针线 en 30 segundos
- 针线 literally means needle and thread, the basic tools for hand-sewing and mending clothes.
- It is often used as a collective noun for a sewing kit or the act of sewing itself.
- Culturally, it symbolizes maternal love, domestic diligence, and traditional craftsmanship in Chinese society.
- Metaphorically, it describes someone who connects people (go-between) or a very detailed and logical plan.
The Chinese term 针线 (zhēnxiàn) is a collective noun that literally translates to 'needle and thread.' In its most basic sense, it refers to the essential tools required for sewing, mending, or embroidery. However, in the rich tapestry of the Chinese language, it encompasses much more than just physical objects; it often represents the act of sewing itself, the skill of needlework, or the domestic labor traditionally associated with maintaining a household's clothing. When you hear a Chinese speaker mention 针线, they might be looking for a physical sewing kit, or they might be discussing a complex piece of embroidery or the meticulous effort required to fix a tear in a garment.
- Literal Utility
- At the hardware or craft store level, 针线 refers to the specific pairing of a needle (针) and thread (线). Without one, the other is useless, which is why they are almost always grouped together as a single concept in Chinese thought.
- Skill and Craft
- The term is frequently used to describe the quality of someone's work. To say someone has 'good needlework' (针线活儿做得好), you use this word to encompass the entire craft of sewing.
- Domestic Symbolism
- Historically, 针线 was a symbol of a woman's diligence and care for her family. It evokes images of a mother or grandmother sitting under a dim lamp, carefully mending clothes to ensure her children stay warm and presentable.
我需要找点针线把这颗纽扣缝上。 (Wǒ xūyào zhǎo diǎn zhēnxiàn bǎ zhè kē niǔkòu féng shàng.)
In modern urban China, while fast fashion has made DIY mending less common, the word remains vital in the context of high-end tailoring, traditional 'Hanfu' clothing enthusiasts, and the ubiquitous 'sewing kits' found in hotel rooms. It is a word that bridges the gap between ancient craftsmanship and everyday practical maintenance. You will find it in literature to describe the fine details of a plan or the delicate nature of a relationship, much like how one must be careful not to break the thread while sewing.
慈母手中线，游子身上衣。针线密密缝，意恐迟迟归。
Understanding 针线 requires recognizing its dual nature: the sharp, cold metal of the needle and the soft, flexible strength of the thread. Together, they form a tool of creation and repair. This duality makes it a powerful metaphor for any situation requiring precision and patience. Whether you are literally fixing a sock or figuratively 'stitching' together a complex deal, the concept of 针线 implies a hands-on, meticulous approach to problem-solving.
- Common Usage Scenarios
- 1. Household chores: Asking where the sewing kit is. 2. Tailoring: Discussing the quality of a suit's stitching. 3. Metaphorical: Describing someone's careful and detailed thinking (针线缜密).
Using 针线 correctly involves understanding its role as a mass noun or a collective object. It is rarely used with specific counters like 'one needle' unless you are being very specific, but as a general concept, it often follows verbs of searching, using, or performing. To master its use, one must look at the verbs it pairs with, such as 拿 (ná - to take), 动 (dòng - to move/use), and 找 (zhǎo - to look for).
奶奶年纪大了，已经很久不拿针线了。 (Nǎinai niánjì dàle, yǐjīng hěnjiǔ bù ná zhēnxiàn le.)
The phrase '动针线' (dòng zhēnxiàn) is a common idiomatic way to say 'to do sewing.' It implies the action of starting a sewing project. If you say someone '从来不动针线' (cónglái bù dòng zhēnxiàn), it means they never do any sewing at all, perhaps because they don't know how or they prefer to buy new clothes. This illustrates how 针线 functions as a placeholder for the entire activity of needlework.
- Syntactic Structure
- Subject + Verb + (Measure Word) + 针线. Note: While you can use '一些' (some), the most common measure word for a set of needle and thread is '套' (tào - set) or '盒' (hé - box).
- Adjectival Use
- When describing the quality of work, we use 针线活 (zhēnxiànhuó), meaning 'sewing work.' Example: 她的针线活很精致 (Her needlework is very exquisite).
这套西装的针线非常匀称，一看就是名师之作。 (Zhè tào xīzhuāng de zhēnxiàn fēicháng yúnchèn, yī kàn jiùshì míngshī zhī zuò.)
In more advanced contexts, 针线 appears in the compound 针线笸箩 (zhēnxiàn pǒluo), which is a traditional wicker sewing basket. While the basket itself is rare in modern cities, the term evokes a sense of nostalgia. Furthermore, when discussing literature or film, critics might praise the '针线缜密' (zhēnxiàn zhěnmì) of a plot, meaning the story is tightly woven with no 'loose threads' or plot holes. This shows the word's transition from a physical domestic tool to a sophisticated abstract descriptor of quality and logic.
In daily life in China, 针线 is most commonly heard in domestic settings or specific service environments. Despite the rise of ready-to-wear clothing, the need for basic mending remains a constant. You will hear it in residential compounds, small tailor shops, and even high-end hotels. It is a word that carries a sense of practicality and self-sufficiency.
- At Home
- '妈，家里有针线吗？我的裤子破了。' (Mom, is there a needle and thread at home? My pants are torn.) This is perhaps the most frequent way the word is used, highlighting its role as a household staple.
