Understanding "茶水" - Chinese Word Explanation

1. Basic Information

• Word: 茶水
• Pinyin: chá shuǐ
• Literal Meaning: "tea water"
• Primary Meaning: Refers to tea as a beverage, specifically the liquid resulting from steeping tea leaves in hot water.

2. In-depth Explanation

• Context and Usage:
• "茶水" is a common term for tea in everyday conversation, emphasizing the drinkable liquid rather than the tea leaves themselves.
• It is neutral in tone and can refer to any type of tea (green, black, oolong, etc.).
• Often used in casual settings, such as offering someone tea ("要喝点茶水吗？") or referring to tea served in restaurants or homes.

• Unlike more formal terms like "茶饮" (tea beverage) or specific tea names (e.g., "绿茶" for green tea), "茶水" is general and practical.

• Character Breakdown:

• 茶 (chá): Means "tea." This character represents the plant, leaves, or the concept of tea.
• 水 (shuǐ): Means "water." Here, it refers to the liquid form of tea after brewing.

3. Example Sentences

1. Chinese: 请给我倒一杯茶水。
   Pinyin: Qǐng gěi wǒ dào yī bēi chá shuǐ.
   English: Please pour me a cup of tea.

2. Chinese: 这家餐厅的茶水是免费的。
   Pinyin: Zhè jiā cāntīng de chá shuǐ shì miǎnfèi de.
   English: The tea at this restaurant is free.

3. Chinese: 他喜欢在下午喝点茶水。
   Pinyin: Tā xǐhuān zài xiàwǔ hē diǎn chá shuǐ.
   English: He likes to drink some tea in the afternoon.

Cultural Notes

• Tea culture is deeply rooted in China, and "茶水" reflects the everyday importance of tea in social and family life.
• Offering "茶水" to guests is a sign of hospitality. In formal settings, tea ceremonies may use more specific terms, but "茶水" remains a go-to word for casual tea drinking.
• In some contexts, "茶水" can also refer to the tea provided in public places like waiting rooms or offices, often served in large thermoses.

Conclusion

"茶水" (chá shuǐ) is a simple yet essential term for "tea" in Chinese, focusing on the drink itself. Remember it for everyday use, whether you're offering, ordering, or enjoying a cup of tea in China!