蜡烛
蜡烛 في 30 ثانية
- A candle (làzhú) is a wax stick with a wick used for light.
- Commonly used in birthdays, power outages, and romantic dinners.
- The measure word is '根' (gēn) and the verb is '点' (diǎn).
- Symbolizes self-sacrifice and devotion in Chinese cultural metaphors.
The Chinese word 蜡烛 (làzhú) is a noun that specifically refers to a candle. Etymologically, it is composed of two characters: 蜡 (là), which means wax, and 烛 (zhú), which historically referred to a torch or a light source. Together, they describe the classic object we use for illumination, celebration, or ritual. In modern Chinese, this word is ubiquitous, appearing in contexts ranging from the mundane necessity of a power outage to the emotional heights of a birthday celebration or a romantic dinner. Understanding 蜡烛 involves more than just knowing it provides light; it involves recognizing its role as a symbol of sacrifice, time passing, and celebration in Chinese culture.
- Physical Composition
- A typical 蜡烛 consists of a solid block of wax and a central wick, known in Chinese as 烛芯 (zhúxīn). When the wick is lit, the heat melts the wax, which then travels up the wick to fuel the flame.
- Measure Words
- In Chinese, nouns require specific measure words. For 蜡烛, the most common measure words are 根 (gēn) for long, thin candles and 支 (zhī) for more formal or stick-like objects. For example, 一根蜡烛 (yī gēn làzhú) means 'one candle'.
- Actions and Verbs
- The most frequent verbs associated with 蜡烛 are 点 (diǎn) or 点燃 (diǎnrán), meaning 'to light', and 吹 (chuī) or 吹灭 (chuīmiè), meaning 'to blow out'. You might also see 熄灭 (xīmiè) for 'to extinguish' or 'to go out'.
他在生日蛋糕上插了十根蜡烛。(He put ten candles on the birthday cake.)
Historically, 蜡烛 were made from animal fats or insect wax (specifically from the scale insect). In ancient China, they were luxury items used primarily by the wealthy and the imperial court. Today, while electric lights have replaced them for general illumination, candles remain central to many traditions. For instance, during the Lantern Festival or at ancestral altars, candles are lit to show respect and provide a 'path' for spirits. The red candle, or 红蜡烛 (hóng làzhú), is particularly significant in traditional Chinese weddings, symbolizing joy and a bright future for the couple.
房间里点着红色的蜡烛,显得非常喜庆。(Red candles were lit in the room, making it look very festive.)
这根蜡烛可以燃烧五个小时。(This candle can burn for five hours.)
Furthermore, the concept of a candle burning itself to provide light to others is a powerful metaphor in Chinese culture, often used to describe teachers or selfless individuals. This is encapsulated in the phrase ‘燃烧自己,照亮他人’ (ránshāo zìjǐ, zhàoliàng tārén). Thus, when you learn the word 蜡烛, you are not just learning a name for a wax stick; you are learning a cultural symbol of devotion and enlightenment.
Using 蜡烛 (làzhú) in a sentence is relatively straightforward because it functions as a standard countable noun. However, to sound natural, you must master its interaction with verbs and measure words. Let's explore how to construct sentences across different levels of complexity, from simple descriptions to metaphorical expressions.
- Basic Subject-Verb-Object
- The most common way to use the word is to describe lighting or blowing it out. The pattern is: Subject + [点/吹] + [Measure Word] + 蜡烛. For example: ‘我点了一根蜡烛’ (I lit a candle) or ‘妹妹吹灭了蜡烛’ (Little sister blew out the candle).
- Descriptive Sentences
- To describe the state of a candle, use adjectives like 亮的 (bright), 红色的 (red), or 香的 (scented). Example: ‘桌子上有几根香薰蜡烛’ (There are several scented candles on the table).
- Existential Sentences
- Using 有 (yǒu - there is/have) is common for locating candles. Example: ‘抽屉里有蜡烛吗?’ (Are there any candles in the drawer?).
当灯光突然熄灭时,他立刻找出一根蜡烛点着了。(When the lights suddenly went out, he immediately found a candle and lit it.)
In more advanced usage, 蜡烛 often appears in the context of atmosphere. For instance, 烛光 (zhúguāng - candlelight) is a derivative noun used to describe the light itself. You will often hear about 烛光晚餐 (zhúguāng wǎncān - candlelight dinner), which is the standard term for a romantic meal. Note how 烛 is used as a prefix here.
他们在那家餐厅享受了一顿浪漫的烛光晚餐。(They enjoyed a romantic candlelight dinner at that restaurant.)
