Understanding "便宜" - Chinese Word Explanation

1. Basic Information

• Word: 便宜
• Pinyin: pián yi
• Literal Meaning: "Convenient and suitable" (though this is archaic; the modern meaning differs).
• Primary Meaning: "Cheap" or "inexpensive" (in terms of price). It can also mean "advantage" or "benefit" in certain contexts (e.g., 占便宜 zhàn piányi – "to take advantage").

2. In-depth Explanation

• Context and Usage:
• When referring to price: 便宜 is commonly used to describe something that is low in cost (e.g., "This shirt is very cheap"). It is neutral but can sometimes imply lower quality if context suggests it.
• When referring to an advantage: In phrases like 占便宜 (zhàn piányi), it means "to gain an advantage" (often unfairly).

• Note: The tone changes when used in different contexts. As "cheap," it is pronounced with a neutral tone on the second syllable (yi), but in other meanings, the tones may vary.

• Character Breakdown:

• 便 (biàn/pián): Means "convenient" or "informal" in other contexts, but here it contributes to the combined meaning of "cheap."
• 宜 (yí): Means "suitable" or "appropriate." Together, the characters originally implied something was "conveniently suitable," but over time, the meaning shifted to "cheap."

3. Example Sentences

1. Chinese: 这件衣服很便宜。
   Pinyin: Zhè jiàn yīfu hěn piányi.
   English: This piece of clothing is very cheap.

2. Chinese: 不要占别人的便宜。
   Pinyin: Búyào zhàn biérén de piányi.
   English: Don’t take advantage of others.

3. Chinese: 这家超市的东西比较便宜。
   Pinyin: Zhè jiā chāoshì de dōngxi bǐjiào piányi.
   English: The items in this supermarket are relatively cheap.

Cultural Notes

• In Chinese culture, bargaining is common in markets, so calling something 便宜 can be a negotiation tactic. However, overemphasizing cheapness might imply poor quality, so context matters.
• The phrase 占便宜 (zhàn piányi) has a negative connotation, suggesting unfair gain, so use it carefully.

Conclusion

便宜 (piányi) primarily means "cheap" but can also refer to an advantage in certain phrases. Remember its dual meanings and use it appropriately in context—whether discussing prices or cautioning against unfair gains.