When something is 潦草 (liáocǎo), it means it's done quickly and without much care. Think of messy handwriting or a drawing that's not very neat. It often describes something that looks a bit sloppy or rushed. So, if your notes are hard to read because you wrote them too fast, they might be considered 潦草. It's the opposite of being careful and precise.
When something is 潦草 (liáocǎo), it means it's done quickly and without much care. Think of it like writing something in a hurry, so your handwriting looks messy or scrawled. It's not neat or precise.
You can use 潦草 to describe handwriting, a drawing, or even someone's work if it's done in a sloppy way. It implies a lack of attention to detail and a rushed effort. It's usually not a compliment!
When something is 潦草 (liáocǎo), it means it's done quickly, without much care, and often looks messy or unorganized. Think of it like a hurried drawing that's hard to make out, or messy handwriting that's difficult to read. It implies a lack of attention to detail and a rushed effort. You can use it to describe handwriting, work, or even someone's general demeanor if they're acting carelessly.
When we describe something as 潦草 (liáocǎo), we're saying it's done quickly and without much care, resulting in a sloppy or messy outcome. Think of it as the opposite of meticulous or neat.
It's often used to describe handwriting that's difficult to read because it's scrawled, or a piece of work that's clearly rushed and lacks attention to detail.
You might hear someone say, "他的字写得很潦草," meaning "His handwriting is very sloppy." Or, if a project isn't well-executed, one could comment, "这份报告写得太潦草了," indicating "This report was written too carelessly."
Essentially, 潦草 captures that sense of something being thrown together without proper effort.
When we say something is 潦草 (liáocǎo), it means it's done quickly and without much care, resulting in a messy or untidy outcome. It often describes handwriting that is difficult to read because it’s scrawled, but it can also refer to a job or task that was executed sloppily. Think of it as the opposite of neat, meticulous, or carefully planned. So, if your notes are messy, you can say your handwriting is 潦草.
潦草 in 30 Seconds
- hasty
- careless
- sloppy
Let's talk about a really useful Chinese adjective: 潦草 (liáocǎo). This word is all about things that are done hastily, carelessly, or are just plain sloppy. If you've ever had to write something quickly and it turned out messy, or if someone did a job without much attention to detail, then 潦草 is the perfect word to describe that situation.
§ What 潦草 means
- Definition
- Hasty and careless; sloppy; scrawled.
So, when we say something is 潦草, we're focusing on the lack of care and attention. It implies a hurried execution that results in a poor or untidy outcome. Think about handwriting, a piece of artwork, or even a plan. If it's 潦草, it's not well-thought-out or neatly presented.
§ When to use 潦草
You'll find 潦草 used in many everyday situations. Here are some common contexts:
- Handwriting: This is probably one of the most frequent uses. If your writing is messy and hard to read because you rushed, it's 潦草.
- Work or tasks: If someone does a job quickly but without much effort, leading to mistakes or a poor result, you can say their work is 潦草.
- Sketches or drawings: A quick, rough sketch that isn't detailed or neat can be described as 潦草.
- Speeches or plans: If a speech is poorly prepared or a plan isn't well-thought-out, it can also be considered 潦草.
The key idea is always about a lack of meticulousness or carefulness. It's not about being bad at something, but about not putting in the necessary effort or time.
§ Examples of 潦草 in use
他的字写得太潦草了，我看不懂。
Translation hint: His handwriting is too sloppy, I can't read it.
这份报告写得很潦草，需要重新修改。
Translation hint: This report is written very hastily, it needs to be revised.
他做事总是这么潦草，结果经常出错。
Translation hint: He always does things so carelessly, and as a result, he often makes mistakes.
So next time you see something that looks rushed or untidy, remember the word 潦草. It's a versatile adjective that will help you describe those situations accurately in Chinese. Keep practicing how to use it in different sentences!
§ Understanding "lǎocǎo" (潦草)
Alright, let's get into how to properly use 潦草 (lǎocǎo). This word is an adjective, and it describes things that are done hastily and without care. Think 'sloppy,' 'careless,' or 'scrawled.' It's pretty straightforward, but knowing the nuances will make your Chinese sound more natural.
- DEFINITION
- Hasty and careless; sloppy; scrawled.
The most common use of 潦草 is to describe handwriting or drawing that is messy and hard to read. But it can also describe work, actions, or even a lifestyle that lacks care and attention to detail.
§ Basic Sentence Structures with "lǎocǎo"
You can use 潦草 just like many other adjectives in Chinese. Here are the basic ways:
- Subject + 潦草: This is the simplest form.
他的字很潦草，我看不懂。
Tā de zì hěn lǎocǎo, wǒ kànbùdǒng.
(His handwriting is very sloppy, I can't read it.)
- Subject + Verb + 得 + 潦草: This structure shows how an action is performed.
他写得太潦草了。
Tā xiě de tài lǎocǎo le.
(He writes too sloppily.)
§ Describing Nouns with "lǎocǎo"
You can directly modify a noun using 潦草的 (lǎocǎo de). This is very common when talking about things like notes, signatures, or drawings.
这是一张潦草的草图。
Zhè shì yī zhāng lǎocǎo de cǎotú.
(This is a sloppy sketch.)
不要写潦草的字。
Bùyào xiě lǎocǎo de zì.
(Don't write scrawled characters.)
§ "lǎocǎo" for Actions and Manner
Beyond handwriting, 潦草 can describe a general lack of care in how something is done, or even how one lives.
他的工作很潦草，总是出错。
Tā de gōngzuò hěn lǎocǎo, zǒng shì chūcuò.
(His work is very sloppy, always making mistakes.)
她生活得很潦草。
Tā shēnghuó de hěn lǎocǎo.
(She lives a very careless/sloppy life.)
§ Common Combinations and Adverbs
You'll often hear 潦草 combined with adverbs that intensify or modify its meaning.
- 非常 / 很 / 太 + 潦草: Very / Very / Too sloppy.
这份报告写得非常潦草。
Zhè fèn bàogào xiě de fēicháng lǎocǎo.
(This report is written very sloppily.)
- 草草了事 (cǎocǎo liǎoshì): This is a common idiom that includes 潦草's root character 草 (cǎo). It means 'to do things carelessly and hastily.'
他总是草草了事，所以工作质量不好。
Tā zǒng shì cǎocǎo liǎoshì, suǒyǐ gōngzuò zhìliàng bù hǎo.
(He always does things carelessly and hastily, so the quality of his work is not good.)
§ Prepositions with "lǎocǎo"
潦草 itself doesn't directly use prepositions in the same way English might. Instead, the prepositions are usually part of the verb phrase that 潦草 is modifying.
For example, you wouldn't say '潦草 with something.' You'd say 'write with 潦草 handwriting' (用潦草的字写) or 'do something in a 潦草 way' (以潦草的方式做某事).
他用一支铅笔潦草地写了一个名字。
Tā yòng yī zhī qiānbǐ lǎocǎo de xiě le yī gè míngzì.
(He scrawled a name with a pencil.)
Here, 用 (yòng) means 'to use,' and it introduces the instrument, not directly relating to 潦草. The 地 (de) particle turns 潦草 into an adverb, describing how he wrote.
Keep practicing these structures, and you'll get a good feel for when and how to use 潦草 correctly. It's a useful word for describing a common human trait (or flaw!), so you'll hear it a lot.
