Meaning and Usage
The word 桶 (tǒng) primarily refers to a bucket, pail, or tub used to carry or store liquids or other materials. It is a common everyday object and appears frequently in contexts involving water, storage, or cleaning.
Common Collocations
- 水桶 (shuǐ tǒng): water bucket, used for carrying or storing water.
- 大桶 (dà tǒng): big bucket, emphasizing size.
- 桶装 (tǒng zhuāng): packed or stored in a bucket, often used for liquids.
Usage Notes
When using 桶, it usually refers to a physical container with a cylindrical shape and an open top. It is often used in practical, everyday contexts rather than figurative language. Unlike some other container words like 罐 (jar) or 瓶 (bottle), 桶 implies a larger capacity and is often associated with manual carrying.
Common Confusions
Do not confuse 桶 with 桶子 (tǒngzi), which is a diminutive or colloquial form sometimes used regionally. Also, 桶 is different from 桶装 in that the latter is a compound describing the state of being stored in a bucket.
Understanding 桶 helps learners talk about household chores, gardening, or any situation involving carrying or storing liquids or bulk materials.