Meaning and Usage
"二手" literally means "second hand" and is commonly used to describe items that have been previously owned or used by someone else. It is often applied to goods like cars, books, furniture, and electronics.
Common Contexts
People use "二手" when discussing buying or selling used goods, often emphasizing cost savings or availability. It can appear as an adjective before a noun (e.g., 二手车, 二手书).
Collocations and Patterns
- 二手车: second-hand car, commonly used when talking about buying or selling used vehicles.
- 二手市场: second-hand market, a place where used goods are traded.
- 买二手: to buy second-hand items, highlighting the action of purchasing used goods.
Usage Notes
When using "二手," speakers often imply the item is still in good condition despite being used. It is a neutral term without negative connotations but can sometimes suggest a bargain or cost-effectiveness compared to new items.
Common Confusion
Do not confuse "二手" with "旧" (jiù), which means "old" or "worn." "二手" specifically refers to previously owned items, while "旧" can describe anything old, including new items that look worn.