疏忽 in 30 Seconds
- Carelessness leading to mistakes.
- An oversight with negative consequences.
- Failure to pay attention, causing problems.
- Neglecting details due to lack of diligence.
- Meaning
- To neglect, overlook, or be careless about something, often leading to a mistake or problem. It implies a failure to pay adequate attention or to act with the necessary diligence.
- Usage
- This word is commonly used in situations where a lack of attention causes an undesirable outcome. It can refer to forgetting an important task, missing a crucial detail, or generally being less than careful. It is often used to express regret or to explain why something went wrong. For example, if a student forgets to submit their homework, they might say they '疏忽'了 (shūhū le) their responsibility. In a professional setting, overlooking a critical piece of data could be described as '疏忽'. The CEFR B1 level indicates that learners should be familiar with this word for expressing common situations and personal opinions.
- Contexts
- Commonly found in discussions about work, studies, daily tasks, safety procedures, and any situation where attention to detail is important. It can be used both in spoken and written Chinese, from casual conversations to more formal reports.
由于我的疏忽，导致了这次严重的错误。
他因为疏忽而错过了重要的会议。
- Synonyms
- While '疏忽' is common, you might also hear '大意' (dàyì) which also means carelessness or oversight, often in less severe situations. '失误' (shīwù) refers more broadly to a mistake or error, which can be a result of '疏忽'.
请不要疏忽了安全检查。
- Basic Structure
- The most common structure is Subject + 疏忽 + Object (optional) + Result/Consequence. Often, '了' (le) is used after '疏忽' to indicate a completed action or a change of state. For instance, '我疏忽了' (wǒ shūhū le - I was careless) or '他的疏忽导致了问题' (tā de shūhū dǎozhì le wèntí - his carelessness led to problems).
- Examples with Translations
我们不能疏忽任何细节。
Translation: We cannot overlook any detail. 由于疏忽，他没能按时完成工作。
Translation: Due to carelessness, he couldn't finish the work on time. 这次事故完全是人为疏忽造成的。
Translation: This accident was entirely caused by human oversight. 请务必仔细检查，避免疏忽。
Translation: Please be sure to check carefully to avoid oversights. 她的疏忽让大家都感到失望。
Translation: Her carelessness disappointed everyone. - Common Verbs Used With '疏忽'
- You will often see verbs like '造成' (zàochéng - to cause), '导致' (dǎozhì - to lead to), '避免' (bìmiǎn - to avoid), '发生' (fāshēng - to happen), '出现' (chūxiàn - to appear) used in conjunction with '疏忽'. For example, '疏忽造成了事故' (shūhū zàochéng le shìgù - carelessness caused the accident).
- Phrases Emphasizing Carelessness
- Sentences might use phrases to highlight the carelessness, such as '由于他的疏忽' (yóuyú tā de shūhū - due to his carelessness) or '因为疏忽大意' (yīnwèi shūhū dàyì - due to carelessness and oversight).
- Using '疏忽' as a Noun
- '疏忽' can also function as a noun, meaning 'carelessness' or 'oversight'. In this case, it might be modified by possessive pronouns or adjectives. For example, '这次的疏忽是不可原谅的' (zhècì de shūhū shì bùkě yuánliàng de - this oversight is unforgivable).
- Everyday Conversations
- You'll hear '疏忽' in everyday conversations when people talk about mistakes they've made or when they're explaining why something didn't go as planned. For example, a friend might say, '我出门的时候疏忽了，忘了带钥匙' (Wǒ chūmén de shíhòu shūhū le, wàng le dài yàoshi - I was careless when I left home and forgot to bring my keys). It's a common way to admit a minor fault.
- Workplace and Professional Settings
- In a professional environment, '疏忽' is frequently used to describe errors in work, reports, or project management. Managers might warn their team, '在工作中，我们绝不能疏忽任何细节，否则后果不堪设想' (Zài gōngzuò zhōng, wǒmen jué bù néng shūhū rènhé xìjié, fǒuzé hòuguǒ bùkān shèxiǎng - In our work, we must never overlook any detail, otherwise the consequences will be unimaginable). It's often used in formal reports or during meetings to identify the cause of a problem.
- News and Media
- News reports, especially those covering accidents, incidents, or investigative findings, often use '疏忽' to explain the cause. For instance, a news headline might read, '调查显示，事故发生是由于工作人员的疏忽' (Diàochá xiǎnshì, shìgù fāshēng shì yóuyú gōngzuò rényuán de shūhū - Investigations show that the accident occurred due to the staff's carelessness). This highlights its use in formal reporting of events.
