Common Meanings
1
shuǐ水
A colorless, odorless, transparent liquid, essential for life and often used in various contexts like agriculture (e.g., rice cultivation) or in idioms describing persistence.
只要我们坚持不懈，就像水滴石穿一样，最终会成功。
As long as we persevere, just like water dripping through stone, we will eventually succeed.
Refers to a river or a body of water, often appearing in names of rivers, such as the Han River (汉水) or Xiang River (湘水).
这条水流向大海。
This river flows into the ocean.
A general term for bodies of water such as rivers, lakes, and seas; also refers to water resources, reservoirs, and is used in idioms related to water.
我家乡依山傍水，风景优美。
My hometown is nestled among mountains and by water, offering beautiful scenery.
Liquid or juice; often refers to liquids like ink.
我的水笔没墨水了。
My fountain pen is out of ink.
Refers to additional charges or extra, often unofficial, income or gains.
这份兼职收入虽然不高，但总能捞点儿外水补贴家用。
Although the income from this part-time job isn't high, I can always earn some extra money to supplement our household expenses.
Refers to the number of times something has been washed or rinsed.
这件衬衫洗了三水，终于干净了。
This shirt has been washed three times; it's finally clean.