Meanings of 手势
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About 手势
Podcast: 手势
Podcast: 手势
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AI Study Notes for 手势
手势 (gesture) vs 动作 (action) — use 手势 when referring specifically to hand gestures, while 动作 refers to any physical movement.
Be mindful that certain hand gestures can have different meanings in different cultures, so context is crucial. Avoid using overly dramatic gestures in formal settings, as they may come off as unprofessional. Common collocations include '手势语言' (shǒushì yǔyán - sign language) and '手势信号' (shǒushì xìnhào - gesture signal).
As an HSK 6 word, 手势 connects to other advanced vocabulary related to communication and expression. Focus on the subtleties of how gestures enhance verbal communication, and practice using them in context to improve your fluency.
Learners often confuse 手势 with gestures that are not hand-related, such as facial expressions. For example, saying '他的手势很有趣' (tā de shǒushì hěn yǒuqù - His expression is interesting) is incorrect; it should refer to hand gestures specifically.
Pronunciation of 手势
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Jason Explains 手势 to You
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Component Characters
How to say gesture in Chinese
“gesture” in Chinese is手势
手势 (shǒushì) refers to a gesture or sign made with the hands to convey meaning or express feelings. It is commonly used in communication to emphasize a point or to replace verbal communication in various contexts, such as performances, conversations, or non-verbal cues.
When to use 手势
Be mindful that certain hand gestures can have different meanings in different cultures, so context is crucial. Avoid using overly dramatic gestures in formal settings, as they may come off as unprofessional. Common collocations include '手势语言' (shǒushì yǔyán - sign language) and '手势信号' (shǒushì xìnhào - gesture signal).
手势 or something close to it
手势 (gesture) vs 动作 (action) — use 手势 when referring specifically to hand gestures, while 动作 refers to any physical movement.
What learners get wrong
Learners often confuse 手势 with gestures that are not hand-related, such as facial expressions. For example, saying '他的手势很有趣' (tā de shǒushì hěn yǒuqù - His expression is interesting) is incorrect; it should refer to hand gestures specifically.
Write 手势
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Practice writing 手势 stroke by stroke. Watch the animation to learn the stroke order, then try writing it yourself.
Grammar Patterns of 手势
手势 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.
Fill the gap
Type the missing word. Pinyin works; then pick the character.
他向另外那辆汽车的司机做了个粗野的____。
He made a rude gesture at the driver of the other car.
Example Sentences for 手势 (4)
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Cultural Notes for 手势
While gestures are a universal form of communication, certain gestures that are acceptable in Chinese culture may be considered rude or inappropriate in Western contexts, such as pointing directly with fingers.
Frequently Asked Questions about 手势
Common gestures include the 'thumbs up' for approval and the 'OK' sign, but be cautious as gestures can vary significantly in meaning.
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