剪刀

jiǎndāo

scissors

HSK 5

Character Breakdown

Understanding 剪刀 (jiǎn dāo)

The word 剪刀 refers specifically to scissors, a common tool used for cutting various materials such as paper, cloth, or hair. It is a compound of (cut) and (knife), emphasizing its function as a cutting instrument.

Usage and Context

剪刀 is a concrete noun and is used in everyday conversation when referring to the physical object. It is often paired with verbs like (pass), (use), or (trim). The word carries no special formality and is neutral in tone.

Common Collocations

Tips

Avoid confusing 剪刀 with other cutting tools like (knife) or (utility knife). 剪刀 always refers to scissors with two blades joined in the middle. When talking about the action of cutting with scissors, use verbs like or alongside 剪刀 for clarity.

Example Sentences

请把那把剪刀递给我,我要剪纸。

Qǐng bǎ nà bǎ jiǎndāo dì gěi wǒ, wǒ yào jiǎn zhǐ.

Please pass me that pair of scissors, I want to cut paper.

这把剪刀很锋利,小心使用。

Zhè bǎ jiǎndāo hěn fēnglì, xiǎoxīn shǐyòng.

This pair of scissors is very sharp, be careful when using it.

剪刀常用来剪布、剪纸或者修剪头发。

Jiǎndāo cháng yòng lái jiǎn bù, jiǎn zhǐ huòzhě xiūjiǎn tóufǎ.

Scissors are often used to cut cloth, paper, or trim hair.