At the A1 level, learners are introduced to basic physical descriptions. '瘦子' (shòuzi) is a foundational noun used to identify a person's body type. Students learn that '瘦' means 'thin' and '子' is a noun-making suffix. At this stage, the focus is on simple identification: '他是瘦子' (He is a thin person). Learners should understand that this is a common way to describe someone's appearance, alongside other basic words like 'tall' (高), 'short' (矮), and 'fat person' (胖子). The emphasis is on recognizing the word in simple sentences and using it with the verb '是' (shì - to be). Learners will practice identifying characters in pictures and assigning them the label '瘦子' based on their appearance. It is important to distinguish between the adjective '瘦' and the noun '瘦子' early on to prevent common grammatical errors.
At the A2 level, learners begin to use '瘦子' in more descriptive contexts and with basic measure words. They learn that '个' (gè) is the standard measure word used with '瘦子' (例如:一个瘦子). Students start to use the word in simple comparisons and narratives, such as '我哥哥是个瘦子,但我很胖' (My brother is a thin person, but I am fat). The social context is also introduced: learners are taught that while '瘦子' is common, it is informal. They begin to see how adjectives like '小' (xiǎo - small) can be added to create '小瘦子' (little skinny one), often used as an affectionate nickname for children. The focus is on expanding the sentence structure and integrating the word into daily conversational topics like family and friends.
At the B1 level, learners explore the nuances of '瘦子' in various social and cultural scenarios. They learn to distinguish '瘦子' from more specific terms like '苗条' (miáotiao - slender) and '瘦弱' (shòuruò - frail). B1 students practice using '瘦子' in more complex sentence structures, such as '虽然他是个瘦子,但他的力气很大' (Although he is a thin person, he is very strong). They also begin to understand the cultural implications of commenting on weight in Chinese society compared to their own culture. Discussion topics might include body image, health, and how descriptions of people change depending on the speaker's relationship with them. Learners are expected to use the word appropriately in informal settings while knowing when to switch to more formal adjectives.
At the B2 level, students analyze the use of '瘦子' in literature, media, and idiomatic expressions. They look at how the word is used in character development in stories and movies, often as a foil to a '胖子' character. B2 learners study the '子' suffix in more depth, understanding how it functions across a range of nouns. They also explore regional variations in how body types are described and the use of '瘦子' in internet slang and social media fashion trends. At this level, students should be able to discuss the evolution of beauty standards in China and how terms like '瘦子' and '骨感' (gǔgǎn - bony/fashionably thin) reflect these changes. They are expected to have a high degree of accuracy in using the word in both spoken and written contexts.
At the C1 level, learners examine the sociolinguistic aspects of '瘦子'. They study how the word's connotation can shift from neutral to pejorative or affectionate based on subtle cues in tone and context. Students analyze the use of the word in classical and modern literature, looking for deeper symbolic meanings. For example, a '瘦子' might symbolize an ascetic lifestyle, intellectualism, or poverty. C1 learners also look at the word's role in 'Xiangsheng' (crosstalk) and other traditional performing arts, where physical labels are used to establish character archetypes. They are encouraged to use the word with native-like precision, understanding the full spectrum of synonyms and antonyms and their respective registers.
At the C2 level, learners have a masterly grasp of '瘦子' and its place within the broader Chinese linguistic landscape. They can discuss the etymology of the character '瘦', including its 'sickness' radical, and how this historical root influences modern perceptions of thinness. C2 students can engage in high-level debates about body politics in China, using '瘦子' as a starting point to discuss health, consumerism, and gender roles. They can interpret the word's use in complex puns, wordplay, and obscure literary references. At this level, the learner's use of '瘦子' is indistinguishable from that of a highly educated native speaker, incorporating it seamlessly into nuanced discussions about culture, history, and social dynamics.

瘦子 in 30 Seconds

  • 瘦子 (shòuzi) is the standard Chinese noun for a thin person, used informally in daily life to describe physical appearance.
  • It combines the adjective for thin (瘦) with a common noun suffix (子), making it a countable noun (一个瘦子).
  • While often neutral, it can be used affectionately as a nickname or rudely depending on the social context and tone.
  • Commonly contrasted with 胖子 (fat person), it is a staple term in physical descriptions and character archetypes in Chinese media.

The Chinese term 瘦子 (shòuzi) is a common noun used to describe a person who is physically thin, skinny, or lean. At its core, the word is composed of two characters: 瘦 (shòu), which is an adjective meaning thin or lean, and the suffix 子 (zi), which often transforms adjectives or verbs into nouns referring to people or objects. Understanding this word requires a grasp of its descriptive nature and its social weight in Chinese culture.

Literal Meaning
The literal translation is 'thin one' or 'skinny person'. Unlike English, where 'skinny' might sometimes carry a negative connotation of being undernourished, 瘦子 in Chinese is often used as a neutral descriptor, though its tone depends heavily on context and the relationship between the speakers.
Social Context
In many Chinese-speaking communities, commenting on someone's weight is more common and less taboo than in Western cultures. A grandmother might call her grandson a 瘦子 to express concern that he isn't eating enough, or friends might use it jokingly. However, it can also be used disparagingly to imply someone looks weak or sickly.

虽然他吃得很多,但他依然是个瘦子。(Suīrán tā chī de hěnduō, dàn tā yīrán shì ge shòuzi.)

— Translation: Although he eats a lot, he is still a thin person.

Historically, being thin was not always seen as a positive trait in China. Ancient beauty standards often favored a more robust or 'full' figure, which symbolized wealth and health. The character contains the 'sickness' radical (疒), suggesting that extreme thinness was traditionally associated with illness or poverty. In modern times, while the 'thin ideal' has permeated urban fashion and media, the word 瘦子 still carries that dual possibility of being a neutral physical observation or a mild expression of concern.

Usage in Media
You will often find this word in comedy sketches where a 'thin person' and a 'fat person' (胖子 - pàngzi) are contrasted for comedic effect. It is a staple of physical characterization in storytelling.

那个瘦子跑得真快!(Nàge shòuzi pǎo de zhēn kuài!)

— Translation: That skinny guy runs really fast!

When analyzing the structure of 瘦子, it is important to note that it acts strictly as a noun. You cannot say 'He is very 瘦子'; you must say 'He is a 瘦子' (他是个瘦子). This grammatical distinction is crucial for A2 learners moving into more complex sentence structures. The word is ubiquitous in daily life, from parents worrying about their children to friends teasing each other about their high metabolism.

Tone and Intent
Always consider the 'power dynamic' or relationship. A doctor calling a patient a 瘦子 might be discussing health, whereas a bully using it is an insult. In most casual peer-to-peer contexts, it is relatively harmless but informal.

Using 瘦子 correctly involves understanding its role as a countable noun. In Chinese, nouns describing people usually require a measure word, most commonly 个 (gè). Because it refers to a person, it often functions as the subject or the object of a sentence, or as a predicative noun following the verb 是 (shì).

Basic Identification
The most straightforward way to use the word is to identify someone's body type. This is commonly seen in descriptions of friends, family members, or strangers. For example: '我弟弟是个瘦子' (My younger brother is a thin person).

班里最矮的那个学生是个瘦子。(Bān lǐ zuì ǎi de nàge xuéshēng shì ge shòuzi.)

— Translation: The shortest student in the class is a skinny person.

One interesting grammatical feature is how 瘦子 interacts with modifiers. You can add adjectives before it to provide more detail, such as '小瘦子' (xiǎo shòuzi - little skinny one, often used affectionately for children) or '死瘦子' (sǐ shòuzi - 'damned skinny person', used jokingly or rudely among close friends).

Comparative Use
When comparing people, 瘦子 can be part of a '比' (bǐ) construction, although it is more common to use the adjective 瘦. However, one can say: '比起胖子,瘦子买衣服更容易' (Compared to fat people, thin people find it easier to buy clothes).

那个瘦子竟然能搬动这么沉的箱子。(Nàge shòuzi jìngrán néng bāndòng zhème chén de xiāngzi.)

— Translation: That skinny guy can actually move such a heavy box.

In terms of sentence placement, 瘦子 can also appear in the topic-comment structure. For instance: '那个瘦子,我认识他' (That thin guy, I know him). This is very common in spoken Mandarin where the speaker identifies a person by their physical characteristics before providing further information.

When using the word in professional settings, it is best to avoid it. If a doctor is describing a patient, they would likely use more clinical terms like '消瘦' (xiāoshòu - emaciated/underweight) or '体型偏瘦' (tǐxíng piānshòu - lean body type). 瘦子 is distinctly colloquial and belongs to the realm of daily conversation, storytelling, and casual observation.

我以前是个胖子,现在变成了个瘦子。(Wǒ yǐqián shì ge pàngzi, xiànzài biànchéngle ge shòuzi.)

— Translation: I used to be a fat person, now I've become a thin person.
Pluralization
To refer to thin people in general, you can say '瘦子们' (shòuzimen), though this is mostly used in writing or specific addresses. Usually, context and number words (like '很多' or '一些') clarify plurality.

You will encounter 瘦子 in a variety of real-life scenarios, ranging from the dinner table to the doctor's office, and even in popular music and television. It is a word that reflects the Chinese preoccupation with physical appearance and health.

At the Dinner Table
This is perhaps the most common place. Chinese elders (grandparents, aunts, uncles) are notorious for commenting on younger relatives' weights. If a child looks thin, they might say '你这瘦子,多吃点肉!' (You skinny thing, eat more meat!). Here, it's used with a mix of affection and concern.

家里人都说我是个瘦子,因为我怎么吃都不胖。(Jiālǐ rén dōu shuō wǒ shì ge shòuzi, yīnwèi wǒ zěnme chī dōu bù pàng.)

— Translation: Everyone in my family says I'm a skinny person because I never get fat no matter how much I eat.

In the world of Chinese entertainment, specifically in 'Xiangsheng' (crosstalk comedy), the physical contrast between a 'fatty' and a 'skinny' is a classic trope. The performers often use these labels to identify each other and set up jokes about their respective appetites or physical capabilities. You'll hear the word used as a nickname or a quick way to reference a character's role.

In Schools
Among children and teenagers, nicknames are frequently based on physical traits. While '瘦子' can be a simple nickname, it's important to be aware of the potential for bullying. However, in many cases, it's used as a neutral identifier in games like '那个瘦子当守门员' (That skinny guy will be the goalkeeper).

他们管他叫“小瘦子”,因为他真的很苗条。(Tāmen guǎn tā jiào 'xiǎo shòuzi', yīnwèi tā zhēn de hěn miáotiao.)

— Translation: They call him 'Little Skinny' because he is really slender.

In literature and storytelling, 瘦子 is used to paint a vivid picture of a character's state. A '瘦子' might be portrayed as a scholarly, fragile person or a nimble, quick thief. The word evokes a specific silhouette in the reader's mind, often contrasted with a '胖子' who might represent greed or joviality. Understanding these archetypes helps in grasping the cultural connotations of the word beyond its dictionary definition.

Gym and Fitness
In the fitness community, you might hear '瘦子增肌' (shòuzi zēngjī - skinny people gaining muscle). This refers to the specific struggle of lean individuals trying to bulk up, a common topic in gym forums.

Learning to use 瘦子 correctly involves avoiding several pitfalls, ranging from grammatical errors to social faux pas. Because the word is so common, even small mistakes can make your speech sound unnatural or unintentionally rude.

Confusing Noun and Adjective
The most frequent mistake for English speakers is using 瘦子 as an adjective. In English, 'skinny' is an adjective, so learners often say '他很瘦子' (He is very skinny person), which is incorrect. You should say '他很瘦' (He is very thin) or '他是个瘦子' (He is a thin person).

错误:他比我更瘦子
正确:他比我更瘦。(Tā bǐ wǒ gèng shòu.)

— Explanation: You cannot use '瘦子' in a 'more' (更) comparison because it is a noun.

Another mistake is the lack of a measure word. In Chinese, you rarely say '我是瘦子' (I am thin person) without the measure word '个'. While it's sometimes heard in very fast speech, '我是个瘦子' is much more natural and grammatically sound. This '个' helps define the noun clearly in the sentence.

Misjudging Social Sensitivity
While Chinese culture is more open about weight, calling a stranger or a superior a 瘦子 is still considered impolite. It is too informal. If you are in a professional setting or meeting someone for the first time, avoid using physical descriptors like 瘦子 or 胖子 unless it's absolutely necessary for identification.

不要对你的老板说:“你是个瘦子。”

— Translation: Don't say to your boss: 'You are a skinny person.' It's way too casual.

Furthermore, learners often fail to distinguish between '瘦子' and '瘦弱' (shòuruò). '瘦子' just means the person is thin. '瘦弱' means they are thin and weak/frail. If you want to say someone looks unhealthy because of their weight, 瘦子 might not be strong enough, and 瘦弱 would be more accurate. Conversely, calling a healthy but lean athlete a '瘦弱的人' would be an insult to their strength.

Finally, watch out for the '子' suffix. In some Chinese words, '子' is essential (like 房子 - house), but in others, it's optional or changes the meaning. With 瘦, adding '子' is the only way to make it a noun for a person. Without it, '瘦' remains an adjective. Don't forget the '子' if you intend to use it as a noun!

Chinese has a rich vocabulary for describing body types. While 瘦子 is the most common and direct term for a thin person, several other words offer different nuances of politeness, health, and aesthetic appeal.

苗条 (miáotiao)
This is the most positive alternative. It translates to 'slender' or 'slim' and is almost always used as a compliment, particularly for women. While 瘦子 is a neutral noun, 苗条 is a complimentary adjective. You would say '她身材很苗条' (Her figure is very slender).
瘦弱 (shòuruò)
This word combines 'thin' (瘦) with 'weak' (弱). It is used to describe someone who is skinny in an unhealthy or fragile way. If a 瘦子 looks like they might fall over in a strong wind, they are 瘦弱. It carries a tone of pity or clinical observation.
骨感 (gǔgǎn)
Literally 'bone-feeling', this is a modern term often used in fashion to describe a 'bony' look. It's often used for models. It's more descriptive of a specific aesthetic where the bone structure is visible, rather than just being generally thin.

她不是普通的瘦子,她是那种很有气质的苗条。(Tā bùshì pǔtōng de shòuzi, tā shì nàzhǒng hěn yǒu qìzhì de miáotiao.)

— Translation: She isn't just an ordinary thin person; she has that very elegant slenderness.

For a more informal or slangy approach, especially in Northern China, you might hear '瘦猴' (shòuhóu - skinny monkey). This is a teasing term, usually for kids or energetic young men who are thin and agile. It's more playful than 瘦子 but also more potentially offensive if the person doesn't like being compared to a monkey.

In academic or formal writing, you would avoid all of these in favor of '消瘦' (xiāoshòu - emaciated) or '体格单薄' (tǐgé dānbó - thin build). These terms sound more professional and objective. Understanding the spectrum from 瘦猴 to 消瘦 allows you to navigate Chinese social situations with much greater precision and sensitivity.

精瘦 (jīngshòu)
This refers to someone who is thin but muscular (lean muscle). It's a very positive way to describe an athlete's build. It implies there is no 'waste' fat, only 'essence' (精) and muscle.

