surname Tang

JLPT N5 6 strokes

Words with this Kanji

Meaning and Usage

The word '' (tāng) primarily means 'soup' or 'broth' in Mandarin Chinese. It refers to liquids made by boiling ingredients such as meat, vegetables, or herbs in water. It is a common and essential part of Chinese cuisine.

Common Collocations

  • (jītāng): chicken soup, often used for nourishment or comfort.
  • (suānlà tāng): hot and sour soup, a popular dish in many Chinese restaurants.
  • (hē tāng): to drink soup, a common phrase emphasizing consuming the liquid part of a meal.

Usage Notes

'Tāng' is used both as a noun for the food itself and in phrases describing the act of drinking soup. It is distinct from '' (water) because it implies a cooked, flavored liquid. When used in cooking or dining contexts, it often appears with specific types of soup or broth.

Common Confusions

Do not confuse '' with '' (táng), which means sugar. Although they sound similar, their meanings and characters are different. Also, '' as a surname is rare compared to its culinary use.

Register and Tone

'Tāng' is a neutral, everyday word used in both formal and informal contexts related to food and cooking.

Example Sentences

Mom cooked a pot of chicken soup for me to drink.

The hot and sour soup at this restaurant is very famous.

Drinking soup can help the body replenish fluids.