Ancient 水 showed a central stream with droplets on both sides. Those side strokes became the two flanking strokes today. As a component, 水 often hints at liquid or flowing water.
水 doesn't use 个. You need a container word like 杯 for a cup of water.
The amount phrase goes before the noun. Say 'drink one cup of water', not 'drink water one cup'.
Use 杯: 一杯水. Never 一个水.
| Dimension | Natural | Avoid |
|---|---|---|
| A cup of water | 一杯水 | 一个水 |
| Two cups of water | 两杯水 | 两个水 |
Put the amount before the noun: 喝一杯水, not 喝水一杯.
| Dimension | Natural | Avoid |
|---|---|---|
| Drink a cup of water | 我喝一杯水 | 我喝水一杯 |
| Eat an apple | 我吃一个苹果 | 我吃苹果一个 |
| Buy two books | 我买两本书 | 我买书两本 |
Think instant noodles are unhealthy? This HSK 6 article challenges common myths and reveals surprising facts about nutrition, oil, and salt in this convenient food.
但是事实上：无论是使用热风干燥还是通过油炸干燥，方便面中的 水分 含量都很低，一般都低于2%。
就是说方便面里面基本没有 水 ，所以就算在里面什么“东西”也不加，它也不会长毛变坏。
但方便面除了小麦面粉，里面还有油和 脱水 的蔬菜叶子等等材料。
在吃方便面时也可以再多加一些蔬菜、 水果 什么的，让它营养更多。
而当人们用 开水 泡面的时候，如果不另外加盐，还会觉得淡。
Shopping for fruit is a common daily task in China. Practice saying prices, counting items, and using simple shopping phrases while buying five apples for three yuan.
这个商店有很多 水果 。
This is a short dialogue about a shopping trip. A woman buys many things, including food, drinks, furniture, and pet food, while her boyfriend reminds her not to overspend.
我买了鸡蛋、面包、牛奶，还有一些 水果 ，这些都是你和我的吃的和喝的东西，还有给我们的小猫和小狗吃的东西。
Learn the fascinating story behind the Chinese idiom '东山再起' (Dongshan Zaiji), which means to make a comeback. Discover its historical roots and modern usage.
最厉害的是，他在 淝水 之战中指挥东晋军队，以八万人打败了号称百万的前秦军队，保住了自己的国家。
This heartwarming story shows how a small act of kindness can be passed on. Follow Gao Xianming as he learns an important lesson about generosity in his new city.
前边有一个 卖水果的 老先生。
Follow Xiao Li as he copes with the effects of forest fires near his home in the US and reflects on environmental changes. A thoughtful story for HSK 4 learners.
春天和夏天 雨水 少，温度高的时候，人们也要特别小心森林大火。
Join a family on a sweltering Beijing Sunday as a boy learns a funny lesson about playing outside in the summer heat. Perfect for HSK 1 learners.
我现在觉得 喝水 最好玩儿“。
Enjoy this simple story about a patient and a mysterious apple. It shows how a small act of kindness can make someone feel at home, and you'll learn key words for feelings and daily life.
家人都不在，要多吃 水果 。”
Discover how a simple letter from a cookie seller led to an unexpected friendship with a famous scholar. This heartwarming story explores kindness and connection across social divides.
胡之适说，他喜欢游泳，可是鼻子里长了一个东西， 水中 呼吸不方便。
Before you read, think about names: a train is called 'fire vehicle' in Chinese, but there's no fire! This simple rhyme will help you laugh while reviewing everyday words.
苹果是 水果 。
No questions or discussions yet. Have a question about this character/word? Be the first to ask!