- Academic and Technical Contexts
- In academic papers or technical manuals, '疏忽' might be used to discuss potential risks or to emphasize the importance of following procedures. A safety manual might state, '请勿疏忽操作说明，以免发生危险' (Qǐng wù shūhū cāozuò shuōmíng, yǐmiǎn fāshēng wēixiǎn - Please do not neglect the operating instructions to avoid danger). This shows its application in instructional and cautionary texts.
- Legal and Official Documents
- In more formal contexts like legal documents or official notices, '疏忽' can be used to denote negligence or a failure to exercise due care. For example, a contract might mention liability for '重大疏忽' (zhòngdà shūhū - gross negligence). This demonstrates its use in formal and sometimes legalistic language.
- Confusing with Intentional Negligence
- A common mistake is to equate '疏忽' with deliberate negligence or laziness. While '疏忽' implies carelessness, it usually suggests an unintentional oversight rather than a conscious decision to ignore responsibilities. For instance, saying '他故意疏忽了任务' (Tā gùyì shūhū le rènwù - He intentionally neglected the task) might sound contradictory, as '疏忽' often implies a lack of intent. For intentional neglect, words like '故意忽视' (gùyì hūshì) or '懈怠' (xièdài) might be more appropriate.
- Overuse in Minor Situations
- Learners might overuse '疏忽' for very minor oversights where a simpler word would suffice. For example, if you simply forgot to say 'hello' to someone, calling it '疏忽' might be too strong. In such cases, '忘记了' (wàngjì le - forgot) or '没注意到' (méi zhùyì dào - didn't notice) are often better choices. '疏忽' typically implies a consequence, however small.
- Incorrect Placement of '了' (le)
- The particle '了' (le) is frequently used with '疏忽' to indicate a completed action or a state change. However, learners might incorrectly place it or omit it. For example, saying '我疏忽了报告' (Wǒ shūhū le bàogào) is correct, meaning 'I overlooked the report'. But saying '我疏忽报告了' is grammatically awkward. The sentence '他疏忽了' (Tā shūhū le - He was careless) is also common.
- Using '疏忽' Without a Consequence
- '疏忽' often carries the implication of a negative outcome. If something was overlooked but no problem resulted, using '疏忽' might sound slightly dramatic or inaccurate. For example, if you momentarily forgot a minor detail but immediately remembered it with no ill effect, it might be better to say '我一时疏忽了' (Wǒ yīshí shūhū le - I was momentarily careless) rather than implying a major failure. However, in many contexts, the potential for consequence is enough to warrant the use of '疏忽'.
- Confusing with '忽视' (hūshì)
- '忽视' (hūshì) means to ignore or pay no attention to, often deliberately. '疏忽' is about carelessness or oversight, usually unintentional. If you '忽视' something, you are actively choosing not to acknowledge it. If you '疏忽' something, it means you failed to notice it due to a lapse in attention. For example, '他忽视了我的警告' (Tā hūshì le wǒ de jǐnggào - He ignored my warning) implies intent, while '他疏忽了我的警告' (Tā shūhū le wǒ de jǐnggào) would imply he failed to notice or heed it due to carelessness.
- 大意 (dàyì)
- Comparison: '大意' is very similar to '疏忽' and often interchangeable, meaning carelessness or oversight. However, '大意' can sometimes imply a slightly less serious mistake or a more general lack of carefulness. '疏忽' can sometimes carry a stronger sense of a specific oversight leading to a problem.
Example: '我一时大意了，把日期写错了。' (Wǒ yīshí dàyì le, bǎ rìqí xiě cuò le. - I was careless for a moment and wrote the wrong date.) This is similar to saying '我一时疏忽了，把日期写错了。' (Wǒ yīshí shūhū le, bǎ rìqí xiě cuò le.) - 忽视 (hūshì)
- Comparison: '忽视' means to ignore, disregard, or pay no attention to something, often with a sense of intent or deliberate choice. '疏忽' is about unintentional carelessness or oversight. You '忽视' something you are aware of but choose to disregard. You '疏忽' something you fail to notice due to a lack of attention.
Example: '他忽视了我的提醒，结果迟到了。' (Tā hūshì le wǒ de tíxǐng, jiéguǒ chídào le. - He ignored my reminder and was late as a result.) This implies he heard the reminder but chose not to act on it. If he had simply not heard or registered the reminder, '疏忽' might be used, though '忽视' is more common for warnings. - 失误 (shīwù)
- Comparison: '失误' is a general term for a mistake, error, or slip-up. It's a broader category that can include mistakes made due to '疏忽', '大意', or other reasons. '疏忽' is a cause, while '失误' is the resulting mistake.