§ Common Uses of 潦草
Alright, so you've got a handle on what 潦草 (liáocǎo) means: hasty, careless, sloppy, or scrawled. Now let's dive into where you'll actually hear and use this word in real-life Chinese conversations, specifically in contexts like work, school, and news reports. This isn't academic stuff; this is practical vocabulary you can use to sound more natural.
The key thing to remember about 潦草 is its negative connotation. It's almost always used to describe something that's not up to par because of a lack of effort or attention to detail. Think of it as the opposite of meticulous or careful.
§ In a Work Setting
At work, 潦草 often pops up when discussing documents, reports, or even someone's general work ethic. No one wants their work described as 潦草!
- DEFINITION
- When referring to work, 潦草 implies that the task was done without sufficient care, leading to errors or a poor presentation.
这份报告写得很潦草，有很多错别字。(This report is written very sloppily, there are many typos.)
他的工作态度有点潦草，总是敷衍了事。(His work attitude is a bit careless, always doing things perfunctorily.)
§ In a School Setting
In school, 潦草 is most frequently used to describe handwriting or assignments. Teachers will definitely use this word if your homework isn't neat!
- DEFINITION
- In an academic context, 潦草 typically refers to messy handwriting or an assignment that lacks neatness and clarity due to rushed or poor execution.
你的字写得太潦草了，我看不懂。(Your handwriting is too scrawled; I can't read it.)
这份作业做得有点潦草，细节不够。(This assignment was done a bit hastily, lacking details.)
§ In News Reports
While less common than in personal or work contexts, 潦草 can appear in news reports, usually to describe actions, responses, or sometimes even physical evidence.
- DEFINITION
- In news, 潦草 can describe an investigation, a statement, or even a piece of writing that is perceived as inadequate, rushed, or poorly executed, often implying a lack of thoroughness or responsibility.
警方对这起案件的调查显得有些潦草。(The police investigation into this case seemed a bit hasty and careless.)
受害者收到了一封潦草的恐吓信。(The victim received a scrawled threatening letter.)
§ General Usage and Things to Remember
Beyond these specific contexts, 潦草 is generally used to criticize anything that shows a lack of care or attention. It's a versatile word for expressing dissatisfaction with quality.
- It can describe physical actions or mental processes.
- It's almost always negative.
- It suggests that more effort or precision was needed.
So, next time you see something that looks rushed, messy, or poorly done, you'll know exactly how to describe it in Chinese. Keep practicing these examples, and you'll be using 潦草 like a native speaker in no time!
§ Understanding 潦草 in Context
Alright, let's talk about 潦草 (liáocǎo). You know it means hasty, careless, sloppy, or scrawled. But how does it stack up against other words that might seem similar? That's what we'll dig into here. Choosing the right word makes your Chinese sound way more natural, so pay attention!
§ 潦草 vs. 马虎 (mǎhu)
- DEFINITION
- 马虎 (mǎhu) also means careless or sloppy. It's often used for a general lack of attention to detail or being forgetful.
The key difference here is scope. 潦草 usually refers to the *result* of carelessness, particularly in writing, work, or actions that have a visible output. 马虎 is more about the *attitude* or *process* of being careless. You can be 马虎 in your attitude, which then leads to 潦草 work.
他的字写得很潦草，我看不懂。
Translation hint: His handwriting is very sloppy, I can't read it.
你太马虎了，总是忘记带钥匙。
Translation hint: You are too careless, always forgetting to bring your keys.
§ 潦草 vs. 草率 (cǎoshuài)
- DEFINITION
- 草率 (cǎoshuài) means hasty, rash, or perfunctory. It implies making decisions or acting without proper consideration or planning.
This one is close to 潦草, especially the 'hasty' part. However, 草率 strongly emphasizes the lack of serious thought or consideration before acting. While 潦草 can describe a hastily done job, 草率 often describes a hasty decision or a perfunctory approach to something important.
他草率地做了决定，结果出了问题。
Translation hint: He made a hasty decision, and problems resulted.
这份报告写得太潦草了，需要重写。
Translation hint: This report was written too sloppily, it needs to be rewritten.
§ 潦草 vs. 粗心 (cūxīn)
- DEFINITION
- 粗心 (cūxīn) means careless or thoughtless. It focuses on the lack of carefulness and attention in general, similar to 马虎 but often implying a more significant oversight or mistake.
粗心 is very similar to 马虎 in that it describes the *state* of being careless. It's the opposite of 细心 (xìxīn), which means careful or meticulous. Again, 潦草 is the *result* of being 粗心.
因为他很粗心，所以常常犯错。
Translation hint: Because he is very careless, he often makes mistakes.
这份作业做得太潦草了，不及格。
Translation hint: This homework was done too sloppily, it failed.
§ When to use 潦草
- When describing handwriting that is messy and hard to read: 潦草的字 (liáocǎo de zì - sloppy handwriting).
- When talking about a piece of work or a task that was done quickly and poorly: 潦草的报告 (liáocǎo de bàogào - a hasty report).
- When an action is done in a perfunctory, hurried, and careless manner, resulting in a poor quality output: 他潦草地画了一张图。(Tā liáocǎo de huà le yī zhāng tú. - He hastily drew a picture.)
Got it? 潦草 is your go-to when you want to describe something that looks or is done in a messy, scrawled, or carelessly executed way. It's about the tangible result of a lack of care. 马虎, 草率, and 粗心 explain *why* something ended up 潦草, or describe the general state of being careless. Keep practicing these distinctions, and you'll sound like a pro in no time!
How Formal Is It?
"他对这项任务很草率，没有认真完成。 (Tā duì zhè xiàng rènwù hěn cǎoshuài, méiyǒu rènzhēn wánchéng.) - He was very sloppy with this task, not completing it conscientiously."
"他的字写得很潦草，我看不清楚。 (Tā de zì xiě de hěn liáocǎo, wǒ kàn bù qīngchǔ.) - His handwriting is very sloppy, I can't see it clearly."
"你做事太马虎了，总是出错。 (Nǐ zuòshì tài mǎhu le, zǒng shì chūcuò.) - You're too careless in your work, always making mistakes."
"你的房间乱七八糟的，快收拾一下！ (Nǐ de fángjiān luànqībāzāo de, kuài shōushí yīxià!) - Your room is a mess, clean it up quickly!"
"别糊弄我，你根本没认真做。 (Bié húlong wǒ, nǐ gēnběn méi rènzhēn zuò.) - Don't try to fool me, you didn't do it seriously at all."
Fun Fact
The '草' in '潦草' is the same character used in '草书' (cǎoshū), which is a highly stylized and often hard-to-read form of Chinese calligraphy. This further emphasizes the idea of something being written or done in a hurried, informal, and perhaps difficult-to-decipher manner.
Pronunciation Guide
- Mispronouncing the tones, especially the third tone on 'lǎo' and the third tone on 'cǎo'.
- Confusing the 'ao' sound with other similar vowel combinations.
Difficulty Rating
short
short
short
short
What to Learn Next
Prerequisites
Learn Next
Advanced
Grammar to Know
Can be used to describe handwriting or drawing, indicating it's messy or hard to read.
他的字写得很潦草，我看不懂。(His handwriting is very sloppy, I can't read it.)
Can describe a style of work or an action, implying it's done without care or attention to detail.
他总是很潦草地完成任务。(He always completes tasks very carelessly.)
