The windowsill is a versatile ledge that connects the interior space with the view outside.
Word in 30 Seconds
- A horizontal surface located at the base of a window.
- Used for placing small items like plants or decorations.
- Commonly found in residential and architectural interior design.
Overview
- 1概述：窗台（chuāngtái）是一个名词，指窗框下方与墙体连接的水平台面。它在现代建筑中非常常见，既可以是室内窗台，也可以是室外窗台。2) 使用模式：在描述窗台时，常与动词“放”、“摆”、“坐”搭配。例如：“窗台上放着一盆花”或“她喜欢坐在窗台上看书”。3) 常见语境：窗台是家居生活中非常温馨的角落。人们常在窗台上种植多肉植物、放置书籍、装饰灯串，或者在阳光明媚的午后倚靠在窗台上休息。在建筑设计中，窗台的高度和宽度直接影响房间的采光和通风。4) 近义词比较：‘窗台’与‘窗框’（window frame）不同，窗框是固定窗户的框架，而窗台是下方平坦的台面。与‘飘窗’（bay window）相比，窗台通常较窄，而飘窗是一个凸出墙体、可以供人坐卧的较大空间。
Examples
窗台上摆满了多肉植物。
everydayThe windowsill is filled with succulent plants.
请确保窗台的排水系统良好，以防雨水渗入。
formalPlease ensure the windowsill has good drainage to prevent rainwater seepage.
我坐在窗台上看着外面的雨。
informalI sat on the windowsill watching the rain outside.
该建筑的设计特色在于其宽大的石质窗台。
academicThe design feature of the building lies in its wide stone windowsills.
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
窗台板
windowsill board/material
窗台石
windowsill stone
Often Confused With
A window frame is the structure that holds the glass in place, while the windowsill is the flat ledge below it.
A bay window is a large, protruding architectural feature that creates an extra indoor space, whereas a windowsill is just a ledge.
Grammar Patterns
How to Use It
Usage Notes
The word '窗台' is a neutral noun used in both daily conversation and technical contexts. It is standard in Mandarin and commonly understood in all regions. No specific formality level is required to use this word.
Common Mistakes
Beginners sometimes confuse it with '窗户' (window). Remember that '窗户' is the whole window assembly, while '窗台' is specifically the ledge at the bottom. Also, ensure the correct measure word is used if describing items on it.
Tips
Decorate your windowsill for cozy vibes
Adding small plants or a reading lamp to your windowsill can instantly make your room feel more inviting and personal.
Safety first for high windows
If your windowsill is high up, ensure that children or pets cannot climb onto it to prevent accidental falls.
Windowsills in literature and art
In many cultures, the windowsill is depicted as a place of longing, where characters wait for loved ones or watch the changing seasons.
Word Origin
The word is a compound of '窗' (window) and '台' (platform/ledge). It literally translates to 'window platform', describing its physical position and function.
Cultural Context
In Chinese households, the windowsill is often a cherished space for 'greenery' (plants), reflecting a love for nature even in urban apartments. It is also a frequent trope in Chinese literature to symbolize the boundary between the private home and the outside world.
Memory Tip
Visualize a 'window' (窗) with a 'platform/stage' (台) underneath it for your plants. It's the stage for your window view!
Frequently Asked Questions
4 questions窗台通常指窗户下方较窄的台面，仅用于置物。而飘窗通常是凸出墙体的，面积较大，可以作为休息区或阅读区使用。
常见的窗台材料包括大理石、人造石、木材或瓷砖。不同材料的耐用性和美观度各有特点。
窗台既可以指室内一侧的台面，也可以指室外一侧的台面。在日常对话中，若未特别说明，通常指室内窗台。
可以用湿布擦拭灰尘，如果是大理石窗台，注意不要使用酸性清洁剂。定期清理可以防止积灰和霉菌生长。
Test Yourself
她喜欢在___上摆放几盆绿色的植物。
窗台是放置盆栽的常见位置。
窗台的主要用途是什么？
窗台是窗户下方的水平台面，常用于置物。
上 / 窗台 / 放着 / 书 / 一本
正确的语序是地点（窗台上）+ 动词（放着）+ 宾语（一本书）。
Score: /3
Summary
The windowsill is a versatile ledge that connects the interior space with the view outside.
- A horizontal surface located at the base of a window.
- Used for placing small items like plants or decorations.
- Commonly found in residential and architectural interior design.
Decorate your windowsill for cozy vibes
Adding small plants or a reading lamp to your windowsill can instantly make your room feel more inviting and personal.
Safety first for high windows
If your windowsill is high up, ensure that children or pets cannot climb onto it to prevent accidental falls.
Windowsills in literature and art
In many cultures, the windowsill is depicted as a place of longing, where characters wait for loved ones or watch the changing seasons.
Examples
4 of 4窗台上摆满了多肉植物。
The windowsill is filled with succulent plants.
请确保窗台的排水系统良好，以防雨水渗入。
Please ensure the windowsill has good drainage to prevent rainwater seepage.
我坐在窗台上看着外面的雨。
I sat on the windowsill watching the rain outside.
该建筑的设计特色在于其宽大的石质窗台。
The design feature of the building lies in its wide stone windowsills.