How Formal Is It?

Fun Fact

Because of the 'sickness' radical (疒), some linguists argue that the word historically had a more negative connotation than it does today, where 'thin' is often a beauty standard.

Pronunciation Guide

UK /ʃəʊ dtsə/
US /ʃoʊ dtsə/
The stress is on the first syllable 'shòu'. The second syllable 'zi' is a neutral tone and should be light and short.
Rhymes With
扣子 (kòuzi - button) 肚子 (dùzi - belly) 裤子 (kùzi - pants) 猴子 (hóuzi - monkey) 句子 (jùzi - sentence) 样子 (yàngzi - appearance) 口子 (kǒuzi - opening) 日子 (rìzi - day/life)
Common Errors
  • Pronouncing 'zi' like the English word 'zee'.
  • Giving 'zi' a full third tone instead of a neutral tone.
  • Failing to pronounce the 'sh' with the tongue curled back (retroflex).
  • Pronouncing 'shou' like 'shoe'.
  • Making the 'sh' sound too much like 's'.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 2/5

The character 瘦 has many strokes, but 瘦子 is a very common word.

Writing 3/5

Writing 瘦 correctly requires attention to the radical and the inner components.

Speaking 1/5

Easy to pronounce; just remember the neutral tone on 'zi'.

Listening 1/5

Very distinct sound, easy to recognize in conversation.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

瘦 (shòu) 子 (zi) 人 (rén) 个 (gè) 是 (shì)

Learn Next

胖子 (pàngzi) 苗条 (miáotiao) 身材 (shēncái) 健康 (jiànkāng) 锻炼 (duànliàn)

Advanced

形销骨立 (xíng xiāo gǔ lì) 弱不禁风 (ruò bù jīn fēng) 骨瘦如柴 (gǔ shòu rú chái) 丰满 (fēngmǎn) 魁梧 (kuíwú)

Grammar to Know

Noun Suffix '-zi'

瘦 (thin) + 子 = 瘦子 (thin person). Also: 胖子, 矮子, 瞎子.

Measure Word '个'

一个瘦子 (one thin person). You must use a measure word with numbers.

Attribute Modifier

健康的瘦子 (healthy thin person). Adjectives before the noun use '的'.

Comparison with '比'

他比那个瘦子还瘦。 (He is even thinner than that thin person.)

Subject-Predicate with '是'

我不是瘦子。 (I am not a thin person.)

Examples by Level

1

他是一个瘦子。

He is a thin person.

Uses the basic 'Subject + 是 + Measure Word + Noun' structure.

2

那个瘦子是谁?

Who is that thin person?

Uses '那个' (that) as a demonstrative modifier.

3

我不喜欢当瘦子。

I don't like being a thin person.

Uses '当' (dāng) meaning 'to be' or 'to act as'.

4

我哥哥是个瘦子。

My older brother is a thin person.

A common way to describe family members.

5

这里有一个瘦子。

There is a thin person here.

Uses '有' (yǒu) to indicate existence.

6

瘦子喜欢吃水果。

Thin people like to eat fruit.

Generalizing about a group of people.

7

你是瘦子吗?

Are you a thin person?

A simple yes/no question using '吗'.

8

那个瘦子很矮。

That thin person is very short.

Combining two physical descriptors.

1

虽然他吃很多,但他还是个瘦子。

Although he eats a lot, he is still a thin person.

Uses the '虽然...但是...' (although... but...) construction.

2

我们班有三个瘦子。

There are three thin people in our class.

Uses a specific number with the measure word '个'.

3

那个瘦子是我的好朋友。

That thin person is my good friend.

Using physical description to identify someone.

4

小瘦子,快来吃饭!

Little skinny one, come and eat!

Adding '小' (xiǎo) as an affectionate prefix.

5

他想从胖子变成瘦子。

He wants to change from a fat person to a thin person.

Uses '从...变成...' (from... to become...).

6

瘦子穿这件衣服很好看。

Thin people look good in these clothes.

Subject-verb-object structure with a descriptive comment.

7

那个瘦子跑得非常快。

That thin person runs very fast.

Uses the potential complement '得' to describe the action.

8

医生说他是个健康的瘦子。

The doctor says he is a healthy thin person.

Using an adjective to modify the noun '瘦子'.

1

比起那个胖子,这个瘦子更灵活。

Compared to that fat person, this thin person is more flexible.

Uses '比起' (compared to) for comparison.

2

他总是自嘲说自己是个“死瘦子”。

He always jokes about himself being a 'damned skinny person'.

Uses '自嘲' (self-mockery) and a common slang prefix '死'.

3

那个瘦子在人群中非常显眼。

That thin person is very conspicuous in the crowd.

Uses '显眼' (conspicuous/eye-catching).

4

很多女孩子都希望自己能成为瘦子。

Many girls hope they can become thin people.

Discussing social desires and body image.

5

这个瘦子竟然能举起这么重的东西。

This skinny person can actually lift such a heavy thing.

Uses '竟然' (unexpectedly) to express surprise.

6

他并不是天生的瘦子,他是通过锻炼变瘦的。

He isn't a natural thin person; he became thin through exercise.

Uses '并不是...而是...' (is not... but rather...).

