Meaning
贪心 describes someone who excessively desires more than they need, whether money, possessions, or other benefits. It carries a negative connotation, suggesting selfishness and lack of contentment. The word can function as an adjective to describe a greedy person or as a verb meaning 'to be greedy' or 'to covet.'
Usage
Native speakers use 贪心 to criticize someone's excessive desire for gain or their unwillingness to share. It's commonly used in moral teachings, children's stories, and everyday conversation to warn against selfishness. The term often appears in the phrase 不要太贪心 (don't be too greedy) as advice or warning.
Examples
- 01做人不要太贪心，知足常乐。, .Don't be too greedy in life; contentment brings happiness.
- 02他很贪心，总想占别人的便宜。, .He's very greedy and always wants to take advantage of others.
Characters
Common collocations
- 太贪心too greedy
- 贪心的人greedy person
- 不要贪心don't be greedy
Antonyms
Origin
The word combines 贪 (to covet) with 心 (heart/mind), literally meaning 'greedy heart' or 'covetous mind,' expressing that greed originates from one's inner desires.