In literary or poetic contexts, 蜡烛 is used to describe the passage of time or the melting away of one's life or emotions. A famous line from the Tang Dynasty poet Li Shangyin says, ‘蜡炬成灰泪始干’ (The candle's tears dry only when it turns to ash). Here, the 'tears' refer to the melting wax, creating a vivid image of sorrow and persistence. When using 蜡烛 in this way, you are tapping into a deep well of Chinese literary tradition.
老师就像一根蜡烛,为了学生耗尽了自己。(The teacher is like a candle, exhausting themselves for the students.)
Finally, consider the verb 燃烧 (ránshāo - to burn). While candles 'burn', we usually use 燃着 (ránzhe) to describe the state of being lit. For example, ‘一根蜡烛正在桌子上静静地燃着’ (A candle is burning quietly on the table). This level of detail helps in painting a clearer picture in your writing and speaking.
The word 蜡烛 (làzhú) is not just a vocabulary item; it is a part of daily life and special occasions. You will encounter it in several distinct environments, each with its own set of related vocabulary and cultural expectations. Knowing where you’ll hear it helps you prepare for real-world interactions.
- Birthday Parties (生日会)
- This is perhaps the most common place for an A2 learner to hear the word. Friends will say, ‘快点蜡烛吧!’ (Hurry up and light the candles!) followed by ‘许个愿,然后把蜡烛吹灭。’ (Make a wish, then blow out the candles.)
- Home Life and Emergencies
- In older buildings or during stormy weather, power outages (停电 tíngdiàn) occur. Parents might ask children, ‘家里还有蜡烛吗?’ (Are there still candles in the house?) or ‘去拿根蜡烛来。’ (Go get a candle.)
- Religious and Traditional Sites
- If you visit a temple (寺庙 sìmiào) or an ancestral hall, you will see people lighting large red candles. You might hear the staff or locals talking about 香烛 (xiāngzhú), which refers to incense and candles collectively.
在寺庙里,信徒们虔诚地在佛像前点燃蜡烛。(In the temple, believers piously light candles in front of the Buddha statue.)
In the world of retail and lifestyle, scented candles (香薰蜡烛 xiāngxūn làzhú) have become extremely popular among young professionals in Chinese cities. You will hear this word in lifestyle stores like Muji or local boutiques. Sales assistants might ask, ‘您喜欢什么味道的香薰蜡烛?’ (What scent of candle do you like?)
这款薰衣草味的蜡烛可以帮你放松心情。(This lavender-scented candle can help you relax.)
Additionally, in educational settings, teachers are often compared to candles. You might hear this in a graduation speech: ‘老师像蜡烛一样燃烧了自己,照亮了我们的前程。’ (Teachers, like candles, burned themselves to illuminate our futures.) While it sounds a bit cliché to modern ears, it is still a very common and respectful sentiment heard in schools across China.
每当教师节,学生们都会送上印有蜡烛图案的贺卡。(Every Teacher's Day, students send greeting cards printed with candle patterns.)
Lastly, in the context of horror stories or ghost movies—which are popular in Chinese pop culture—a flickering candle (摇曳的蜡烛 yáoyè de làzhú) is a classic trope used to build suspense. If the candle suddenly goes out, you know something scary is about to happen!
While 蜡烛 (làzhú) is a basic noun, learners often make subtle errors in its usage, particularly concerning measure words, verbs, and confusing it with similar-looking or related objects. Avoiding these mistakes will make your Chinese sound much more authentic.
- Mistake 1: Wrong Measure Word
- Many learners default to the general measure word 个 (gè). While ‘一个蜡烛’ is understandable, it sounds 'foreign'. Use 根 (gēn) for long, thin candles or 支 (zhī) for stick-like ones. For a box or set, use 盒 (hé) or 套 (tào).
- Mistake 2: Confusing 'Light' Verbs
- Learners sometimes use 开 (kāi - to open/turn on) because they think of 'turning on a light'. However, since a candle involves fire, you must use 点 (diǎn) or 点燃 (diǎnrán). You cannot '开' a candle.
- Mistake 3: Confusion with 'Lamp' (灯)
- In some languages, the word for candle and lamp might be related, but in Chinese, 灯 (dēng) specifically refers to electric lights or oil lamps. While 烛 is a type of light, calling a candle a '灯' is technically incorrect in modern speech.
错误:我开了一个蜡烛。(Incorrect: I 'turned on' a candle.)
正确:我点了一根蜡烛。(Correct: I lit a candle.)