Example: '这次的失误给公司带来了巨大的损失。' (Zhècì de shīwù gěi gōngsī dài lái le jùdà de sǔnshī. - This mistake brought huge losses to the company.) The cause of this '失误' could have been '疏忽' or other factors. - 忘记 (wàngjì)
- Comparison: '忘记' simply means to forget. It's a very basic term for memory failure. '疏忽' is more about a failure to be careful or attentive, which might lead to forgetting something important. If you forget to do something because you were distracted or not paying attention, it could be described as a '疏忽'.
Example: '我忘记了带钱。' (Wǒ wàngjì le dài qián. - I forgot to bring money.) This is a simple forgetting. If the forgetting had significant consequences, one might say, '由于我的疏忽，我忘了带钱，导致无法支付。' (Yóuyú wǒ de shūhū, wǒ wàng le dài qián, dǎozhì wúfǎ zhīfù. - Due to my carelessness, I forgot to bring money, which led to my inability to pay.) - 马虎 (mǎhu)
- Comparison: '马虎' describes someone as careless, sloppy, or negligent in their work or actions. It's more of a personality trait or a general attitude of not being meticulous. '疏忽' is often used to describe a specific instance of carelessness or oversight that leads to a problem.
Example: '他这个人做事总是马虎。' (Tā zhège rén zuòshì zǒng shì mǎhu. - This person is always careless in his work.) This describes a general tendency. A specific instance of this carelessness could be referred to as '疏忽'.
How Formal Is It?
Fun Fact
The character '忽' itself contains the radical '心' (xīn - heart), suggesting that the act of neglecting or being careless is fundamentally related to the state of one's mind or attention. The '山' (shān - mountain) radical in '忽' might metaphorically represent something large or important that is being overlooked.
Pronunciation Guide
- Pronouncing the 'u' sound in '疏' as a diphthong (like 'oo-uh'). It should be a pure 'oo' sound.
- Incorrectly assigning a falling or rising tone to either syllable, when they should both be high and level.
- Adding an extra syllable or sound between 'shū' and 'hū'.
- Not clearly articulating the 'h' sound in '忽', making it sound too much like 'ū'.
- Pronouncing it too quickly, blurring the distinction between the two syllables.
Difficulty Rating
At CEFR B1, understanding '疏忽' in reading is expected. Sentences typically involve common situations like work, studies, or daily life where carelessness leads to a problem. Complex sentence structures might still pose a challenge, but the core meaning of the word is generally clear.
Using '疏忽' correctly in writing at B1 requires understanding its nuances and common sentence patterns. Learners might initially overuse it or confuse it with similar words. Focusing on sentence structure and context is key.
Speaking at B1 involves using '疏忽' to describe personal experiences or opinions. Pronunciation and choosing appropriate contexts are important. Fluency might be limited, but the ability to convey the meaning is achievable.
Listening comprehension at B1 should allow learners to recognize '疏忽' in spoken contexts, especially when it's used to explain mistakes or problems. The meaning is usually clear from the surrounding context.
What to Learn Next
Prerequisites
Learn Next
Advanced
Grammar to Know
The use of '了' (le) with verbs to indicate completion or change of state.
我疏忽了，忘了这件事。
Using '由于' (yóuyú) or '因为' (yīnwèi) to express cause.
由于疏忽，他错过了飞机。
Using '避免' (bìmiǎn) with verbs to express avoiding an action.
请仔细检查，以避免疏忽。
Using adjectives to describe the degree of carelessness (e.g., 重大 - zhòngdà - major).
这是重大疏忽。
The structure Subject + Verb + Object.
他疏忽了任务。
Examples by Level
我疏忽了。
I was careless.
Simple statement of carelessness.
没疏忽。
Not careless.
Negation of carelessness.
小心，不要疏忽。
Be careful, don't be careless.
Imperative with negation.
这是我的疏忽。
This is my carelessness.
Possessive use.
他疏忽了。
He was careless.
Third person statement.
不能疏忽。
Cannot be careless.
Modal verb 'cannot'.
我疏忽了事情。
I overlooked the matter.
Direct object.
你的疏忽。
Your carelessness.
Possessive pronoun.
