Chinese word

便当

Pronunciation

Pinyinbiàn dāng

Meaning

  • nounboxed lunch

Example

这个便当很好吃。zhè ge biàn dāng hěn hǎo chī

This boxed lunch is delicious.

Illustration for 便当 (boxed lunch)

More examples

我每天带便当去学校。wǒ měi tiān dài biàn dāng qù xué xiào

I bring a boxed lunch to school every day.

Core concept

A complete meal packed into one container for easy carrying.

Common phrases

  • 吃便当chī biàn dāng

    eat a boxed lunch

  • 带便当dài biàn dāng

    bring a boxed lunch

Similar words

盒饭hé fàn: A single-serving meal of rice and dishes packed in a food container.

Definition in Chinese

用盒子装好、方便带走的一份饭菜。yòng hé zi zhuāng hǎo fāng biàn dài zǒu de yí fèn fàn cài

Word origin

The modern Chinese food term 便当 (biàndāng, "boxed lunch") came through Japanese bento, and the older Chinese expression 便当 described something convenient or suitable.

Usage tips

  • In Chinese food settings, 便当 (biàndāng, "boxed lunch") often means the whole packed meal, including rice and side dishes, rather than the box alone.

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