describe something of lower importance.
- Helps prioritize tasks or arguments.
- Often contrasted with primary or core elements.
Use to prioritize your daily tasks
When managing your time, clearly label tasks as primary or secondary. This helps you focus on what truly matters first.
Avoid using it to dismiss others
Be careful when calling someone's input 'secondary' in a meeting, as it may sound dismissive. Use softer language like 'less urgent' instead.
Cultural focus on hierarchy
Chinese culture places high value on order and priority. Using '次要的' correctly shows that you understand the structure of a discussion.
Examples
4 of 4这只是一个次要的因素。
This is just a secondary factor.
我们将次要任务留到下午处理。
We will leave secondary tasks for the afternoon.
那件事是次要的，别担心。
That matter is secondary, don't worry.
次要变量对实验结果影响较小。
Secondary variables have a smaller impact on experimental results.
Related Content
This Word in Other Languages
Related Vocabulary
More academic words
缺席
B1The state of being absent from a place or event where one is expected to be, such as a class, meeting, or ceremony.
抽象的
A2Abstract.
抽象地
B1In an abstract manner; conceptually.
艰深
B1Profound; abstruse; recondite.
学术性
A2Academic; scholarly; relating to education and scholarship.
学术化
B1Academic; characterized by formal study or research.
学术会议
A2Academic conference; a formal meeting for academic discussions.
学术交流
B1Exchange of ideas, information, and research among scholars.
学术期刊
B1A periodical publication containing scholarly articles.
教务处
A2Academic affairs office; department handling educational administration.
