Meaning and Usage
"外套" (wàitào) refers to an outer garment such as a coat or jacket worn over other clothes, primarily for warmth or protection from the weather. It is a common noun used in everyday conversation.
Common Contexts
People often mention 外套 when talking about dressing appropriately for the weather, especially in colder seasons. It can also appear in contexts related to shopping or describing what someone is wearing.
Collocations and Patterns
- 穿外套 (chuān wàitào): to wear a coat; used when advising or describing dressing.
- 脱下外套 (tuō xià wàitào): to take off a coat; common when someone enters a warm place.
- 外套款式 (wàitào kuǎnshì): coat styles; used in shopping or fashion contexts.
Usage Notes
外套 is a neutral term and can refer to various types of outerwear, from light jackets to heavy coats. It is more general than specific terms like 大衣 (overcoat) or 羽绒服 (down jacket). When speaking, 外套 is appropriate in both formal and informal settings.
Common Confusion
Do not confuse 外套 with 衣服 (clothes) which is more general. 外套 specifically means an outer layer garment, not all clothing.