Meaning and Usage
"支票" (zhīpiào) refers specifically to a bank check, a written, dated, and signed instrument that directs a bank to pay a specific sum of money to the bearer. It is a formal payment method often used in business or rent payments.
Common Contexts
You will often hear "支票" in financial or commercial settings, such as paying rent, settling bills, or business transactions. It is more secure than cash and requires a signature and date.
Collocations and Patterns
- 支票支付 (zhīpiào zhīfù): to pay by check, common in formal payments.
- 银行支票 (yínháng zhīpiào): bank check, emphasizing the official banking instrument.
- 支票签名 (zhīpiào qiānmíng): signing a check, a necessary step for validity.
Usage Notes
When using "支票," it is important to remember it is a formal financial instrument, not just any ticket or slip. Avoid confusing it with "票" alone, which can mean ticket or ballot. "支票" always relates to payment.
Common Confusion
Do not confuse "支票" with "汇票" (huìpiào), which means a draft or bill of exchange, a related but different financial instrument.