玻璃
How to Understand
玻璃 (bō lí) is the Chinese word for 'glass,' referring to the transparent, fragile material used to make windows, bottles, and other objects. It differs from similar terms like 瓷器 (cí qì, porcelain) or 陶瓷 (táo cí, ceramics) in that it is a non-crystalline, amorphous solid.
The character 玻 (bō) is a phonetic component, while 璃 (lí) means 'jade' or 'crystal.' Together, they form a term that literally suggests something clear and crystalline, much like glass.
玻璃 is commonly used in everyday life, from drinking glasses to building materials. In Chinese culture, glass is valued for its clarity and strength, though it is also associated with fragility. Common expressions include 玻璃心 (bō lí xīn), meaning 'glass heart,' which describes someone who is sensitive and easily hurt.