Meaning
狭小 describes physical spaces that are both narrow and small, creating a sense of confinement or cramping. It can also figuratively describe limited scope, narrow thinking, or restricted perspectives. The word combines 狭 (narrow) with 小 (small) to emphasize the restrictive nature of a space or concept.
Usage
Commonly used to describe physical spaces like rooms, hallways, or living quarters that feel uncomfortably small. Also used metaphorically to describe narrow-mindedness or limited perspectives. Often appears in written contexts and formal speech. The tone is generally neutral to negative, emphasizing limitation.
Examples
- 01这个房间太狭小了，连一张床都放不下。, .This room is too cramped; it can't even fit a bed.
- 02他生活在一个狭小的世界里，从来不关心外面发生的事情。, .He lives in a confined world and never cares about what happens outside.
Characters
Common collocations
- 空间狭小cramped space
- 狭小的房间cramped room
- 地方狭小limited space
- 视野狭小narrow perspective
Antonyms
Origin
狭 originally contained the 犬 (dog) radical, suggesting something narrow like a tight passage a dog might squeeze through. Combined with 小 (small), the compound emphasizes both dimensions of restriction.