我疏忽了，忘了交作业。
I was careless and forgot to hand in my homework.
Connecting carelessness with forgetting a task.
由于疏忽，他错过了火车。
Due to carelessness, he missed the train.
Using '由于' (due to) to indicate cause.
请不要疏忽安全。
Please do not neglect safety.
Direct command with negation.
他的疏忽导致了问题。
His carelessness led to problems.
Using '导致' (led to) to show consequence.
这次疏忽很严重。
This oversight was very serious.
Using an adjective to describe the carelessness.
我们必须注意，不能疏忽。
We must pay attention and not be careless.
Using modal 'must' and negation.
这是因为我的疏忽。
This is because of my carelessness.
Explaining the reason for something.
小心你的疏忽。
Beware of your carelessness.
Warning about one's own behavior.
由于工作中的疏忽，一个重要的项目被推迟了。
Due to carelessness in work, an important project was postponed.
Using '疏忽' in a professional context with a clear consequence.
请仔细阅读说明，避免任何疏忽。
Please read the instructions carefully to avoid any oversight.
Imperative for carefulness and avoiding mistakes.
他承认了疏忽，并承担了责任。
He admitted his carelessness and took responsibility.
Admitting fault and taking responsibility.
这次的疏忽给我们敲响了警钟。
This oversight sounded an alarm bell for us.
Figurative language to describe the impact of carelessness.
我们不能因为疏忽而失去这个机会。
We cannot lose this opportunity due to carelessness.
Expressing the potential loss caused by carelessness.
即使是微小的疏忽也可能导致严重的后果。
Even a minor oversight can lead to serious consequences.
Emphasizing the severity of even small mistakes.
他因疏忽而未能注意到危险信号。
He failed to notice the danger signal due to carelessness.
Specific example of overlooking a warning.
我为我的疏忽感到非常抱歉。
I am very sorry for my carelessness.
Expressing apology for carelessness.
调查报告指出，事故的发生是由于多名工作人员的疏忽所致。
The investigation report indicated that the accident occurred due to the carelessness of multiple staff members.
Formal reporting language, using '所致' (caused by).
在如此关键的时刻，任何疏忽都可能导致功亏一篑。
At such a critical juncture, any oversight could lead to failure at the final hurdle.
Idiomatic expression '功亏一篑' (fail at the last hurdle) used with '疏忽'.
她对细节的疏忽最终影响了整个团队的士气。
Her oversight of details ultimately affected the morale of the entire team.
Connecting personal oversight to team impact.
我们必须审视是否存在疏忽，以防止未来的错误。
We must examine whether there is any carelessness to prevent future mistakes.
Using '审视' (examine) and '是否存在' (whether there exists).
对潜在风险的疏忽是许多灾难的根源。
The neglect of potential risks is the root cause of many disasters.
Abstract concept of neglecting risks.
他因疏忽而未能及时更新系统，导致了数据泄露。
He failed to update the system in time due to carelessness, which led to a data breach.
Specific technical context with severe consequences.
这种疏忽的背后，隐藏着更深层次的管理问题。
Behind this carelessness lie deeper management issues.
Suggesting underlying causes for carelessness.
即使是最有经验的专家，也可能因为疏忽而犯错。
Even the most experienced experts can make mistakes due to carelessness.
Highlighting that no one is immune to carelessness.
该公司的财务报表明显存在疏忽，需要进行彻底的重新审计。
The company's financial statements clearly show negligence, requiring a thorough re-audit.
Formal financial context, suggesting significant errors.
我们不能简单地将此次事件归咎于个别员工的疏忽，而应反思整个体系的漏洞。
We cannot simply attribute this incident to the carelessness of individual employees, but should reflect on the systemic flaws.
Critically analyzing causes, moving beyond individual blame.
对文化差异的疏忽可能导致跨国合作项目遭遇意想不到的障碍。
An oversight of cultural differences can lead to unexpected obstacles in international cooperation projects.
Complex scenario involving cultural nuances and project management.
历史的教训告诉我们，对细节的疏忽往往是导致重大危机的导火索。
The lessons of history tell us that an oversight of details is often the fuse that leads to major crises.
Historical perspective, using metaphorical language ('导火索').
在追求效率的过程中，我们必须警惕疏忽可能带来的潜在风险。
In the pursuit of efficiency, we must be wary of the potential risks that carelessness may bring.
Balancing competing priorities and potential downsides.
他因疏忽而未能预见到市场趋势的变化，导致其投资策略失误。
He failed to foresee changes in market trends due to carelessness, leading to errors in his investment strategy.
Financial and market analysis context.
这种疏忽并非源于能力不足，而是由于信息过载和判断失误。
This carelessness did not stem from a lack of ability, but rather from information overload and misjudgment.
Analyzing the root causes of carelessness in a complex environment.
监管机构要求企业加强内部控制，以杜绝因疏忽而产生的违规行为。
Regulatory agencies require companies to strengthen internal controls to eliminate non-compliant behavior arising from carelessness.
Regulatory and compliance context.
科学研究的严谨性要求我们对每一个细微之处都不能掉以轻心，任何疏忽都可能颠覆数年的研究成果。
The rigor of scientific research demands that we not take any minute detail lightly; any oversight could subvert years of research findings.
Emphasizing extreme meticulousness in high-stakes fields like science.
历史的车轮滚滚向前，然而那些被疏忽的细节，却常常在不经意间重塑着文明的走向。
The wheels of history roll forward, yet the details that were overlooked often reshape the course of civilization inadvertently.
Philosophical and historical reflection on the impact of overlooked details.
在高度互联的现代社会，一个看似微不足道的疏忽，有可能引发连锁反应，其影响范围之广、程度之深，远超想象。
In our highly interconnected modern society, a seemingly insignificant oversight can trigger a chain reaction, its scope and depth far beyond imagination.
Discussing the amplified consequences of carelessness in a globalized world.
我们必须区分故意的漠视与无意的疏忽，前者是道德的沦丧，后者则可能是系统性风险管理失效的征兆。
We must distinguish between deliberate disregard and unintentional carelessness; the former is moral decay, while the latter may be a symptom of systemic risk management failure.
Nuanced distinction between intentional and unintentional errors, with implications for systemic analysis.
鉴于其疏忽的严重性及其对公共安全的潜在威胁，法院判处其承担全部责任。
Given the severity of his carelessness and its potential threat to public safety, the court ordered him to bear full responsibility.
Legal context, emphasizing severity and responsibility.
在艺术创作中，有时正是那些看似疏忽的笔触，构成了作品独特的情感张力与深度。
In artistic creation, it is sometimes precisely those seemingly careless brushstrokes that constitute the unique emotional tension and depth of a work.
Paradoxical use of 'carelessness' in art to create depth.
任何试图将复杂问题的根源简单归结为某人的疏忽的做法，都是对现实的过度简化。
Any attempt to simply attribute the root of complex problems to someone's carelessness is an oversimplification of reality.
Critiquing simplistic explanations for complex issues.
我们必须认识到，在快速变化的时代，对新知识和新趋势的疏忽，无异于自掘坟墓。
We must recognize that in rapidly changing times, neglecting new knowledge and trends is tantamount to digging one's own grave.
Metaphorical warning about the consequences of ignoring progress.
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
— Carelessness and lack of attention; a general state of being unmindful.
他的疏忽大意导致了整个项目的失败。
Often Confused With
'疏忽' means unintentional carelessness or oversight, while '忽视' means to ignore or disregard, often intentionally. You '疏忽' something you fail to notice; you '忽视' something you notice but choose not to acknowledge.
Very similar to '疏忽', both meaning carelessness. '大意' can sometimes imply a less severe mistake or a more general lack of carefulness. They are often interchangeable.
'马虎' describes a general trait of being careless or sloppy, whereas '疏忽' typically refers to a specific instance of oversight leading to a problem.
Idioms & Expressions
— To take something lightly; to underestimate the seriousness of a situation; to be careless or negligent.
面对如此复杂的局面，我们绝不能掉以轻心。
General— Careless and inattentive; often used to describe a general tendency towards making mistakes due to lack of attention.
他的粗心大意让大家都感到无奈。
General— Careless, sloppy, mediocre. Often used to describe work or performance that is not done with proper care.
这份报告做得马马虎虎，有很多错误。
Informal— To fall short of success when success is almost within reach, due to a final mistake or oversight.
本来一切都准备好了，却因为最后环节的疏忽而功亏一篑。
Formal— Impossible to guard against; too numerous or subtle to defend against. Can sometimes be a consequence of widespread '疏忽'.
这种疏忽带来的风险真是防不胜防。
General— To be infatuated or obsessed; to act foolishly due to some strange influence. While not directly '疏忽', such a state can lead to severe oversights.
他被眼前的利益鬼迷心窍，以至于疏忽了潜在的危险。
General— To not take something seriously; to dismiss it; to be unconcerned. This attitude can lead to '疏忽'.