7

那个瘦子看起来有点营养不良。

That thin person looks a bit malnourished.

Uses '看起来' (looks like) and '营养不良' (malnourished).

8

作为一个瘦子,他很难买到合适的西装。

As a thin person, it's hard for him to find a suitable suit.

Uses '作为...' (as a...).

1

在某些文化中,瘦子被认为是贫穷的象征。

In some cultures, being a thin person is considered a symbol of poverty.

Uses passive voice '被认为' (to be considered).

2

那个瘦子在舞台上的表演非常有张力。

That thin person's performance on stage is very intense.

Uses '张力' (tension/intensity) to describe performance.

3

他虽然是个瘦子,但内心却非常强大。

Although he is a thin person, his inner self is very strong.

Contrasting physical appearance with internal character.

4

这部电影讲述了一个瘦子如何逆袭的故事。

This movie tells the story of how a skinny person made a comeback.

Uses '逆袭' (counter-attack/comeback), a popular modern term.

5

他那瘦子的形象深入人心。

His image as a thin person is deeply rooted in people's hearts.

Uses the idiom '深入人心' (deeply ingrained).

6

那个瘦子为了增肌,每天都要吃六顿饭。

That skinny guy eats six meals a day in order to gain muscle.

Uses '为了' (in order to) to express purpose.

7

别看他是个瘦子,他打起架来可凶了。

Don't let the fact that he's a skinny guy fool you; he's fierce in a fight.

Uses '别看...' (don't judge by...) to introduce a contrast.

8

那个瘦子在辩论赛中思维非常敏捷。

That thin person's thinking is very quick in the debate.

Uses '思维敏捷' (quick-thinking).

1

鲁迅笔下的那些瘦子,往往承载着深刻的社会隐喻。

The thin characters in Lu Xun's writings often carry profound social metaphors.

Literary analysis of character types.

2

那个瘦子以其独特的病态美吸引了众人的目光。

That thin person attracted everyone's attention with their unique 'sickly beauty'.

Uses '病态美' (morbid/sickly beauty), a complex aesthetic concept.

3

在饥荒年代,能活下来的瘦子都是意志极其坚强的人。

In times of famine, the thin people who survived were all individuals with extremely strong wills.

Historical context and high-level vocabulary.

4

他那瘦子的皮囊下,隐藏着一颗狂热的心。

Under his thin exterior, a fanatical heart is hidden.

Uses '皮囊' (skin bag/exterior), a philosophical term for the body.

5

那个瘦子在权力的游戏中,扮演了一个不可或缺的角色。

That thin person played an indispensable role in the game of power.

Uses '不可或缺' (indispensable).

6

他自嘲是个“精神瘦子”,意指自己内心贫瘠。

He mocks himself as a 'spiritual thin person', meaning his inner world is barren.

Metaphorical use of the term.

7

那个瘦子的身影在夕阳下显得格外凄凉。

The silhouette of that thin person looked exceptionally desolate in the sunset.

Descriptive, emotive language.

8

即便他是个瘦子,他也从未放弃过对力量的追求。

Even though he is a thin person, he never gave up his pursuit of strength.

Uses '即便' (even if/even though).

1

这种对“瘦子”的病态审美,反映了当代社会的某种焦虑。

This morbid aesthetic preference for 'thin people' reflects a certain anxiety in contemporary society.

Sociological critique.

2

那个瘦子在历史的长河中,不过是一个微不足道的符号。

In the long river of history, that thin person is but an insignificant symbol.

Philosophical/Historical reflection.

3

他那形如枯槁的瘦子形象,成了那个时代的缩影。

His withered, thin appearance became an epitome of that era.

Uses the idiom '形如枯槁' (withered appearance).

4

那个瘦子以一种近乎自虐的方式,维持着他的体型。

That thin person maintains his physique in a way that borders on self-torture.

Uses '近乎' (bordering on/almost).

5

在众多的胖子中间,他这个瘦子显得格格不入。

Among the many fat people, he, as a thin person, seemed completely out of place.

Uses the idiom '格格不入' (out of place/incompatible).

6

他笔下的瘦子,往往带着一种超脱世俗的清冷感。

The thin characters in his writing often carry a sense of detached, cold elegance.

Literary/Aesthetic analysis.

7

那个瘦子在资本的博弈中,最终沦为了牺牲品。

In the gamble of capital, that thin person eventually became a victim.

Uses '博弈' (gambling/game theory) and '沦为' (to fall to/become).

8

这种对“瘦子”定义的泛化,导致了人们对健康的误解。

This generalization of the definition of a 'thin person' has led to a misunderstanding of health.

Scientific/Logical argument.

Common Collocations

一个小瘦子
变成瘦子
健康的瘦子
那个死瘦子
天生的瘦子
瘦子的烦恼
一群瘦子
像个瘦子
瘦子增肌
干瘦子

Common Phrases

吃不胖的瘦子

— A thin person who can't get fat no matter how much they eat.

我最羡慕那种吃不胖的瘦子。

瘦子穿什么都好看

— A common saying that thin people look good in any clothes.

大家都说瘦子穿什么都好看。

我这个瘦子

— A self-referential way of identifying as a thin person.