Often appears with adverbs like 很 (hěn - very), 太 (tài - too), or 有点儿 (yǒudiǎnr - a little bit) to modify the degree of sloppiness.
这份报告写得太潦草了，需要重写。(This report is written too sloppily; it needs to be rewritten.)
Can be used idiomatically to describe a person's life or way of living as messy or disorganized.
他过着潦草的生活，房子里一团糟。(He lives a messy life; his house is a disaster.)
While primarily an adjective, it can sometimes function adverbially, meaning 'carelessly' or 'sloppily'.
他潦草地签了字，没有仔细看合同。(He carelessly signed the contract without reading it carefully.)
Examples by Level
我的字很潦草。
My handwriting is very sloppy.
他的作业很潦草。
His homework is very sloppy.
你写字太潦草了。
You write characters too sloppily.
她画画很潦草。
She draws very sloppily.
这份报告很潦草。
This report is very hasty/sloppy.
他吃得很潦草。
He eats very hastily.
别写得太潦草。
Don't write too sloppily.
他的笔记很潦草。
His notes are very messy/sloppy.
我的字写得很潦草。
My handwriting is very sloppy.
他工作总是很潦草。
His work is always very careless.
不要潦草地做作业。
Don't do your homework sloppily.
她画的画很潦草，但很有趣。
Her drawings are scrawled, but very interesting.
这份报告写得太潦草了。
This report is written too carelessly.
他的衣服总是很潦草。
His clothes are always messy.
潦草的笔记很难看懂。
Sloppy notes are hard to understand.
他潦草地吃完饭就走了。
He finished his meal hastily and left.
你写字很潦草，我看不懂。
Your writing is very sloppy, I can't read it.
很 + adjective (very + adjective)
他做事情总是很潦草，所以经常出错。
He always does things carelessly, so he often makes mistakes.
总是 (always); 经常 (often)
这份报告写得很潦草，需要重写。
This report is written very sloppily, it needs to be rewritten.
需要 (need to); 重写 (rewrite)
不要潦草地完成你的作业。
Don't finish your homework carelessly.
不要 (don't); 地 (adverbial particle)
他的画风有点潦草，但很有趣。
His painting style is a bit sloppy, but it's very interesting.
有点 (a bit); 但 (but)
这张纸上的字迹很潦草，看不清楚。
The handwriting on this paper is very scrawled, I can't see it clearly.
字迹 (handwriting); 看不清楚 (can't see clearly)
他潦草地签了字，然后离开了。
He scrawled his signature and then left.
然后 (then); 离开了 (left)
因为时间很赶，所以他潦草地吃完了饭。
Because time was tight, he hastily finished his meal.
因为...所以... (because...therefore...); 很赶 (tight/rushed)
你写的字很潦草，我看不懂。
Your handwriting is very sloppy; I can't read it.
他做事情总是很潦草，所以经常出错。
He always does things carelessly, so he often makes mistakes.
这份报告写得太潦草了，需要重新修改。
This report is too hastily written and needs to be revised.
别潦草地签名，这样不正式。
Don't sign sloppily; it's not formal.
他的画风有点潦草，但很有个人特色。
His painting style is a bit scrawled, but it has a lot of personal character.
这个计划太潦草了，没有考虑周全。
This plan is too hasty and not thoroughly considered.
考试的时候不要潦草答题，要仔细检查。
Don't answer questions carelessly during the exam; check carefully.
因为时间紧，他只能潦草地吃了几口饭。
Because of the tight schedule, he could only eat a few bites of food hastily.
你这字写得太潦草了，我根本看不清楚。
Your handwriting is too sloppy; I can't read it clearly at all.
他做事情总是很潦草，经常犯错误。
He always does things carelessly and often makes mistakes.
这篇文章写得有点潦草，需要再修改润色。
This article is written a bit hastily and needs further revision and polishing.
考试的时候，千万不要潦草答题，要仔细审题。
During the exam, never answer questions carelessly; you should read the questions carefully.
他的草图很潦草，但已经能看出大致的构思了。
His sketch is very rough, but the general idea is already discernible.
别潦草地对待你的学业，这关系到你的未来。
Don't treat your studies carelessly; this concerns your future.
由于时间紧迫，他只能潦草地吃了几口饭。
Due to time constraints, he could only hastily eat a few bites of food.
他的生活过得很潦草，常常饥一顿饱一顿。
His life is lived very sloppily, often going hungry one meal and full the next.
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
他的字迹很潦草，我看不懂。(Tā de zìjì hěn liáocǎo, wǒ kàn bù dǒng.)
His handwriting is very sloppy; I can't read it.
不要潦草地完成任务。(Bùyào liáocǎo de wánchéng rènwù.)
Don't finish the task carelessly.
他总是潦草地签名。(Tā zǒngshì liáocǎo de qiānmíng.)
He always signs his name sloppily.
这幅画画得很潦草。(Zhè fú huà huà dé hěn liáocǎo.)
This painting is very hastily drawn.
别潦草了事，要认真对待。(Bié liáocǎo liǎoshì, yào rènzhēn dàidài.)
Don't just do things carelessly; take them seriously.
他的笔记很潦草，很难整理。(Tā de bǐjì hěn liáocǎo, hěn nán zhěnglǐ.)
His notes are very messy and hard to organize.
工作态度潦草会影响效率。(Gōngzuò tàidù liáocǎo huì yǐngxiǎng xiàolǜ.)
A careless work attitude will affect efficiency.
潦草的草稿需要修改。(Liáocǎo de cǎogǎo xūyào xiūgǎi.)
The sloppy draft needs revision.
他写字总是很潦草。(Tā xiězì zǒngshì hěn liáocǎo.)
He always writes very sloppily.
这次作业他做得太潦草了。(Zhè cì zuòyè tā zuò dé tài liáocǎo le.)
He did this assignment too carelessly.
Idioms & Expressions
"潦草从事 (liáocǎo cóngshì)"
To do things carelessly; to perform a task in a slapdash manner.
他总是潦草从事，所以经常出错。 (He always does things carelessly, so he often makes mistakes.)
neutral"潦草收场 (liáocǎo shōuchǎng)"
To end hastily and carelessly; to come to a messy conclusion.
项目因为时间紧迫而潦草收场。 (The project ended hastily due to time constraints.)
neutral"字迹潦草 (zìjì liáocǎo)"
Handwriting is sloppy/scrawled.
他的字迹潦草，很难辨认。 (His handwriting is scrawled, making it hard to read.)
neutral"工作潦草 (gōngzuò liáocǎo)"
Work is sloppy/careless.
你不能工作潦草，要认真对待。 (You can't be sloppy with your work; you need to take it seriously.)
neutral"潦草应付 (liáocǎo yìngfù)"
To deal with something perfunctorily; to handle something in a cursory way.
他总是潦草应付领导的指示。 (He always deals with the leader's instructions perfunctorily.)
neutral"潦草写 (liáocǎo xiě)"
To write carelessly/sloppily.
他潦草写了几个字就走了。 (He scrawled a few words and then left.)
neutral"潦草了事 (liáocǎo liǎoshì)"
To finish something carelessly; to get something done without proper attention.
为了赶时间，他潦草了事。 (To save time, he finished it carelessly.)
neutral"潦草马虎 (liáocǎo mǎhu)"
Hasty and careless; sloppy and negligent.
