Understanding "草莓" - Chinese Word Explanation

1. Basic Information

• Word: 草莓
• Pinyin: cǎo méi
• Literal Meaning: "grass berry" (草 cǎo = grass; 莓 méi = berry)
• Primary Meaning: strawberry (the fruit)

2. In-depth Explanation

• Context and Usage:
• 草莓 refers to the fruit "strawberry" and is commonly used in everyday conversation, cooking, and shopping contexts.
• It can also describe things that are strawberry-flavored (e.g., 草莓冰淇淋 - strawberry ice cream).

• In slang, 草莓族 (cǎo méi zú) is a term used in Taiwan to describe young people perceived as fragile or unable to handle pressure (like a delicate strawberry).

• Character Breakdown:

• 草 (cǎo) means "grass" or "straw," referring to the plant's appearance.
• 莓 (méi) means "berry," indicating its classification as a small, juicy fruit.

3. Example Sentences

1. Chinese: 我喜欢吃草莓。
   Pinyin: Wǒ xǐhuān chī cǎo méi.
   English: I like to eat strawberries.

2. Chinese: 这个草莓蛋糕很甜。
   Pinyin: Zhège cǎo méi dàngāo hěn tián.
   English: This strawberry cake is very sweet.

3. Chinese: 妈妈在超市买了一盒草莓。
   Pinyin: Māma zài chāoshì mǎi le yī hé cǎo méi.
   English: Mom bought a box of strawberries at the supermarket.

Cultural Notes

• Strawberries are a popular fruit in China, especially during spring when they are in season.
• In some regions, strawberry-picking farms (草莓园, cǎo méi yuán) are a popular family activity.
• The term 草莓族 (strawberry generation) reflects societal discussions about generational differences in resilience.

Conclusion

草莓 (cǎo méi) means "strawberry" and is a common and delicious fruit in Chinese culture. Remember the characters 草 (grass) and 莓 (berry) to help you recall the word easily!