Understanding "水杯" - Chinese Word Explanation

1. Basic Information

• Word: 水杯
• Pinyin: shuǐ bēi
• Literal Meaning: "water" (水) + "cup" (杯) = "water cup"
• Primary Meaning: A drinking cup or glass, typically used for holding water or other beverages.

2. In-depth Explanation

Context and Usage

"水杯" is a common everyday term in Chinese, referring to a cup or container designed for drinking water or other liquids. It is neutral in tone and can be used in both formal and informal settings. Unlike specialized terms like "茶杯" (chá bēi, teacup) or "酒杯" (jiǔ bēi, wine glass), "水杯" is more general and versatile.

Character Breakdown

• 水 (shuǐ): Means "water." It’s a fundamental character in Chinese, appearing in many words related to liquids or fluidity.
• 杯 (bēi): Means "cup" or "glass." It’s often used as a measure word for beverages (e.g., 一杯水, yī bēi shuǐ, "a cup of water").

Together, these characters form a straightforward compound word describing a vessel for drinking water.

3. Example Sentences

1. Chinese: 我的水杯是蓝色的。
   Pinyin: Wǒ de shuǐ bēi shì lán sè de.
   English: My water cup is blue.

2. Chinese: 请给我一个水杯。
   Pinyin: Qǐng gěi wǒ yī gè shuǐ bēi.
   English: Please give me a water cup.

3. Chinese: 她每天带水杯去学校。
   Pinyin: Tā měi tiān dài shuǐ bēi qù xué xiào.
   English: She brings a water cup to school every day.

Cultural Notes

In China, carrying a personal "水杯" is very common, especially among students and office workers. Reusable water cups are encouraged as a practical and eco-friendly habit. You’ll often see people refilling their cups with hot or cold water from public dispensers, reflecting the cultural emphasis on hydration and sustainability.

Conclusion

"水杯" (shuǐ bēi) is a simple yet essential word meaning "water cup." It combines "水" (water) and "杯" (cup) to describe a versatile drinking vessel. Whether you’re asking for a cup or describing your own, this word will come in handy in daily conversations. Remember it as "water + cup," and you’ll easily grasp its meaning!