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A2 noun #1,500 le plus courant 14 min de lecture

土豆

tǔdòu Top 1,500

At the A1 level, you should focus on identifying 土豆 (tǔdòu) as a basic food item. It is one of the essential nouns you will learn when studying food and shopping. At this stage, you simply need to know that 土豆 means 'potato' and how to use it with the basic measure word 个 (gè). You should be able to say things like 'I like potatoes' (我喜欢土豆) or 'I want to buy potatoes' (我要买土豆). The pronunciation is key here: tǔ (3rd tone) and dòu (4th tone). Think of it as a two-syllable word where the first part dips low and the second part drops sharply. In an A1 context, you might see this word in a picture of a vegetable market or on a simple menu. It is a 'building block' word that helps you form your first sentences about daily needs. Don't worry about the scientific name or regional variations yet; just focus on the most common term used in Mainland China. You should also recognize the character 土 (earth) and 豆 (bean), which makes the word easier to remember—it's the 'bean from the earth'. This level is about survival and basic identification, so being able to point at a potato and say '土豆' is a great first step.

At the A2 level, you are expected to use 土豆 (tǔdòu) in more descriptive and functional ways. You should be able to talk about simple cooking methods and preferences. For example, you might say 'I like to eat stir-fried potato shreds' (我喜欢吃清炒土豆丝) or 'This potato is very big' (这个土豆很大). You should also be able to handle basic transactions at a market, asking for the price per 'jin' (土豆多少钱一斤？). At this level, you start to see how 土豆 combines with other words to form common dish names. You should also be aware of the '把' (bǎ) construction in simple commands, such as 'Wash the potatoes' (把土豆洗一下). You are moving beyond just naming the object to describing actions involving it. You might also encounter the word in simple stories or dialogues about what someone ate for lunch. Understanding the difference between 土豆 and other common vegetables like 西红柿 (tomato) or 黄瓜 (cucumber) is essential for basic communication in a kitchen or restaurant setting. You should also be comfortable using plural markers like 些 (xiē), as in 这些土豆 (these potatoes).

By the B1 level, your understanding of 土豆 (tǔdòu) should include its role in Chinese culture and more complex grammatical structures. You should be able to describe a recipe in detail, using a sequence of actions: 'First peel the potato, then cut it into pieces, and finally stew it with beef' (先给土豆削皮，然后切块，最后和牛肉一起炖). You should also be aware of the formal synonym 马铃薯 (mǎlíngshǔ) and understand that it is used in more official or written contexts. At B1, you can discuss the nutritional value of potatoes or compare them to other staple foods like rice or noodles. You might use the word in a discussion about healthy eating habits. You should also be familiar with common idioms or slang, such as 沙发土豆 (couch potato). Your ability to use 土豆 in various sentence patterns, including passive voice or complex resultative complements (e.g., 土豆煮烂了 - the potatoes are boiled until soft), should be developing. You can also start to appreciate the regional differences in naming, such as hearing 洋芋 in certain provinces, and understand that this reflects China's vast linguistic diversity. You are now using the word not just to survive, but to express opinions and describe processes.

At the B2 level, you should have a nuanced understanding of 土豆 (tǔdòu) and its place in Chinese society and economy. You can participate in discussions about agricultural policies, such as the 'Potato Staple Food Strategy' (土豆主粮化战略), and explain why the government is promoting potatoes as a primary crop for food security. You should be able to read news articles or watch documentaries that use both 土豆 and 马铃薯 interchangeably depending on the level of formality. Your vocabulary should include technical terms related to potatoes, such as 淀粉含量 (starch content), 产量 (yield), and 抗旱性 (drought resistance). You can also analyze the cultural significance of the potato in different regions of China, discussing how it has influenced local cuisines and economies. At this level, you should be able to use the word in metaphorical or abstract ways, perhaps in a literary analysis or a debate about modern lifestyles. You understand the subtle social cues associated with the word, such as the 'Southern Little Potato' internet phenomenon, and can explain the cultural context behind such trends. Your command of the language allows you to discuss the potato not just as a food, but as a topic of social and economic interest.

At the C1 level, your mastery of 土豆 (tǔdòu) involves deep linguistic and cultural insight. You can effortlessly switch between colloquialisms and formal terminology. You are aware of the historical journey of the potato into China during the Ming Dynasty and can discuss its impact on population growth and social stability in a historical context. You can appreciate and use puns or wordplay involving 土豆 in sophisticated humor or creative writing. Your understanding of regional dialects means you can identify and perhaps even mimic the use of 洋芋 or 薯仔 in their respective local contexts. You can write detailed essays or give presentations on complex topics like the genetic modification of potatoes or the environmental impact of large-scale potato farming in China. You are also sensitive to the sociolinguistic implications of using '土豆' versus '马铃薯' in different social strata or professional environments. You can navigate complex texts that use the potato as a symbol of the 'earthy' or 'primitive' in modern Chinese literature. At this level, the word is a tool for high-level expression, allowing you to convey subtle shades of meaning and cultural connection.

