Understanding "手套" - Chinese Word Explanation

1. Basic Information

• Word: 手套
• Pinyin: shǒu tào
• Literal Meaning: "Hand cover"
• Primary Meaning: Gloves (an accessory worn on the hands for warmth, protection, or fashion)

2. In-depth Explanation

Context and Usage

"手套" refers to gloves in Chinese. It is a common word used in daily life, especially in cold weather or when discussing protective gear. It can be used in various contexts, such as:
- Winter clothing: "戴上手套" (Put on gloves)
- Work or sports: "工作手套" (Work gloves), "棒球手套" (Baseball glove)
- Fashion: "皮手套" (Leather gloves)

There are no significant nuances, but note that "手套" is a general term—specific types of gloves may have additional names (e.g., "mittens" are "连指手套" lián zhǐ shǒu tào).

Character Breakdown

• 手 (shǒu): Means "hand."
• 套 (tào): Means "cover" or "sheath." Together, they form "hand cover," which logically translates to "gloves."

3. Example Sentences

1. Chinese: 冬天出门时，别忘了戴手套。
   Pinyin: Dōngtiān chūmén shí, bié wàngle dài shǒutào.
   English: Don’t forget to wear gloves when going out in winter.

2. Chinese: 这副手套很暖和。
   Pinyin: Zhè fù shǒutào hěn nuǎnhuo.
   English: These gloves are very warm.

3. Chinese: 工人工作时需要戴安全手套。
   Pinyin: Gōngrén gōngzuò shí xūyào dài ānquán shǒutào.
   English: Workers need to wear safety gloves while working.

Cultural Notes

In China, gloves are not only practical but also carry cultural significance in certain contexts:
- Traditional ceremonies: In some regions, gloves are part of traditional attire for festivals or weddings.
- Gift-giving: High-quality gloves (e.g., leather) are sometimes given as gifts to symbolize care and warmth.
- Superstitions: In some folk beliefs, losing a glove might be considered bad luck.

Conclusion

"手套" (shǒu tào) is a straightforward yet essential word meaning "gloves." Remember it as "hand cover," and you’ll easily recognize it in conversations about winter wear, safety gear, or fashion. Practice with the example sentences to reinforce your learning!