马铃薯 — meaning in English: potato

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

Guess the translation for potato

拒绝

jùjué

马铃薯

mǎlíngshǔ

宪法

xiànfǎ

搭

dā

通过

tōngguò

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neutral common

Usage

Native Mandarin speakers use the word 马铃薯 when discussing food, especially in culinary contexts or while shopping at markets. For example, you might hear it at a restaurant when ordering a dish that includes potatoes or while chatting with friends about favorite side dishes.

Synonyms & nuances

Another common term for potato in Mandarin is 土豆 (tǔdòu). While 马铃薯 is often used in more formal contexts, 土豆 is more colloquial and frequently used in everyday conversation. Choosing between them depends on the setting and familiarity with the audience.

Culture

The word 马铃薯 literally translates to 'horse bell potato', a whimsical name that reflects how potatoes were introduced to China in the 17th century. Initially met with skepticism, the potato has now become a staple in Chinese cuisine, showing how cultural perceptions of food can change over time.

FAQ

Q.How do you pronounce 马铃薯?

马铃薯 is pronounced as mǎlíngshǔ. Remember to use the third tone for '马' and the second tone for '铃' for accurate pronunciation.

Q.What are some common dishes that use 马铃薯?

马铃薯 is versatile and can be found in many dishes, such as mashed potatoes, potato stir-fry, and even in soups. It's a popular ingredient that adds texture and flavor to meals.

Q.Can I use 马铃薯 in a formal setting?

Yes, 马铃薯 is a neutral word and can be used in both formal and informal settings. It's suitable when discussing cuisine in restaurants or cooking contexts.

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Chinese (Mandarin) 2000