In 15 Seconds
- Literally means 'crossing the horse road' for pedestrians.
- Used for walking across any paved city street.
- Essential for safety warnings and giving directions.
- A neutral phrase suitable for all social settings.
Meaning
This phrase is the standard way to say you are crossing the road or moving from one side of the street to the other.
Key Examples
3 of 6Walking with a friend
我们在这里过马路吧。
Let's cross the street here.
Warning a child
过马路的时候要小心。
Be careful when crossing the street.
On a phone call
等一下，我正在过马路。
Wait a second, I am crossing the street.
Cultural Background
Pedestrian safety is a major topic in urban China. Always look for the '斑马线' (zebra crossing). In Taiwan, '过马路' is often referred to as '過馬路' using traditional characters.
Use the Zebra!
Always mention '斑马线' (zebra crossing) when talking about crossing the street to sound more natural.
In 15 Seconds
- Literally means 'crossing the horse road' for pedestrians.
- Used for walking across any paved city street.
- Essential for safety warnings and giving directions.
- A neutral phrase suitable for all social settings.
What It Means
过马路 is a simple, everyday phrase. It literally means 'crossing the horse road.' In the old days, roads were for horses. Now, it is for cars and bikes. You use it when you are walking. It describes the physical act of stepping off the curb. You reach the other side safely. It is a foundational phrase for any city dweller.
How To Use It
Use it as a verb-object phrase. You can say 我要过马路 (I need to cross the street). You can also add descriptions. For example, 小心过马路 means 'cross the street carefully.' It is very flexible. You can use it with friends or strangers. It fits into almost any sentence about movement. Just don't use it if you are driving a car!
When To Use It
Use it when navigating a city. Use it when giving directions to a tourist. It is perfect for telling a child to hold your hand. Use it when you are on the phone. 'I'll call you back, I'm crossing the street!' It is a practical, high-frequency expression. You will hear it at every intersection in Beijing or Shanghai.
When NOT To Use It
Do not use it for crossing a bridge. That is 过桥. Do not use it for crossing a river. That is 过河. It is strictly for paved streets or roads. Also, if you are driving, you 'drive through' an intersection. You don't 'cross the horse road' in a car. That would sound like you are walking your car like a dog.
Cultural Background
Chinese traffic can be quite chaotic. The term 马路 (horse road) reminds us of history. Before cars, horses ruled the streets. Today, crossing the street is an art form. You have to watch for e-bikes and buses. There is a famous concept called 'Chinese-style street crossing.' It refers to people crossing together regardless of the light. But please, wait for the green man!
Common Variations
If you are at a specific light, you might say 过红绿灯 (cross the traffic light). If you are using a pedestrian bridge, say 过天桥. In some southern dialects, people might use slightly different verbs. However, 过马路 is understood by everyone everywhere. It is the gold standard for urban navigation.
Usage Notes
This is a neutral, everyday phrase. It has no hidden negative connotations. It is safe to use in any environment, from a casual walk with a friend to a formal business trip.
Use the Zebra!
Always mention '斑马线' (zebra crossing) when talking about crossing the street to sound more natural.
Examples
6我们在这里过马路吧。
Let's cross the street here.
A casual suggestion for a shared action.
过马路的时候要小心。
Be careful when crossing the street.
A standard safety warning used by parents.
等一下，我正在过马路。
Wait a second, I am crossing the street.
Explaining why you might be distracted or noisy.
请过马路，然后向左转。
Please cross the street, then turn left.
Using 'qing' makes the instruction polite and formal.
为什么鸡要过马路？
Why did the chicken cross the road?
The classic joke translated into Chinese.
奶奶，我扶您过马路。
Grandma, let me help you cross the street.
Shows respect and care for the elderly.
Test Yourself
Which phrase means 'to cross the street'?
A) 走马路 B) 过马路 C) 看马路
'过' means to pass or cross.
🎉 Score: /1
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
1 exercisesA) 走马路 B) 过马路 C) 看马路
'过' means to pass or cross.
🎉 Score: /1
Frequently Asked Questions
1 questionsNo, use '开车过路口' for driving through an intersection.
Related Phrases
斑马线
builds onCrosswalk
红绿灯
similarTraffic light
