缩短 suōduǎn to shorten
to shorten; to reduce; to curtail
How to remember 缩短: 缩 to withdraw + 短 short = to shorten.
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How it is used
- To shorten / cut down (length or duration) - 缩短时间 (suōduǎn shíjiān) shorten the time; 缩短距离 close the distance.
- Opposite of 延长 (yáncháng, to extend/prolong). Contrast 缩小 (suōxiǎo, reduce area/scope): 缩短 is specifically for length, distance, or time span - 延长时间 (yáncháng shíjiān) extend the time.