减薪 in 30 Seconds
- 减薪 (jiǎnxīn) means to cut salary.
- It's a verb used when pay is reduced.
- Often happens due to company financial issues.
- Can be temporary or permanent.
- Verb
- To reduce someone's salary or pay.
- Context
- This term is commonly used in professional and economic contexts, referring to a decrease in wages. It can be implemented by employers due to various reasons, such as financial difficulties, company restructuring, or as a disciplinary measure. Employees might also face this situation when changing jobs to a lower-paying position or during economic downturns. The implications of a salary cut can be significant for an individual's financial well-being and morale.
公司因为经营不善，决定对所有员工进行减薪。
在经济不景气的时候，很多公司都不得不减薪以维持运营。
- Usage Note
- While it can be a company-wide decision, an individual might also experience '减薪' if they accept a demotion or a role with a lower pay grade. It's a significant event that impacts personal finances and career progression.
他因为犯了错误，被减薪了。
政府可能会考虑减薪来刺激消费。
如果你在新公司接受了减薪，需要仔细考虑你的财务规划。
- Basic Structure
- Subject + 减薪 (verb) + Object (optional, e.g., salary, pay).
The company decided to 减薪 for all employees.
- With Reasons
- Often, a reason is provided for the salary reduction. This can be introduced with conjunctions or prepositions indicating cause.
Because of the economic crisis, the factory had to 减薪.
- Passive Voice (Implied)
- Sometimes, the subject performing the action isn't explicitly stated, implying that the salary reduction happened to someone.
He was 减薪 due to poor performance.
- With Specific Amounts/Percentages
- It's common to specify the extent of the salary reduction.
The company announced a 10% 减薪.
- In Negotiations
- This term can appear in discussions about employment terms.
We are negotiating a contract that includes a potential 减薪 clause.
- News Reports
- You will frequently encounter '减薪' in news articles discussing company financial performance, economic trends, or labor disputes. For example, 'Many tech companies have announced salary cuts due to the global economic slowdown.' (许多科技公司宣布减薪以应对全球经济放缓。)
The headline read: 'Airline announces widespread 减薪 for staff.'
- Business Meetings
- In corporate environments, especially during times of financial strain, discussions about budget cuts and operational adjustments will likely involve the term '减薪'. A manager might say, 'Due to decreased profits, we must consider 减薪.' (由于利润下降，我们必须考虑减薪。)
- Labor Negotiations
- When unions and management are negotiating contracts, '减薪' can be a contentious point. A union representative might state, 'We strongly oppose any proposal to 减薪.' (我们坚决反对任何减薪的提议。)
The employees are protesting the company's decision to 减薪.
- Personal Finance Discussions
- In conversations about personal finance or career changes, individuals might discuss their experiences or concerns related to salary reductions. Someone might say, 'I had to accept a 减薪 to switch to a more stable industry.' (我不得不减薪来转行到更稳定的行业。)
- Confusing with '加薪' (jiāxīn)
- The most common mistake is confusing '减薪' (jiǎnxīn - reduce salary) with its antonym '加薪' (jiāxīn - increase salary). The pronunciation is identical, so context is crucial. Ensure you understand whether the salary is going up or down.
Incorrect: 公司决定对员工加薪 (meaning increase salary) when they meant to reduce it.
Correct: 公司决定对员工减薪 (meaning reduce salary).
- Using it for Taxes or Prices
- '减薪' specifically refers to reducing a person's salary or wages. It is not used for reducing taxes (which would be '减税' - jiǎnshuì) or reducing prices of goods (which would be '降价' - jiàngjià).
Incorrect: 政府减薪了税收 (meaning government reduced taxes with salary reduction term).
Correct: 政府减税了 (meaning government reduced taxes).
- Overusing it in Positive Contexts
- '减薪' inherently carries a negative connotation. While a company might implement it for survival, it's not something to be used casually or in contexts where a positive outcome is implied, unless it's to contrast with a worse situation.
Incorrect: 我为能减薪感到高兴 (meaning I am happy to be able to reduce salary).
Correct: 我因为公司减薪而感到担忧 (meaning I am worried because the company reduced salaries).
- 减薪 (jiǎnxīn) vs. 降薪 (jiàngxīn)
- These two terms are virtually synonymous and can often be used interchangeably. Both mean to reduce salary. '降' (jiàng) also implies a downward movement, similar to '减' (jiǎn) meaning to decrease. In most everyday contexts, the choice between them is a matter of personal preference or regional usage.
- Usage Comparison
- - Both are verbs.