我这个瘦子可搬不动这东西。

瘦子和胖子

— The classic pairing of a thin person and a fat person.

电影里经常有瘦子和胖子的组合。

变成了一个瘦子

— To have become a thin person.

三个月不见,他变成了一个瘦子。

那个瘦子是谁

— Asking for the identity of a specific thin person.

那个瘦子是谁?我好像见过。

瘦子也怕冷

— A common belief that thin people feel the cold more.

别以为只有胖子怕热,瘦子也怕冷。

招人嫉妒的瘦子

— A thin person who makes others jealous (usually because of their metabolism).

她就是那种招人嫉妒的瘦子。

瘦子没力气

— A stereotype that thin people lack strength.

谁说瘦子没力气?他力气大着呢。

骨瘦如柴的瘦子

— An extremely thin person, literally 'thin as a matchstick'.

他是个骨瘦如柴的瘦子。

Often Confused With

瘦子 vs

'瘦' is the adjective (thin), while '瘦子' is the noun (thin person). You can't say '他很瘦子'.

瘦子 vs 瘦弱

'瘦弱' implies being thin AND weak. '瘦子' just means thin.

瘦子 vs 苗条

'苗条' is a compliment (slender). '瘦子' is a neutral or blunt descriptor.

Idioms & Expressions

"瘦骨嶙峋"

— To be so thin that the bones show; skeletal.

那个瘦子瘦骨嶙峋,看起来很可怜。

Formal/Descriptive
"骨瘦如柴"

— As thin as a stick; extremely thin.

生病后,他变成了一个骨瘦如柴的瘦子。

Common Idiom
"弱不禁风"

— Too weak to stand a gust of wind; very fragile.

那个瘦子弱不禁风,好像一碰就会倒。

Literary
"形销骨立"

— Wasted away to skin and bone (due to grief or illness).

他现在形销骨立,完全成了个瘦子。

Formal
"挑肥拣瘦"

— To choose the fat and pick the lean; to be choosy.

他买东西总是挑肥拣瘦的。

Common Idiom
"瘦死的骆驼比马大"

— A lean camel is still bigger than a horse; even in decline, a great person/thing is still superior.

虽然他破产了,但瘦死的骆驼比马大。

Proverb
"燕瘦环肥"

— Different types of beauty (referring to Empress Zhao Feiyan and Yang Guifei).

美是多样的,燕瘦环肥各有所爱。

Literary
"环肥燕瘦"

— Variation of the above; beauty comes in all shapes.

这两个女孩环肥燕瘦,都很漂亮。

Literary
"减衣缩食"

— To live very frugally (often making one thin).

他为了省钱减衣缩食,成了一个瘦子。

Formal
"面黄肌瘦"

— Sallow and emaciated (indicating poor health).

那个瘦子面黄肌瘦,一看就是营养不良。

Common Idiom

Easily Confused

瘦子 vs 瘦肉

Both start with '瘦'.

瘦肉 means lean meat (food), while 瘦子 means a thin person.

我喜欢吃瘦肉,但我不是个瘦子。

瘦子 vs 瘦身

Both relate to being thin.

瘦身 is the act of losing weight or slimming down (verb/noun), not a person.

她正在瘦身,想变成一个瘦子。

瘦子 vs 胖子

Antonym often used in the same context.

胖子 means fat person. They are the opposite.

他是胖子,我是瘦子。

瘦子 vs 矮子

Similar structure with the 'zi' suffix.

矮子 means a short person. You can be a 瘦子 and an 矮子 at the same time.

那个瘦子长得很高,不是个矮子。

瘦子 vs 瞎子

Similar structure with the 'zi' suffix.

瞎子 means a blind person. Entirely different physical attribute.

那个瘦子不是瞎子,他看得见。

Sentence Patterns

A1

S + 是 + (个) + 瘦子

他是个瘦子。

A2

S + 看起来 + 像个 + 瘦子

你看起来像个瘦子。

A2

虽然...但 + S + 还是个 + 瘦子

虽然他吃很多,但他还是个瘦子。

B1

与其当...不如当 + 瘦子

与其当胖子,不如当瘦子。

B1

S + 并不想成为 + 瘦子

我并不想成为瘦子。

B2

S + 以 + 瘦子 + 的身份 + ...

他以瘦子的身份参加了比赛。

C1

在...眼中,S + 不过是个 + 瘦子

在他眼中,我不过是个瘦子。

C2

那种...的瘦子形象

那种弱不禁风的瘦子形象深入人心。

Word Family

Nouns

瘦子 (shòuzi - thin person)
瘦肉 (shòuròu - lean meat)
瘦身 (shòushēn - weight loss/slimming)

Verbs

变瘦 (biàn shòu - to become thin)
瘦下来 (shòu xiàlái - to lose weight)
变瘦 (biànshòu - to thin out)

Adjectives

瘦 (shòu - thin)
消瘦 (xiāoshòu - emaciated)
瘦弱 (shòuruò - frail)

Related

胖子 (pàngzi - fat person)
体重 (tǐzhòng - body weight)
身材 (shēncái - figure)
减肥 (jiǎnféi - to lose weight)
苗条 (miáotiao - slender)

How to Use It

frequency

Very High in daily conversation.

