Definition
凑数 is a separable verb (离合词) meaning 'to make up a number' — you add something or someone to reach a required count or quota, often implying the addition is subpar or just a filler. It carries a slightly negative tone: the thing or person added isn't really needed or isn't good enough, but you include them anyway to avoid a shortage. The verb 凑 can separate from 数 when inserting measure words or complements: 凑个数 (make up a number), 凑过数 (have made up the number).
v.o.
to make up a number or amount (often with a filler or substandard item)to serve as a stopgap or placeholder
Examples
- 凑数，。Zhèxiē jiù shèbèi zhǐshì yòng lái còu shǔ de, zhìliàng bú tài hǎo.These old pieces of equipment are just used to make up the numbers; the quality isn't very good.
- ，。Wǒmen rénshù bú gòu, xiān zhǎo liǎng ge rén còu ge shù ba.We don't have enough people; let's find two people to make up the numbers for now.
- 。Tā juéde zìjǐ zài zhège tuánduì lǐ zhǐshì còu shù de.He feels he's just a filler in this team.
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