- Both are commonly used in news, business, and personal finance discussions.
- There's no significant difference in formality or register between the two.
The company announced a 减薪.
The company announced a 降薪.
- 减薪 (jiǎnxīn) vs. 裁员 (cáiyuán)
- '裁员' (cáiyuán) means to lay off employees or to reduce staff. This is a more drastic measure than '减薪'. While '减薪' means a reduction in pay for existing employees, '裁员' involves terminating employment contracts altogether. A company might choose '减薪' as an alternative to '裁员' to avoid mass layoffs.
- Usage Comparison
- - '减薪' affects the income of current employees.
- '裁员' results in job loss.
- '裁员' is generally considered a more severe action.
The company decided to 减薪 instead of 裁员.
- 减薪 (jiǎnxīn) vs. 降职 (jiàngzhí)
- '降职' (jiàngzhí) means to demote someone, to reduce their rank or position. While a demotion often comes with a salary reduction ('减薪'), they are distinct concepts. One can be demoted without a salary cut (though rare), and a salary cut can happen without a demotion.
- Usage Comparison
- - '降职' refers to a change in job title or level of authority.
- '减薪' refers to a change in the amount of money earned.
- Often, '降职' implies '减薪'.
He was 降职 and also had to accept a 减薪.
How Formal Is It?
Fun Fact
The character '薪' (xīn) itself has an interesting etymology. Its ancient form depicted firewood tied together. The addition of the '艸' (cǎo) radical, meaning grass or plants, further emphasizes its origin from natural materials. The modern usage for salary is a semantic extension.
Pronunciation Guide
- Incorrect tones: Mispronouncing the tones of '减' (jiǎn) and '薪' (xīn) can lead to misunderstanding, especially confusing it with '加薪' (jiāxīn).
- Pronouncing '减' as a fourth tone (jiàn) instead of the typical third tone or its variant in compounds.
- Pronouncing '薪' with a falling tone (xìn) instead of the high flat tone (xīn).
Difficulty Rating
At CEFR A2 level, learners are expected to understand simple texts on familiar topics. '减薪' appears in contexts related to everyday work and economic news, making it accessible with basic vocabulary. Understanding the nuances of why salary cuts happen might require slightly more advanced comprehension.
What to Learn Next
Prerequisites
Learn Next
Advanced
Grammar to Know
Use of 了 (le) for completed actions.
他被减薪了。(He was given a salary cut.) - The '了' indicates the action is completed.
Using '因为' (yīnwèi - because) to state reasons.
因为经济不好，公司减薪。(Because the economy is bad, the company reduced salaries.)
Using '为了' (wèile - in order to) to state purpose.
为了节省开支，公司减薪。(In order to save expenses, the company reduced salaries.)
Using '是否' (shìfǒu - whether or not) in questions.
我们正在讨论是否要减薪。(We are discussing whether or not to reduce salaries.)
Using passive constructions (often implied or with 被 bèi).
他因为表现不好被减薪。(He was given a salary cut due to poor performance.)
Examples by Level
公司因为生意不好，决定减薪。
The company, because business is not good, decided to reduce salaries.
This sentence uses a common structure: Subject (公司) + Reason (因为生意不好) + Verb (决定减薪).
他工作表现不佳，被减薪了。
His work performance was not good, he was given a salary cut.
The particle '了' (le) at the end indicates a completed action.
在经济危机期间，许多人面临减薪的风险。
During the economic crisis, many people faced the risk of salary reduction.
'面临...的风险' (miànlín...de fēngxiǎn) means 'to face the risk of...'
公司为了节省开支，不得不减薪。
The company, in order to save expenses, had to reduce salaries.
'为了' (wèile) means 'in order to'.
老板说如果业绩不好，可能要减薪。
The boss said if performance is not good, maybe we have to reduce salaries.
'可能要' (kěnéng yào) implies 'might have to'.
他不太高兴，因为他的减薪幅度很大。
He is not very happy because the extent of his salary cut is large.
'幅度' (fúdù) means 'extent' or 'magnitude'.
我们正在讨论是否要减薪。
We are discussing whether to reduce salaries.
'是否' (shìfǒu) means 'whether or not'.
这个职位减薪，但工作更稳定。
This position has a salary cut, but the job is more stable.
This sentence presents a trade-off.
由于公司面临严重的财务困境，管理层不得不宣布全员减薪。
Due to the company facing severe financial difficulties, the management had to announce a salary reduction for all staff.
'全员' (quányuán) means 'all staff' or 'entire workforce'.
