Meaning and Usage
The word 浑身 (húnshēn) literally means "whole body" or "all over the body." It is commonly used to describe physical states affecting the entire body, such as being sweaty, aching, or covered with something.
Common Contexts
- Physical sensations or conditions: 浑身 can describe being covered with sweat, pain, or dirt.
- Figurative use: It can also express using all one's strength or abilities, as in 浑身解数 (using all one's tricks or skills).
Collocations and Patterns
- 浑身是汗: covered all over with sweat, often after exercise or exertion.
- 浑身疼痛: whole body aches, common when sick or fatigued.
- 浑身解数: using all one's skills or efforts, often in problem-solving or competition.
Usage Notes
When using 浑身, the focus is on the entirety of the body rather than a specific part. It often appears before verbs or adjectives describing a state affecting the whole body. Avoid confusing 浑身 with 身体 (shēntǐ), which refers more generally to the body or health condition. 浑身 emphasizes the physical or figurative 'all-over' aspect.
Tone and Register
This word is neutral and common in both spoken and written Mandarin. It is suitable for everyday conversation and formal contexts when describing physical states or efforts.