Understanding "游泳馆" - Chinese Word Explanation

1. Basic Information

• Word: 游泳馆
• Pinyin: yóu yǒng guǎn
• Literal Meaning: "Swimming Hall" (游泳 = swimming, 馆 = hall/building)
• Primary Meaning: A swimming pool facility or aquatic center, typically an indoor public space for swimming and related activities.

2. In-depth Explanation

Context and Usage

"游泳馆" refers to a dedicated building or facility designed for swimming, often equipped with pools, showers, and changing rooms. It is commonly used to describe public or commercial swimming centers, distinguishing them from natural bodies of water (e.g., lakes, beaches) or smaller private pools.

Character Breakdown

• 游泳 (yóu yǒng): Means "to swim."
• 游 (yóu): "to roam" or "to swim."
• 泳 (yǒng): "to swim" (often used in compound words related to swimming).
• 馆 (guǎn): Means "hall," "building," or "establishment," often used for public venues (e.g., 图书馆 = library, 博物馆 = museum).

3. Example Sentences

1. Chinese: 周末我们去游泳馆锻炼。
   Pinyin: Zhōumò wǒmen qù yóuyǒngguǎn duànliàn.
   English: On weekends, we go to the swimming pool to exercise.

2. Chinese: 这家游泳馆的水很干净。
   Pinyin: Zhè jiā yóuyǒngguǎn de shuǐ hěn gānjìng.
   English: The water at this swimming pool is very clean.

3. Chinese: 游泳馆的票价是五十元。
   Pinyin: Yóuyǒngguǎn de piàojià shì wǔshí yuán.
   English: The admission fee for the swimming pool is fifty yuan.

Cultural Notes

In China, swimming is a popular recreational and fitness activity, especially in urban areas where natural swimming spots are scarce. Public swimming pools (游泳馆) are often managed by sports centers, schools, or private businesses. Many facilities require swimmers to wear swim caps for hygiene reasons, and some may ask for health certificates before entry.

Conclusion

"游泳馆" (yóu yǒng guǎn) is a practical word for English-speaking learners to know when discussing swimming facilities in China. Remember: 游泳 = swimming, 馆 = hall/building. Use it to refer to indoor or public pools, and enjoy a refreshing dip!