便利店 (biànlìdiàn), meaning “convenience store,” is a compound word made up of three characters:

• 便 (biàn): Originally depicted a person changing their posture or position with ease. It signifies convenience, ease, or suitability.

• 利 (lì): This character originally depicted a sharp knife, representing something that cuts well and, by extension, something advantageous, beneficial, or profitable.

• 店 (diàn): This character originally depicted a flag or banner marking a place of business. It signifies a shop or store.

Therefore, the original structure of 便利店 suggests a meaning of “convenient and advantageous shop.” This accurately reflects the nature of convenience stores, which offer easy access to a variety of goods and services, often with extended hours and convenient locations.

The combination of these characters emphasizes the core aspects that make convenience stores appealing:

• Convenience (便): Easy access and quick shopping.
• Benefit (利): Useful products and services readily available.
• Shop (店): A designated place for commerce and transactions.