Another common error involves the idiom ‘蜡烛两头烧’ (làzhú liǎngtóu shāo). This is a direct translation of 'burning the candle at both ends'. While it is understood, it's actually an imported Western idiom. Traditional Chinese idioms for overworking or exhausting oneself would more likely involve the word 心血 (xīnxuè - heart's blood). Using the candle idiom is fine, but don't assume it's an ancient Chinese proverb!
注意:不要把蜡烛和火柴(huǒchái - matches)混淆。蜡烛是发光体,火柴是引火工具。(Note: Don't confuse candles with matches. The candle is the light source; the match is the tool to start the fire.)
Finally, watch your pronunciation. The 'zh' in 烛 (zhú) is a retroflex sound. Many beginners pronounce it like a 'z' (zú), which sounds like 'foot'. Make sure to curl your tongue slightly to get that crisp 'zh' sound, otherwise, ‘点蜡烛’ might sound like ‘点蜡足’, which makes no sense.
To broaden your vocabulary, it is helpful to look at words related to 蜡烛 (làzhú). Depending on the context—whether you are talking about light, fire, or tradition—different words might be more appropriate. Below is a comparison of synonyms and related terms.
- 烛 (zhú) vs. 蜡烛 (làzhú)
- 烛 is the single-character version, often used in classical Chinese, poetry, or as a prefix/suffix in compound words like 烛台 (zhútái - candlestick) or 烛光 (zhúguāng - candlelight). In modern spoken Chinese, 蜡烛 is the standard noun.
- 灯 (dēng) vs. 蜡烛 (làzhú)
- 灯 means lamp or light. Ancient Chinese used 油灯 (yóudēng - oil lamps). While both provide light, 蜡烛 specifically implies wax and a wick. In modern times, 灯 almost always refers to electric lights.
- 火把 (huǒbǎ) - Torch
- A torch is a larger, more primitive light source, usually a stick with combustible material at the end. You would use 火把 when talking about exploring caves or ancient ceremonies, not for a birthday cake.
比较:
1. 他手里拿着一根蜡烛。(He is holding a candle.)
2. 他手里拿着一个手电筒(shǒudiàntǒng)。(He is holding a flashlight.)
Another interesting alternative is 香 (xiāng - incense). In religious settings, incense and candles are almost always used together. While 蜡烛 provides light, 香 provides a fragrant smoke. They are often grouped together as 香火 (xiānghuǒ), which metaphorically refers to the continuation of a family line or the popularity of a temple.
在一些特殊的节日,人们会点燃香和蜡烛来祭奠先人。(On some special festivals, people light incense and candles to pay respects to their ancestors.)
Finally, for those interested in literature, the word 蜡炬 (làjù) is a more formal, literary term for a large candle. It is rarely used in daily speech but is essential for understanding classical Chinese poetry. By understanding these variations, you can choose the word that best fits the 'register' or tone of your conversation.
How Formal Is It?
حقيقة ممتعة
In ancient China, candles were so expensive that they were sometimes given as imperial gifts by the Emperor to high-ranking officials.
دليل النطق
- Pronouncing 'zhú' as 'zú' (failing to curl the tongue).
- Pronouncing 'là' with a flat 1st tone instead of a falling 4th tone.
- Confusing 'zhú' with 'shǔ' (to count).
- Mixing up the tones, saying 'lā zhǔ' instead of 'là zhú'.
- Neglecting the aspiration (or lack thereof) in the 'zh' sound.
مستوى الصعوبة
The characters are relatively simple but '蜡' has many strokes. Easy to recognize after a few tries.
Writing '蜡' (là) requires attention to the radical and the right side. '烛' is easier.
The 'zh' retroflex and the 4th-2nd tone combination can be tricky for beginners.
Distinctive sound, usually easy to pick out in context.
ماذا تتعلّم بعد ذلك
المتطلبات الأساسية
تعلّم لاحقاً
متقدم
قواعد يجب معرفتها
Measure Word '根' (gēn)
桌子上有一**根**蜡烛。
Resultative Complement '灭' (miè)
他把蜡烛吹**灭**了。
State Particle '着' (zhe)
蜡烛正燃**着**。
Noun Compounds with '烛'
**烛**光、**烛**台、香**烛**。
Metaphorical '像...一样'
老师**像**蜡烛**一样**奉献。
أمثلة حسب المستوى
我有一根蜡烛。
I have one candle.
Uses the standard measure word '根' (gēn).
蜡烛是红色的。
The candle is red.
Basic adjective-noun structure.
蛋糕上有蜡烛。
There are candles on the cake.
Existential sentence with '有'.
这是你的蜡烛吗?
Is this your candle?
