บึง
marsh
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- 1 marsh、swamp、small lake
A noun for a broad, still, naturally occurring body of fresh water, often with marshy edges. Depending on the setting, it may be understood as a marsh, swamp, pond, or small lake.
marsh、swamp、small lake
A relatively broad natural freshwater area where water remains still, often throughout the year, and where aquatic plants and animals may live.
Learning notes
Explanation
บึง does not correspond neatly to a single English landform term. It describes a natural area of still fresh water and may range in appearance from a marsh or swamp to a small lake. It does not inherently imply dirty or murky water. Common expressions include ริมบึง “by the water’s edge” and ในบึง “in the marsh/lake.” When counting such places, แห่ง can be used as the classifier.
Usage
It is commonly used when discussing natural landscapes, fishing, rural life, aquatic wildlife, ecosystems, and environmental conservation. It also frequently appears in names of parks, districts, and other places near wetlands or lakes.
Caution
Do not assume that every บึง is a vegetation-filled marsh or murky swamp. Some have a broad, open water surface and are more naturally described as a small lake.
Differences from similar words
1 marsh synonyms
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ทะเลสาบ is the usual word for a clearly defined, larger lake. บึง can refer to a smaller body of water with marshy surroundings.
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สระ means a pond and is commonly used for artificial ponds as well. บึง normally describes a broader, naturally formed body of water.
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หนอง also refers to a marshy pond or wetland and often suggests a smaller, shallower area. บึง tends to suggest a broader body of water, though the distinction is not consistent in place names.