他总是不以为意，对任何提醒都疏忽对待。
General— To neglect one's duties or responsibilities; to be remiss in one's official obligations.
这位官员因疏忽职守而被严厉谴责。
Formal— To have high aspirations but low ability; to have ambitious ideas but lack the skill or diligence to execute them. This can lead to '疏忽' in the execution phase.
他的眼高手低，导致在执行计划时疏忽了许多重要细节。
General— To attend to one thing and neglect another; to be unable to manage multiple tasks effectively.
在忙碌中，他顾此失彼，最终疏忽了最重要的一环。
GeneralEasily Confused
Both words relate to not paying attention to something.
'疏忽' implies an unintentional failure to notice or a lapse in attention, often leading to a mistake. '忽视' implies a conscious decision to ignore or disregard something, even if it is known. For example, '他<mark>疏忽</mark>了我的警告' might mean he didn't hear it properly, while '他<mark>忽视</mark>了我的警告' means he heard it but chose to ignore it.
由于<mark>疏忽</mark>，他错过了航班。他<mark>忽视</mark>了提醒，结果迟到了。
Both words mean carelessness or oversight.
'疏忽' often carries a stronger implication of a specific mistake with consequences. '大意' can be more general carelessness, sometimes less severe. However, they are very frequently interchangeable in everyday use. For instance, '我一时<mark>疏忽</mark>了' and '我一时<mark>大意</mark>了' convey very similar meanings.
我的<mark>疏忽</mark>导致了错误。他因为<mark>大意</mark>而犯了一个小错误。
'失误' means mistake or error, which is often the result of '疏忽'.
'疏忽' is the cause (carelessness, oversight), while '失误' is the effect (the mistake itself). You can have a '疏忽' that leads to a '失误'. For example, '他的<mark>疏忽</mark>导致了这个<mark>失误</mark>.' (His carelessness led to this mistake.)
这次的<mark>失误</mark>是由于<mark>疏忽</mark>造成的。
Both describe a lack of carefulness.
'马虎' is often used as an adjective describing a person's general character or tendency to be sloppy and careless in their work. '疏忽' is more often used as a verb or noun referring to a specific instance of oversight or neglect that results in a problem. You might say someone is '马虎', and that their '马虎' led to a '疏忽'.
他做事很<mark>马虎</mark>，经常<mark>疏忽</mark>细节。
Forgetting something can be a type of oversight or carelessness.
'忘记' simply means to fail to remember. '疏忽' is broader and implies a lack of attention or diligence that might *result* in forgetting, or it could involve failing to notice something rather than forgetting it. For example, '我<mark>忘记</mark>了带钥匙' is just forgetting. If you were supposed to check if you had the keys before leaving and didn't, that's '疏忽'.
我<mark>忘记</mark>了带钱。由于<mark>疏忽</mark>，我忘了带钱。
Sentence Patterns
Subject + 疏忽 + 了 (le)
我<mark>疏忽</mark>了。
Subject + 疏忽 + Object
他<mark>疏忽</mark>了细节。
由于 + 疏忽 + (，) + Consequence
由于<mark>疏忽</mark>，他迟到了。
不能/不应 + 疏忽 + Object
我们不能<mark>疏忽</mark>安全。
对 + X + 的 + 疏忽 + (导致/造成) + Consequence
对细节的<mark>疏忽</mark>导致了错误。
承认/承担 + (某人的) + 疏忽
他承认了<mark>疏忽</mark>。
X + 的 + 疏忽 + 是/可能 + Consequence
他的<mark>疏忽</mark>是不可原谅的。
因 + 疏忽 + 而 + Verb Phrase
他<mark>因疏忽</mark>而未能完成任务。
Word Family
Nouns
Verbs
Related
How to Use It
Common
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Using '疏忽' for intentional ignorance.
→
He intentionally ignored the warning.
The Chinese equivalent for intentional ignoring is '忽视' (hūshì), not '疏忽' (shūhū). '疏忽' implies an unintentional oversight due to carelessness.
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Confusing '疏忽' with '马虎' in specific instances.
→
My carelessness caused the accident.
'马虎' (mǎhu) describes a general trait of being careless or sloppy. '疏忽' refers to a specific instance of oversight or neglect that leads to a problem. While a '马虎' person might commit '疏忽', they are not the same.
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Omitting '了' (le) when indicating a past instance of carelessness.
→
I was careless.