Simple question with '吗'.
我喜欢蜡烛。
I like candles.
Subject-Verb-Object.
那里有两根蜡烛。
There are two candles there.
Number + Measure Word + Noun.
蜡烛很漂亮。
The candle is very pretty.
Subject + Adverb + Adjective.
他不买蜡烛。
He doesn't buy candles.
Negative sentence with '不'.
请帮我点蜡烛。
Please help me light the candle.
Request using '请' and verb '点'.
快把蜡烛吹灭吧。
Quickly blow out the candle.
Imperative sentence with '把' and '吹灭'.
停电了,我们需要蜡烛。
The power is out, we need candles.
Contextual usage for emergencies.
这根蜡烛多少钱?
How much is this candle?
Question about price.
她买了一盒香薰蜡烛。
She bought a box of scented candles.
Measure word '盒' (box) for a set.
蜡烛正在桌子上燃着。
The candle is burning on the table.
Continuous state with '着'.
我不小心把蜡烛碰倒了。
I accidentally knocked the candle over.
Resultative complement with '把'.
你可以教我怎么做蜡烛吗?
Can you teach me how to make candles?
Request for instruction.
微弱的蜡烛光照亮了房间。
The weak candlelight illuminated the room.
Using '蜡烛光' as a compound subject.
蜡烛融化后,蜡油滴在了桌子上。
After the candle melted, the wax dripped onto the table.
Describing a physical process.
为了营造气氛,她点了很多蜡烛。
To create an atmosphere, she lit many candles.
Expressing purpose with '为了'.
这根蜡烛的香味非常好闻。
The scent of this candle is very pleasant.
Possessive '的' linking candle and scent.
他盯着跳动的蜡烛火焰发呆。
He stared blankly at the dancing candle flame.
Descriptive verb '跳动'.
如果没有蜡烛,我们就看不见东西了。
If there were no candles, we wouldn't be able to see anything.
Conditional '如果...就...'.
这根蜡烛能连续燃烧十个小时。
This candle can burn continuously for ten hours.
Duration of action.
他在蜡烛下写完了那封信。
He finished writing that letter under candlelight.
Prepositional phrase '在...下'.
蜡烛在寒风中剧烈地摇曳着。
The candle flickered violently in the cold wind.
Adverbial '剧烈地' describing the action.
那顿烛光晚餐让他们终生难忘。
That candlelight dinner was unforgettable for them for a lifetime.
Compound noun '烛光晚餐'.
人们常把老师比作默默奉献的蜡烛。
People often compare teachers to candles that give silently.
Comparison structure '把...比作'.
蜡烛的余晖在黑暗中显得格外温暖。
The afterglow of the candle seemed exceptionally warm in the dark.
Advanced vocabulary '余晖' and '格外'.
他最近工作太累,简直是蜡烛两头烧。
He's been too tired from work lately; he's literally burning the candle at both ends.
Idiomatic usage.
这种手工蜡烛不仅美观,还具有环保功能。
This handmade candle is not only beautiful but also environmentally friendly.
Conjunction '不仅...还...'.
蜡烛熄灭的一瞬间,整个房间陷入了黑暗。
The moment the candle went out, the whole room fell into darkness.
Time phrase '...的一瞬间'.
他在生日那天吹灭了二十岁生日的蜡烛。
He blew out the candles for his twentieth birthday on that day.
Specific event description.
“蜡炬成灰泪始干”表达了诗人深沉的情感。
'The candle's tears dry only when it turns to ash' expresses the poet's deep emotions.
Quoting classical poetry.
祭坛上的蜡烛散发出一种庄严肃穆的气息。
The candles on the altar exuded a solemn and respectful atmosphere.
High-level descriptive vocabulary.
蜡烛那微弱而坚韧的火光,象征着永不熄灭的希望。
The weak but resilient light of the candle symbolizes unextinguishable hope.
Metaphorical and symbolic language.
随着时代的变迁,蜡烛的功能已从照明转向了装饰。
With the changes of the times, the function of candles has shifted from lighting to decoration.
Discussing historical evolution.
他笔下的蜡烛,仿佛拥有了生命般的灵动。
The candles in his writing seem to have a lifelike agility.
Literary analysis structure.
这些古老的蜡烛台见证了家族数百年的兴衰。
These ancient candlesticks have witnessed the rise and fall of the family for hundreds of years.
Historical personification.
在那幽暗的古堡里,只有几根残损的蜡烛在支撑着光亮。
In that gloomy castle, only a few damaged candles were sustaining the light.
Evocative narrative style.
她小心翼翼地修剪着蜡烛的灯芯,以免烟雾过大。
She carefully trimmed the candle wick to prevent excessive smoke.
Technical description of candle maintenance.
蜡烛作为一种文化符号,在东西方语境中承载着截然不同的隐喻。
As a cultural symbol, the candle carries distinctly different metaphors in Eastern and Western contexts.
Academic comparative structure.
在哲学的探讨中,蜡烛常被用来比喻真理对愚昧的启迪。
In philosophical discussions, the candle is often used as a metaphor for the enlightenment of truth over ignorance.
Abstract philosophical discourse.
这篇散文通过对蜡烛残泪的细腻描写,勾勒出一种凄美之感。
This prose sketches a sense of tragic beauty through the delicate description of the candle's residual tears.
Literary criticism terminology.
即便在现代科技高度发达的今天,蜡烛在精神寄托上的地位依然不可撼动。
Even today, with highly developed modern technology, the position of candles in spiritual sustenance remains unshakable.
Complex concessive clause.
古人秉烛夜游,体现了对生命苦短、及时行乐的深刻体悟。
The ancients' practice of 'night roaming with candles' reflects a profound realization of the shortness of life and the need to enjoy it while one can.
Classical cultural reference.
蜡烛的燃烧过程是一个能量转化的物理化学过程,其动力学特性值得研究。
The burning process of a candle is a physical-chemical process of energy conversion, and its kinetic characteristics are worth studying.
Scientific/Technical register.
在某些宗教仪式中,蜡烛的排列顺序与数量具有极其严密的象征意义。
In certain religious ceremonies, the order and number of candles have extremely rigorous symbolic meanings.
Sociological/Religious analysis.
他那如蜡烛般燃烧殆尽的生命,在历史的长河中留下了一抹亮色。
His life, which burned out like a candle, left a bright touch in the long river of history.
Poetic biographical summary.
تلازمات شائعة
العبارات الشائعة
— Candles used on a birthday cake.
他在数蛋糕上的生日蜡烛。
— To light a candle.
停电的时候,我们点蜡烛。
— To blow out a candle.
小孩子最喜欢吹蜡烛。
— Candlelight.
烛光照亮了他的脸。
— One candle (using the correct measure word).
我手里拿着一根蜡烛。
— The wick of a candle.
这根蜡烛的芯太短了。
— Red candle, often used for celebrations.
结婚时要准备红蜡烛。
— A scented candle used for fragrance.
我买了一些香薰蜡烛送朋友。
— Half a candle.
桌上只剩下半根蜡烛了。
— To stick a candle into something (like a cake).
请在蛋糕上插上五根蜡烛。
يُخلط عادةً مع
Matches. Matches are used to light the candle, but they are not the candle itself.
Lamp/Light. While candles provide light, '灯' usually refers to electric or oil lamps.
Incense. Both are lit in temples, but incense is for fragrance/smoke, candles for light.
تعبيرات اصطلاحية
— Literally 'the candle turns to ash before the tears dry'. It represents total devotion and self-sacrifice until death.
他为了教育事业,真是蜡烛成灰泪始干。
Literary— To roam at night holding a candle. It means to enjoy life while one can, as life is short.
人生苦短,当秉烛夜游。
Literary— A candle stub in the wind. It describes someone who is very old or a situation that is very precarious.
那位老人的健康状况已如风中残烛。
Literary/Metaphorical— The candles in a wedding chamber. It refers to the wedding night or the wedding itself.
洞房花烛是人生四大喜事之一。
Formal— Burning the candle at both ends. It means to exhaust oneself by doing too much.
你这样没日没夜地工作,简直是蜡烛两头烧。
Informal/Modern— The silkworm spits silk until death; the candle's tears dry only when it turns to ash. A classic couplet for devotion.
人们常用这两句诗来赞美老师。
Classical— Literally 'fire trees and silver flowers'. While it refers to fireworks and lanterns, candles are part of the imagery of a festive night.
节日期间,到处是火树银花。
Literary— To trim the candle wick by the west window. It refers to a deep conversation with a friend or loved one at night.
何当共剪西窗烛,却话巴山夜雨时。
Classical— To burn red candles high. It implies a grand celebration or a late-night vigil.
大厅里高烧红烛,准备宴客。
Literary— Incense and candles never ending. It means a family line continues or a temple remains popular.
这个家族几百年来香火不绝。
Formalسهل الخلط
Similar pronunciation.
拉住 (lāzhù) is a verb meaning 'to hold onto' or 'to pull and stop'. 蜡烛 (làzhú) is a noun meaning 'candle'. The tones and meanings are completely different.
