少有

• Pinyin: shǎo yǒu
• Hanzi breakdown: 少 = 小 + 丿 (few, rare); 有 = 月 + 一 (to have, to exist)

Meaning

Rare; seldom seen; uncommon. Describes something that occurs infrequently or is not widely found.

Used to express that something is unusual, exceptional, or not commonly encountered. Often carries a tone of admiration or surprise. Frequently modifies abilities, phenomena, or events.

Examples

1. 他拥有少有的天赋，在同龄人中格外突出。 He has a rare talent and stands out among his peers.
2. 这种植物生长在高海拔地区，十分少有。 This plant grows in high-altitude regions and is quite rare.
3. 那个年代能接受高等教育的女性少有。 In that era, it was uncommon for women to receive higher education.

Usage Guide

Context: literary, academic, descriptive

Tone: admiring

Do Say

• 他少有的冷静在危机中发挥了关键作用。(His rare composure played a critical role during the crisis.)
• 这幅作品展现出少有的艺术造诣。(This work demonstrates a rare level of artistic mastery.)

Don't Say

• 少有人知道这件事 — prefer 鲜为人知 in formal writing for 'few people know'

Origin & History

少 (few, seldom) + 有 (have, exist)

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal