cou1 cin2粗淺粗浅

Jyutpingcou1 cin2

Yalechōu chín

形容詞

Definition

Superficial, basic, or lacking in-depth knowledge or experience.

neutraldescriptions

How it's used

Used primarily to describe knowledge or understanding that lacks depth or complexity. It carries a slightly formal or academic tone compared to everyday slang, often appearing in professional or educational contexts. When someone admits their knowledge is 粗淺, it is frequently used as a humble way to preface an opinion or answer.

Examples

ngo5我deoi3對nei4呢joeng6樣je5嘢zi2只hai6係jau5有cou1粗cin2淺ge3嘅jing6認sik1識。

I only have a superficial understanding of this thing.

keoi5佢gong2講ge2嘅je5嘢hou2好cou1粗cin2淺，jyun4完cyun4全mou5冇sam1深dou6度。

What he said was very superficial and lacked depth entirely.

Common phrases

cou1粗cin2淺ge3嘅jing6認sik1識

superficial understanding

cou1粗cin2淺ge3嘅liu5了gaai2解

superficial knowledge

Common mistake

Do not confuse this with 淺薄, which is often used to describe a person's character or personality as shallow or lacking substance. 粗淺 focuses on the level of knowledge or technical understanding, whereas 淺薄 carries a more negative, judgmental tone regarding someone's maturity or intellect.