他拉住了我的手。 (He held my hand.)
It's the first character.
蜡 (là) refers to the material 'wax'. 蜡烛 (làzhú) refers to the finished object 'candle'.
这个地板上涂了蜡。 (The floor is waxed.)
Related object.
烛台 (zhútái) is the holder (candlestick) that you put the candle on.
把蜡烛插在烛台上。 (Put the candle on the candlestick.)
Both are portable lights with fire.
火把 (huǒbǎ) is a torch, usually larger and made of wood or cloth, used outdoors.
他举着火把走进山洞。 (He held a torch and walked into the cave.)
Both are portable lights.
电筒 (diàntǒng) is a modern flashlight powered by electricity.
拿个电筒来照亮。 (Get a flashlight to light the way.)
أنماط الجُمل
我有 [Number] 根蜡烛。
我有三根蜡烛。
请点 [Object] 上的蜡烛。
请点蛋糕上的蜡烛。
虽然...但是蜡烛依然...
虽然有风,但是蜡烛依然燃着。
把 [Person] 比作蜡烛。
人们把老师比作蜡烛。
在...的烛光下,[Action]。
在微弱的烛光下,他读完了那本书。
[Subject] 犹如蜡烛般 [Verb]。
他的生命犹如蜡烛般燃烧殆尽。
一根 [Adjective] 的蜡烛
一根红色的蜡烛
吹灭 [Number] 根蜡烛
吹灭五根蜡烛
عائلة الكلمة
الأسماء
الأفعال
الصفات
مرتبط
كيفية الاستخدام
Common in daily life, especially in celebratory or emergency contexts.
-
一个蜡烛
→
一根蜡烛
Using the general measure word '个' is grammatically acceptable but sounds unnatural. '根' is the specific measure word for candles.
-
开蜡烛
→
点蜡烛
You 'open' (turn on) electric lights, but you 'point/dot' (light) candles with fire.
-
蜡烛火
→
烛火 / 蜡烛的火焰
While '蜡烛火' might be understood, '烛火' or '蜡烛的火焰' are the standard ways to refer to the flame.
-
Pronouncing 'zhú' as 'zú'
→
zhú (with retroflex)
Failing to curl the tongue changes the sound to a different character like '足' (foot).
-
Using '蜡烛' for a flashlight
→
手电筒
Learners sometimes confuse portable light sources. A candle uses wax; a flashlight uses batteries.
نصائح
Use '根' for long things
Always remember that '根' (gēn) is the measure word for long, thin, flexible, or stick-like things. Since most candles are long, this is the most natural measure word to use.
The 'zh' sound
Make sure to curl your tongue. If you say 'zú', people might think you are talking about 'feet' (足) or 'ethnic groups' (族). The 'zh' in 'zhú' is crucial.
Red vs. White
Red candles are for happy occasions. In very traditional settings, white candles are for funerals. When in doubt, go with red or a neutral color like gold.
Compound nouns
Learning '烛光' (candlelight) and '烛台' (candlestick) alongside '蜡烛' will help you describe scenes more vividly and sound more advanced.
The radical in '蜡'
The '虫' (insect) radical in '蜡' is a great reminder of the word's history—traditional wax was made from insects!
Lighting vs. Blowing
Pair '点' (diǎn) with '蜡烛' to light it, and '吹' (chuī) to blow it out. These are the two most common verb-noun pairs you'll use.
Electronic candles
If you are in a modern restaurant or a dormitory where fire is not allowed, use the term '电子蜡烛' (diànzǐ làzhú).
Metaphor for teachers
If you want to praise a teacher in China, comparing them to a '蜡烛' is a very high and traditional compliment.
Measure word for boxes
If you buy a box of candles, use '一盒' (yī hé). '我买了一盒蜡烛' (I bought a box of candles).
Power outage context
The word '停电' (tíngdiàn) is the most common reason to look for a '蜡烛' in a practical, non-party setting.
احفظها
وسيلة تذكّر
Imagine a **LA**ke (là) of wax with a **ZHU** (zhú) bamboo-shaped wick in the middle. You light it to see the lake at night.
ربط بصري
Picture a bright red candle on a birthday cake. The red wax is 'là' and the flame on the 'bamboo' wick is 'zhú'.
Word Web
تحدٍّ
Try to say '点燃一根红蜡烛' (Light a red candle) five times fast without mixing up the 'zh' and 'r' sounds.
أصل الكلمة
The word '蜡' (là) refers to wax, originally derived from animal fats or the secretions of the scale insect. '烛' (zhú) originally meant a torch or a bundle of sticks used for lighting. The combination '蜡烛' appeared as wax-based candles became the standard form of this lighting tool.