At the C2 level, you possess a native-like or near-native command of 土豆 (tǔdòu) and all its related concepts. You can engage in expert-level discourse on any topic related to the potato, from its molecular biology to its role in international trade and diplomacy. You have a profound understanding of the etymological roots of the word and its variations across the entire Sinosphere, including how it is used in Southeast Asian Chinese communities. You can interpret and produce complex literary works where the potato might serve as a central metaphor for the human condition or the relationship between man and nature. You are fully aware of the most obscure regional slang and historical references involving potatoes. You can effortlessly navigate the most formal academic conferences on agriculture while also being able to joke around in a local dialect at a village market. Your linguistic flexibility is such that you can use the word to evoke specific emotions or cultural memories in your audience. For you, 土豆 is not just a word for a vegetable; it is a thread in the vast tapestry of the Chinese language and culture that you can weave with precision and artistry.

Entraîne-toi Exemples Notes et astuces

土豆 en 30 secondes

土豆 (tǔdòu) is the standard colloquial Chinese word for 'potato', literally meaning 'earth bean'. It is used throughout Mainland China in daily life and cooking.
The word is a noun and typically uses the measure word '个' (gè). It is a versatile ingredient found in stir-fries, stews, and snacks.
While '土豆' is common, the formal name is '马铃薯' (mǎlíngshǔ). In some regions like Taiwan, '土豆' can actually mean 'peanut'.
It has recently gained cultural significance as internet slang, such as 'Southern Little Potato' for tourists visiting Northern China in winter.

The term 土豆 (tǔdòu) is the most common and colloquial way to refer to the potato in Mainland China. Linguistically, the word is a compound consisting of 土 (tǔ), meaning 'earth' or 'soil', and 豆 (dòu), meaning 'bean'. Literally translated as 'earth bean', this name perfectly captures the botanical nature of the plant as a tuber that grows underground. While scientifically classified as Solanum tuberosum, in the daily lives of millions, it is a versatile staple that bridges the gap between a vegetable and a primary grain. You will encounter this word in almost every culinary context in China, from high-end restaurants serving 'truffle mashed potatoes' to street stalls selling 'spicy and sour potato shreds'. It is a word that carries a sense of humbleness and reliability, often associated with the hardworking nature of the rural population and the comforting warmth of home-cooked meals. In Northern China, potatoes are a survival crop that lasts through the harsh winters, whereas in the South, they are often treated as a delicate addition to stir-fries.

Botanical Classification: The potato belongs to the nightshade family, Solanaceae, and is specifically the starchy tuber of the plant. In Chinese, the formal term is 马铃薯 (mǎlíngshǔ), but 土豆 is the undisputed king of daily conversation.
Culinary Versatility: Whether it is fried, boiled, steamed, or mashed, the potato adapts to every flavor profile. In Chinese cuisine, the texture is often prioritized, ranging from the 'crispy' (脆) texture of quickly stir-fried shreds to the 'powdery/soft' (面) texture of long-stewed chunks in a brisket pot.

我想去超市买几个土豆做晚饭。(Wǒ xiǎng qù chāoshì mǎi jǐ gè tǔdòu zuò wǎnfàn.) - I want to go to the supermarket to buy a few potatoes to make dinner.

The usage of 土豆 extends beyond the kitchen. In recent years, it has entered the realm of internet slang and cultural metaphors. For instance, the term 'couch potato' has been translated directly as 沙发土豆 (shāfā tǔdòu), describing someone who spends excessive time watching television while lounging. Furthermore, during the winter of 2023-2024, the term 南方小土豆 (nánfāng xiǎo tǔdòu) or 'Little Southern Potatoes' became a viral affectionate nickname for tourists from Southern China visiting the snowy city of Harbin, referring to their perceived shorter stature and cute, bundled-up appearance in thick winter coats. This demonstrates how a simple food item can evolve into a complex social signifier. When using this word, be mindful of regional variations; while 土豆 is universal, you might hear 洋芋 (yángyù) in Yunnan or Sichuan, or 薯仔 (syu4 zai2) in Cantonese-speaking regions.

这个土豆炖牛肉的味道好极了。(Zhège tǔdòu dùn niúròu de wèidào hǎo jíle.) - This potato and beef stew tastes excellent.

Regional Names: In the Northeast, it is often called 大土豆. In the Northwest, particularly in Gansu, where potato production is a major industry, the word carries deep economic significance. In the South, particularly in Yunnan, '洋芋' is the preferred term, reflecting its history as a 'foreign' (洋) tuber.

你喜欢吃烤土豆还是炸薯条？(Nǐ xǐhuān chī kǎo tǔdòu háishì zhà shǔtiáo?) - Do you like eating baked potatoes or french fries?

Using 土豆 (tǔdòu) in a sentence is relatively straightforward, but mastering the nuances of its placement and the verbs that accompany it will make your Chinese sound much more natural. As a noun, it usually functions as the object of a verb (like 'buying', 'eating', or 'cutting') or the subject of a descriptive sentence. Because potatoes are a physical object, you must pay attention to measure words. The most common measure word is 个 (gè). For example, 'three potatoes' is 三个土豆 (sān gè tǔdòu). If you are talking about pieces of potato in a dish, you might use 块 (kuài), as in 几块土豆 (jǐ kuài tǔdòu). When describing the state of the potato, adjectives like 新鲜 (xīnxiān - fresh), 大 (dà - big), or 面 (miàn - starchy/soft) are frequently used.

请帮我把这些土豆削皮。(Qǐng bāng wǒ bǎ zhèxiē tǔdòu xiāopí.) - Please help me peel these potatoes.