在与工会的谈判中，公司提出了减薪的方案。
In negotiations with the union, the company proposed a plan for salary reduction.
'方案' (fāng'àn) means 'plan' or 'proposal'.
他拒绝接受减薪，并最终选择了离职。
He refused to accept the salary cut and ultimately chose to resign.
'离职' (lízhí) means 'to resign' or 'to leave one's job'.
虽然减薪令人沮丧，但这是为了公司的长远发展。
Although the salary cut is frustrating, it is for the company's long-term development.
'沮丧' (jǔsàng) means 'frustrated' or 'depressed'. '长远发展' (chángyuǎn fāzhǎn) means 'long-term development'.
一些员工选择接受减薪以避免被裁员。
Some employees chose to accept a salary cut to avoid being laid off.
'避免' (bìmiǎn) means 'to avoid'.
这次的减薪是暂时的，待公司恢复盈利后会恢复原状。
This salary cut is temporary; it will be restored once the company recovers profitability.
'暂时的' (zànshí de) means 'temporary'. '恢复盈利' (huīfù yínglì) means 'to recover profitability'.
他因为频繁迟到而被减薪，这是一种惩罚措施。
He was given a salary cut due to frequent lateness; this is a form of punishment.
'惩罚措施' (chéngfá cuòshī) means 'punishment measure'.
如果公司业绩能够达到预期，那么减薪的决定可能会被撤销。
If the company's performance can meet expectations, the decision to reduce salaries might be revoked.
'预期' (yùqī) means 'expectations'. '撤销' (chèxiāo) means 'to revoke' or 'to cancel'.
鉴于当前严峻的市场形势，公司管理层不得不审慎考虑减薪的可能性。
In view of the current severe market situation, the company's management has to cautiously consider the possibility of salary reduction.
'鉴于' (jiànyú) means 'in view of'. '审慎考虑' (shěnshèn kǎolǜ) means 'to consider cautiously'.
工会强烈反对公司提出的减薪计划，并威胁将采取进一步的工业行动。
The union strongly opposes the company's proposed salary reduction plan and threatens to take further industrial action.
'工业行动' (gōngyè xíngdòng) means 'industrial action' (e.g., strike).
一些分析师认为，这家公司采取减薪措施是为了规避破产的风险。
Some analysts believe that the company's adoption of salary reduction measures is to avoid the risk of bankruptcy.
'规避' (guībì) means 'to evade' or 'to avoid'. '破产' (pòchǎn) means 'bankruptcy'.
尽管减薪对员工士气造成了负面影响，但公司声称这是短期内维持运营的必要之举。
Although the salary cut has had a negative impact on employee morale, the company claims it is a necessary measure to maintain operations in the short term.
'士气' (shìqì) means 'morale'. '必要之举' (bìyào zhī jǔ) means 'a necessary measure'.
他宁愿接受减薪也不愿承担降职的后果。
He would rather accept a salary cut than bear the consequences of a demotion.
'宁愿...也不愿...' (nìngyuàn...yě bù yuàn...) means 'would rather...than...'.
公司发布了最新的财务报告，其中明确指出将进行减薪。
The company released its latest financial report, which clearly states that salary reductions will be made.
'明确指出' (míngquè zhǐchū) means 'clearly states' or 'explicitly points out'.
在某些情况下，减薪可能是一种变相的裁员。
In some cases, salary reduction might be a disguised form of layoff.
'变相的' (biànxiàng de) means 'disguised' or 'in a disguised form'.
为了应对行业内的激烈竞争，一些企业不得不采取减薪策略。
To cope with the fierce competition within the industry, some enterprises have to adopt a salary reduction strategy.
'激烈竞争' (jīliè jìngzhēng) means 'fierce competition'.
面对日益严峻的经济下行压力，企业普遍面临着是否进行减薪的艰难抉择。
Facing increasingly severe economic downturn pressure, enterprises are generally confronted with the difficult choice of whether to implement salary reductions.
'经济下行压力' (jīngjì xiàxíng yālì) means 'economic downturn pressure'. '艰难抉择' (jiānnán juézé) means 'difficult choice'.
工会方面坚持认为，任何形式的减薪都必须经过双方的平等协商并获得批准。
The union side insists that any form of salary reduction must undergo equal negotiation and obtain approval from both parties.
'平等协商' (píngděng xiéshāng) means 'equal negotiation'.
一些经济学家认为，适度的减薪可以帮助企业度过难关，但过度的减薪则可能引发严重的社会问题。
Some economists believe that moderate salary reductions can help companies overcome difficulties, but excessive salary reductions may trigger serious social problems.
'适度的' (shìdù de) means 'moderate'. '过度的' (guòdù de) means 'excessive'.
尽管公司面临重组，但管理层承诺，在非必要情况下不会采取减薪。
Despite the company facing restructuring, management promises that salary reductions will not be implemented unless absolutely necessary.
'重组' (chóngzǔ) means 'restructuring'. '非必要情况下' (fēi bìyào qíngkuàng xià) means 'in non-essential circumstances'.
他认为，与其接受减薪，不如主动寻找新的职业机会。
He believes that rather than accepting a salary cut, it is better to proactively seek new career opportunities.
'与其...不如...' (yǔqí...bùrú...) means 'rather than...it is better to...'.
这次的减薪并非针对个人表现，而是整个行业普遍面临的挑战。
This salary reduction is not targeted at individual performance but is a challenge faced universally by the entire industry.
'普遍的' (pǔbiàn de) means 'universal' or 'widespread'.
公司管理层试图通过减薪来稳定现金流，但此举引发了员工的强烈不满。
The company management attempted to stabilize cash flow through salary reductions, but this move triggered strong dissatisfaction among employees.
'稳定现金流' (wěndìng xiànjīn liú) means 'to stabilize cash flow'. '强烈不满' (qiángliè bùmǎn) means 'strong dissatisfaction'.
在某些特殊时期，政府可能会出台政策鼓励企业减薪，以减轻企业负担。
During certain special periods, the government may introduce policies to encourage enterprises to reduce salaries, in order to alleviate the burden on businesses.
'出台政策' (chūtái zhèngcè) means 'to introduce policies'. '减轻企业负担' (jiǎnqīng qǐyè fùdān) means 'to alleviate the burden on businesses'.
企业在面临生存危机时，往往不得不采取减薪这一极端措施，以期能够度过经济寒冬。
When facing a survival crisis, enterprises often have to adopt the extreme measure of salary reduction, in the hope of weathering the economic winter.
'生存危机' (shēngcún wēijī) means 'survival crisis'. '经济寒冬' (jīngjì hándōng) means 'economic winter'.
工会与资方就减薪问题展开了马拉松式的谈判，其间充满了博弈与妥协。
The union and the employer engaged in marathon-like negotiations regarding the issue of salary reduction, which was filled with bargaining and compromise.
'资方' (zīfāng) means 'the employer' or 'capital side'. '博弈' (bóyì) means 'game' or 'bargaining'.
某些评论员认为，将减薪视为一种对员工的惩罚，未免过于简单化，忽视了其背后复杂的经济动因。
Some commentators believe that viewing salary reduction as a punishment for employees is an oversimplification, neglecting the complex economic drivers behind it.
'过于简单化' (guòyú jiǎndānhuà) means 'oversimplification'. '经济动因' (jīngjì dòngyīn) means 'economic drivers'.
在国际金融风暴的冲击下，许多跨国公司被迫对全球员工实施减薪，以期削减成本。
Under the impact of the international financial storm, many multinational corporations were forced to implement salary reductions for their global employees, in order to cut costs.
'跨国公司' (kuàguó gōngsī) means 'multinational corporations'. '削减成本' (xuējiǎn chéngběn) means 'to cut costs'.
他坚信，与其在原地接受减薪，不如勇于跳出舒适区，去探索更广阔的职业天地。
He firmly believes that rather than accepting a salary cut in the same place, it is better to bravely step out of the comfort zone and explore a broader career landscape.
'舒适区' (shūshì qū) means 'comfort zone'.
公司管理层在宣布减薪时，试图通过强调其暂时性和对未来恢复的承诺来安抚员工情绪。
When announcing the salary reduction, the company management attempted to appease employee emotions by emphasizing its temporary nature and the commitment to future recovery.
'安抚' (ānfǔ) means 'to appease' or 'to pacify'.
长期减薪不仅会严重损害员工的经济利益，更可能导致人才流失和企业竞争力的下降。
Long-term salary reductions will not only severely harm employees' economic interests but may also lead to talent drain and a decline in corporate competitiveness.
'人才流失' (réncái liúshī) means 'talent drain'. '竞争力' (jìngzhēnglì) means 'competitiveness'.
在某些特定的经济环境下，减薪或许是企业在困境中求生的无奈之举，但其对社会稳定性的潜在影响不容忽视。
In certain specific economic environments, salary reduction might be a helpless measure for businesses to survive in adversity, but its potential impact on social stability cannot be ignored.