المعنى الأصلي: A lighting device made of wax and a wick.
Sino-Tibetan (Chinese)السياق الثقافي
Be careful with candle colors. Red is for joy and weddings; white or yellow can sometimes be associated with funerals in very traditional contexts.
In English-speaking cultures, candles are heavily associated with 'hygge' (coziness), romance, and birthdays. The phrase 'burning the candle at both ends' is a direct equivalent to the Chinese '蜡烛两头烧'.
تدرّب في الحياة الواقعية
سياقات واقعية
Birthday Party
- 生日蜡烛
- 插蜡烛
- 吹灭蜡烛
- 许愿
Power Outage
- 停电了
- 找蜡烛
- 打火机
- 照亮
Religious Ritual
- 上香
- 点燃香烛
- 祭拜
- 保佑
Romantic Setting
- 烛光晚餐
- 浪漫气氛
- 香薰蜡烛
- 约会
Literary/Poetic
- 蜡炬成灰
- 秉烛夜游
- 残烛
- 摇曳
بدايات محادثة
"你家有备用的蜡烛吗? (Do you have spare candles at home?)"
"你喜欢什么味道的香薰蜡烛? (What scent of candles do you like?)"
"生日蛋糕上应该插几根蜡烛? (How many candles should be on the birthday cake?)"
"你觉得烛光晚餐浪漫吗? (Do you think candlelight dinners are romantic?)"
"停电的时候你一般会点蜡烛吗? (Do you usually light candles when the power goes out?)"
مواضيع للكتابة اليومية
描述一次你在烛光下度过的难忘夜晚。 (Describe an unforgettable night you spent under candlelight.)
你认为“老师像蜡烛”这个比喻合适吗?为什么? (Do you think the metaphor 'teachers are like candles' is appropriate? Why?)
如果你可以发明一种新型蜡烛,它会是什么样的? (If you could invent a new type of candle, what would it be like?)
写一段话描述蜡烛火焰在风中摇曳的样子。 (Write a paragraph describing a candle flame flickering in the wind.)
谈谈蜡烛在你的国家文化中有什么特殊意义。 (Talk about the special significance of candles in your country's culture.)
الأسئلة الشائعة
10 أسئلةThe most common measure word is '根' (gēn) because candles are usually long and thin. You can also use '支' (zhī) for stick-like objects. Example: 一根蜡烛.
No, '开' is used for electric lights (turning them on). For candles, you must use '点' (diǎn) or '点燃' (diǎnrán) because fire is involved.
Red is the color of luck, joy, and prosperity in China. Red candles (红蜡烛) symbolize a bright and happy future for the newlyweds.
It is a direct translation of 'burning the candle at both ends,' meaning someone is overworking themselves or exhausting their resources. It is common in modern Chinese.
Rarely. In modern spoken Chinese, we almost always say '蜡烛'. '烛' is mostly found in literature, poetry, or as part of compound words like '烛光'.
You say '香薰蜡烛' (xiāngxūn làzhú). '香薰' means aromatherapy or fragrance.
'吹灭' (chuīmiè) specifically means to blow out the candle. '熄灭' (xīmiè) is a more general term for 'to extinguish' or 'to go out,' which can happen due to wind or running out of wax.
In traditional Chinese culture, white is associated with funerals. While modern people might not mind white scented candles, it's safer to choose colored ones for gifts to older or more traditional people.
You say '许愿' (xǔyuàn). For example: '吹蜡烛前先许个愿' (Make a wish before blowing out the candles).
The '烛芯' (zhúxīn) is the wick—the string in the middle that you light.
اختبر نفسك 180 أسئلة
Translate to Chinese: I bought a red candle.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Translate to Chinese: Please blow out the candles on the cake.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Translate to Chinese: The power is out, we need candles.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Translate to Chinese: He prepared a romantic candlelight dinner.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Translate to Chinese: The candle flame is flickering in the wind.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Write a sentence using '香薰蜡烛'.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Write a sentence using '老师' and '蜡烛'.
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Translate to Chinese: How many candles are there?
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Translate to Chinese: Don't knock over the candle.
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Translate to Chinese: The candle has burnt out.
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Translate to Chinese: He gave me a box of candles.
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Translate to Chinese: Candlelight is very warm.
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Translate to Chinese: I want to buy a scented candle.
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Translate to Chinese: She blew out all the candles at once.
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Translate to Chinese: The candle dripped wax on the table.
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Translate to Chinese: He was reading under the candlelight.
