Meaning
奢 describes something that is luxurious, extravagant, or excessive, often in a way that involves wasteful spending or going beyond what is necessary. It typically carries a slightly negative connotation of being too lavish or indulgent, though it can also simply mean 'luxurious' in neutral contexts.
Usage
This character is most commonly used in compound words rather than alone. Native speakers frequently use it in combinations like 奢侈 (shēchǐ, extravagant/luxurious) or 奢望 (shēwàng, extravagant hope/wishful thinking). When used alone, it appears more in formal or literary contexts.
Examples
- 01这种奢华的生活方式不适合我。.This extravagant lifestyle doesn't suit me.
- 02对于普通人来说，买房已经不是奢望了。, .For ordinary people, buying a house is no longer an unrealistic dream.
Common collocations
- 奢侈品luxury goods
- 奢华生活luxurious lifestyle
- 奢求to make excessive demands
Antonyms
Origin
The character 奢 consists of the roof radical 宀 (shelter) on top and 者 (person/one who) below, originally suggesting someone living in excessive comfort under a grand roof.