灯笼

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Character Breakdown

Meaning and Usage

The word 灯笼 (dēnglóng) refers to a traditional lantern, often made of paper or silk stretched over a frame, commonly used in Chinese festivals and celebrations. It literally combines (lamp) and (basket), reflecting its structure as a basket-like frame holding a light source.

Common Contexts

灯笼 is frequently seen during cultural events such as the Spring Festival or the Lantern Festival, where they symbolize good luck and prosperity. They can be decorative or functional, used to light paths or create festive atmospheres.

Collocations and Patterns

  • 灯笼 (guà dēnglóng): to hang lanterns, often for decoration during festivals.
  • 灯笼 (tí dēnglóng): to carry a lantern, common in night-time celebrations.
  • 灯笼 (hóngsè dēnglóng): red lanterns, symbolizing happiness and good fortune.

Usage Notes

When using 灯笼, it often implies a traditional or festive setting rather than a modern electric lamp. Avoid confusing it with (lamp) alone, which is more general. 灯笼 carries cultural and aesthetic connotations, so it is often associated with celebrations or traditional imagery.

Example Sentences

During the Spring Festival, the streets are decorated with red lanterns.

He made a beautiful lantern using paper and bamboo.

At night, we carry lanterns to the park to enjoy the moon.