Understanding "耳机" - Chinese Word Explanation

1. Basic Information

• Word: 耳机
• Pinyin: ěr jī
• Literal Meaning: "ear" (耳) + "machine" (机)
• Primary Meaning: Headphones or earphones (devices worn on or in the ears to listen to audio).

2. In-depth Explanation

Context and Usage

"耳机" is a common term in Mandarin referring to any device used to listen to audio privately, including over-ear headphones, in-ear earphones, or wireless earbuds. It is neutral in tone and can be used in both formal and casual contexts.

For example:
- Asking a friend: "Can I borrow your 耳机?"
- Shopping for tech: "I want to buy new 耳机."

Character Breakdown

• 耳 (ěr): Means "ear."
• 机 (jī): Means "machine" or "device."
  Together, they form "ear device," logically describing headphones or earphones.

3. Example Sentences

1. Chinese: 我的耳机坏了。
   Pinyin: Wǒ de ěrjī huài le.
   English: My headphones are broken.

2. Chinese: 请戴上耳机听音乐。
   Pinyin: Qǐng dài shàng ěrjī tīng yīnyuè.
   English: Please put on your earphones to listen to music.

3. Chinese: 这款耳机音质很好。
   Pinyin: Zhè kuǎn ěrjī yīnzhì hěn hǎo.
   English: These headphones have great sound quality.

Cultural Notes

• In China, 耳机 is widely used due to the popularity of smartphones and public transportation, where people often listen to music or watch videos privately.
• Wireless earbuds (like AirPods) are often called "无线耳机" (wúxiàn ěrjī), reflecting tech trends.

Conclusion

"耳机" (ěrjī) is a straightforward and essential word for English learners, meaning "headphones" or "earphones." Remember: 耳 = ear, 机 = machine. Use it when talking about audio devices, whether wired or wireless!