'无奈之举' (wúnài zhī jǔ) means 'a helpless measure'. '不容忽视' (bùróng hūshì) means 'cannot be ignored'.
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
— The company is reducing salaries.
由于市场竞争激烈，这家公司不得不减薪。
— Facing a salary cut.
在经济不景气时，很多职员都面临减薪。
— To accept a salary reduction.
为了保住工作，他选择了接受减薪。
— Salary reduction for all employees.
公司宣布了全员减薪的决定。
— Forced to accept a salary cut.
由于经营困难，公司被迫减薪。
— A significant salary cut.
他因为失误接受了大幅减薪。
— Temporary salary reduction.
这次的减薪只是暂时的，等公司好转就会恢复。
— To avoid a salary cut.
员工们都在努力工作，希望能避免减薪。
— Dissatisfied due to salary cut.
许多员工因减薪而感到不满。
— To discuss salary reduction.
管理层正在讨论是否要减薪。
Often Confused With
The most common confusion is with '加薪' (jiāxīn), which means to increase salary. Both words have the same tones for the second character ('薪') and are pronounced very similarly, making pronunciation and context crucial for distinction.
'降价' means to reduce the price of goods. While both involve reduction, '减薪' specifically refers to reducing personal income, not product prices.
'减税' means to reduce taxes. This is a policy related to government revenue, whereas '减薪' concerns employee compensation.
Idioms & Expressions
— Literally means 'a cup of water on a burning cart'. It refers to a measure that is too meager to be effective, often used to describe a small contribution or effort that cannot solve a large problem. While not directly about salary, it can be used to describe a salary cut that is too small to help a company in severe financial distress.
公司减薪的幅度太小了，简直是杯水车薪，根本无法解决问题。(The company's salary cut is too small, it's like a drop in the ocean, unable to solve the problem.)
Idiomatic/Figurative— Literally means 'to drink poison to quench thirst'. It refers to a short-sighted solution that solves an immediate problem but creates a worse one in the long run. A company might implement a drastic salary cut as a quick fix, but it could lead to employee exodus and long-term damage.
为了短期生存而减薪，无异于饮鸩止渴。(Reducing salaries for short-term survival is no different from drinking poison to quench thirst.)
Idiomatic/Figurative— Literally means 'open up sources and reduce outflows'. This is a common business strategy to improve financial health by increasing revenue ('开源') and decreasing expenses ('节流'). '减薪' falls under the '节流' part.
公司需要开源节流，其中减薪是节流的一种方式。(The company needs to increase revenue and reduce expenses; salary reduction is one way to reduce expenses.)
Idiomatic/Business— Literally means 'to tear down the east wall to mend the west wall'. It refers to using funds or resources from one area to cover a deficit in another, a temporary and often unsustainable solution. A company might use funds from one department's budget to cover another's deficit, which could eventually lead to salary cuts if not managed well.
公司这样做减薪，有点拆东墙补西墙的意思。(The company's salary cut feels like robbing Peter to pay Paul.)
Idiomatic/Figurative— Literally means 'to do something because there is no other choice'. It implies an action taken out of necessity, often reluctantly. A company might resort to '减薪' because it's the only option to survive.
公司减薪是不得已而为之的决定。(The company's decision to reduce salaries was taken out of necessity.)
Idiomatic/General— Literally means 'income does not meet expenditure'. This describes a situation where one's income is insufficient to cover their expenses. While it primarily describes personal finance, it can also be used to describe a company's financial state, which might lead to salary cuts.
如果公司一直入不敷出，最终可能不得不减薪。(If the company continues to have more expenses than income, it may eventually have to reduce salaries.)
Idiomatic/Financial— Literally means 'to slim down'. In a business context, it refers to reducing the size of the company, often by cutting costs, which can include layoffs or salary reductions.
公司为了瘦身，进行了一轮减薪。(To slim down, the company carried out a round of salary cuts.)
Business/Figurative— Literally means 'cut off an arm to save one's life'. This is a drastic idiom referring to making a severe sacrifice to survive. A company might consider drastic measures, including significant salary cuts, as a form of '断臂求生'.
面对破产危机，公司减薪的决定，无异于断臂求生。(The company's decision to reduce salaries in the face of bankruptcy is akin to cutting off an arm to save one's life.)
Idiomatic/Figurative/Extreme— Literally means 'to budget carefully and meticulously'. While it implies careful financial management, it can be contrasted with the drastic measure of '减薪'. A company that is '精打细算' might try to avoid salary cuts through efficient management.
老板精打细算，希望避免减薪。(The boss is budgeting meticulously, hoping to avoid salary cuts.)
