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差 has 4 dictionary pronunciations. The examples show how each reading behaves in real words.
difference; discrepancy; (math.) difference (amount remaining after a subtraction); (literary) a little
different; wrong; mistaken; to fall short
to send (on an errand); (archaic) person sent on such an errand; job; official post
used in 參差|参差[cen1 ci1]
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almost
erhua variant of 差點|差点[cha4 dian3]
to differ
difference
disparity
time difference
difference
mistake
balance
contrast
drop in elevation
to go on an official or business trip
Notice where 差 sits in each complete thought.
Actually, I still haven't gotten over my jet lag.
Source: Tatoeba #766469 · CC BY 2.0 FRShe's almost the same height as you.
Source: Tatoeba #407293 · CC BY 2.0 FRHe's about the same age as you are.
Source: Tatoeba #416928 · CC BY 2.0 FRDefinitions and traditional forms are compiled from Make Me a Hanzi, HSK curriculum data, and CC-CEDICT. Sourced example sentences link to Tatoeba; editorial examples are labeled separately. Review data sources and licenses.