二维码

• Pinyin: èr wéi mǎ
• Hanzi breakdown: 二 = two; 维 = dimension; 码 = code

Meaning

QR code; two-dimensional code. A scannable barcode used for payments, links, and information sharing.

Ubiquitous in modern Chinese life for mobile payments, adding contacts, accessing websites, and sharing information. Scanning QR codes is an essential daily activity in China.

Examples

1. 扫一下这个二维码就能付款了。 Just scan this QR code to make the payment.
2. 餐厅的菜单都是二维码，用手机扫就能看。 The restaurant menus are all QR codes — scan with your phone to view.
3. 她把二维码发给我，我加了她的微信。 She sent me her QR code, and I added her on WeChat.

Usage Guide

Context: technology, business, everyday

Tone: practical

Do Say

• 你扫我的二维码加好友吧。(Scan my QR code to add me as a friend.)
• 这个二维码是付款用的。(This QR code is for payment.)

Don't Say

• 给我看一下你的二维 (Don't drop 码 — always say the full 二维码; 二维 alone just means 'two-dimensional')

Origin & History

Technical term: 二维 (two-dimensional) + 码 (code), describing the 2D matrix barcode format.

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal