逊色

• Pinyin: xùn sè
• Hanzi breakdown: 逊 = 辶 + 孙 (yield, defer); 色 = 色 (color/quality)

Meaning

Inferior; not as good as. Used to indicate something falls short in comparison.

A comparative term indicating lower quality or ability relative to something else. Often used in negative constructions to praise something as being just as good.

Examples

1. 这部续集比原作略显逊色。 This sequel is a bit weaker than the original.
2. 他的表现丝毫不逊色于专业选手。 His performance is in no way inferior to that of professional players.
3. 国产品牌在质量上已不逊色于进口货。 Domestic brands are no longer inferior to imports in terms of quality.

Usage Guide

Context: comparisons, reviews, evaluations

Tone: analytical

Do Say

• 这款新产品毫不逊色于国际品牌。(This new product is in no way inferior to international brands.)
• 她的演技比前辈稍显逊色。(Her acting is slightly inferior to her predecessors.)

Don't Say

• 他很逊色 — needs comparison object; say 他比某人逊色 or 他不逊色于某人

Origin & History

逊 (yield/inferior) + 色 (quality/appearance)

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal