Meaning
渺小 describes something extremely small or insignificant, often used to express how tiny something appears in comparison to something vast, or to convey feelings of human insignificance before nature, the universe, or great forces. It carries a more literary or emotional tone than simple words for 'small'.
Usage
This word is frequently used in philosophical, reflective, or literary contexts to express humility or perspective. Common when comparing human existence to nature, the cosmos, or historical forces. It emphasizes not just physical smallness but also a sense of unimportance or powerlessness.
Examples
- 01站在浩瀚的宇宙面前，人类显得如此渺小。, .Standing before the vast universe, humanity appears so insignificant.
- 02我们个人的力量虽然渺小，但团结起来就能改变世界。, .Although our individual strength is insignificant, united we can change the world.
Characters
Common collocations
- 显得渺小to appear insignificant
- 渺小的人类insignificant humanity
- 感到渺小to feel insignificant
Antonyms
Origin
渺 originally described vast, distant water (note the water radical 氵), suggesting something so far away it appears tiny. Combined with 小 (small), it creates the meaning of something minute or insignificant, especially in contrast to vastness.