Idiomatic/General— Literally means 'adding frost to snow'. It refers to making a bad situation even worse. If employees are already struggling financially, a salary cut would be '雪上加霜'.
对于那些本已入不敷出的员工来说，减薪无疑是雪上加霜。(For employees who are already struggling financially, a salary cut is undoubtedly adding insult to injury.)
Idiomatic/FigurativeEasily Confused
Identical tones for the second character and very similar pronunciation for the first character can lead to confusion.
While '减薪' (jiǎnxīn) means to lower salary, '加薪' (jiāxīn) means to raise salary. The core difference lies in the direction of the change: decrease versus increase. Context is essential to differentiate.
公司<mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>减薪</mark>了。(The company cut salaries.) vs. 公司<mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>加薪</mark>了。(The company increased salaries.)
Pronounced identically to '减薪' (jiǎnxīn) and carries the same meaning.
'减薪' and '降薪' are virtually synonymous. Both mean to reduce salary. There is no significant difference in meaning, usage, or formality between them.
公司<mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>减薪</mark>。(The company reduced salaries.) / 公司<mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>降薪</mark>。(The company reduced salaries.)
Both are negative actions taken by companies that affect employees' financial well-being. They often occur in similar economic situations.
'减薪' involves reducing the pay of existing employees, while '裁员' involves laying off employees, meaning termination of employment. '减薪' keeps employees but reduces their income, whereas '裁员' removes employees from the payroll altogether.
公司<mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>减薪</mark>是为了避免<mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>裁员</mark>。(The company reduced salaries to avoid layoffs.)
A demotion ('降职') often comes with a salary cut ('减薪'). The two are frequently linked.
'降职' refers to a reduction in job rank or position, while '减薪' refers specifically to a reduction in pay. One can be demoted without a pay cut (though less common), and a pay cut can occur without a demotion.
他<mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>降职</mark>了，同时薪水也<mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>减了</mark>。(He was demoted, and his salary was also cut.)
Both involve reducing pay.
'减薪' generally refers to a systematic reduction of the base salary, often due to company-wide financial issues or policy changes. '扣薪' typically refers to specific deductions from an employee's pay for infractions like lateness, absence, or damage, rather than a general salary reduction.
公司<mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>减薪</mark>了。(The company reduced salaries.) vs. 他因为迟到<mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>扣薪</mark>了。(He had pay deducted for being late.)
Sentence Patterns
Subject + 减薪。
公司<mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>减薪</mark>。
Subject + 减薪 + 了。
他被<mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>减薪</mark>了。
因为 + Reason, Subject + 减薪。
因为经济不好，公司<mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>减薪</mark>。
Subject + 接受 + 减薪。
他接受了<mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>减薪</mark>。
Subject + 考虑 + 减薪。
管理层在考虑<mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>减薪</mark>。
Subject + 采取 + 减薪 + 措施。
公司采取了<mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>减薪</mark>措施。
Subject + 宁愿 + 减薪 + 也不愿 + Other Action。
他宁愿<mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>减薪</mark>也不愿被裁员。
面对 + Situation, Subject + 不得不 + 减薪。
面对经济危机，公司<mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>不得不</mark>进行<mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>减薪</mark>。
Word Family
Nouns
Verbs
Related
How to Use It
Common, especially in news and business contexts.
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Confusing 减薪 (jiǎnxīn) with 加薪 (jiāxīn).
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减薪 (jiǎnxīn) means to reduce salary, while 加薪 (jiāxīn) means to increase salary.
The pronunciation is very similar, especially the 'xīn' part. Learners often struggle with the tones and the initial sounds. Always listen carefully to the context to determine if the salary is going up or down.
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Using 减薪 (jiǎnxīn) for reducing prices or taxes.
→
Use 降价 (jiàngjià) for reducing prices and 减税 (jiǎnshuì) for reducing taxes.
'减薪' is specifically for personal income or wages. Applying it to goods or taxes is incorrect. Remember that '薪' refers to compensation for labor.
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Assuming 减薪 (jiǎnxīn) is always a permanent and negative event.
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减薪 can be temporary and sometimes a necessary measure to avoid worse outcomes like layoffs.
While generally negative, context matters. A temporary '减薪' might be presented as a way to keep the company afloat and preserve jobs, making it a less severe option than '裁员'.
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Mispronouncing the tones.
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减 (jiǎn) is typically third tone (though often sounds rising in compounds), and 薪 (xīn) is first tone.
