Meaning
纤细 describes something that is gracefully thin or slender. It's commonly used for physical features like fingers, waists, or limbs, but can also describe delicate objects like threads or branches. The word carries a positive, elegant connotation rather than suggesting unhealthy thinness.
Usage
Most frequently used to describe feminine beauty or graceful body parts. When referring to people's figures, it's generally complimentary. Can also describe non-human objects like plant stems, threads, or any elongated thin items. Less common for describing men, where other words like 苗条 might be preferred.
Examples
- 01她有一双纤细的手指，很适合弹钢琴。, .She has slender fingers that are well-suited for playing piano.
- 02这种植物的茎非常纤细，需要小心照料。, .This plant's stem is very delicate and requires careful tending.
Characters
Common collocations
- 纤细的手指slender fingers
- 纤细的腰slender waist
- 身材纤细slender figure
- 纤细的身影slender silhouette
Antonyms
Origin
Both characters reinforce the meaning of thinness and delicacy. 纤 originally referred to fine silk threads, while 细 means small or thin, creating a compound that emphasizes graceful slenderness.