便利店

biànlìdiàn

convenience store

HSK 5

Character Breakdown

What is 便利店?

The term 便利店 (biànlìdiàn) refers to a convenience store, a small retail shop that sells everyday items such as snacks, drinks, and basic necessities. These stores are typically open 24 hours, making them very accessible for quick purchases at any time.

Usage and Context

People often mention 便利店 when talking about grabbing a quick snack, buying drinks, or picking up small household items. It is a common place in urban areas and is especially useful for late-night needs.

Common Collocations

  • 便利店东西 (buy things at a convenience store): emphasizes the act of shopping there.
  • 便利店营业时间 (convenience store business hours): often highlights the 24-hour service.
  • 便利店附近 (near the convenience store): used when giving directions or describing locations.

Tips

When using 便利店, remember it implies convenience and accessibility. It is different from larger supermarkets or specialty stores. Avoid confusing it with 超市 (supermarket), which is bigger and has a wider range of products.

Example Sentences

我去便利店买了一瓶水。

Wǒ qù biànlìdiàn mǎi le yī píng shuǐ.

I went to the convenience store to buy a bottle of water.

便利店里有各种零食和饮料。

Biànlìdiàn lǐ yǒu gè zhǒng língshí hé yǐnliào.

The convenience store has all kinds of snacks and drinks.

便利店通常24小时营业,非常方便。

Biànlìdiàn tōngcháng 24 xiǎoshí yíngyè, fēicháng fāngbiàn.

Convenience stores usually operate 24 hours, which is very convenient.