adjective / noun HSK 5
Traditional 極端
extreme · extremity · radical
Meaning
极端 describes something that has reached the furthest point or limit, whether in degree, position, or opinion. It can refer to extreme weather, radical views, or situations pushed to their utmost boundary. The word carries a sense of going beyond the normal or moderate range.
Usage
Often used in formal or written contexts to describe extreme conditions, radical ideologies, or polarized situations. When describing people or opinions, it typically has a negative connotation, suggesting unreasonableness or lack of balance. Common in news media, academic writing, and serious discussions.
Examples
- 01我们不应该采取极端的做法。.We shouldn't adopt extreme methods.
- 02今年夏天的极端高温给很多人带来了困难。.This summer's extreme heat has brought difficulties to many people.
Characters
Common collocations
- 极端天气extreme weather
- 极端主义extremism
- 走极端to go to extremes
- 极端情况extreme circumstances
Antonyms
Origin
Both characters independently mean extremity or end point. Combined, they reinforce the concept of reaching the absolute limit or furthest extent of something.