Meaning and Usage
The word 篮球 (lánqiú) specifically refers to the sport of basketball and the basketball itself. It is a compound of 篮 (basket) and 球 (ball), literally meaning 'basket ball.'
Common Contexts
You will often hear 篮球 in contexts related to sports activities, games, and teams. It can refer to playing basketball, basketball matches, or basketball equipment.
Collocations and Patterns
- 打篮球 (dǎ lánqiú): to play basketball — the most common verb-noun collocation.
- 篮球比赛 (lánqiú bǐsài): basketball game or match.
- 篮球队 (lánqiú duì): basketball team.
Usage Notes
When using 篮球, it is typically about the sport or the ball itself. Unlike some sports words, 篮球 is not used metaphorically or in idiomatic expressions frequently. It is a straightforward noun.
Common Confusions
Do not confuse 篮球 with other ball sports like 足球 (soccer) or 排球 (volleyball). Also, note that 打篮球 is the standard way to say 'play basketball,' not using other verbs like 玩 (wán) which is more casual and less common for sports.