It is very common and natural to use '了' (le) after '疏忽' when referring to a past instance or state of carelessness, such as '我疏忽了'. Omitting it can sound incomplete or grammatically incorrect in many contexts.
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Using '疏忽' when no problem occurred.
→
I momentarily forgot, but it wasn't a big deal.
'疏忽' often implies a negative consequence. If something was overlooked but had no impact, simpler words like '忘记' (wàngjì - forgot) or '没注意到' (méi zhùyì dào - didn't notice) might be more appropriate.
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Using '疏忽' as a verb modifying an adjective directly.
→
His carelessness was serious.
'疏忽' is primarily a verb or noun. While it can be modified by adjectives (e.g., '重大疏忽' - major oversight), you generally wouldn't say '他疏忽地' (he carelessly) in the same way you might use adverbs in English. Instead, you'd use phrases like '由于他的疏忽' (due to his carelessness).
Tips
Focus on the Consequence
Remember that '疏忽' often implies a negative outcome. When you use it, think about what mistake or problem resulted from the lack of attention. This helps ensure you are using the word correctly and effectively.
Even Tones
Practice saying 'shū hū' with relatively even, high tones. Avoid stressing one syllable over the other too much. Clear articulation of both syllables is key to sounding natural.
The Role of '了'
The particle '了' (le) is frequently used after '疏忽' to indicate a completed action or a change of state (i.e., having been careless). Examples like '我疏忽了' (I was careless) are very common. However, '疏忽' can also be used as a noun without '了'.
Connect to 'Shoo!' and 'Whoops!'
Use the mnemonic of 'shooing' away your attention (shū) and then saying 'whoops!' (hū) when you realize your mistake. This sound association can help you recall the word and its meaning.
疏忽 vs. 忽视
Remember: '疏忽' is unintentional carelessness (you missed it). '忽视' is intentional ignoring (you saw it but didn't care). This distinction is crucial for accurate usage.
Create Your Own Sentences
Try to create at least three sentences using '疏忽' based on your own experiences or observations. This active recall is one of the best ways to solidify your understanding and usage.
Value of Diligence
Understand that in Chinese culture, diligence and attention to detail are highly valued. Therefore, '疏忽' is often seen as a significant failing, especially in professional or academic settings.
Learn Related Terms
Once you're comfortable with '疏忽', explore related words like '大意' (carelessness), '失误' (mistake), and '细心' (careful) to build a richer vocabulary around the concept of errors and attention.
Use in Role-Plays
Practice scenarios where you might need to admit a mistake or explain why something went wrong. Role-playing these situations can help you use '疏忽' more confidently in real conversations.
Memorize It
Mnemonic
Imagine a person trying to carry a stack of important documents, but they are '疏' (sparse) with their grip, and suddenly '忽' (whoops!) they drop them all. The 'sparse' grip and the 'whoops' moment lead to the documents being overlooked and scattered.
Visual Association
Picture a very blurry image or a person with their eyes closed, unable to see important details. The blurriness or closed eyes represent the lack of attention (疏忽).
Word Web
Challenge
Try to recall a time you were careless and something went wrong. Describe that situation using the word '疏忽' and explain the consequence.
Word Origin
The word '疏忽' is a compound word formed from '疏' (shū) and '忽' (hū). Both characters carry meanings related to being distant, sparse, or sudden, which contribute to the overall sense of oversight and lack of connection or attention.
Original meaning: '疏' originally meant sparse, thin, or distant. It can also mean to clear away or dredge. In this context, it implies a lack of density or thoroughness. '忽' originally meant sudden, or to neglect/ignore. The combination suggests a sudden lack of attention or a sparse application of care.
Sino-TibetanCultural Context
While '疏忽' itself is not inherently offensive, using it to blame someone excessively or without empathy can be insensitive. It's important to acknowledge that everyone makes mistakes. In formal settings, the term might be used more clinically to describe the cause of an incident.
In English-speaking cultures, similar concepts exist like 'carelessness,' 'oversight,' 'negligence,' and 'inattention.' The emphasis on responsibility and the negative connotation of mistakes are also shared. However, the specific cultural weight attached to 'face' might differ.
Practice in Real Life
Real-World Contexts
Workplace errors
- 工作中的疏忽
- 由于疏忽导致延误
- 承认工作疏忽
Academic mistakes
- 考试中的疏忽
- 因疏忽而失分
- 避免学习上的疏忽
Daily life oversights
- 一时疏忽
- 忘了锁门
- 因疏忽造成不便
Safety and warnings
- 不能疏忽安全
- 疏忽了危险信号
- 防范疏忽
Explaining accidents
- 事故是由于疏忽
- 承认疏忽是原因
- 重大疏忽
Conversation Starters
"Have you ever made a careless mistake that caused a problem?"