他的学习态度总是潦草马虎。 (His attitude towards studying is always hasty and careless.)
neutral"笔迹潦草 (bǐjì liáocǎo)"
Handwriting is scrawled/illegible.
这封信笔迹潦草，我几乎看不懂。 (The handwriting in this letter is scrawled, I can barely read it.)
neutral"潦草敷衍 (liáocǎo fūyǎn)"
To deal with something superficially; to be perfunctory and careless.
他潦草敷衍地回答了问题。 (He answered the question superficially and carelessly.)
neutralHow to Use It
When describing handwriting, 潦草 (liáocǎo) means messy or illegible. For actions or work, it implies carelessness or sloppiness. It can also refer to a perfunctory or rushed attitude towards something.
A common mistake is using 潦草 for things that are merely quick but still well-done. 潦草 specifically implies a lack of care or quality. For example, you wouldn't say someone's quick but neat handwriting is 潦草.
Tips
Understanding 潦草
潦草 (liáocǎo) is a useful adjective to describe something that is done in a hasty and careless manner, often resulting in a messy or sloppy outcome. Think of it as the opposite of meticulous or neat.
Pronunciation Practice
Pay close attention to the tones: liáo (second tone) cǎo (third tone). Practice saying it aloud: lee-ow-tsaow. Good pronunciation helps with recall and comprehension.
Common Usage: Handwriting
One of the most frequent uses of 潦草 is to describe messy handwriting. For example, 他的字写得很潦草 (Tā de zì xiě de hěn liáocǎo) means 'His handwriting is very sloppy.'
Common Usage: Work/Tasks
You can also use 潦草 to describe work or tasks that are done poorly due to lack of effort or rush. For instance, 他工作很潦草 (Tā gōngzuò hěn liáocǎo) means 'He does his work very carelessly.'
Connect to English 'Sloppy'
Think of the English word 'sloppy'. It's a very good direct translation for 潦草 in many contexts, especially when describing appearance or quality of work.
Sentence Structure Example
It usually appears after the verb, often with 得 (de). For example, 她穿得很潦草 (Tā chuān de hěn liáocǎo) - 'She dresses very sloppily.'
Distinguish from 'Quick'
While 潦草 implies haste, it's not simply about being quick. It's about the negative outcome of that haste – the carelessness and messiness. Fast doesn't always mean sloppy.
Practical Scenario: Drawing
Imagine someone drawing a picture very quickly and without much attention to detail. You could say: 他画得很潦草 (Tā huà de hěn liáocǎo) - 'He drew it very hastily/sloppily.'
Using with Nouns (Attributive)
It can also be used before a noun with 的 (de), though less common than after 得. For example, 一份潦草的报告 (yī fèn liáocǎo de bàogào) - 'a sloppy report'.
Active Recall: Daily Objects
Look around you. Do you see anything that looks 潦草? Perhaps a hastily written note or a carelessly arranged item. This helps embed the word in your daily observations.
Memorize It
Mnemonic
Imagine a **lǎo cǎo** (old grass) that's been hastily and carelessly cut, leaving a messy, sloppy lawn. The sounds 'lǎo cǎo' for 潦草 help you remember the meaning.
Visual Association
Picture a doctor's messy, almost unreadable handwriting on a prescription. That handwriting is 潦草. Or, think of a quickly drawn, imprecise sketch that looks unfinished and sloppy.
Word Web
Challenge
Describe three situations where something might be described as 潦草. For example, '他的字写得很潦草，我看不懂。' (Tā de zì xiě de hěn lǎocǎo, wǒ kàn bù dǒng. His handwriting is very sloppy, I can't read it.)
Word Origin
The character '潦' (liáo) originally referred to a downpour or heavy rain, suggesting something rushed or indistinct. The character '草' (cǎo) means grass, often used to denote something rough, unrefined, or in a hurried, cursive style (like '草书' cǎoshū, cursive script).
Original meaning: The combination originally conveyed the idea of something done quickly and roughly, like rain falling haphazardly or grass growing wild.
Sino-Tibetan, Chinese, MandarinCultural Context
When describing someone's handwriting as 潦草, it implies not just illegibility but also a lack of care or respect for the reader. It can also be used to describe someone's work or actions, suggesting a lack of thoroughness or attention to detail. In a cultural context valuing precision and diligence, being described as 潦草 is generally negative.
Practice in Real Life
Real-World Contexts
Describing someone's handwriting as messy.
- 你的字写得太潦草了。
- 他的签名很潦草。
- 我写字总是很潦草。
Referring to work or a project that was done carelessly.
- 这份报告写得很潦草。
- 他做事情总是这么潦草。
- 别潦草地完成任务。
Talking about a drawing or sketch that is rough and unfinished.
- 这是一张很潦草的草图。
- 她画了一幅潦草的画。
- 不要只画潦草的线条。
When someone's actions are impulsive and not well thought out.
- 他的决定太潦草了。
- 不要潦草地做决定。
- 这种潦草的行动会带来麻烦。
Describing a general lack of attention to detail in daily life.
- 他生活得很潦草。
- 别过得这么潦草。
- 潦草的生活态度。
Conversation Starters
"你觉得你的字写得潦草吗？"
"你见过最潦草的签名是什么样的？"
"你有没有因为做事情太潦草而后悔过？"
"你觉得生活应该认真细致，还是可以稍微潦草一点？"
"如果你的朋友做事情很潦草，你会怎么提醒他？"
Journal Prompts
描述一次你看到非常潦草的字迹的经历。
写一篇关于你做过的最潦草的事情的日记。
思考一下，在哪些情况下，潦草是可以接受的？
如果你现在正在学习一门新的技能，你会允许自己潦草地练习吗？为什么？
想象一个人物，他生活得非常潦草。描述他的生活方式和可能遇到的问题。
Frequently Asked Questions
10 questionsCommon synonyms for 潦草 include 马虎 (mǎhu), which also means careless or sloppy, and 草率 (cǎoshuài), meaning careless, hasty, or perfunctory. While 潦草 often refers to handwriting or tasks, 马虎 and 草率 can be used more broadly for attitudes or actions.
Yes, 潦草 can be used to describe a person's personality, implying they are careless or sloppy in their approach to things. For example, 你做事太潦草了 (nǐ zuòshì tài liáocǎo le) means "You're too sloppy in how you do things." It suggests a lack of attention to detail or diligence.
While 'careless' is a good translation for 潦草, 潦草 often carries a connotation of being hasty and therefore messy or poorly done. It's frequently used for things that are physically 'scrawled' or 'sloppy,' like handwriting or a drawing. 'Careless' in English can be more general.
A good way to remember 潦草 is to associate it with 'scrawled' or 'sloppy.' Think of '潦' as the stroke of a pen that's not carefully done, and '草' literally means grass, which can grow wild or untidy. So, something that's as messy as wild grass, like handwriting.
While there isn't one super common idiom, you'll often hear phrases like 字迹潦草 (zìjì liáocǎo) meaning 'sloppy handwriting,' or 写得很潦草 (xiě de hěn liáocǎo) meaning 'written very sloppily.' These are practical phrases you'll encounter and use frequently.
No, 潦草 is generally not used for spoken language. It refers more to written or physical actions that are done carelessly or messily. For 'speaking carelessly,' you might use words like 随便 (suíbiàn) or 口无遮拦 (kǒu wú zhēlán).
潦草 is almost always a negative word. It implies a lack of care, attention, or precision, which is generally seen as undesirable. It suggests something is not done to a good standard due to hastiness or lack of effort.
