Meaning
箱 refers to a container or box, typically rectangular, used for storing or transporting items. It can describe everything from small boxes to large trunks and suitcases. The character combines the bamboo radical (竹) with 相, reflecting the historical use of bamboo and wood in making containers.
Usage
箱 is commonly used as a suffix in compound words to specify different types of containers. Native speakers frequently use it in everyday contexts like 箱子 (box), 冰箱 (refrigerator), and 邮箱 (mailbox). It almost always requires a measure word when counting and appears in many household and travel-related terms.
Examples
- 01请把这些书放进箱子里。.Please put these books in the box.
- 02冰箱里还有一些水果。.There are still some fruits in the refrigerator.
Measure words
- 个一个箱子
- 只两只箱子
Common collocations
- 冰箱refrigerator
- 邮箱mailbox, email inbox
- 行李箱suitcase, luggage
- 保险箱safe, safety deposit box
Origin
The character contains the bamboo radical 竹, indicating its original association with containers made from bamboo strips. The phonetic component 相 provides the pronunciation.