In the context of cooking, which is where you will use this word most often, specific verbs are essential. To 'peel' a potato is 削皮 (xiāopí). To 'cut' it into shreds is 切丝 (qiēsī), and to 'cut' it into chunks is 切块 (qiēkuài). If you are at a market, you might ask about the price: 土豆多少钱一斤？ (Tǔdòu duōshǎo qián yī jīn?). Note that in China, vegetables are sold by the 'jin' (500 grams), not by the kilogram or pound. In more complex sentences, 土豆 can be part of a compound noun representing a specific dish. For instance, 土豆泥 (tǔdòu ní) is mashed potatoes, and 土豆饼 (tǔdòu bǐng) is a potato pancake or hash brown. Understanding these combinations allows you to navigate a Chinese menu with confidence.

Verb Pairings: Common verbs include 买 (mǎi - buy), 洗 (xǐ - wash), 切 (qiē - cut), 煮 (zhǔ - boil), and 炒 (chǎo - stir-fry). Each verb changes the context of how the potato is being handled or prepared.

先把土豆切成丁，然后再下锅炒。(Xiān bǎ tǔdòu qiē chéng dīng, ránhòu zài xiàguō chǎo.) - First cut the potatoes into cubes, then put them in the wok to fry.

Furthermore, 土豆 can be used metaphorically. While not as common as in English, the concept of a 'potato' being something plain or unremarkable exists. However, in modern Chinese internet culture, calling someone a 'potato' can be a term of endearment or a comment on their round, soft appearance. In academic or formal writing, you might substitute 土豆 with 马铃薯 (mǎlíngshǔ) to sound more professional, especially in reports about agriculture or nutrition. For example, 'Potato production has increased' would be 马铃薯产量增加了 (Mǎlíngshǔ chǎnliàng zēngjiāle). But if you're just chatting with a friend about what you ate for lunch, stick to 土豆.

Sentence Structures: 1. [Subject] + [Verb] + [Number] + [Measure Word] + 土豆.
2. [Subject] + 把 + 土豆 + [Verb] + [Result].
3. 土豆 + [Adjective].

这些土豆已经发芽了，不能吃了。(Zhèxiē tǔdòu yǐjīng fāyále, bùnéng chīle.) - These potatoes have already sprouted and cannot be eaten.

You will hear 土豆 (tǔdòu) in a vast array of everyday environments across China. The most immediate place is the 菜市场 (càishìchǎng - wet market) or the supermarket vegetable aisle. Here, the word is shouted by vendors or murmured by shoppers as they select the best tubers. You'll hear phrases like '新鲜的土豆' (fresh potatoes) or '刚挖出来的土豆' (potatoes just dug up). The auditory landscape of a Chinese market is filled with the names of basic vegetables, and 土豆 is a constant refrain. It is the sound of daily sustenance and the rhythm of domestic life.

老板，土豆怎么卖？(Lǎobǎn, tǔdòu zěnme mài?) - Boss, how much are the potatoes?

Another primary location is the restaurant. Whether it's a small 'hole-in-the-wall' eatery or a large family banquet hall, the menu will inevitably feature 土豆. Waiters will confirm your order: '一份酸辣土豆丝' (one serving of hot and sour potato shreds). In the Northeast (Dongbei), you'll hear it mentioned in the context of the famous dish 地三鲜 (dìsānxiān), which consists of potatoes, eggplants, and green peppers. The word becomes part of the social fabric of dining, representing comfort food that everyone knows and loves. If you are watching Chinese cooking shows or 'Mukbang' (eating broadcasts) on platforms like Douyin or Bilibili, you will hear creators discussing the 'mouthfeel' (口感) of the potatoes, using terms like '软糯' (ruǎnnuò - soft and glutinous) or '清脆' (qīngcuì - crisp).

Social Media & Pop Culture: On social media, '土豆' is used in memes. As mentioned before, the 'Southern Little Potato' trend saw the word used in thousands of viral videos, news reports, and even official government tourism advertisements. It transformed from a vegetable into a symbol of regional hospitality and cultural exchange.

哈尔滨欢迎各位“南方小土豆”！(Hā'ěrbīn huānyíng gèwèi “nánfāng xiǎo tǔdòu”!) - Harbin welcomes all the "Southern Little Potatoes"!

In educational settings, children learn the word 土豆 early on as one of their first food words. It appears in picture books, nursery rhymes, and elementary school science lessons about how plants grow. In the workplace, you might hear it in the canteen or during lunch breaks when colleagues discuss what they brought for lunch. It is a word that transcends class and profession; from a construction worker eating a simple potato bun to a tech CEO enjoying a refined potato purée, the word remains the same. Finally, in the world of cinema and literature, the potato often symbolizes the earth, the peasantry, and the fundamental link between humans and the land. Listening for 土豆 in these varied contexts will give you a deeper appreciation for its role in the Chinese language.

Media Usage: News reports on 'food security' (粮食安全) frequently mention potatoes as a key crop. You will hear experts discuss '土豆主粮化' (making potato a staple food) as a national strategy to ensure there is enough food for the population.

他在视频里教大家怎么做完美的炸土豆。(Tā zài shìpín lǐ jiào dàjiā zěnme zuò wánměi de zhà tǔdòu.) - He is teaching everyone how to make perfect fried potatoes in the video.

While 土豆 (tǔdòu) is a simple word, English speakers often make several common errors when using it in Chinese. The first is a conceptual mistake: confusing 土豆 with other tubers. In English, 'potato' is a broad category, but in Chinese, there are very distinct words for sweet potatoes, yams, and taro. A common error is calling a sweet potato a '土豆'. In Chinese, a sweet potato is 地瓜 (dìguā) or 红薯 (hóngshǔ). Calling a sweet potato a '土豆' will lead to confusion at the market or restaurant. Another mistake is related to the measure word. Beginners often forget to use 个 (gè) and might say '一土豆' instead of '一个土豆'. In Chinese, nouns almost always require a measure word when being counted.

错误：我要买一土豆。 (Incorrect: I want to buy one potato.)
正确：我要买一个土豆。 (Correct: I want to buy one potato.)

Pronunciation is another area where mistakes occur. The tone for 土 (tǔ) is the third tone (falling-rising), and 豆 (dòu) is the fourth tone (falling). English speakers often flatten these tones, making the word sound like 'tu-dou' in a neutral tone. This can make it hard for native speakers to understand, especially in a noisy market. Practicing the deep dip of the third tone followed by the sharp drop of the fourth tone is crucial. Additionally, some learners confuse 土豆 with 豆腐 (dòufu - tofu) because they both contain the character 豆. While they both involve 'beans' in their literal names (potatoes being 'earth beans' and tofu being 'bean curd'), they are entirely different foods with different textures and uses.

Confusing Tubers: 1. 土豆 (Tǔdòu): Potato.
2. 红薯 (Hóngshǔ): Sweet Potato (Red).
3. 芋头 (Yùtou): Taro.
4. 山药 (Shānyao): Chinese Yam.

别把土豆和红薯搞混了，它们的味道完全不同。(Bié bǎ tǔdòu hé hóngshǔ gǎohùn le, tāmen de wèidào wánquán bùtóng.) - Don't confuse potatoes and sweet potatoes; their tastes are completely different.

Finally, there is the issue of regionalisms. If you are in Taiwan or Hong Kong, using 土豆 might actually lead to a different confusion. In Taiwan, 土豆 (thôo-tāu in Hokkien) often refers to peanuts! The standard word for potato in Taiwan is 马铃薯 (mǎlíngshǔ). If you ask for 土豆 in a Taiwanese market, you might walk away with a bag of peanuts instead of potatoes. This is a classic example of how the same Chinese characters can have different meanings across different regions. Always be aware of your geographic context when using this word.

Summary of Pitfalls: - Tone errors (3rd + 4th).
- Missing measure words (个).
- Confusing with sweet potatoes or tofu.
- Regional meaning shifts (Peanuts in Taiwan).

在台湾，如果你想买土豆，最好说“马铃薯”。(Zài Táiwān, rúguǒ nǐ xiǎng mǎi tǔdòu, zuìhǎo shuō "mǎlíngshǔ".) - In Taiwan, if you want to buy potatoes, it's best to say "mǎlíngshǔ".

The world of Chinese tubers is rich and varied, and knowing the alternatives to 土豆 (tǔdòu) will significantly enhance your vocabulary. The most important synonym is 马铃薯 (mǎlíngshǔ). This is the formal, scientific name for the potato. You will see it on food packaging, in academic textbooks, and in formal reports. While 土豆 is the 'street' name, 马铃薯 is the 'official' name. Interestingly, the name 马铃薯 literally means 'horse bell yam/tuber', referring to the shape of the potato which was thought to resemble the bells hung around the necks of horses. Another regional alternative is 洋芋 (yángyù). As mentioned, this is common in Western China. The '洋' (yáng) prefix indicates its foreign origin, much like 洋葱 (yángcōng - onion) or 洋火 (yánghuǒ - matches, old term).

Comparison: 土豆 vs. 马铃薯: 土豆: Colloquial, used in Mainland China, very common in daily life.
马铃薯: Formal, used in Taiwan/HK/Official documents, scientific context.
Comparison: 土豆 vs. 洋芋: 土豆: Standard Northern/Central term.
洋芋: Common in Sichuan, Yunnan, and parts of the Northwest.

虽然书上写的是“马铃薯”，但我们平时都叫它“土豆”。(Suīrán shūshàng xiě de shì “mǎlíngshǔ”, dàn wǒmen píngshí dōu jiào tā “tǔdòu”.) - Although the book writes "mǎlíngshǔ", we usually call it "tǔdòu".

Beyond direct synonyms, there are related words that describe potato products. 薯条 (shǔtiáo) refers to french fries, and 薯片 (shǔpiàn) refers to potato chips. Notice that both use the character 薯 (shǔ), which is the general category for tubers. You won't hear people say '土豆条' or '土豆片' as often as the '薯' versions when referring to snacks. If you are looking for something similar in texture but different in flavor, you might consider 山药 (shānyao - Chinese yam). It is also a starchy tuber but is often used in traditional Chinese medicine and has a more slippery texture. 芋头 (yùtou - taro) is another alternative, known for its purple hue and distinct nutty flavor, often used in both savory dishes and desserts like bubble tea.

云南人特别喜欢吃炸洋芋，其实就是炸土豆。(Yúnnán rén tèbié xǐhuān chī zhà yángyù, qíshí jiùshì zhà tǔdòu.) - People in Yunnan especially like eating fried 'yangyu', which is actually just fried potatoes.

In summary, while 土豆 is your go-to word, being aware of 马铃薯 for formal settings and 洋芋 for regional travel will make you a more versatile speaker. Understanding the '薯' family of words will also help you navigate the snack aisle and fast-food menus. Each of these words carries a slightly different flavor of the Chinese language, reflecting the vast geography and history of the country.

Quick Reference Table: - 土豆: Everyday Potato.
- 马铃薯: Formal/Academic Potato.
- 洋芋: Regional (West) Potato.
- 薯条/薯片: Potato Snacks.

How Formal Is It?

Formel

"马铃薯是中国重要的粮食作物之一。"

Neutre

"我想买几个土豆做晚饭。"

Informel

"这土豆真面，好吃！"

Child friendly

"看，这个小土豆圆圆的，真可爱！"

Argot

"你真是个沙发土豆。"

Le savais-tu ?

In the 17th century, when potatoes first arrived in China, they were often considered a curiosity or 'foreign' food. The name '土豆' eventually beat out other regional names to become the standard in the North.

Guide de prononciation

UK /tʰu³⁵ toʊ⁵¹/

US /tu³⁵ doʊ⁵¹/

The stress is slightly more prominent on the second syllable 'dòu' due to its fourth-tone falling nature.

Rime avec

口 (kǒu) 手 (shǒu) 走 (zǒu) 肉 (ròu) 厚 (hòu) 狗 (gǒu) 久 (jiǔ) 酒 (jiǔ)

Erreurs fréquentes

Pronouncing both syllables with a flat (1st) tone.
Forgetting the third tone dip in 'tǔ'.
Making 'dòu' sound like 'duo'.
Confusing the 't' in 'tǔ' with a 'd' sound.
Pronouncing 'dòu' too softly; it needs a firm drop.

Niveau de difficulté

Lecture 2/5

The characters are simple and common.

Écriture 2/5

Both '土' and '豆' are basic characters learned early.

Expression orale 3/5

Tones (3rd and 4th) require practice to sound natural.

Écoute 2/5

Very distinct sound, easy to recognize in context.

Quoi apprendre ensuite

Prérequis

土 (Earth) 豆 (Bean) 个 (Measure word) 买 (Buy) 吃 (Eat)

Apprends ensuite

西红柿 (Tomato) 鸡蛋 (Egg) 牛肉 (Beef) 炒 (Stir-fry) 面条 (Noodles)

Avancé

淀粉 (Starch) 主粮 (Staple food) 基因改良 (Genetically modified) 产业 (Industry)

Grammaire à connaître

Measure Words with Nouns

一个土豆 (One potato), 些土豆 (Some potatoes).

The '把' Construction

把土豆切开 (Cut the potato open).

Resultative Complements

土豆煮烂了 (The potato is boiled soft).

Comparison with '比'

土豆比肉便宜 (Potatoes are cheaper than meat).

Alternative Questions with '还是'

你吃土豆还是吃米饭？ (Do you eat potatoes or rice?)

Exemples par niveau

我喜欢吃土豆。

I like to eat potatoes.

Subject + Verb + Object.

这是一个大土豆。

This is a big potato.

Use of the measure word '个'.

我要买三个土豆。

I want to buy three potatoes.

Number + Measure Word + Noun.

土豆在桌子上。

The potato is on the table.

Locational sentence structure.

我不吃土豆。

I don't eat potatoes.

Negative sentence with '不'.

土豆多少钱？

How much are the potatoes?

Basic question for price.

妈妈买土豆了。

Mom bought potatoes.

Use of '了' for completed action.

这是土豆吗？

Is this a potato?

Basic '吗' question.

请帮我洗一下土豆。

Please help me wash the potatoes.

Polite request with '请' and '一下'.

我今天想做土豆泥。

I want to make mashed potatoes today.

Compound noun '土豆泥'.

这些土豆很新鲜。

These potatoes are very fresh.

Use of '这些' (these).

你喜欢炸土豆还是煮土豆？

Do you like fried potatoes or boiled potatoes?

Alternative question with '还是'.

把土豆切成小块。

Cut the potatoes into small pieces.

The '把' construction for instructions.

超市里的土豆卖完了。

The potatoes in the supermarket are sold out.

Resultative complement '卖完'.

我不喜欢吃太软的土豆。

I don't like eating potatoes that are too soft.

Attributive clause with '的'.

土豆比红薯便宜。

Potatoes are cheaper than sweet potatoes.

Comparison sentence with '比'.

土豆炖牛肉是我最喜欢的菜。

Potato and beef stew is my favorite dish.

Complex subject phrase.

你应该多吃土豆，因为它很有营养。

You should eat more potatoes because they are very nutritious.

Conjunction '因为' (because).

如果土豆发芽了，就千万不能吃。

If the potatoes have sprouted, you must not eat them.

Conditional sentence '如果...就...'.

他整天坐在沙发上看电视，真是个沙发土豆。

He sits on the sofa watching TV all day; he's really a couch potato.

Idiomatic use of '沙发土豆'.

这种土豆的口感非常面，适合做汤。

This kind of potato has a very starchy texture, suitable for making soup.

Descriptive term '面' (starchy/soft).

在北方，土豆是冬天必不可少的蔬菜。

In the North, potatoes are an indispensable winter vegetable.

Adjective phrase '必不可少'.

虽然土豆很普通，但它可以做出很多花样。

Although potatoes are common, they can be prepared in many ways.

Concession '虽然...但...'.

请把土豆丝切得细一点。

Please cut the potato shreds a bit thinner.

Degree complement '得'.

中国政府正在大力推进土豆主粮化战略。

The Chinese government is vigorously promoting the potato staple food strategy.

Formal vocabulary like '推进' and '战略'.

马铃薯的适应性很强，可以在贫瘠的土地上生长。

Potatoes have strong adaptability and can grow in poor soil.

Use of formal term '马铃薯'.

随着技术的进步，土豆的产量大幅度提高了。

With the advancement of technology, potato yields have increased significantly.

Structure '随着...的进步'.

这种土豆是经过基因改良的，抗病能力更强。

This kind of potato is genetically modified and has stronger disease resistance.

Passive-like structure '是...的'.

“南方小土豆”这个词在社交媒体上引发了热议。

The term "Southern Little Potato" sparked a heated discussion on social media.

Abstract subject '这个词'.

土豆不仅可以作为蔬菜，还可以加工成淀粉。

Potatoes can not only be used as a vegetable but also processed into starch.

Structure '不仅...还...'.

在一些贫困地区，土豆是当地农民的主要收入来源。

In some impoverished areas, potatoes are the main source of income for local farmers.

Formal phrase '收入来源'.

这种烹饪方法保留了土豆原有的风味。

This cooking method preserves the original flavor of the potato.

Verb '保留' (preserve).

土豆在明朝末年传入中国，对缓解饥荒起到了重要作用。

Potatoes were introduced to China in the late Ming Dynasty and played an important role in alleviating famine.

Historical context and formal verbs like '缓解'.

该报告详细分析了马铃薯产业在西北地区的经济影响。

The report analyzes in detail the economic impact of the potato industry in the Northwest region.

Academic style with '该' and '详细分析'.

这种文学意象将土豆比作沉默而坚韧的劳动人民。

This literary imagery compares the potato to the silent and resilient working people.

Metaphorical language '将...比作'.

由于气候变暖，某些地区的土豆种植面临严峻挑战。

Due to global warming, potato cultivation in certain areas faces severe challenges.

Causal structure '由于...面临'.

土豆淀粉的物理化学特性使其在工业上有广泛用途。

The physicochemical properties of potato starch give it wide industrial uses.

Technical terminology.

他以一种近乎偏执的热情研究着各种土豆品种的差异。

He studies the differences between various potato varieties with an almost paranoid passion.

Complex adverbial phrase '以...的热情'.

在方言中，“洋芋”一词承载着深厚的地域文化认同。

In dialects, the word "yangyu" carries a deep sense of regional cultural identity.

Sociolinguistic terminology.

尽管面临市场波动，土豆期货依然是投资者关注的焦点。

Despite market fluctuations, potato futures remain a focus for investors.

Financial context '期货' (futures).

土豆的全球化历程折射出人类文明在作物交换中的复杂互动。

The globalization of the potato reflects the complex interactions of human civilization in crop exchange.

High-level abstract vocabulary.

从生物多样性的角度来看，保护土豆的原生品种至关重要。

From the perspective of biodiversity, protecting native potato varieties is crucial.

Structure '从...的角度来看'.

该文论述了土豆在构建现代饮食结构中所扮演的不可替代的角色。

The article discusses the irreplaceable role that potatoes play in constructing modern dietary structures.

Formal verb '论述' and '扮演...的角色'.

土豆的平凡外表下隐藏着足以改变世界历史的巨大能量。

Beneath the ordinary appearance of the potato lies a huge energy sufficient to change world history.

Poetic and philosophical tone.

在跨文化交际中，对“土豆”这类基础词汇的语义演变研究具有极高的学术价值。

In cross-cultural communication, the study of the semantic evolution of basic vocabulary like "potato" has high academic value.

Complex noun phrases.

这种对于土豆的审美偏好，实际上是某种特定社会阶层的心理投射。

This aesthetic preference for potatoes is, in fact, a psychological projection of a certain social class.

Psychological and sociological terminology.

通过对土豆基因组的深度测序，科学家们揭示了其演化的奥秘。

Through deep sequencing of the potato genome, scientists have revealed the mysteries of its evolution.

Scientific and technical precision.

土豆作为一种文化符号，在不同的语境下被赋予了截然不同的象征意义。

As a cultural symbol, the potato is endowed with completely different symbolic meanings in different contexts.

Passive voice '被赋予'.

Collocations courantes

土豆丝

土豆泥

土豆炖牛肉

削土豆皮

炸土豆

新鲜土豆

土豆片

土豆饼

大土豆

土豆块

Phrases Courantes

酸辣土豆丝

沙发土豆

南方小土豆

土豆烧排骨

烤土豆

土豆沙拉

土豆主粮化

土豆淀粉

发芽的土豆

土豆粉

Souvent confondu avec

土豆 vs 红薯 (hóngshǔ)

Sweet potato. It is red/orange and sweet, unlike the savory yellow/white potato.

土豆 vs 豆腐 (dòufu)

Tofu. Both share the '豆' character, but one is a tuber and the other is processed soy.

