HSK Words: 精致 (jīng zhì) VS 精巧 (jīng qiǎo)

Today we will explore the differences between two HSK words: 精致 (jīng zhì) and 精巧 (jīng qiǎo). Although both words seem similar, their meanings are distinct, and understanding the differences will help you use these words accurately in daily communication.

精致 (jīng zhì) means exquisite and delicate, with a focus on high quality and precision. It implies a fine finish or an attention to detail that results in something beautiful and impressive.

Example:

1. This craftwork is very exquisite, with every detail handled perfectly.
   这件工艺品很精致，每一个细节都处理得很完美。
   zhè jiàn gōng yì pǐn hěn jīng zhì ， měi yí gè xì jié dōu chǔ lǐ de hěn wán měi 。
2. The dishes at this restaurant are extremely exquisite, with every dish leaving a lingering taste.
   这家餐厅的菜肴做得非常精致，每一道菜都让人回味无穷。
   zhè jiā cān tīng de cài yáo zuò de fēi cháng jīng zhì ， měi yī dào cài dōu ràng rén huí wèi wú qióng 。
3. This artist has sculpted this statue with great precision, with every cut accurate and in place.
   这位艺术家将这个雕塑雕刻得十分精致，每一刀都精准到位。
   zhè wèi yì shù jiā jiāng zhè gè diāo sù  diāo kē  de shí fēn jīng zhì ， měi yī dāo dōu jīng zhǔn dào wèi 。

精巧 (jīng qiǎo) means cleverly designed and well-crafted, with an emphasis on cleverness and efficiency. It implies a smart or ingenious design that makes something functional and practical.

Example:

1. This machine is cleverly designed and can complete many complex tasks.
   这台机器设计得非常精巧，可以完成许多复杂的任务。
   zhè tái jī qì shè jì dé fēi cháng jīng qiǎo ， kě yǐ wán chéng xǔ duō fù zá de rèn wù 。
2. This circuit design is very ingenious and has saved a lot of space.
   这个电路设计得非常精巧，节省了许多空间。
   zhè gè diàn lù shè jì dé fēi cháng jīng qiǎo ， shěng jié le xǔ duō kōng jiān 。
3. This table design is very clever and can be assembled based on different needs.
   这张桌子的设计非常精巧，可以按照不同的需求进行组装。
   zhè zhāng zhuō zi de shè jì fēi cháng jīng qiǎo ， kě yǐ àn zhào bù tóng de xū qiú jìn xíng zǔ zhuāng 。

In conclusion, while 精致 (jīng zhì) emphasizes high quality and precision with a focus on beauty and impressiveness, 精巧 (jīng qiǎo) focuses on cleverness and efficiency with an emphasis on functionality and practicality. Understanding the differences between these words will help you use them appropriately in Chinese communication.

Quiz: Please consider whether to use 精致 (jīng zhì) or 精巧 (jīng qiǎo) in following sentences.

1. 这家餐厅的装饰非常___, 每个细节都考虑得很周到。
   zhè jiā cān tīng de zhuāng shì fēi cháng ___, měi gè xì jié dōu kǎo lǜ de hěn zhōu dào 。
2. 这件工艺品的设计非常___, 每个部分都制作得非常完美。
   zhè jiàn gōng yì pǐn de shè jì fēi cháng ___, měi gè bù fèn dōu zhì zuò dé fēi cháng wán měi。
3. 这辆汽车的发动机设计____，既省油又环保。
   zhè liàng chē zǐ de dòng jī shè jì _____ ， jì shěn yóu yòu huán bǎo 。

Answer:

1. 精致 (jīng zhì)
2. 精致 (jīng zhì)
3. 精巧 (jīng qiǎo)