潦草 is CEFR B2. This means it's an intermediate to upper-intermediate word. You're expected to understand and use it in a range of general and some professional contexts. It's a useful word to know to describe things that are poorly executed due to carelessness.
You could say: 这份报告写得太潦草了，需要重新修改。 (Zhè fèn bàogào xiě de tài liáocǎo le, xūyào chóngxīn xiūgǎi.) This translates to: 'This report was written too sloppily, it needs to be revised.' Here, 潦草 describes the quality of the writing in the report.
No, 潦草 specifically implies that something is done quickly and poorly. If something is done quickly but well, you would use different words like 效率高 (xiàolǜ gāo) meaning 'efficient,' or 迅速完成 (xùnsù wánchéng) meaning 'completed quickly,' but without the negative connotation of sloppiness.
Test Yourself 150 questions
他写字很___。
The sentence means 'He writes very sloppily.' 潦草 (liáocǎo) means hasty and careless, which fits the context of writing.
这份报告写得太___了。
The sentence means 'This report is written too sloppily.' 潦草 (liáocǎo) is appropriate here to describe the quality of the report.
他的笔记很___，我看不懂。
The sentence means 'His notes are very sloppy, I can't understand them.' 潦草 (liáocǎo) describes handwriting that is difficult to read.
不要___地写作业。
The sentence means 'Don't do your homework carelessly.' 潦草 (liáocǎo) here means doing something hastily and carelessly.
老师说我的字写得太___了。
The sentence means 'The teacher said my writing was too sloppy.' 潦草 (liáocǎo) refers to handwriting that is not neat.
因为时间很紧，他画得很___。
The sentence means 'Because time was tight, he drew very sloppily.' 潦草 (liáocǎo) fits the context of doing something hastily due to time constraints.
Which of these is done in a hasty and careless way?
Something done hastily and carelessly is often described as '潦草' (lǎocǎo). A quickly scribbled note fits this description.
If someone's handwriting is '潦草' (lǎocǎo), what does it look like?
When handwriting is '潦草' (lǎocǎo), it means it's messy or scrawled, making it difficult to read.
Which action would likely result in something '潦草' (lǎocǎo)?
Writing a long letter very quickly means you're likely to be hasty and careless, resulting in '潦草' (lǎocǎo) handwriting.
If a drawing is '潦草' (lǎocǎo), it means it was done quickly and without much care.
'潦草' (lǎocǎo) describes something that is hasty and careless, so a '潦草' drawing would indeed be done quickly and without much care.
A '潦草' (lǎocǎo) report is usually very well organized and detailed.
A '潦草' (lǎocǎo) report would be hasty and careless, not well organized or detailed.
When you are in a hurry, your writing might become '潦草' (lǎocǎo).
Being in a hurry often leads to being hasty and careless, which can make your writing '潦草' (lǎocǎo) or sloppy.
The speaker is commenting on someone's handwriting.
Someone's homework is being described.
A warning or instruction is being given.
Read this aloud:
我的字很潦草。
Focus: lǎo cǎo
You said:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Read this aloud:
他写得很潦草。
Focus: xiě dé hěn lǎo cǎo
You said:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Read this aloud:
我不喜欢潦草的作业。
Focus: bù xǐ huān lǎo cǎo de zuò yè
You said:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Write a short sentence about someone writing something quickly and messily.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
他写字很快，但是不好看。
Imagine you drew a picture very carelessly. Write a simple sentence describing your drawing.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
我画画很马虎，所以不好看。
Describe a situation where someone's work is not neat or tidy, using a simple sentence.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
他的工作不整齐，有点乱。
小明的字怎么样？
Read this passage:
小明写字。他写得很快，但是字不好看。他的作业总是这样。
小明的字怎么样？
文章中说'但是字不好看'。
文章中说'但是字不好看'。
老师希望大家怎么写作业？
Read this passage:
老师说，"请大家认真写作业。不要写得太快，那样会写不好。"
老师希望大家怎么写作业？
老师说'请大家认真写作业'。
老师说'请大家认真写作业'。
我的朋友为什么画得不好看？
Read this passage:
我的朋友画了一张画。他说他画得太急了，所以画得不好看。
我的朋友为什么画得不好看？
朋友说'他画得太急了'。
朋友说'他画得太急了'。
This sentence means 'He writes very sloppily.' The structure is Subject + Verb + 得 + Adverb + Adjective.
This means 'This report is too sloppy.' '太...了' is a common structure for 'too...' in Chinese.
This sentence translates to 'Don't do things so carelessly.' '地' connects the adjective '潦草' to the verb '做事' (do things).
他的字写得很___，我看不清楚。
The sentence means 'His handwriting is very ___, I can't see clearly.' '潦草' (liáocǎo) means sloppy or scrawled, which fits the context of unclear handwriting. The other options do not fit the meaning.
这份报告写得太___了，需要修改。
The sentence means 'This report is written too ___, it needs to be revised.' '潦草' (liáocǎo) implies hasty and careless work, making revision necessary. The other options don't make sense in this context.
他工作总是很___，所以常常出错。
The sentence means 'He always works very ___, so he often makes mistakes.' '潦草' (liáocǎo) here means careless, which leads to mistakes. The other options are antonyms or don't fit the consequence.
不要___地做作业，要认真完成。
The sentence means 'Don't do your homework ___, you should complete it carefully.' '潦草' (liáocǎo) means hastily and carelessly. The instruction is to do it carefully, so '潦草' is the correct opposite. The other options don't fit the meaning.
他的签名很___，我几乎认不出来。
The sentence means 'His signature is very ___, I can hardly recognize it.' '潦草' (liáocǎo) describes something scrawled and hard to read, which fits a signature that is difficult to recognize. The other options are not suitable.
因为时间很紧，他只能___地写了几个字。
The sentence means 'Because time was very tight, he could only write a few words ___.' '潦草' (liáocǎo) implies writing hastily and carelessly due to time pressure. The other options do not fit the context of being in a hurry.
Choose the best description for someone who is '潦草' when doing homework.
'潦草' means hasty and careless, so finishing homework quickly without attention to detail fits this meaning.
Which of these situations best shows '潦草' work?
'潦草' implies something is scrawled or done carelessly, making it difficult to understand or read.
If your friend's handwriting is '潦草', what does it mean?
When used to describe handwriting, '潦草' means it is scrawled or messy.
If you do a task '潦草', it means you are being very careful.
'潦草' means hasty and careless, which is the opposite of being careful.
When you write '潦草' notes, they are usually easy to understand later.
'潦草' notes are often messy and scrawled, making them difficult to read or understand later.
A '潦草' drawing is often made quickly without much thought about details.
'潦草' describes something done hastily and carelessly, which fits a drawing made quickly without much detail.
Someone's handwriting is messy.
He always does his work carelessly.
This report is a bit sloppy.
Read this aloud:
我写字很潦草。
Focus: lǎo cǎo
You said:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Read this aloud:
不要潦草地完成任务。
Focus: liáo cǎo
You said:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Read this aloud:
你的签名太潦草了。
Focus: liáo cǎo
You said:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
You wrote a letter quickly and now you think it looks sloppy. How would you describe your handwriting in Chinese?
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
我写的字很潦草。
Your friend did his homework very carelessly. How would you say his homework is sloppy in Chinese?
