Understanding "汤水" - Chinese Word Explanation

1. Basic Information

• Word: 汤水
• Pinyin: tāng shuǐ
• Literal Meaning: "soup water"
• Primary Meaning: Refers to liquid-based dishes like soups, broths, or watery foods; can also metaphorically describe something weak or insubstantial.

2. In-depth Explanation

• Context and Usage:
• In Chinese cuisine, "汤水" often describes soups or broths, which are essential in meals for hydration and nourishment.
• It can also imply something diluted or lacking substance, e.g., "这汤水太淡" (This soup is too watery).

• In Cantonese, it may colloquially refer to financial "benefits" or "perks" in certain contexts (e.g., "捞汤水" means to gain extra profit).

• Character Breakdown:

• 汤 (tāng): Means "soup" or "hot water."
• 水 (shuǐ): Means "water." Together, they emphasize the liquid nature of the dish.

3. Example Sentences

1. Chinese: 冬天喝点汤水对身体好。
   Pinyin: Dōngtiān hē diǎn tāng shuǐ duì shēntǐ hǎo.
   English: Drinking some soup in winter is good for your health.

2. Chinese: 这碗汤水没什么味道。
   Pinyin: Zhè wǎn tāng shuǐ méi shénme wèidào.
   English: This bowl of soup is tasteless.

3. Chinese: 他做生意总想捞点汤水。
   Pinyin: Tā zuò shēngyì zǒng xiǎng lāo diǎn tāng shuǐ.
   English: He always tries to gain some extra profit in business.

Cultural Notes

• Soups ("汤水") are a staple in Chinese meals, believed to aid digestion and balance bodily "heat" (上火, shàng huǒ).
• Cantonese cuisine especially values slow-cooked soups (老火汤, lǎohuǒ tāng) for their medicinal benefits.
• The metaphorical use of "汤水" reflects cultural attitudes toward substance—whether in food or opportunities.

Conclusion

"汤水" (tāng shuǐ) primarily means soups or broths but can also describe something weak or extra benefits. Remember it as a versatile word tied to food and everyday life in Chinese culture!