外壳 — meaning in English: shell

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

Guess the translation for shell

概念

gàiniàn

知识

zhīshì

外壳

wàiké

教练

jiàoliàn

通话

tōnghuà

Skip this question

🎓

Learn Mandarin Chinese for free

Quizzes, examples, audio & daily challenges. No password needed — just your email.

Start learning →

Already have an account? Log in

neutral common

Usage

Native speakers often use 外壳 (wàiké) when discussing the physical structure of animals like turtles or shellfish, especially in biology classes or when cooking. It can also be used metaphorically in technology, such as referring to the outer casing of devices like phones or computers during technical conversations.

Synonyms & nuances

While 外壳 (wàiké) specifically refers to the outer shell of something, the word 壳 (ké) alone can denote shell or husk in a more general sense. You might choose 外壳 when you want to emphasize the outer layer and its protective function, particularly in technical or biological discussions.

Culture

The word 外壳 (wàiké) combines 外 (wài), meaning 'outside,' and 壳 (ké), meaning 'shell' or 'husk.' Its use spans a range of contexts, from everyday conversations about food to discussions in scientific fields. In ancient Chinese culture, shells were often used as currency, highlighting their importance beyond just physical protection.

FAQ

Q.What does 外壳 mean in English?

外壳 (wàiké) translates to 'shell' in English, referring to the outer covering or protective layer of various objects, animals, or devices.

Q.How is 外壳 used in a sentence?

You might say, '这只海龟的外壳非常坚硬,' which means 'The turtle's shell is very hard.' This demonstrates its use in describing the physical properties of an object.

Q.Are there any common mistakes with using 外壳?

Learners sometimes confuse 外壳 with 内部 (nèibù), meaning 'interior.' Remember that 外壳 refers specifically to the outer layer, while 内部 refers to what is inside.

Learn mandarin chinese with Maspeak →

Chinese (Mandarin) 2000