零售
How to Understand
零售 (líng shòu) refers to the sale of goods or services to individual consumers, typically in small quantities. It is distinct from wholesale, which involves selling larger quantities to businesses or other retailers.
The character 零 (líng) means 'zero' or 'small,' and 售 (shòu) means 'to sell.' Together, they emphasize the small-scale nature of the transaction, where products are sold directly to end-users rather than to other businesses.
Retailing is a vital part of modern commerce, encompassing everything from physical stores to online platforms. In China, retail includes traditional markets, supermarkets, and e-commerce giants like Alibaba and JD.com. Understanding retail terminology helps learners grasp how business operates in Chinese-speaking regions.