Meanings of 手续
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About 手续
Podcast: 手续
Podcast: 手续
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AI Study Notes for 手续
程序 (chéngxù) refers specifically to a sequence of actions or steps in a process, while 手续 (shǒuxù) emphasizes the formalities or paperwork involved in completing a task.
Be careful not to confuse 手续 with related terms like 过程 (guòchéng, meaning 'process'), as 手续 emphasizes formal requirements. It's often used in formal contexts, so avoid using it in casual conversation. Common collocations include '办理手续' (bànlǐ shǒuxù, meaning 'handle the formalities').
As an HSK 5 word, 手续 connects to other administrative and procedural vocabulary like 申请 (shēnqǐng, 'application') and 证明 (zhèngmíng, 'certification'). Focus on using it in the context of formal processes and practice related phrases.
Learners often confuse 手续 with related terms like 流程 (liúchéng, meaning 'flow/process') and use it incorrectly in casual settings. For example, saying '我需要手续去商店' (wǒ xūyào shǒuxù qù shāngdiàn, meaning 'I need formalities to go to the store') is incorrect; it should be more specific, as you typically don't need formalities for casual shopping.
Pronunciation of 手续
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Component Characters
How to say procedure in Chinese
“procedure” in Chinese is手续
手续 (shǒuxù) refers to the processes or formalities required to complete a task, often involving documentation or adherence to specific procedures. Commonly used in bureaucratic contexts, such as applying for permits or completing transactions, it implies an orderly method that must be followed.
When to use 手续
Be careful not to confuse 手续 with related terms like 过程 (guòchéng, meaning 'process'), as 手续 emphasizes formal requirements. It's often used in formal contexts, so avoid using it in casual conversation. Common collocations include '办理手续' (bànlǐ shǒuxù, meaning 'handle the formalities').
手续 or something close to it
程序 (chéngxù) refers specifically to a sequence of actions or steps in a process, while 手续 (shǒuxù) emphasizes the formalities or paperwork involved in completing a task.
What learners get wrong
Learners often confuse 手续 with related terms like 流程 (liúchéng, meaning 'flow/process') and use it incorrectly in casual settings. For example, saying '我需要手续去商店' (wǒ xūyào shǒuxù qù shāngdiàn, meaning 'I need formalities to go to the store') is incorrect; it should be more specific, as you typically don't need formalities for casual shopping.
Write 手续
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Practice writing 手续 stroke by stroke. Watch the animation to learn the stroke order, then try writing it yourself.
Grammar Patterns of 手续
手续 functions as a verb — the action or state of the sentence. The Chinese order is Subject + Verb + Object (我吃饭). Negate it with 不 (habitual / future) or 没(有) (completed action). Add aspect markers like 了, 过, 着 directly after the verb. It carries 2 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
他们收拾好东西，办理了退房____。
They packed and checked out of the hotel.
Example Sentences for 手续 (6)
Frequently Asked Questions about 手续
You would commonly use 手续 when discussing government applications, banking processes, or any formal transaction that requires documentation.
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