Definition
落差 (luò chā) literally means 'drop in elevation' (e.g., a waterfall). Figuratively, it refers to a gap or disparity, especially between expectations and reality or between levels (e.g., income gap). Unlike 差距 (chā jù), which emphasizes a measurable distance or difference, 落差 often carries a sense of disappointment or contrast between what is expected and what is.
noun
drop in elevation (topography)(figuratively) gapdisparity (in wages, expectations, status, etc.)
Examples
- 落差,。Zhè duàn héliú de luò chā fēicháng dà, xíngchéng le pùbù.The drop in elevation of this section of the river is very large, forming a waterfall.
- 落差。Lǐxiǎng yǔ xiànshí de luò chā chángcháng ràng rén gǎndào shīluò.The gap between ideals and reality often makes people feel disappointed.
- 落差。Zhèngfǔ zhèngzài nǔlì suōxiǎo chéngxiāng shōurù luò chā.The government is working hard to narrow the income gap between urban and rural areas.
Browse more HSK 7-9 words or search the full 43,000-word dictionary.