adjective HSK 2
cheap · inexpensive
Meaning
便宜 describes something that costs little money or is priced below what you would normally expect. It's one of the most common words used when talking about prices and shopping, and generally carries a positive connotation of good value.
Usage
This is an everyday word used constantly in shopping contexts and price comparisons. Native speakers often use it to express satisfaction with a good deal. Can also be used in the phrase 占便宜 (zhàn pián yi) meaning 'to take advantage of' or 'to get a bargain.' Note the tone sandhi: the second character's tone often softens in natural speech.
Examples
- 01这件衣服很便宜，只要五十块钱。, .This piece of clothing is very cheap, it only costs fifty yuan.
- 02你能便宜一点吗？?Can you make it a bit cheaper?
Characters
Common collocations
- 很便宜very cheap
- 便宜货cheap goods, bargain items
- 占便宜to take advantage of, to get a good deal
- 便宜点a bit cheaper, make it cheaper
Antonyms
Origin
The combination literally means 'conveniently suitable' or 'appropriately priced,' which evolved to mean 'inexpensive' in modern usage.