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Translate to Chinese: This candle can burn for a long time.
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Translate to Chinese: Please light the red candle.
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Translate to Chinese: There is a candle on the candlestick.
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Translate to Chinese: Life is short, we should enjoy it (using '秉烛夜游').
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Say in Chinese: 'I want to light the candle.'
Read this aloud:
قلت:
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Say in Chinese: 'There are five candles on the cake.'
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Say in Chinese: 'The wind blew out the candle.'
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Describe a scented candle in Chinese.
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Explain why people use candles during power outages.
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Tell a short story about a birthday wish.
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Use the metaphor of a candle to describe a teacher.
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Say 'Candlelight dinner' and explain when to have one.
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Pronounce 'là zhú' correctly.
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Say 'One red candle' using the measure word.
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Ask someone if they have candles.
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Say 'Don't touch the candle wax.'
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Say 'The candle is almost finished.'
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Say 'I like the smell of this candle.'
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Say 'The candle flickered.'
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Say 'Put the candle on the table.'
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Say 'There are many candles in the temple.'
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Say 'Happy birthday, blow the candles!'
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Say 'The red candle is very festive.'
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Recite '蜡炬成灰泪始干'.
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Listen and identify: '请点燃蛋糕上的蜡烛。' What should be lit?
Listen and identify: '这根蜡烛是薰衣草味的。' What is the scent?
Listen and identify: '风把蜡烛吹灭了。' What happened to the candle?
Listen and identify: '烛光晚餐非常浪漫。' What kind of dinner is it?
Listen and identify: '他买了三根红蜡烛。' How many and what color?
Listen and identify: '老师像蜡烛一样奉献。' Who is being compared to a candle?
Listen and identify: '别让蜡烛油滴在桌子上。' What should not drip?
Listen and identify: '这个烛台是古董。' What is the object?
Listen and identify: '停电了,快找蜡烛。' Why are they looking for candles?
Listen and identify: '这根蜡烛燃得很快。' How is it burning?
Listen and identify: '他在烛光下写信。' What is he doing?
Listen and identify: '许个愿吧。' When is this said?
Listen and identify: '电子蜡烛很方便。' What kind of candle is it?
Listen and identify: '红烛高照。' What is the atmosphere?
Listen and identify: '烛芯太短了。' What part of the candle is mentioned?
Write a short paragraph about using a candle during a power outage.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
/ 180 correct
Perfect score!
Summary
The word 蜡烛 (làzhú) refers to a candle. Beyond its practical use for lighting, it is a significant cultural symbol of sacrifice and celebration. Remember to use the measure word '根' (gēn) and the verb '点' (diǎn) to light it. Example: 我点了一根蜡烛 (I lit a candle).
- A candle (làzhú) is a wax stick with a wick used for light.
- Commonly used in birthdays, power outages, and romantic dinners.
- The measure word is '根' (gēn) and the verb is '点' (diǎn).
- Symbolizes self-sacrifice and devotion in Chinese cultural metaphors.
Use '根' for long things
Always remember that '根' (gēn) is the measure word for long, thin, flexible, or stick-like things. Since most candles are long, this is the most natural measure word to use.
The 'zh' sound
Make sure to curl your tongue. If you say 'zú', people might think you are talking about 'feet' (足) or 'ethnic groups' (族). The 'zh' in 'zhú' is crucial.
Red vs. White
Red candles are for happy occasions. In very traditional settings, white candles are for funerals. When in doubt, go with red or a neutral color like gold.
Compound nouns
Learning '烛光' (candlelight) and '烛台' (candlestick) alongside '蜡烛' will help you describe scenes more vividly and sound more advanced.
محتوى ذو صلة
هذه الكلمة بلغات أخرى
مزيد من كلمات home
经济实惠
B1Economical and affordable; good value for money.
空调
A1مكيف الهواء (空调) ضروري في الطقس الحار.
冷气
A2هواء بارد؛ تكييف الهواء. يستخدم لتبريد الغرفة.
过道
A2كلمة '过道' تعني ردهة أو ممر في مبنى.
闹钟
A2المنبه هو ساعة مصممة لإصدار صوت في وقت محدد لإيقاظ الشخص.
整天
A2طوال اليوم. هو يلعب ألعاب الفيديو طوال اليوم.
独自
A2بمفرده؛ وحده. 'قرر السفر بمفرده.'
早就
A2لقد عرفت ذلك منذ وقت طويل. (我早就知道了。)
已经到了
A2لقد وصل بالفعل.
总是这样
A2دائما هكذا. هو دائما بهذه الطريقة.