The Chinese word “差” has several meanings depending on the context. It can be used as a verb, noun, adjective, or part of a time expression. Here's how it's commonly used in sentences:

1. As an Adjective: “bad” / “poor quality”

Used to describe something that is not good, low in quality, or worse than expected.

• Chinese: 这家饭店的服务很差。

• English: The service at this restaurant is bad.

• Chinese: 他考试考得很差。

• English: He did poorly on the exam.

2. As a Verb: “to lack” / “to be short of”

Used to show something is missing or not enough (often with quantity or time).

• Chinese: 我还差五块钱。

• English: I'm five yuan short.

• Chinese: 差三分钟八点。

• English: It’s three minutes to eight.
  → Literally: Three minutes are missing from eight o’clock.

3. In Time Expressions: “(minutes) to (an hour)”

Used to express time before the hour (like in English: "ten to eight").

• Chinese: 差十分九点。

• English: It’s ten minutes to nine.

4. As a Noun (rare): “difference”

Sometimes used to mean a gap or difference, usually in more formal or written language.

• Chinese: 他们两人的水平有很大差距。

• English: There’s a big difference in their skill levels.

(Note: In this case “差距” includes “差” but is a compound word.)