宝石
bǎoshí
The English word "jewel" is translated into Chinese as 宝石 (bǎoshí).
宝石 is used to refer to a gemstone. You can use it in phrases such as 这个宝石 to mean "this jewel".
Meaning: gemstone (noun)
What does it mean word for word?
The word 宝石 is a compound of two parts: 保, which means to preserve or protect and 石, which means stone.
Which one should you use?
While 宝石 refers specifically to the gemstone itself, the related term 珠宝 refers to jewelry and precious stones collectively. The latter is often used when discussing the jewelry industry or precious items in a broader sense.
How do you pronounce it?
bǎoshí
Did you know?
- The character 宝 in 宝石 is used in the word 宝宝, which is a common affectionate term for a baby. This links the concept of a precious gemstone to the idea of a beloved child.
- In Chinese culture, the most prized 宝石 is often jade, which is associated with virtue and purity. Unlike in the West, where diamonds are the primary symbol of status, jade was historically considered more precious than gold or diamonds.
- In some poetic contexts, 'jewels' can be referred to as 玉 (jade), because in Chinese culture, jade is often considered more spiritually significant than any other gemstone.
Examples in context
- 打扰一下，可以给我更多关于这些宝石的信息吗?Excuse me, may I have more information on these jewels?
- 皇家博物馆以其精美的宝石收藏而闻名。The Royal Museum is renowned for its exquisite collection of jewels.
- 她收集了许多来自不同国家的珠宝。She has a great collection of jewels from various countries.
- 这块宝石很漂亮。Zhè kuài bǎoshí hěn piàoliang.This gemstone is very beautiful.
- 他在寻找珍贵的宝石。Tā zài xúnzhǎo zhēnguì de bǎoshí.He is looking for precious gemstones.
- 这颗宝石非常坚硬。Zhè kē bǎoshí fēicháng jiānyìng.This gemstone is extremely hard.
Example conversation
Wei and Yuting are looking at jewelry in a shop.
- 伟 Wei雨婷，你看这颗宝石。Yǔtíng, nǐ kàn zhè kē bǎoshí.Yuting, look at this gemstone.
- 雨婷 Yuting它的颜色太神奇了。Tā de yánsè tài shénqí le.Its color is amazing.
- 伟 Wei你想把它买下来吗？Nǐ xiǎng bǎ tā mǎi xiàlái ma?Do you want to buy it?
- 雨婷 Yuting我想再看看别的。Wǒ xiǎng zài kànkàn bié de.I want to look at some others.
