adjective HSK 5
secondary · subordinate · of lesser importance
Meaning
次要 describes something that is secondary or less important compared to something primary or main. It's commonly used to rank priorities, issues, or factors, indicating that while something matters, it's not the most crucial element.
Usage
次要 is often paired with 主要 (zhǔ yào, 'main/primary') to create contrasts. It's used in formal and informal contexts when discussing priorities, problems, or classifications. Native speakers frequently use it in phrases like 次要问题 (secondary problem) or 次要因素 (secondary factor).
Examples
- 01这个问题比较次要，我们先解决主要矛盾。, .This issue is relatively secondary; let's first resolve the main contradiction.
- 02价格是次要的，质量才是最重要的。, .Price is secondary; quality is what's most important.
Characters
Common collocations
- 次要问题secondary issue
- 次要因素secondary factor
- 次要角色secondary character/role
- 次要地位secondary position
Antonyms
Origin
次 originally meant 'second' or 'next in sequence,' while 要 means 'important.' Together they form 'secondarily important,' emphasizing relative rather than absolute importance.