Understanding "餐具" - Chinese Word Explanation

1. Basic Information

• Word: 餐具
• Pinyin: cān jù
• Literal Meaning: "meal" (餐) + "utensils/tools" (具)
• Primary Meaning: Tableware; dining utensils (e.g., plates, bowls, chopsticks, forks, etc.).

2. In-depth Explanation

Context and Usage

"餐具" refers to the tools and utensils used for eating and serving food. It is a general term covering items like chopsticks (筷子), spoons (勺子), plates (盘子), bowls (碗), and knives and forks (刀叉). The word is neutral and can be used in both formal and casual contexts, such as:
- Shopping for tableware ("我想买新餐具" – "I want to buy new tableware").
- Setting the table ("请摆好餐具" – "Please set the tableware").
- Discussing cultural differences in dining tools ("中西方餐具不同" – "Chinese and Western tableware differ").

Character Breakdown

• 餐 (cān): Means "meal" or "to eat."
• 具 (jù): Means "tools" or "utensils." Together, they form "meal utensils."

3. Example Sentences

1. Chinese: 这家餐厅的餐具很精致。
   Pinyin: Zhè jiā cāntīng de cānjù hěn jīngzhì.
   English: The tableware at this restaurant is very elegant.

2. Chinese: 请把餐具放在洗碗机里。
   Pinyin: Qǐng bǎ cānjù fàng zài xǐwǎnjī lǐ.
   English: Please put the tableware in the dishwasher.

3. Chinese: 西方人常用刀叉，而中国人常用筷子作为餐具。
   Pinyin: Xīfāngrén cháng yòng dāo chā, ér Zhōngguó rén cháng yòng kuàizi zuòwéi cānjù.
   English: Westerners often use knives and forks, while Chinese people often use chopsticks as tableware.

Cultural Notes

In China, tableware reflects cultural traditions. For example:
- Chopsticks are the primary eating tool, symbolizing harmony and balance.
- Ceramic bowls and plates are common, often decorated with traditional motifs.
- Sharing dishes is typical in Chinese meals, so serving utensils (like communal spoons) may also be considered part of "餐具."

Conclusion

"餐具" (cān jù) is a practical word for English learners to describe dining utensils. Remember: 餐 = meal, 具 = tools. Use it when discussing table settings, shopping, or comparing dining customs!