小心烫
xiǎoxīn tàng
Careful, it's hot · trad. 小心燙
小心烫 (Xiǎoxīn tàng) means "Careful, it's hot," specifically referring to something scalding hot. Speakers use it to warn others about very hot food, drinks, or objects, especially on sizzling plates in restaurants.
What does 小心烫 (xiǎoxīn tàng) mean?
小心烫 (xiǎoxīn tàng) means “careful, it's hot” in English. Word for word, it breaks down as “be careful scalding hot.”
When to use it
Neutral and direct. It's a common warning. For a general "be careful," you can just say 小心 (xiǎoxīn). If something is just warm, you might say 有点热 (yǒudiǎn rè, "a bit hot").
How to pronounce it
Sounds like “shyao-sheen TAHNG.” The first syllable of 小心 is a third tone, the second is a first tone, and 烫 is a fourth tone.
Other ways to say it
- 小心xiǎoxīnbe careful
- 很烫hěn tàngit's very hot
- 小心点xiǎoxīndianbe a bit careful (more casual)
Examples
小心烫，这个碗刚从微波炉里拿出来。
xiǎoxīn tàng, zhège wǎn gāng cóng wēibōlú lǐ ná chūlái.
Careful, it's hot, this bowl just came out of the microwave.
服务员说：“小心烫！”然后把菜放下了。
fúwùyuán shuō: “xiǎoxīn tàng!” ránhòu bǎ cài fàngxià le.
The waiter said, "Careful, it's hot!" and then put the dish down.
咖啡很烫，喝的时候要小心。
kāfēi hěn tàng, hē de shíhou yào xiǎoxīn.
The coffee is very hot, be careful when drinking it.
Pro tip: 烫 (tàng) specifically implies "scalding hot" or "burning hot," not just "warm." Use it for things that could actually hurt you if touched or consumed too quickly.
Related phrases
这是本店的招牌菜 · This is our signature dish有点辣，可以吗？ · It's a bit spicy — is that okay我帮您收一下盘子 · Let me clear your plates
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