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
他做的作业很潦草。
You just finished drawing a picture in a very hurried way. How would you describe your drawing as sloppy in Chinese?
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
我画得很潦草。
为什么小明需要重写作业？
Read this passage:
小明写作业总是很潦草，所以老师经常让他重写。他需要更仔细。
为什么小明需要重写作业？
文章中提到小明写作业总是很潦草，所以老师让他重写。
文章中提到小明写作业总是很潦草，所以老师让他重写。
这份报告的问题是什么？
Read this passage:
这份报告写得很潦草，很多字都看不清楚，所以我们需要重新整理一下。
这份报告的问题是什么？
文章中明确指出这份报告写得很潦草，导致很多字看不清楚。
文章中明确指出这份报告写得很潦草，导致很多字看不清楚。
为什么那幅画画得很潦草？
Read this passage:
那个学生画了一幅画，但是因为时间太紧，画得很潦草。
为什么那幅画画得很潦草？
文章中提到“因为时间太紧，画得很潦草”。
文章中提到“因为时间太紧，画得很潦草”。
This sentence describes someone's handwriting as sloppy.
This sentence indicates that a report was written carelessly.
This sentence advises against doing homework carelessly.
他的字写得很___，我看不清楚。
The sentence talks about handwriting that is difficult to read. '潦草' (liáocǎo) means messy or sloppy, which fits the context.
这份报告写得太___了，需要重新修改。
If a report needs to be revised, it's likely because it was written carelessly. '潦草' (liáocǎo) means hasty and careless.
他工作总是很___，所以经常出错。
Someone who frequently makes mistakes in their work is likely being careless. '潦草' (liáocǎo) describes a hasty and careless manner.
考试的时候，我因为时间不够，答案写得非常___。
When time is short during an exam, answers might be written quickly and messily. '潦草' (liáocǎo) means scrawled or sloppy.
这份合同不能___地签署，必须仔细检查。
A contract should not be signed carelessly. '潦草' (liáocǎo) refers to doing something hastily and carelessly.
他画的草图很___，我不太明白他的意思。
If a sketch is hard to understand, it was likely drawn messily. '潦草' (liáocǎo) means scrawled or sloppy, fitting the description of a confusing sketch.
Imagine you received a handwritten letter that was very hard to read because the writing was sloppy. Describe the letter using 潦草.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
我收到了一封信，但是上面的字写得很潦草，所以我很难读懂。
You rushed a drawing and it looks messy. Use 潦草 to describe your drawing.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
我画得很潦草，所以看起来不好看。
You saw someone's notes and they were very disorganized and messy. Describe their notes using 潦草.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
他的笔记写得很潦草，我看不清楚。
为什么老师批评小明？
Read this passage:
小明总是很匆忙。他的作业常常写得很潦草，老师因此批评了他很多次。他需要更加细心，把字写得整齐一些。
为什么老师批评小明？
文章中明确提到“他的作业常常写得很潦草，老师因此批评了他很多次”。
文章中明确提到“他的作业常常写得很潦草，老师因此批评了他很多次”。
这份报告有什么问题？
Read this passage:
这份报告写得太潦草了，有很多错误。我们需要重新检查，确保没有遗漏重要的信息。
这份报告有什么问题？
文章中说“这份报告写得太潦草了，有很多错误”，表明其不认真且有错误。
文章中说“这份报告写得太潦草了，有很多错误”，表明其不认真且有错误。
为什么药店的员工花了一些时间看药方？
Read this passage:
那个医生开的药方字迹很潦草，药店的员工花了一些时间才看懂。
为什么药店的员工花了一些时间看药方？
文章中提到“那个医生开的药方字迹很潦草，药店的员工花了一些时间才看懂”。
文章中提到“那个医生开的药方字迹很潦草，药店的员工花了一些时间才看懂”。
他的字写得很___，我都看不清楚。
The sentence describes handwriting that is difficult to read, which aligns with the meaning of '潦草' (sloppy/scrawled).
这份报告写得太___了，很多数据都没有核对。
The report is described as having unverified data, indicating it was done carelessly, which matches '潦草' (hasty and careless).
不要___地完成作业，要仔细检查。
The advice is to avoid doing homework carelessly, making '潦草' the correct choice.
他工作总是很___，所以经常出错。
The consequence of making frequent mistakes suggests a careless work style, which is '潦草'.
我看不懂医生___的处方，需要问药剂师。
Doctor's prescriptions are often notoriously difficult to read due to being '潦草' (scrawled).
这份草稿写得有点___，需要再修改一下。
A draft that needs revision often means it was written quickly and carelessly, making it '潦草'.
Which of the following best describes something that is 潦草 (lǎocǎo)?
潦草 (lǎocǎo) describes something done hastily and carelessly, often resulting in a messy or scrawled appearance. A quick, messy signature fits this definition perfectly.
The student's homework was very 潦草 (lǎocǎo). What does this imply about their homework?
When homework is described as 潦草 (lǎocǎo), it means it was done sloppily or carelessly, indicating a lack of attention to detail and a rushed effort.
Which situation would most likely be described as 潦草 (lǎocǎo)?
Jotting down notes quickly during a lecture often leads to handwriting that is hasty and potentially illegible, which is a prime example of something being 潦草 (lǎocǎo).
If a person's handwriting is 潦草 (lǎocǎo), it means they write very neatly and carefully.
No, 潦草 (lǎocǎo) means the opposite. It describes handwriting that is messy, hasty, or scrawled, not neat and careful.
A 潦草 (lǎocǎo) drawing is typically very detailed and well-executed.
A 潦草 (lǎocǎo) drawing would be characterized by its hastiness and lack of care, making it messy or unfinished, not detailed and well-executed.
If you are in a hurry and don't pay attention to details, your work might be described as 潦草 (lǎocǎo).
Yes, 潦草 (lǎocǎo) specifically refers to work that is done hastily and carelessly, often resulting in a sloppy or messy outcome.
The writing is too messy to read clearly.
He always does things carelessly, so he often makes mistakes.
This report is too sloppy and needs to be rewritten.
