广场

guǎngchǎng

public square; plaza

HSK 5

Character Breakdown

Meaning and Usage

The word 广场 (guǎngchǎng) refers to a broad, open public space typically found in urban areas where people gather for social, cultural, or recreational activities. It is often a central or prominent location in a city.

Common Contexts

广场 is commonly used to describe places like city squares, plazas, or open areas in front of important buildings. It can be a venue for public events, performances, or casual socializing.

Collocations and Patterns

  • 广场 (guǎngchǎng wǔ): square dancing, a popular group activity especially among older adults.
  • 中心广场 (shì zhōngxīn guǎngchǎng): city center square, a common meeting place.
  • 举办广场活动 (jǔbàn guǎngchǎng huódòng): to hold events in the square.

Usage Notes

广场 emphasizes the openness and public nature of the space. It differs from 街道 (street) or 公园 (park) by focusing on a paved or constructed open area designed for gatherings. When using 广场, speakers often imply a lively or communal atmosphere.

Common Confusion

Do not confuse 广场 with 广场, which specifically refers to the activity of square dancing rather than the place itself. Also, 广场 is different from 运动 (sports field), which is more specialized for sports activities.

Example Sentences

我们约在市中心的广场见面。

Wǒmen yuē zài shì zhōngxīn de guǎngchǎng jiànmiàn.

We agreed to meet at the city center square.

广场上有很多人在跳舞和唱歌。

Guǎngchǎng shàng yǒu hěn duō rén zài tiàowǔ hé chànggē.

There are many people dancing and singing in the square.

节日的时候,广场会举办各种庆祝活动。

Jiérì de shíhòu, guǎngchǎng huì jǔbàn gè zhǒng qìngzhù huódòng.

During festivals, the square hosts various celebration events.