Common Mistakes
  • 他很瘦子。 他很瘦。 / 他是个瘦子。

    '瘦子' is a noun and cannot be modified by '很' (very). Use the adjective '瘦' instead.

  • 一个瘦子的人。 一个瘦的人。 / 一个瘦子。

    You don't need '的人' after '瘦子' because '瘦子' already means 'thin person'.

  • 他是瘦子。 他是个瘦子。

    While '他是瘦子' is sometimes understood, adding the measure word '个' makes it much more natural.

  • 我变瘦子了。 我变瘦了。 / 我变成瘦子了。

    Use '变成' (become) with nouns like '瘦子'. Use '变' with adjectives like '瘦'.

  • 瘦子穿这件衣服。 瘦子穿这件衣服很好看。

    Ensure the sentence is complete. If you're making a general statement, it needs a predicate or comment.

Tips

Noun vs Adjective

Never say '他很瘦子'. Always use '是' with '瘦子' because it's a noun. Use '很' with '瘦' because it's an adjective.

Family Talk

Don't be surprised if a Chinese elder calls you a '瘦子'. They are likely expressing love and wanting you to eat more!

The '-zi' Suffix

Notice how many people-related nouns end in 'zi': 胖子, 矮子, 孩子. This is a common pattern in Mandarin.

Choose Wisely

If you want to be polite, use '苗条' for women and '结实' or '精瘦' for men. '瘦子' is very direct.

Neutral Tone

The 'zi' in 'shòuzi' should be very light. If you say it with a full tone, it sounds unnatural.

Radical Recognition

The 疒 radical is used in many words related to health (病, 疼, 瘦). Learning this radical helps you guess the meaning of new words.

Internet Trends

Search for #瘦子穿搭 on social media to see how the word is used in modern fashion contexts.

The Binary

Learn '瘦子' and '胖子' together. They are almost always paired in descriptions and jokes.

Retroflex 'sh'

Make sure your tongue is curled back for the 'sh' in 'shou'. It shouldn't sound like 's'.

Teasing

Only use terms like '瘦猴' with very close friends, as it can be offensive to some.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Imagine a **shou** (sounds like 'show') where everyone is a **zi** (sounds like 'seeds'). A show of tiny seeds... because thin people are small like seeds!

Visual Association

Visualize the character 瘦. The top part 疒 looks like a person lying in a hospital bed, reminding you that 'thin' was once linked to being sick.

Word Web

瘦子 瘦肉 瘦身 胖子 苗条 骨头 减肥 体型

Challenge

Try to describe three people you know using the word 瘦子. Then, try to use its opposite, 胖子, in the same sentence to practice the contrast.

Word Origin

The character 瘦 (shòu) consists of the radical 疒 (chuáng), which denotes sickness or disease, and the phonetic component 叟 (sǒu), meaning an old man. This suggests that in ancient times, being thin was often associated with the frailty of old age or illness.

Original meaning: The original meaning of 瘦 referred specifically to being emaciated or lean due to poor health or lack of food.

Sino-Tibetan, Sinitic.

Cultural Context

Avoid using '瘦子' to describe someone you do not know well, as it can be interpreted as 'skinny' in a negative sense (looking unhealthy).

In English, calling someone a 'skinny person' can be slightly rude. In Chinese, '瘦子' is more common but still informal.

The comedy duo 'Fatty and Skinny' (胖子和瘦子) is a classic trope in Chinese crosstalk. Lu Xun's stories often feature 'lean' characters to represent the oppressed or the intellectual. Modern 'A4 waist' challenges on social media highlight the obsession with being a 瘦子.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Family Dinner

  • 你太瘦了。
  • 多吃点。
  • 像个瘦子。
  • 小瘦子。

Shopping for Clothes

  • 瘦子穿的好看。
  • 这件太大了。
  • 适合瘦子。
  • 我是个瘦子。

Fitness/Gym

  • 瘦子增肌。
  • 开始锻炼。
  • 以前很瘦。
  • 健康的瘦子。

Describing Friends

  • 他是个瘦子。
  • 那个瘦子朋友。
  • 天生的瘦子。
  • 吃不胖的瘦子。

Doctor's Office

  • 体型偏瘦。
  • 营养不良。
  • 需要增重。
  • 消瘦的情况。

Conversation Starters

"你觉得当个瘦子好,还是当个胖子好? (Do you think it's better to be a thin person or a fat person?)"

"我们班里谁是最瘦的那个瘦子? (Who is the thinnest person in our class?)"

"你身边有那种怎么吃都不胖的瘦子吗? (Are there people around you who are thin no matter how much they eat?)"

"瘦子买衣服是不是比胖子容易得多? (Is it much easier for thin people to buy clothes than for fat people?)"

"你以前是个瘦子,还是现在是个瘦子? (Were you a thin person before, or are you one now?)"

Journal Prompts

描述一个你认识的瘦子,说说他的性格和爱好。 (Describe a thin person you know, talk about their personality and hobbies.)

你认为现代社会对瘦子的审美观是健康的吗? (Do you think modern society's aesthetic view of thin people is healthy?)

