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妖怪

yāo guài

HSK 7–9

Meaning

  • monster
  • devil

Definition

妖怪指神话、传说或民间故事中出现的奇异生物，通常具有超自然力量，可能是善良的或邪恶的。

Yao guai refers to strange creatures in myths, legends, or folk tales, often possessing supernatural powers, which can be benevolent or malevolent.

Usage

妖怪常用于描述中国传统文化中的精灵、鬼怪或神兽，也可比喻性格怪异或行为反常的人。

Yao guai is often used to describe spirits, ghosts, or mythical beasts in Chinese traditional culture, and can also be used metaphorically for eccentric or abnormal people.

Examples

  • 1 《聊斋志异》里有很多关于妖怪的故事。 (There are many stories about demons and monsters in 'Strange Tales from a Chinese Studio.')
  • 2 孩子听了妖怪的故事吓得不敢睡觉。 (The child was so scared by the story of a monster that he dared not sleep.)
  • 3 他脾气古怪，像个妖怪一样。 (He has a strange temper, just like a monster.)
  • 4 这部电影讲述了一个善良的妖怪与人类的友谊。 (This movie tells the story of a kind-hearted monster's friendship with humans.)
  • 5 有些人认为宇宙中存在妖怪般的未知生物。 (Some people believe there are monster-like unknown creatures in the universe.)

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