Usage of 洗 (xǐ)
The verb 洗 primarily means "to wash" or "to bathe." It is used for cleaning body parts (like hands, face), clothes, objects, and also for taking a bath (洗澡). It is a very common verb in daily life and appears in many fixed expressions.
Common Collocations
- 洗手 (wash hands): often used before meals or after dirty activities.
- 洗脸 (wash face): a daily hygiene routine.
- 洗衣服 (wash clothes): refers to laundry.
- 洗澡 (take a bath/shower): bathing.
Notes on Usage
When using 洗 with body parts, the object usually follows directly (e.g., 洗手, 洗脸). For clothes or objects, you can specify the method or water temperature (e.g., 用冷水洗). When combined with 澡 (bath), it forms 洗澡, meaning to bathe.
Avoid confusing 洗 with 擦 (cā, to wipe) or 刷 (shuā, to brush), which imply different cleaning actions. 洗 implies rinsing or cleaning with water.
Register and Tone
洗 is neutral and suitable for all registers, from casual conversation to formal instructions.