Recently, sharp-eyed netizens discovered that in the main hall of the Yuanyang Service Area along the Gansu Lianyungang-Horgos Expressway, the sign for '开水间' ('Hot Water Room') had been incorrectly translated into English as 'Open Water rooms' instead of 'Hot Water Room'. On the 12th, Gansu Expressway Service Group Co., Ltd. issued a notice stating that the erroneous English signage had been removed, and that a special rectification campaign would be carried out for signage across all affiliated service areas.
The day before, a netizen had reported the mistake with the English signage for the hot water room at Yuanyang Service Area, sparking public attention. The company expressed deep concern regarding the issue. After verification, they confirmed the problem and stated they would take it as a lesson by conducting a comprehensive review of all bilingual signage in every service area. Meanwhile, they will establish a management system for signage that includes ‘prior review, post-installation approval, and regular re-inspection’ as well as strengthen ongoing supervision.
So what is the correct English for '开水间'? Jimu News reporters consulted several AI-based apps on this question. Qianwen responded: The most direct English is 'boiler room', but in English this term more often refers to rooms where boiler equipment is installed, so the most suitable term depends on the specific scenario. 'Boiler room' is the most literal translation, focusing on a place where hot water devices are housed. 'Hot water room' or 'hot water closet' are more straightforward, emphasizing a room that provides hot water. In offices or dormitories, for the type of public room where people fetch hot water, make tea, or heat food, the more common English terms are 'pantry' or 'kitchenette'.