院子里 — meaning in English: Courtyard

yuànzi lǐ · Learn this word with quizzes, examples and more on Maspeak.

Guess the translation for yard

院子里

yuànzi lǐ

意识

yìshí

章程

zhāngchéng

格式

géshì

剧院

jùyuàn

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neutral common

Usage

Native speakers use '院子里' when referring to private outdoor spaces, particularly in homes or traditional Chinese settings. For example, during a family gathering, someone might say they will play games in the '院子里' after dinner, signifying a casual and communal atmosphere.

Synonyms & nuances

A close synonym is '庭院' (tíngyuàn), which also means courtyard but often implies a more formal or larger space, like those found in temples or grand homes. In contrast, '院子里' tends to be used in more casual, familial contexts.

Culture

'院子里' reflects the importance of outdoor spaces in Chinese culture, where courtyards serve as extensions of family life. Historically, traditional Chinese homes often feature courtyards (院子) that provide a place for family members to connect with nature and each other, symbolizing harmony and togetherness.

FAQ

Q.What does '院子里' mean in English?

'院子里' translates to 'courtyard' in English, referring to an outdoor space typically surrounded by walls or buildings, often used for relaxation or social gatherings.

Q.How do you use '院子里' in a sentence?

You can use '院子里' in sentences like '我们在院子里吃晚饭' (We eat dinner in the courtyard) to indicate an outdoor dining setting.

Q.Is there a difference between '院子' and '院子里'?

'院子' refers to the courtyard itself, while '院子里' emphasizes being inside that space. Use '院子里' when you want to focus on activities happening within the courtyard.

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