📘 Intermediate — key word for HSK 3-4
Meaning
Classifier for bowls of food, especially noodles, rice, and soup.
🏮 Cultural Story
中文 Chinese
"碗"是中国人最亲切的量词之一。"一碗饭"、"一碗面"——听起来就有家的感觉。在中国文化里，碗不仅仅是餐具，更象征着温饱和生活。老人们常说"铁饭碗"，意思是稳定的工作（因为铁碗不会破）。"砸饭碗"就是丢掉工作。吃饭的时候，中国人喜欢大家围坐在一起，每人一碗，分享桌上的菜——这种"一碗一份"的文化让"碗"成为了最温暖的量词之一。
English
**碗 (wǎn)** is one of China's warmest classifiers. "A bowl of rice," "a bowl of noodles" — instantly feels like home. In Chinese culture, a bowl isn't just tableware; it symbolizes nourishment and livelihood. Elders speak of an "iron rice bowl" (stable job that can't be broken). "Smash the bowl" = lose your job. Chinese families gather around a shared table, each with their own bowl — this culture makes 碗 one of the most heartwarming measure words.
💡 Memory Tip
The go-to measure word for Asian food servings. More specific than 个 for food in bowls.
Examples
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Video Examples
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YouGlish
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Classifier for bowls of food, especially noodles, rice, and soup.