Incorrect tones can lead to misinterpretation, especially confusing it with '加薪'. Consistent practice with native speaker audio is recommended.
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Using 减薪 (jiǎnxīn) in informal contexts where it sounds too serious.
→
Use simpler or more figurative language in very informal settings if appropriate.
While '减薪' is common, in very casual chat, especially among friends, one might use more colloquial expressions or focus on the consequence rather than the term itself, unless the topic is directly about work finances.
Tips
Mastering the Tones
The tones are crucial for distinguishing '减薪' (jiǎnxīn) from '加薪' (jiāxīn). Practice the third tone for '减' (jiǎn) and the first tone for '薪' (xīn). Listen to native speakers and mimic their pronunciation.
Understanding the Context
Always pay attention to the context when you hear or read '减薪'. Is it about a company-wide cut, an individual's pay reduction, or a temporary measure? This will help you grasp the full meaning.
Related Terms
Learn related terms like '加薪' (increase salary), '降薪' (synonym for reduce salary), '裁员' (layoff), and '降职' (demote). Understanding these will enrich your vocabulary and comprehension.
Using it in Sentences
Start by using '减薪' in simple sentences like '公司减薪了'. Gradually try to use it in more complex sentences, explaining the reasons or consequences.
Cultural Nuances
Remember that '减薪' can be a sensitive topic. Be mindful of the context and tone when discussing it, as it often relates to financial hardship and employee morale.
Memory Aids
Use mnemonics like imagining a minus sign ('减') over a salary check ('薪') to remember the meaning. Visual associations or creating short stories can also be very effective.
Active Practice
Engage in practice exercises like fill-in-the-blanks and sentence ordering. Try to actively use the word in your own speaking and writing practice.
Active Listening
Listen to Chinese news, podcasts, or dramas that discuss business or economic topics. Pay attention to how and when '减薪' is used by native speakers.
Extensive Reading
Read articles about business and finance in Chinese. This will expose you to various contexts where '减薪' is used and help you understand its implications.
Comparing with Similar Words
Actively compare '减薪' with its synonyms ('降薪') and related terms ('裁员', '降职'). Understanding their differences and similarities will improve your accuracy.
Memorize It
Mnemonic
Imagine a '减' (jiǎn) sign, like a minus sign, over a picture of a salary slip ('薪' - xīn). The minus sign indicates that the salary is being reduced. So, '减' + '薪' = salary reduction.
Visual Association
Picture a very sad-looking employee holding a salary check with a large red 'X' or a downward arrow crossing it out. The 'X' or arrow visually represents '减' (reduce), and the check represents '薪' (salary).
Word Web
Challenge
Try to create your own short story or sentence using '减薪' and at least two other related words like '公司' and '经济'. For example: '因为经济不景气，这家公司不得不减薪。'
Word Origin
The word '减薪' is a compound word formed by combining two characters: '减' (jiǎn) and '薪' (xīn). '减' means to reduce, decrease, or subtract, while '薪' originally referred to firewood, but in modern Chinese, it has evolved to mean salary or wages, often in the context of compensation for labor.
Original meaning: The character '薪' (xīn) originally referred to firewood, essential for cooking and heating. In ancient times, compensation for labor might have been in kind, including provisions like firewood. Over time, the meaning shifted to encompass monetary payment for work.
Sino-TibetanCultural Context
The topic of salary reduction is sensitive. When discussing it, it's important to be empathetic and acknowledge the potential financial and emotional impact on individuals. Avoid making light of the situation or using the term casually in contexts where it's not appropriate.
In English-speaking cultures, salary cuts are also generally viewed negatively, impacting personal finances and morale. However, the cultural emphasis on individualism might lead to more direct expressions of dissatisfaction compared to some Asian cultures.
Practice in Real Life
Real-World Contexts
Company financial reports and news about economic downturns.
- 公司<mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>减薪</mark>
- 面临<mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>减薪</mark>
- 经济下行导致<mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>减薪</mark>
Employee-employer negotiations or discussions about job security.
- 接受<mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>减薪</mark>
- 避免<mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>减薪</mark>
- 讨论<mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>减薪</mark>方案
Personal finance and career change discussions.
- 因为<mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>减薪</mark>而考虑换工作
- 接受了<mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>减薪</mark>但工作更稳定
- 计划<mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>减薪</mark>来节省开支
News about government policies affecting employment and wages.
- 政府鼓励企业<mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>减薪</mark>
- <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>减薪</mark>对经济的影响
Disciplinary actions within a workplace.
