调皮

Pattern visualization

Examples

1. 这个孩子很调皮,总爱搞恶作剧。▶ —
   This child is naughty and always loves playing pranks.
2. 他小时候特别调皮。▶ —
   He was especially mischievous as a child.

Collocations

Mnemonic

调 tiáo "to adjust" + 皮 pí "skin/mischief": here 调 reads tiáo, and 皮 adds a sense of playfulness, chiefly of a naughty, mischievous child. 调皮捣蛋 = to be naughty and make trouble. Opposite of 听话 (obedient) and 乖 (well-behaved).

Related

Quick check

1. What does 调皮 mainly describe?

   • a naughty, mischievous child
   • a solemn elder
   • a lazy adult
   • a brave soldier