Meaning and Usage
"手表" (shǒubiǎo) specifically refers to a wristwatch, a small clock worn on the wrist. It is a common everyday item used to tell time.
Common Contexts
People often talk about buying, wearing, or gifting 手表. It can also describe features like waterproofing or style.
Collocations and Patterns
- 戴手表 (dài shǒubiǎo): to wear a wristwatch; a very common phrase.
- 送手表 (sòng shǒubiǎo): to give a wristwatch as a gift, often implying value or sentiment.
- 手表防水 (shǒubiǎo fángshuǐ): waterproof wristwatch, highlighting a feature.
Usage Notes
When mentioning 手表, speakers usually imply a traditional watch worn on the wrist, not a pocket watch or a clock. In modern contexts, some people prefer checking time on their phones instead of wearing 手表.
Avoid confusing 手表 with 手机 (mobile phone), especially since phones often replace watches for time-checking.
Tone and Register
The word is neutral and suitable for everyday conversation, formal or informal.