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— meaning in English: shoe

xié · Learn this word with quizzes, examples and more on Maspeak.

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bái
shù
比例
bǐlì
粘土
niántǔ
xié
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neutral very common
Usage
Native speakers use the word '鞋' (xié) in everyday conversations when discussing footwear, whether shopping for new shoes, talking about fashion, or simply mentioning what they are wearing. It's common to hear it in contexts like a friend asking, 'What shoes are you wearing today?' or when looking for a specific pair in a store.
Synonyms & nuances
Another word for shoes is '靴子' (xuēzi), which specifically refers to boots. '鞋' (xié) is a more general term that encompasses all types of footwear, making it the go-to for casual conversation about shoes in general.
Culture
'鞋' (xié) not only signifies shoes but also symbolizes good fortune in Chinese culture. The pronunciation is similar to the word for 'evil' (邪, xié), but it has a positive connotation when placed in the context of traditional wedding ceremonies, where brides often wear special shoes for luck. Interestingly, the evolution of shoes in China reflects broader societal changes, from simple cloth shoes to high-fashion designs seen today.
FAQ
Q.What is the correct way to say 'shoe' in Mandarin Chinese?
'Shoe' in Mandarin Chinese is '鞋' (xié). It’s a simple and essential word to know, especially for shopping or discussing fashion.
Q.Are there different types of shoes in Mandarin?
Yes, while '鞋' (xié) refers to shoes in general, there are specific terms for different types, like '运动鞋' (yùndòngxié) for sneakers and '皮鞋' (píxié) for leather shoes.
Q.How do I use '鞋' in a sentence?
You can use '鞋' (xié) in a sentence like '我买了一双新鞋' (Wǒ mǎile yì shuāng xīn xié), which means 'I bought a new pair of shoes.'
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