qīngdān: 清单 - List, Inventory

Keywords: qingdan Chinese, 清单 meaning, list in Chinese, inventory in Chinese, Chinese shopping list, packing list, detailed list, checklist in Chinese, to-do list, 清单 vs 列表

Summary: Learn how to use 清单 (qīngdān), the essential Chinese word for a detailed “list” or “inventory.” This page breaks down its meaning, from a simple shopping list (购物清单) to a formal shipping list. Discover how it differs from the more general word `列表 (lièbiǎo)` and see practical examples for travel, work, and daily life in China, making it a crucial vocabulary word for any beginner.

Pinyin (with tone marks): qīngdān

Part of Speech: Noun

HSK Level: HSK 4

Concise Definition: A detailed and itemized list of things; an inventory.

In a Nutshell: While the simple English word “list” can be a bit vague, 清单 (qīngdān) carries a sense of clarity, detail, and completeness. Think of it not just as a random collection of items, but as an organized, itemized record. It's the kind of list you use to check things off, account for everything, and make sure nothing is missing—whether it's groceries, items in a suitcase, or tasks for a project.

清 (qīng): The primary meaning of this character is “clear,” “distinct,” or “clean.” It suggests that everything is easy to see and understand, with no ambiguity.

单 (dān): This character means “list,” “sheet,” or “bill.” It often refers to a single piece of paper containing itemized information.

The two characters combine to mean a “clear list.” This perfectly captures the essence of 清单: a list where every single item is clearly and separately accounted for.

In Chinese culture, particularly in business, logistics, and bureaucracy, there is a high value placed on clarity and avoiding ambiguity. A 清单 (qīngdān) is a tool for achieving this. It serves as a formal or semi-formal record that all parties can agree on, minimizing misunderstandings and disputes.

Comparison to “List” in English: The English word “list” is extremely broad. You can have a “list of ideas” or a “list of friends.” The Chinese equivalent for these might be different words (like `列表` or `名单`). 清单 (qīngdān) is more specific. While an American might scribble “milk, bread, eggs” on a scrap of paper and call it a “shopping list,” using the word 清单 implies a more deliberate, itemized account. It's the difference between a rough draft and a final, checked document. This reflects a cultural preference for thoroughness in transactions and tasks.

清单 (qīngdān) is a very practical and common word used in various everyday and professional contexts. Its connotation is generally neutral and leans towards being slightly formal.

Bureaucracy:

材料清单 (cáiliào qīngdān): A list of required documents for an application (e.g., for a visa or a license).

Negative Contexts:

黑名单 (hēimíngdān): Blacklist. (Note: this compound uses `名单`, but is conceptually related to creating a definitive list).

列表 (lièbiǎo) - A general term for “list,” often used for on-screen lists or simple enumerations. Less formal and detailed than `清单`.

目录 (mùlù) - A table of contents, a directory, or a catalog. A list used for navigation.

菜单 (càidān) - A food menu.

账单 (zhàngdān) - A bill or an invoice; a list focused on cost and payment.

名单 (míngdān) - A name list, such as a list of attendees, members, or candidates.

发票 (fāpiào) - An official invoice or receipt, primarily used for accounting and tax purposes in China.

清点 (qīngdiǎn) - (Verb) To check, to count, to take inventory. The action that you perform using a `清单`.

购物清单 (gòuwù qīngdān) - A common compound word for “shopping list.”

任务清单 (rènwù qīngdān) - A common compound word for “task list” or “to-do list.”

黑名单 (hēimíngdān) - The standard word for “blacklist.”