如果你能选择,你愿意当一个瘦子还是一个强壮的人?为什么? (If you could choose, would you rather be a thin person or a strong person? Why?)

写一写瘦子在生活中可能遇到的烦恼。 (Write about the troubles a thin person might encounter in life.)

谈谈你对“瘦死的骆驼比马大”这句成语的理解。 (Talk about your understanding of the idiom 'a lean camel is still bigger than a horse'.)

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

Generally, no, it's neutral. However, it's very informal. Calling a stranger a '瘦子' can be considered blunt or slightly rude, similar to calling someone 'skinny' in English. It's best used among friends or family.

It's better to use '苗条' (miáotiao). While many girls want to be thin, '瘦子' is just a description of weight, whereas '苗条' implies beauty and grace.

The most common measure word is '个' (gè). For example, '一个瘦子' (one thin person).

You should say '我想变瘦' (Wǒ xiǎng biàn shòu) or '我想变苗条' (Wǒ xiǎng biàn miáotiao). You wouldn't usually say '我想当个瘦子' unless you're emphasizing the identity.

'瘦' is an adjective (He is thin = 他很瘦). '瘦子' is a noun (He is a thin person = 他是个瘦子).

Usually, no. For animals, you just use the adjective '瘦'. '这只狗很瘦' (This dog is very thin).

It's a slang term, often used jokingly between friends. '死' (sǐ) here acts as an intensifier, like 'damned' or 'bloody'. It's very informal.

It has the 'sickness' radical (疒) on the outside and '叟' on the inside. It's a total of 14 strokes.

In formal writing, you would use '消瘦的人' (xiāoshòu de rén) or '体型偏瘦者' (tǐxíng piānshòu zhě).

In Chinese culture, there's a common belief that '瘦子穿什么都好看' (thin people look good in everything), which is why many people envy them.

Test Yourself 200 questions

writing

Write a sentence describing your brother as a thin person.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

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writing

Write: 'Although he is thin, he is very strong.'

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writing

Write: 'I want to become a thin person.'

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writing

Write: 'That skinny guy runs very fast.'

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writing

Write: 'There are many thin people in the gym.'

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writing

Write: 'He is a naturally thin person.'

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writing

Write: 'Thin people look good in these clothes.'

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writing

Write: 'Who is that thin person standing there?'

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writing

Write: 'I used to be a fat person, now I am a thin person.'

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writing

Write: 'He jokes that he is a damned skinny person.'

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writing

Write: 'Is he a healthy thin person?'

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writing

Write: 'The shortest student is a thin person.'

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writing

Write: 'They call him Little Skinny.'

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writing

Write: 'Compared to me, he is a thin person.'

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writing

Write: 'Thin people also have troubles.'

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writing

Write: 'He is as thin as a stick.'

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writing

Write: 'I envy those thin people who don't get fat.'

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writing

Write: 'That thin person is my teacher.'

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writing

Write: 'Don't call me a thin person.'

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writing

Write: 'The doctor wants the thin person to eat more.'

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speaking

Say: 'He is a thin person.'

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Say: 'I am not a thin person.'

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Say: 'That thin person is my friend.'

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Say: 'Are you a thin person?'

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Say: 'He became a thin person after exercise.'

Read this aloud:

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking

Say: 'Little skinny one, come here!'

Read this aloud:

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking

Say: 'Thin people look good in everything.'

Read this aloud:

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking

Say: 'I envy thin people.'

Read this aloud:

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking

Say: 'He is a naturally thin person.'

Read this aloud:

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking

Say: 'There are two thin people over there.'

Read this aloud:

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking

Say: 'That skinny guy is very tall.'

Read this aloud:

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking

Say: 'I don't want to be a thin person.'

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Say: 'He looks like a thin person.'

Read this aloud:

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking

Say: 'Thin people also need to eat meat.'

Read this aloud:

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking

Say: 'That thin person is very smart.'

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Say: 'Which one is the thin person?'

Read this aloud:

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking

Say: 'He is the thinnest person in our class.'

Read this aloud:

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking

Say: 'My father is a thin person.'

Read this aloud:

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking

Say: 'Is that thin person your brother?'

Read this aloud:

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking

Say: 'Thin people run fast.'

Read this aloud:

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening

Listen and write: '他是个瘦子。'

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening

Listen and write: '那个瘦子是谁?'

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening

Listen and write: '我不想当瘦子。'

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening

Listen and write: '小瘦子,吃饭了!'

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening

Listen and write: '他是个健康的瘦子。'

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening

Listen and write: '班里有两个瘦子。'

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening

Listen and write: '瘦子穿这件好看。'

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening

Listen and write: '他是天生的瘦子。'

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening

Listen and write: '那个瘦子跑得真快。'

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
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listening

Listen and write: '别叫他瘦子。'

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening

Listen and write: '我以前是个胖子,现在是瘦子。'

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
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listening

Listen and write: '瘦子也怕冷。'

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening

Listen and write: '那个瘦子是老师。'

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
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listening

Listen and write: '他瘦得像个瘦子。'

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
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listening

Listen and write: '那个死瘦子又来了。'

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:

/ 200 correct

Perfect score!

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