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    Chinese Grammar

    Using 盐 (yán) to refer to salt

    Existence & Possession

    Structure

    加入 + 盐

    Explanation

    盐 (yán) means "salt," one of the most basic seasonings in Chinese cuisine. It functions as a noun and is used to describe the mineral substance added to food for seasoning.

    Examples

    • 汤里盐放多了，太咸了。

      tāng lǐ yán fàng duō le, tài xián le.

      Too much salt was added to the soup; it's too salty.

    • 医生说我应该少吃盐，对身体比较好。

      yīshēng shuō wǒ yīnggāi shǎo chī yán, duì shēntǐ bǐjiào hǎo.

      The doctor said I should eat less salt; it's better for my health.

    • 你尝尝看，还需要加盐吗？

      nǐ cháng chángkàn, hái xūyào jiā yán ma?

      Give it a taste—does it still need salt?

    Often Confused With

    Using 盐 (yán) to refer to salt | Chinese Grammar