Meaning
冷僻 describes something that is rarely encountered, seldom used, or obscure. It can refer to uncommon words, remote locations, or topics that are not well-known or frequently discussed. The word combines the ideas of 'cold' (implying lack of popularity or use) and 'remote/secluded.'
Usage
冷僻 is commonly used in academic or literary contexts to describe rare vocabulary, obscure knowledge, or remote places. It often appears in discussions about language learning (冷僻字 for rare characters) or when describing locations that are off the beaten path. Native speakers use it to indicate something is not mainstream or commonly known.
Examples
- 01这篇古文里有很多冷僻字，很难读懂。, .This ancient text contains many rare characters that are difficult to understand.
- 02他喜欢研究一些冷僻的历史话题。.He likes to research some obscure historical topics.
Characters
Common collocations
- 冷僻字rare/obscure character
- 冷僻词rare/obscure word
- 冷僻的地方remote/out-of-the-way place
- 冷僻知识obscure knowledge
Antonyms
Origin
The combination of 冷 (cold, suggesting lack of warmth or activity) and 僻 (remote, secluded) creates the meaning of something that is 'cold and remote' — rarely visited, used, or known.