Meaning
瓷器 refers to high-quality ceramic ware, especially porcelain, made from fine clay fired at high temperatures. China has been world-famous for producing exquisite porcelain for thousands of years, and the English word 'china' (lowercase) for fine dishes comes from this association. 瓷器 encompasses bowls, plates, vases, tea sets, and decorative items made from this material.
Usage
瓷器 is commonly used in contexts discussing traditional Chinese crafts, art collections, antiques, or fine tableware. It's a formal term that emphasizes the material and often implies quality or artistic value. In everyday speech, people might just say 碗 (bowl) or 盘子 (plate) for specific items, but use 瓷器 when emphasizing the porcelain material or discussing pieces as collectibles.
Examples
- 01这件明朝瓷器是博物馆的镇馆之宝。.This Ming dynasty porcelain is the museum's treasure.
- 02他收藏了很多精美的中国瓷器。.He has collected many exquisite pieces of Chinese porcelain.
Characters
Measure words
- 件一件瓷器
- 个一个瓷器
Common collocations
- 古代瓷器ancient porcelain
- 瓷器收藏porcelain collection
- 打碎瓷器to break porcelain
- 瓷器展览porcelain exhibition
Origin
The character 瓷 combines the tile radical 瓦 with 次, suggesting refined ceramic products. 器 means vessel or implement. Together they denote finely crafted ceramic vessels, distinguishing porcelain from ordinary pottery (陶器).