Read this aloud:
你的字写得有点潦草。
Focus: liáocǎo
You said:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Read this aloud:
别潦草地完成作业。
Focus: bié liáocǎo de
You said:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Read this aloud:
他的画很潦草，但很有风格。
Focus: dàn hěn yǒu fēnggé
You said:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Describe a time you did something in a sloppy or careless way and what the consequences were. Use '潦草' in your answer.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
有一次我写作业写得很潦草，因为时间很赶。结果老师看了很不满意，让我重写。我明白了做事情不能太潦草，否则会影响质量。
Imagine you are giving feedback to a colleague whose work is consistently sloppy. Write two sentences using '潦草' to describe their work and suggest an improvement.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
你的报告写得有些潦草，细节不够清晰。下次请更仔细地检查，这样可以提高报告的质量。
Write a short paragraph about why it's important to avoid doing things in a '潦草' manner, especially in professional settings.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
在专业场合，我们应该避免潦草地完成任务。潦草的工作态度不仅会影响工作质量，还会损害个人的专业形象和信誉。因此，无论做什么，我们都应该认真对待，力求完美。
为什么小明的考试成绩不理想？
Read this passage:
小明总是潦草地写作业，所以他的字迹很难辨认。老师常常提醒他要认真书写，但他似乎总是听不进去。有一次，因为他潦草的答案，导致考试成绩不理想。
为什么小明的考试成绩不理想？
文章中提到“因为他潦草的答案，导致考试成绩不理想”，直接说明了原因。
文章中提到“因为他潦草的答案，导致考试成绩不理想”，直接说明了原因。
根据这段话，这份报告的主要问题是什么？
Read this passage:
这份报告看起来非常潦草，数据混乱，格式也不统一。如果这样提交给客户，可能会给公司带来负面影响。我们需要重新整理，确保其专业性和准确性。
根据这段话，这份报告的主要问题是什么？
文章开头就指出“这份报告看起来非常潦草，数据混乱，格式也不统一”，表明潦草是主要问题。
文章开头就指出“这份报告看起来非常潦草，数据混乱，格式也不统一”，表明潦草是主要问题。
作者为什么说这幅草图是“潦草”的？
Read this passage:
他画了一幅潦草的草图，只用了几笔就勾勒出了大致的形状。虽然有些粗糙，但已经足够表达他的创意了。他打算之后再细化。
作者为什么说这幅草图是“潦草”的？
文章中提到“只用了几笔就勾勒出了大致的形状”和“有些粗糙”，这些都说明了草图的“潦草”体现在细节不完善上。
文章中提到“只用了几笔就勾勒出了大致的形状”和“有些粗糙”，这些都说明了草图的“潦草”体现在细节不完善上。
This sentence means 'Her handwriting is too sloppy, I can't see it clearly.' The subject '她的字' (her handwriting) comes first, followed by the description '写得太潦草了' (written too sloppily), and then the result '我看不清楚' (I can't see clearly).
This sentence translates to 'Because time was pressing, he hastily completed this report.' The adverbial phrase '因为时间紧迫' (because time was pressing) starts the sentence, followed by the subject '他' (he), the adverb '潦草地' (hastily), the verb '完成了' (completed), and the object '这份报告' (this report).
This sentence means 'This painting looks a bit sloppy, but it's very individual.' The subject '这幅画' (this painting) is followed by '看起来' (looks), '有点潦草' (a bit sloppy), and then the contrasting clause '但很有个性' (but very individual).
他的字迹很___，我几乎认不出他写了什么。
The sentence describes handwriting that is difficult to recognize, which aligns with the meaning of '潦草' (sloppy/scrawled).
这份报告写得很___，有很多错别字和不通顺的句子。
The report having many typos and awkward sentences indicates it was done hastily and carelessly, matching '潦草'.
因为时间紧张，他把方案___地写了出来，很多细节都没有考虑。
Doing something 'hastily and carelessly' due to time pressure fits the meaning of '潦草'.
这幅画的线条非常___，可以看出画家创作时没有认真思考。
If the lines are 'hasty and careless' (潦草), it suggests a lack of careful thought from the painter.
他工作总是很___，常常犯一些低级错误。
Consistently making 'low-level mistakes' in work suggests a 'hasty and careless' approach, which is '潦草'.
不要___地完成作业，那样学不到任何东西。
The advice is to avoid doing homework 'hastily and carelessly' (潦草) because it's unproductive for learning.
Choose the sentence where "潦草" is used correctly.
“潦草”在这里形容字迹不工整，符合其“scrawled”的含义。
Which of the following best describes someone who does things "潦草"?
“潦草”含有“hasty and careless”之意，与“粗心大意”最为接近。
If a task is done "潦草", what is the most likely outcome?
“潦草”意味着做事情不认真，不细致，因此很可能会出现错误或不完整。
一个人写字潦草，表示他写得很快但很工整。
“潦草”形容字迹不工整，而不是工整。
如果你对某件事情敷衍了事，那么你做出来的结果通常是潦草的。
“敷衍了事”和“潦草”都指做事不认真，结果往往不好。
一份潦草的报告通常意味着它经过了仔细的审查和修改。
潦草的报告意味着内容或形式不严谨，通常未经仔细审查。
The speaker is complaining about someone's handwriting.
The speaker is describing the quality of a report.
The speaker is giving advice about how to do things.
Read this aloud:
这份文件草草了事，错误百出。
Focus: 草草了事 (cǎo cǎo liǎo shì)
You said:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Read this aloud:
她的画风有些潦草，但很有个人特色。
Focus: 潦草 (liáo cǎo)
You said:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Read this aloud:
他做事情总是马马虎虎，非常潦草。
Focus: 马马虎虎 (mǎ mǎ hū hū)
You said:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Imagine you're reviewing a restaurant. Describe a dish that was prepared very sloppily, using "潦草" to describe its presentation or preparation. Write a short review.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
昨晚我去了一家新开的餐厅，点了一份招牌菜。端上来的时候，菜品摆盘非常潦草，看起来就像是随便堆在一起的。虽然味道还行，但如此潦草的卖相实在让人没有食欲。
You are a manager giving feedback to an employee whose recent report was rushed and contained many errors. Write a short paragraph using "潦草" to describe the quality of their work.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
你的这份报告写得太潦草了，里面有很多细节错误，数据也没有核对清楚。下次请你务必认真对待，不要再犯类似的低级错误了。我们需要的是高质量的工作。
Describe a time when you saw someone's handwriting that was so messy it was hard to read. Use "潦草" to describe the handwriting.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
我收到了一封朋友的手写信，但他的字迹实在太潦草了，我费了好大的劲才勉强认出几个字。我都想打电话问他写了什么。
根据这段话，为什么签名会是“潦草”的？
Read this passage:
这份文件上的签名非常潦草，我甚至都无法辨认这是谁签的。看来他当时签的时候肯定很匆忙，完全没有在意字迹的清晰度。
根据这段话，为什么签名会是“潦草”的？
文中明确提到“看来他当时签的时候肯定很匆忙”，所以签名潦草的原因是匆忙。
文中明确提到“看来他当时签的时候肯定很匆忙”，所以签名潦草的原因是匆忙。
这段话说明了小明的设计图有什么问题？
Read this passage:
小明画的这张设计图太潦草了，很多线条都不直，比例也不对。这样的图纸根本无法交给工厂制作，他需要重新画一张更精确的。
这段话说明了小明的设计图有什么问题？
文中提到“很多线条都不直，比例也不对”，这些都属于细节不够精确的问题。
文中提到“很多线条都不直，比例也不对”，这些都属于细节不够精确的问题。
根据这段话，学生“潦草”的笔记可能会导致什么后果？
Read this passage:
那个学生上课时总是心不在焉，笔记也写得十分潦草，内容不全，字体也很难辨认。这样下去，他肯定会跟不上课程进度。
根据这段话，学生“潦草”的笔记可能会导致什么后果？
文中明确指出“这样下去，他肯定会跟不上课程进度”，这是笔记潦草可能导致的后果。
文中明确指出“这样下去，他肯定会跟不上课程进度”，这是笔记潦草可能导致的后果。
这份报告写得太___了，很多地方都需要修改。(This report is too ___, many parts need revision.)
The sentence implies a negative quality requiring revision, and '潦草' fits the meaning of sloppy or careless.
他的字迹总是那么___，让人很难辨认。(His handwriting is always so ___, making it hard for people to recognize.)
When handwriting is hard to recognize, it's typically '潦草' (scrawled).
由于时间紧迫，他只好___地写完了那封信。(Due to time pressure, he had to write that letter ___.)
The phrase '时间紧迫' (time pressure) suggests a hasty and careless action, which aligns with '潦草地'.