- 因表现不佳被<mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>减薪</mark>
- 被<mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>减薪</mark>作为惩罚
Conversation Starters
"Have you heard about the recent news regarding salary cuts in the tech industry?"
"If your company were to announce a salary reduction, how would you react?"
"What do you think are the main reasons companies decide to cut salaries?"
"Is a salary cut always a bad thing, or can it sometimes lead to positive outcomes for a company?"
"How do you think a salary cut might affect employee morale and productivity?"
Journal Prompts
Describe a hypothetical situation where you or someone you know might face a salary cut. What would be the reasons and consequences?
Reflect on the term '减薪'. How does it make you feel? What are your initial thoughts when you hear this word?
Imagine you are a manager who has to announce a salary cut to your team. What would you say, and how would you try to mitigate the negative impact?
Compare and contrast '减薪' with '裁员'. In which situations might one be preferred over the other?
Write a short fictional story about a character who experiences a significant salary cut. How do they cope with the change?
Frequently Asked Questions
10 questionsThe character '减' (jiǎn) means to reduce, decrease, or subtract. The character '薪' (xīn) refers to salary or wages. Therefore, '减薪' literally means 'reduce salary'.
Generally, '减薪' is considered a negative event for employees as it reduces their income. However, it can be a necessary measure for a company to survive difficult economic times, potentially saving jobs that would otherwise be lost through layoffs ('裁员'). In such cases, it might be seen as a less severe alternative.
The difference is opposite: '减薪' (jiǎnxīn) means to reduce salary, while '加薪' (jiāxīn) means to increase salary. They are direct antonyms. The pronunciation is very similar, so context is key to differentiate.
In many jurisdictions, companies cannot unilaterally force employees to accept a salary cut if it's not stipulated in the employment contract. Often, it requires negotiation, agreement from the employee, or a formal amendment to the contract. However, in severe financial distress, a company might present it as a condition of continued employment, leading to a difficult choice for the employee.
Yes, '降薪' (jiàngxīn) is a very close synonym and is often used interchangeably with '减薪'. Both mean to reduce salary. Other related terms include '削减工资' (xuējiǎn gōngzī - cut wages, more formal) and '扣薪' (kòuxīn - deduct pay, often for specific infractions).
Common reasons include economic recession, decreased company profits, high operating costs, restructuring, or as a disciplinary measure for employees who have performed poorly or committed infractions.
Generally, '减薪' negatively impacts employee morale, leading to dissatisfaction, anxiety about finances, and reduced motivation. It can also damage trust between employees and management.
Yes, '减薪' can be temporary. Companies often state that salary reductions are a temporary measure to help the company weather a financial storm, with the promise of restoring salaries once profitability improves.
'减薪' means to reduce the salary of existing employees, while '裁员' means to lay off employees, terminating their employment. A company might choose '减薪' to avoid '裁员'.
You would hear '减薪' in news reports about companies or the economy, in business meetings discussing financial adjustments, during labor negotiations, or in personal conversations about work and finances.
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Summary
减薪 (jiǎnxīn) is a verb meaning to reduce salary or pay. It's commonly used when companies face financial difficulties or during economic downturns, impacting employees' income.
- 减薪 (jiǎnxīn) means to cut salary.
- It's a verb used when pay is reduced.
- Often happens due to company financial issues.
- Can be temporary or permanent.
Mastering the Tones
The tones are crucial for distinguishing '减薪' (jiǎnxīn) from '加薪' (jiāxīn). Practice the third tone for '减' (jiǎn) and the first tone for '薪' (xīn). Listen to native speakers and mimic their pronunciation.
Understanding the Context
Always pay attention to the context when you hear or read '减薪'. Is it about a company-wide cut, an individual's pay reduction, or a temporary measure? This will help you grasp the full meaning.
Related Terms
Learn related terms like '加薪' (increase salary), '降薪' (synonym for reduce salary), '裁员' (layoff), and '降职' (demote). Understanding these will enrich your vocabulary and comprehension.
Using it in Sentences
Start by using '减薪' in simple sentences like '公司减薪了'. Gradually try to use it in more complex sentences, explaining the reasons or consequences.
Related Content
More work words
充裕的
B2Abundant, ample, or sufficient in quantity.
事故
A2accident; mishap
依照
A2According to; in accordance with.
准确地
A2accurately, precisely
做到
A2to achieve; to accomplish
积极地
A2actively; enthusiastically
应变
B2Adaptive; capable of dealing with emergencies.
行政
A2Administration; the management of affairs.
过后
A2Afterwards; at a later or subsequent time.
赞同
A2To approve of, to endorse; to agree with or support.
