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    Chinese Grammar

    Expressing "moss" with 青苔 (qīngtái)

    Topic & Focus

    Explanation

    青苔 (qīngtái) means "moss" or "green moss," referring to the small green plants that grow on damp surfaces like rocks and forest floors. It appears frequently in classical Chinese poetry to evoke natural scenery and tranquility.

    Examples

    • 石头上长满了青苔，走路要小心。

      Shítou shàng zhǎng mǎn le qīngtái, zǒulù yào xiǎoxīn.

      The rocks are covered in moss — be careful when walking.

    • 雨后院子里的青苔绿得发亮。

      Yǔ hòu yuànzi lǐ de qīngtái lǜ de fā liàng.

      After the rain, the moss in the yard is a brilliant green.

    • 古诗里经常用青苔来描写幽静的环境。

      Gǔshī lǐ jīngcháng yòng qīngtái lái miáoxiě yōujìng de huánjìng.

      Ancient poems often use green moss to describe tranquil environments.

    Expressing "moss" with 青苔 (qīngtái) | Chinese Grammar