Understanding "取款" - Chinese Word Explanation

1. Basic Information

• Word: 取款
• Pinyin: qǔ kuǎn
• Literal Meaning: "取" (take) + "款" (money) → "take money"
• Primary Meaning: To withdraw money (from a bank or ATM).

2. In-depth Explanation

Context and Usage

"取款" is a common term used in financial contexts, specifically referring to the action of withdrawing money from a bank account, either at a bank counter or through an ATM. It is a neutral and formal term, suitable for both spoken and written Chinese.

• Nuances:
• While "取款" is general, other related terms include:
  • 提款 (tí kuǎn) – Also means "withdraw money," often interchangeable with "取款."
  • 取钱 (qǔ qián) – A more colloquial way to say "take out money."

Character Breakdown

• 取 (qǔ): Means "to take" or "to fetch."
• 款 (kuǎn): Refers to "money" or "funds" in this context (can also mean "clause" or "item" in other contexts).

Together, they form "取款," meaning "to withdraw money."

3. Example Sentences

1. Chinese: 我需要去银行取款。
   Pinyin: Wǒ xūyào qù yínháng qǔ kuǎn.
   English: I need to go to the bank to withdraw money.

2. Chinese: 这台ATM机可以取款吗？
   Pinyin: Zhè tái ATM jī kěyǐ qǔ kuǎn ma?
   English: Can this ATM withdraw money?

3. Chinese: 每天取款有限额吗？
   Pinyin: Měi tiān qǔ kuǎn yǒu xiàn’é ma?
   English: Is there a daily withdrawal limit?

Cultural Notes

• In China, mobile payments (like WeChat Pay and Alipay) are extremely popular, reducing the need for frequent cash withdrawals. However, "取款" remains essential for larger transactions or when cash is needed.
• Some banks may charge fees for ATM withdrawals, especially if using a different bank’s ATM.

Conclusion

"取款" (qǔ kuǎn) means "to withdraw money" and is a key term for banking in Chinese. Remember:
- 取 (qǔ) = take
- 款 (kuǎn) = money
Use it when talking about getting cash from a bank or ATM!