Understanding "夜宵" - Chinese Word Explanation

1. Basic Information

• Word: 夜宵
• Pinyin: yè xiāo
• Literal Meaning: "night" (夜) + "small snack" (宵)
• Primary Meaning: A late-night snack or meal, typically eaten after dinner and before bedtime.

2. In-depth Explanation

Context and Usage

"夜宵" refers to food consumed late at night, often as a casual or social activity. It is common in Chinese culture, especially in urban areas where nightlife is vibrant. People might eat 夜宵 at home, street food stalls, or restaurants that stay open late. The term carries a relaxed, informal connotation and is often associated with comfort food or small dishes.

Character Breakdown

• 夜 (yè): Means "night."
• 宵 (xiāo): Originally referred to "nighttime" but now often implies a small, light meal or snack. Together, the characters emphasize eating during the late hours.

3. Example Sentences

1. Chinese: 我们昨晚吃了烧烤当夜宵。
   Pinyin: Wǒmen zuó wǎn chīle shāokǎo dāng yèxiāo.
   English: We had barbecue as a late-night snack last night.

2. Chinese: 这家店开到凌晨，专门卖夜宵。
   Pinyin: Zhè jiā diàn kāi dào língchén, zhuānmén mài yèxiāo.
   English: This shop stays open until midnight, specializing in late-night snacks.

3. Chinese: 熬夜工作的时候，我喜欢吃点夜宵。
   Pinyin: Áoyè gōngzuò de shíhou, wǒ xǐhuān chī diǎn yèxiāo.
   English: When I stay up late working, I like to have some late-night snacks.

Cultural Notes

In China, 夜宵 is a beloved part of food culture, especially in cities like Guangzhou, Chengdu, and Beijing, where night markets thrive. Popular 夜宵 dishes include skewers (烧烤), dumplings (饺子), noodles (面条), and congee (粥). Eating 夜宵 is often a social activity, bringing friends or family together after work or entertainment. It reflects the Chinese emphasis on communal dining and flexible meal times.

Conclusion

"夜宵" (yè xiāo) is the Chinese term for a late-night snack, deeply rooted in the culture of nighttime dining and socializing. Whether it’s street food or homemade treats, 夜宵 is a tasty way to end the day. Remember it as "night + snack" for easy recall!