Still or sparkling?

Neutral Polite

What it really means

When you ask for water in a restaurant, the waiter may ask this: still (no bubbles) or sparkling (fizzy)? Both are bottled and cost money. If you want free water, ask for "tap water" instead.

Chinese explanation
在餐厅要水时,服务员可能这样问:无气泡(still)还是带气泡(sparkling)?两种都是收费瓶装水。想要免费的水,就直接说"tap water"(自来水)。

Example conversation

A: Some water for the table? B: Yes please. A: Still or sparkling? B: Just tap water is fine, thanks.
A:需要给这桌上点水吗? B:好的,谢谢。 A:无气泡还是带气泡的? B:自来水就行,谢谢。

What you could say back

“Just tap water, please.”

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Reviewed by the UK Decoded editorial team · Last checked 24 July 2026 · Report a mistake