In Chinese culture, maintaining social harmony (和谐, héxié) and being generous or magnanimous (大方, dàfāng) are highly valued traits. A person who is constantly 计较 is the cultural opposite of this ideal. They are seen as self-centered, disruptive, and tiresome because they prioritize their own trivial interests over the smoothness and warmth of social relationships. A useful comparison for Western learners is the difference between “being detail-oriented” and “splitting hairs.” In a professional context, being detail-oriented is a positive trait, suggesting thoroughness. 计较, however, is almost always negative, like “splitting hairs” or being a “bean counter” in a social setting. It implies a moral failing—a lack of generosity of spirit. While a Westerner might argue over a bill to “stand up for their rights,” in a Chinese context, doing so over a small amount might be seen as 计较, causing everyone to lose face.
计较 is a very common word used to describe people's character and behavior. Its connotation is overwhelmingly negative.