Meanings of 洗手间
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About 洗手间
Podcast: 洗手间
Podcast: 洗手间
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AI Study Notes for 洗手间
卫生间 (wèishēngjiān) - use 洗手间 when emphasizing handwashing facilities, while 卫生间 is more general for hygiene-related purposes.
Be mindful of the context in which you use 洗手间; it is suitable for public and private settings but may sound too casual in very formal situations. A common mistake is using the word '厕所' (cè suǒ) in formal contexts, which can be considered less polite.
As an HSK Level 3 word, 洗手间 connects with other vocabulary related to daily life and public facilities. Focus on using it in sentences, such as asking for directions or inquiring about cleanliness.
Learners often confuse 洗手间 with 厕所, thinking they are interchangeable. Remember, while both mean restroom, 洗手间 is more polite, making it the better choice in formal situations.
Pronunciation of 洗手间
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Component Characters
How to say toilet in Chinese
“toilet” in Chinese is洗手间
洗手间 (xi3 shou3 jian1) refers to a washroom or restroom where people can wash their hands and use the toilet. It is a common term used in both formal and informal settings when asking for or describing a place to relieve oneself.
When to use 洗手间
Be mindful of the context in which you use 洗手间; it is suitable for public and private settings but may sound too casual in very formal situations. A common mistake is using the word '厕所' (cè suǒ) in formal contexts, which can be considered less polite.
洗手间 or something close to it
卫生间 (wèishēngjiān) - use 洗手间 when emphasizing handwashing facilities, while 卫生间 is more general for hygiene-related purposes.
What learners get wrong
Learners often confuse 洗手间 with 厕所, thinking they are interchangeable. Remember, while both mean restroom, 洗手间 is more polite, making it the better choice in formal situations.
Write 洗手间
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Practice writing 洗手间 stroke by stroke. Watch the animation to learn the stroke order, then try writing it yourself.
Grammar Patterns of 洗手间
洗手间 functions as a noun — it names a person, place, thing, or concept. Place it as a subject before the verb (主+谓) or as an object after the verb (谓+宾). Most Chinese nouns require a measure word between the number and the noun (e.g. 一个/三本). It carries 3 related meanings, each with its own usage notes below. The example sentences below show it in action, with practice buttons (Listen, Practice Writing, Practice Speaking) on every line.
Complete the Sentence
你往左走就能看见____。
Turn left and you will see the restroom.
Example Sentences for 洗手间 (4)
Reorder the Sentence
I'm afraid I have to answer a call of nature.
Frequently Asked Questions about 洗手间
Yes, 洗手间 is considered polite and appropriate for both formal and informal conversations.
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