土豆 vs 地瓜 (dìguā)

Can mean sweet potato or jicama depending on the region. Often confused with '土豆' by beginners.

Expressions idiomatiques

"土豆搬家"

A riddle or pun meaning 'rolling' (滚 - gǔn). In slang, '滚' means 'get out' or 'get lost'.

你给我土豆搬家——滚！(You get out/roll away!)

Humorous/Slang

"土里土气"

While not containing '土豆', it uses '土' (earth) to mean 'rustic' or 'unfashionable'. Potatoes are often seen as '土' in this sense.

这件衣服穿起来土里土气的。(This clothing looks very rustic/unfashionable.)

Informal

"地三鲜"

Literally 'Three Treasures from the Earth'. A famous dish where potato is one of the three main ingredients.

地三鲜里有土豆、茄子和青椒。(Di San Xian contains potatoes, eggplants, and green peppers.)

Culinary

"面如土色"

To look as pale as the color of earth (or a potato skin). Used to describe someone who is very scared or ill.

听到这个消息，他吓得面如土色。(Hearing this news, he turned pale with fear.)

Literary

"土生土长"

Born and raised in a place. Like a potato growing in its native soil.

我是土生土长的北京人。(I am a born-and-raised Beijinger.)

Neutral

"如获至宝"

To find something very valuable. Often used in stories where a hungry person finds a potato.

他捡到一个土豆，如获至宝。(He found a potato and treated it like a precious treasure.)

Literary

"饱食终日"

To eat one's fill all day and do nothing. Often associated with the 'couch potato' lifestyle.

你不能每天饱食终日，无所事事。(You can't just eat all day and do nothing.)

Formal

"粗茶淡饭"

Simple food. Potatoes are the epitome of 'simple food'.

我们家平时就是粗茶淡饭。(Our family usually just eats simple food.)

Neutral

"不辨菽麦"

Unable to distinguish beans from wheat. Used to describe someone who is ignorant of basic things (like not knowing a potato).

他连土豆和红薯都分不清，真是不辨菽麦。(He can't even tell a potato from a sweet potato; he's truly ignorant.)

Literary

"安土重迁"

Attached to one's native land and unwilling to leave. Like a potato rooted in the soil.

中国人自古就有安土重迁的思想。(Chinese people have had the idea of being attached to their land since ancient times.)

Formal

Facile à confondre

土豆 vs 马铃薯

It's the same thing but sounds completely different.

马铃薯 is formal/scientific; 土豆 is colloquial.

超市的标签上写着‘马铃薯’。

土豆 vs 洋芋

Regional variation.

Used primarily in Western China; 土豆 is the standard Northern term.

在四川，人们叫它洋芋。

土豆 vs 山药

Both are starchy tubers.

山药 is long, thin, and slimy; 土豆 is round and dry.

山药可以用来煮粥。

土豆 vs 芋头

Both are tubers used in similar dishes.

芋头 is purple/grey and has a nutty flavor; 土豆 is yellow/white.

我不喜欢芋头的味道。

土豆 vs 地蛋

Dialectal term.

Used only in specific regions like Shandong; 土豆 is understood everywhere.

地蛋就是土豆。

Structures de phrases

我喜欢吃[Food].

我喜欢吃土豆。

请给我[Number]个[Noun].

请给我三个土豆。

[Noun]炖[Noun]很好吃。

土豆炖牛肉很好吃。

把[Noun]切成[Shape]。

把土豆切成丝。

[Noun]对[Action]起到了重要作用。

土豆对缓解饥荒起到了重要作用。

[Noun]被赋予了[Meaning]。

土豆被赋予了坚韧的象征意义。

[Noun]多少钱一斤？

土豆多少钱一斤？

虽然[Clause], 但是[Clause]。

虽然土豆很便宜，但是它很有营养。

Famille de mots

Noms

Verbes

Adjectifs

Apparenté

Comment l'utiliser

frequency

Extremely high in daily life, cooking, and markets.

Erreurs courantes

Using '土豆' for peanuts in Mainland China. → Use '花生' (huāshēng) for peanuts.
In Mainland China, '土豆' only means potato. '花生' is the word for peanut.
Saying '一土豆' instead of '一个土豆'. → 一个土豆
You must use a measure word (个) when counting nouns in Chinese.
Confusing '土豆' with '红薯'. → 土豆 (Potato), 红薯 (Sweet Potato).
They are different vegetables with different names and flavors.
Pronouncing 'dòu' as a 1st tone (flat). → dòu (4th tone - falling).
Tones change the meaning; 'dōu' (1st tone) means 'all'.
Using '土豆条' for french fries. → 薯条 (shǔtiáo).
While '土豆条' is understandable, '薯条' is the standard term used in all restaurants.

Astuces

Try the Shreds

Don't expect soft potatoes in a stir-fry. Chinese '土豆丝' is meant to be crunchy, which is achieved by soaking the shreds in water to remove starch before frying.

Measure Word Mastery

Always use '个' (gè) when counting whole potatoes. '一个土豆', '两个土豆'. It sounds very 'foreign' to omit it.

Formal vs. Informal

Use '土豆' for speaking and '马铃薯' for formal writing or reading menus in fancy restaurants.

Sprouts are Dangerous

If you see green or sprouts on a potato, throw it away. The Chinese word for sprout is '发芽' (fāyá).

