(tān) - to covet & greedy

Tone 1

tān | 8 strokes | radical: 贝

· tān

to covet;

greedy;

corrupt;

insatiable desire for wealth or possessions.

to covetgreedycorrupt

Usage highlights

corruptiongreedycorrupt officialaddicted to playinginsatiable greedlove of life

Synonyms

Antonyms

Usage & contexts

Examples

  • He was arrested for corruption (贪污).
  • Don't be greedy (贪心).
  • She is addicted to playing games (贪玩).
  • The corrupt official was punished severely (贪官).

Collocations

  • corruption(贪污)
  • greedy(贪心)
  • corrupt official(贪官)
  • addicted to playing(贪玩)
  • insatiable greed(贪得无厌)
  • love of life(贪生)

Idioms

  • Insatiably greedy(贪得无厌)
  • Cowardly and afraid of death(贪生怕死)
  • Greed knows no bounds(贪心不足)
  • Corrupt officials and corrupt practices(贪污腐败)

Cultural background

FAQ
  • In traditional Chinese culture, greed is considered one of the major moral failings.
  • The character reflects Confucian values that emphasize moderation and integrity over material desires.
  • Frequently appears in anti-corruption campaigns and moral teachings throughout Chinese history.

FAQ