⚡ Quick Answer

Chinese speakers say "Green tea water" but native English speakers say "Green tea". The difference lies in verb choice and collocation.

Chinglish vs Proper English

Chinglish (Chinese Style) Natural English Why
Green tea water Green tea Missing verb: word-for-word translation dropped the main verb.
Open the light Turn on the light Open = 开 for doors/windows; Turn on = 开 for electronics
Eat medicine Take medicine Eat = 吃 for food; Take = 服 for medicine
I very like it I like it very much English adverb placement rule

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Comparison FAQ

Why do Chinese add "water" to tea names?
Chinese uses "水" as a general term for any drink (like 茶水, 糖水). English directly calls it by the ingredient: "green tea".
Is "green tea water" ever correct in English?
Only if you
Why do Chinese add "water" to tea names?
Chinese uses "水" as a general term for any drink (like 茶水, 糖水). English directly calls it by the ingredient: "green tea".

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