Meaning
次等 describes something that is of lower quality, rank, or standard compared to the best or first-class. It literally means 'second grade' or 'secondary level,' combining 次 (next, secondary) and 等 (grade, class). This term carries a negative connotation, indicating something is not up to the highest standard.
Usage
Used in formal and informal contexts to describe products, services, treatment, or quality that falls below the top tier. Commonly appears in comparisons or when discussing quality standards. Can describe both tangible items (goods, materials) and intangible concepts (treatment, status).
Examples
- 01我们不能让顾客觉得他们受到了次等待遇。.We cannot let customers feel they are receiving second-class treatment.
- 02这家店卖的都是次等商品，质量很差。, .This store sells all inferior goods; the quality is very poor.
Characters
Common collocations
- 次等品inferior goods, second-rate products
- 次等公民second-class citizen
- 次等货inferior merchandise
Antonyms
Origin
Formed from the combination of 次 (secondary position or inferior quality) and 等 (grade or rank), creating a compound that literally means 'second grade' or 'lower rank.'