他的工作态度有些___，常常出现低级错误。(His work attitude is a bit ___, often leading to basic mistakes.)
If someone's work attitude leads to basic mistakes, it suggests a '潦草' (careless) approach.
这份草图画得太___了，看不出具体的设计。(This sketch is drawn too ___, the specific design cannot be seen.)
A sketch where the design cannot be seen is likely '潦草' (sloppy).
别看他平时穿着___，其实是个很有品味的人。(Don't think he usually dresses ___, he's actually a very tasteful person.)
The contrast '别看...其实' (Don't think...actually) suggests that his '平时穿着' (usual attire) is somewhat '潦草' (sloppy) but he has good taste.
以下哪句话使用了“潦草”来形容字迹？
选项B中，“潦草”直接描述了信的字迹难以辨认。其他选项描述的是做事方式或画风。
一个人如果做事“潦草”，最可能导致什么结果？
“潦草”指仓促草率、不仔细，因此最可能导致出现错误。
下列哪个词语与“潦草”的含义最接近？
“潦草”和“草率”都含有不认真、不仔细的意思，是近义词。其他选项是反义词。
“他的性格很潦草”这句话是正确的，表示他性格随意。
“潦草”通常用来形容字迹、工作或态度，不直接形容性格。形容性格随意可以用“随性”或“不拘小节”。
如果一份报告写得“潦草”，意味着这份报告内容详尽、逻辑清晰。
“潦草”表示粗心草率，因此一份潦草的报告很可能内容不详尽、逻辑不清晰。
用“潦草”来形容书法作品，一定是负面评价。
在某些艺术风格中，如狂草，书写者的笔法虽“潦草”却是一种艺术表现，不一定是负面评价，反而可能独具韵味。
Imagine you are a meticulous editor reviewing a manuscript. Describe a section that was written in a 潦草 (lǎocǎo) manner, explaining what made it sloppy and how you would suggest improving it.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
这份手稿的第二章写得非常潦草。句法混乱，逻辑跳跃，而且错别字很多，读起来让人费解。我建议作者重新梳理思路，仔细检查语法和用词，并确保段落之间的衔接自然。
You are a manager giving feedback to an employee whose recent project report was quite 潦草 (lǎocǎo). Write an email detailing your concerns and offering constructive advice on how to be more thorough in the future.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
主题：关于您最近的项目报告 你好[员工姓名], 我审阅了你提交的最新项目报告。坦白说，这份报告有些潦草，缺乏必要的细节和严谨性。例如，数据分析部分只有结论，没有支撑过程，并且格式也不统一。我建议你在下次报告前，花更多时间核对信息，并确保报告结构清晰、内容完整。如有需要，我们可以一起讨论如何改进。 祝好, [您的姓名]
Describe a time when you saw someone's handwriting that was so 潦草 (lǎocǎo) you could barely read it. Explain the situation and how you managed to decipher (or not decipher) it.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
有一次，我收到了一张同事递过来的便条，上面的字迹极其潦草。每个字都像鬼画符一样连在一起，几乎无法辨认。我努力辨认了半天，结合上下文猜测，才勉强理解了大概的意思，是关于会议时间变更的通知。
根据这段话，王教授的演讲稿为什么显得潦草？
Read this passage:
王教授的演讲稿一向以逻辑严谨、措辞精准著称。然而，这次他急匆匆写出来的演讲稿却显得有些潦草。不仅有几处明显的语法错误，而且有些论点也表达得不够清晰，与他平时的水平大相径庭。
根据这段话，王教授的演讲稿为什么显得潦草？
文章中提到“他急匆匆写出来的演讲稿”，这直接说明了演讲稿潦草的原因是仓促。
文章中提到“他急匆匆写出来的演讲稿”，这直接说明了演讲稿潦草的原因是仓促。
从这段话中可以看出小李对自己的字迹有什么态度？
Read this passage:
小李总是抱怨自己的字写得潦草，考试时常常因为字迹不清而影响得分。他知道这不是长久之计，于是决定从这个学期开始，每天练习书法，希望能有所改善。
从这段话中可以看出小李对自己的字迹有什么态度？
文章中提到“小李总是抱怨自己的字写得潦草，考试时常常因为字迹不清而影响得分”，并且“决定从这个学期开始，每天练习书法，希望能有所改善”，这都表明他对此感到苦恼并希望改进。
文章中提到“小李总是抱怨自己的字写得潦草，考试时常常因为字迹不清而影响得分”，并且“决定从这个学期开始，每天练习书法，希望能有所改善”，这都表明他对此感到苦恼并希望改进。
这段话对“潦草”的报告持什么看法？
Read this passage:
这份报告的草稿虽然有些潦草，但其核心思想和数据都非常具有启发性。只要稍加润色，使其逻辑更清晰、表达更流畅，就能成为一份出色的正式报告。
这段话对“潦草”的报告持什么看法？
文章中提到“虽然有些潦草，但其核心思想和数据都非常具有启发性。只要稍加润色...就能成为一份出色的正式报告”，这表明即使报告潦草，其内容仍有价值且可改进。
文章中提到“虽然有些潦草，但其核心思想和数据都非常具有启发性。只要稍加润色...就能成为一份出色的正式报告”，这表明即使报告潦草，其内容仍有价值且可改进。
This sentence describes someone's handwriting as always being sloppy and hard to read. '他的笔迹' (his handwriting) is the subject, '总是很潦草' (is always very sloppy) describes it, and '难以辨认' (difficult to recognize) is the result.
This sentence emphasizes the importance of a task. '这项工作' (this work) is the subject. '不能潦草了事' (cannot be done sloppily) states the negative, and '必须认真对待' (must be taken seriously) states the positive requirement.
This sentence explains why a report was written sloppily. '由于时间仓促' (due to hurried time) is the cause. '他的报告' (his report) is the subject, and '写得有些潦草' (was written somewhat sloppily) describes the result.
/ 150 correct
Perfect score!
Summary
潦草 describes something done quickly and poorly, like messy handwriting or a careless job.
- hasty
- careless
- sloppy
Understanding 潦草
潦草 (liáocǎo) is a useful adjective to describe something that is done in a hasty and careless manner, often resulting in a messy or sloppy outcome. Think of it as the opposite of meticulous or neat.
Pronunciation Practice
Pay close attention to the tones: liáo (second tone) cǎo (third tone). Practice saying it aloud: lee-ow-tsaow. Good pronunciation helps with recall and comprehension.
Common Usage: Handwriting
One of the most frequent uses of 潦草 is to describe messy handwriting. For example, 他的字写得很潦草 (Tā de zì xiě de hěn liáocǎo) means 'His handwriting is very sloppy.'
Common Usage: Work/Tasks
You can also use 潦草 to describe work or tasks that are done poorly due to lack of effort or rush. For instance, 他工作很潦草 (Tā gōngzuò hěn liáocǎo) means 'He does his work very carelessly.'
Related Content
More daily_life words
朝九晚五
B2From nine to five; regular working hours.
未免
B2Rather; a bit too; truly (implies something excessive).
废弃
B2To abandon; to discard; to cease to use.
恪守
B2To scrupulously observe; to strictly adhere to.
反常
B2abnormal, unusual
充裕
B2Abundant; ample.
充沛
B2Abundant; plentiful; full of energy.
门禁卡
B2Access card; entry card.
门禁
B2Access control (system).
配件
B2Fittings; accessories; spare parts.