Buy by the Jin

In China, you buy potatoes by the '斤' (jīn), which is 500g. '我要两斤土豆' means you want 1kg.

Texture Matters

If a potato is '面' (miàn), it's good for mashing or stewing. If it's '脆' (cuì), it's good for stir-frying.

Southern Potatoes

If someone calls you a '南方小土豆', they are likely being friendly and calling you cute!

Tone Drop

The transition from the low 3rd tone 'tǔ' to the sharp 4th tone 'dòu' is a great way to practice your tone changes.

Taiwan Warning

Remember: Taiwan 土豆 = Peanut. Don't make the mistake of ordering a potato and getting a nut!

Earth + Bean

Remember the characters: 土 (soil) + 豆 (bean). It's the bean that grows in the soil.

Mémorise-le

Moyen mnémotechnique

Think of a 'bean' (豆) that lives in the 'dirt' (土). It's an 'earth bean'—a potato!

Association visuelle

Imagine a round potato covered in brown 'earth' (土). Inside, it's as useful as a 'bean' (豆).

Word Web

土 (Earth) 豆 (Bean) 蔬菜 (Vegetable) 主食 (Staple) 炒 (Stir-fry) 炖 (Stew) 薯条 (Fries) 马铃薯 (Formal Name)

Défi

Try to go to a Chinese market and ask for '三个大土豆' (three big potatoes) without looking at your notes.

Origine du mot

The word '土豆' is a descriptive compound. '土' (tǔ) means earth or soil, and '豆' (dòu) means bean. It was named this way because the tubers grow underground and were seen as bean-like in their utility as a food source.

Sens originel : Literally 'earth bean'.

Sino-Tibetan (Mandarin Chinese).

Contexte culturel

Be careful using '土豆' in Taiwan, as it means 'peanut' there. Use '马铃薯' instead to avoid confusion.

English speakers often think of potatoes as a side dish (like fries or mashed potatoes), but in China, they are often a main vegetable dish served with rice.

The dish '地三鲜' (Di San Xian) in Northeast Chinese culture. The 'Potato Staple Food Strategy' (国家土豆主粮化战略). The viral '南方小土豆' (Southern Little Potato) social media trend.

Pratique dans la vie réelle

Contextes réels

At the Market

土豆多少钱一斤？
给我拿三个土豆。
这些土豆新鲜吗？
太大了，有小一点的吗？

In a Restaurant

来一份酸辣土豆丝。
这个菜里有土豆吗？
土豆炖牛肉要等多久？
我不想要土豆。

In the Kitchen

帮我削一下土豆皮。
土豆要切成丝还是块？
土豆已经煮熟了。
别把土豆炒糊了。

Discussing Health

土豆含有丰富的淀粉。
吃土豆比吃米饭好吗？
发芽的土豆不能吃。
土豆皮也有营养。

Internet Slang

他是个典型的沙发土豆。
欢迎南方小土豆！
你长得像个小土豆。
土豆搬家——滚。

Amorces de conversation

"你平时喜欢怎么吃土豆？ (How do you usually like to eat potatoes?)"

"你觉得土豆炖牛肉好吃还是土豆烧排骨好吃？ (Do you think potato beef stew or potato pork ribs is better?)"

"你们国家的土豆做法和中国一样吗？ (Are potato recipes in your country the same as in China?)"

"你听说过“南方小土豆”这个词吗？ (Have you heard the term 'Southern Little Potato'?)"

"你觉得土豆可以作为主食吗？ (Do you think potatoes can be a staple food?)"

Sujets d'écriture

写一写你最喜欢的一道土豆做的菜。 (Write about your favorite dish made with potatoes.)

描述一下你在中国菜市场买土豆的经历。 (Describe your experience buying potatoes in a Chinese wet market.)

你认为为什么土豆在中国如此受欢迎？ (Why do you think potatoes are so popular in China?)

讨论一下“沙发土豆”这种生活方式的利弊。 (Discuss the pros and cons of the 'couch potato' lifestyle.)

如果你是一个“南方小土豆”，你想去哪里旅游？ (If you were a 'Southern Little Potato', where would you want to travel?)

Questions fréquentes

10 questions

In Taiwan, '土豆' usually means peanuts. If you want to say potato in Taiwan, use '马铃薯' (mǎlíngshǔ). This is a very important regional difference to remember.

Probably '酸辣土豆丝' (Suānlà tǔdòusī). It's a classic home-style dish found in almost every restaurant and household across the country.

Yes, but in most Chinese cooking, potatoes are peeled ('削皮') before being cooked, especially for stir-fries and stews.

Because it grows in the ground ('土') and is a small, nutrient-dense food source similar to a 'bean' ('豆').

Yes, the government has officially designated it as the fourth staple food after rice, wheat, and corn to ensure food security.

French fries are '薯条' (shǔtiáo). Note that it uses the 'shǔ' from '马铃薯', not '土豆'.

It means 'couch potato'. It's a direct loan translation from English used to describe someone lazy.

Rarely. Unlike taro or sweet potatoes, potatoes are almost exclusively used in savory dishes in China.

It refers to thick, translucent noodles made from potato starch. They are very popular in hot pots and spicy soups.

No! In China, everyone knows '发芽的土豆不能吃' (sprouted potatoes cannot be eaten) because they contain solanine, which is toxic.