"How do you usually try to avoid being careless in your daily tasks?"
"What's the most serious consequence you've heard of resulting from someone's oversight?"
"Do you think it's more important to be quick or to be careful when doing something important?"
"When you make a mistake, do you tend to blame yourself or external factors?"
Journal Prompts
Describe a situation where your carelessness led to an unexpected outcome. What did you learn from it?
Reflect on a time you were very careful and meticulous. What was the result, and how did it make you feel?
Think about a skill you want to learn. What steps can you take to avoid being careless while practicing it?
Consider the importance of attention to detail in your personal or professional life. How can you improve in this area?
Write about the difference between intentional negligence and unintentional carelessness. Provide examples for each.
Frequently Asked Questions
10 questionsYes, '疏忽' generally carries a negative connotation because it implies a failure or oversight that usually leads to a problem or mistake. While it doesn't necessarily imply malice, the outcome is typically undesirable.
Yes, '疏忽' can be used for minor mistakes, especially if they cause any inconvenience or problem, however small. For example, '一时疏忽' (a momentary oversight) is common. However, for extremely trivial oversights with no consequence, simpler words like '忘记' (forget) might be more common.
'疏忽' is very close to the English concept of 'carelessness' or 'oversight.' 'Negligence' in English often implies a more serious failure to exercise reasonable care, particularly in legal contexts. '疏忽' can cover both minor carelessness and more serious oversight, depending on the context.
Use '疏忽' when the failure to notice or act is due to a lapse in attention or carelessness (unintentional). Use '忽视' when someone intentionally ignores or disregards something (intentional). For example, 'He疏忽d the warning' (didn't properly register it) vs. 'He忽视ed the warning' (saw it but chose to ignore it).
In formal writing, '疏忽' is often used to describe the cause of accidents, errors in reports, or failures in procedures. It might be paired with stronger adjectives like '重大' (major) to indicate serious oversights. For instance, '调查显示，事故是由于重大疏忽所致' (Investigations show the accident was caused by gross negligence).
Yes, '疏忽' can function as a noun meaning 'carelessness' or 'oversight'. For example, '他的疏忽引起了麻烦' (His carelessness caused trouble).
'疏忽' refers to the act of being careless or overlooking something, which is the cause. '失误' refers to the mistake or error itself, which is the result. You can have a '疏忽' that leads to a '失误'.
Yes, the opposite of '疏忽' (carelessness) is words like '细心' (xìxīn - careful, meticulous), '认真' (rènzhēn - serious, conscientious), and '周到' (zhōudào - thorough).
'疏忽' is quite common in everyday conversation when people admit to making mistakes or explain why something went wrong due to a lack of attention. It's a standard word for expressing this type of error.
It is very common to use '了' (le) after '疏忽', especially when referring to a completed action or a state of having been careless. For example, '我疏忽了' (I was careless). However, '疏忽' can also be used without '了' in certain sentence structures, particularly in more formal contexts or when functioning as a noun.
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Summary
疏忽 (shūhū) means to be careless or to overlook something, usually resulting in a mistake or problem. It's about a lapse in attention, not necessarily intentional malice. Example: '由于我的疏忽，我迟到了。' (Due to my carelessness, I was late.)
- Carelessness leading to mistakes.
- An oversight with negative consequences.
- Failure to pay attention, causing problems.
- Neglecting details due to lack of diligence.
Focus on the Consequence
Remember that '疏忽' often implies a negative outcome. When you use it, think about what mistake or problem resulted from the lack of attention. This helps ensure you are using the word correctly and effectively.
Even Tones
Practice saying 'shū hū' with relatively even, high tones. Avoid stressing one syllable over the other too much. Clear articulation of both syllables is key to sounding natural.
Context is Key
Pay attention to the context in which '疏忽' is used. Is it a minor personal mistake, a professional error, or a serious incident? Understanding the context will help you use it appropriately and differentiate it from similar words.
The Role of '了'
The particle '了' (le) is frequently used after '疏忽' to indicate a completed action or a change of state (i.e., having been careless). Examples like '我疏忽了' (I was careless) are very common. However, '疏忽' can also be used as a noun without '了'.
Example
由于管理上的疏忽，工厂发生了火灾。