- In Hotels
- If you stay in a hotel in China, you might see a small box labeled '针线包' (zhēnxiànbāo - sewing kit). If you need one, you would ask the front desk: '请问可以给我一个针线包吗？' (Could you please give me a sewing kit?)
- Tailor Shops (裁缝店)
- Tailors use the word to discuss the specifics of a repair. '这件衣服的针线断了，需要重缝。' (The stitching on this garment is broken; it needs to be resewn.)
服务员，房间里没有针线，能送一套过来吗？ (Fúwùyuán, fángjiān lǐ méiyǒu zhēnxiàn, néng sòng yī tào guòlái ma?)
Beyond these practical settings, 针线 is a staple in historical dramas (古装剧). Since sewing was a primary occupation for women in ancient China, characters are often seen doing '针线活' (needlework) while talking. This reinforces the word's association with patience, femininity, and traditional virtues. In these dramas, a gift of a handmade item, like a pouch or a robe, is often accompanied by a comment on the 'fine needlework' (针线细致), signifying the effort and love put into the gift.
Finally, in the business world, though rare, you might hear it used metaphorically. A meticulous auditor or a careful lawyer might be described as having '针线功夫' (needlework skill), meaning they have an eye for the smallest details and can weave together a foolproof argument. This figurative use is a high compliment for anyone whose work requires extreme precision.
While 针线 seems straightforward, learners often make subtle errors in its application, particularly regarding its countability and its distinction from related technical terms. Understanding these nuances will help you sound more like a native speaker and avoid confusion in practical situations.
- Mistake 1: Treating it as a countable noun for a single needle
- Learners often say '我需要一个针线' (I need a needle-and-thread). In Chinese, 针线 is a collective concept. If you only need the needle, say '一根针' (yī gēn zhēn). If you need the thread, say '一卷线' (yī juǎn xiàn). If you need the set, use '一套针线' (yī tào zhēnxiàn).
- Mistake 2: Confusing with '缝纫' (Féngrèn)
- '缝纫' refers to the industrial or mechanical act of sewing. You wouldn't usually say '我在家里做缝纫' unless you have a professional setup. For hand-mending a sock, '做针线' or '缝补' (féngbǔ) is much more natural.
- Mistake 3: Incorrect Verb Pairing
- Some learners try to use '玩' (wán - play) or '办' (bàn - do/handle) with 针线. The standard verbs are '动' (dòng - move/start), '拿' (ná - pick up), and '做' (zuò - do, specifically in '做针线活').
❌ 我买了一个针线。 (Incorrect measure word and concept)
✅ 我买了一盒针线。 (I bought a box of needle and thread.)
Another common pitfall is using 针线 to refer to medical stitches. While the physical objects are similar, medical stitches are referred to as '缝线' (féngxiàn) or '拆线' (chāixiàn - to remove stitches). Using 针线 in a hospital context might cause a momentary confusion, as it sounds like you are looking for a craft kit rather than medical attention.
Finally, be careful with the word '针' itself. It can mean a needle, a pin, or even an injection (打针). If you are at the doctor's and say you are afraid of '针线', it sounds odd; you should just say you are afraid of '打针' (getting an injection). 针线 is strictly for the craft and repair of textiles.
To truly master the vocabulary around sewing, it is helpful to compare 针线 with other related terms. While 针线 is the most general and common term for the tools, other words specify the action or the professional level of the work.
- 缝补 (Féngbǔ)
- Focus: Mending and patching. Usage: Use this when you are specifically fixing a hole or a tear. Example: '缝补旧衣服' (Mending old clothes). Difference: 针线 is the noun (tools), 缝补 is the verb (action).
- 缝纫 (Féngrèn)
- Focus: General sewing, often professional. Usage: Used in terms like '缝纫机' (sewing machine) or '缝纫店' (tailor shop). Difference: More formal and technical than the domestic feel of 针线.
- 刺绣 (Cìxiù)
- Focus: Embroidery. Usage: Used for artistic, decorative needlework. Difference: While 刺绣 uses 针线, it is a specific artistic discipline, not just basic sewing.
- 女红 (Nǚgōng / Nǚhóng)
- Focus: Traditional women's needlework. Usage: Found in historical novels or discussions of ancient culture. Difference: An archaic term for the skills of sewing, spinning, and embroidery.
虽然她不会复杂的刺绣，但基本的针线活还是没问题的。 (Suīrán tā bù huì fùzá de cìxiù, dàn jīběn de zhēnxiànhuó háishì méi wèntí de.)
When choosing between these words, consider the context. If you are asking for a kit to fix a button, use 针线. If you are describing a person's profession, use 缝纫. If you are admiring a beautiful silk dragon on a robe, use 刺绣. If you are reading a story set in the Ming Dynasty about a girl learning to sew, you might encounter 女红.
In modern slang, you might occasionally hear someone say '穿针引线' (chuānzhēn yǐnxiàn), which literally means 'threading a needle' but is used idiomatically to mean 'acting as a go-between' or 'facilitating a connection.' This is a very common idiom in business and social networking, showing that while the physical tools of 针线 might be less common today, the concepts they represent remain deeply embedded in how Chinese people describe social interactions.
How Formal Is It?
Dato curioso
In ancient China, 针线 skills were one of the 'Four Virtues' (四德) required of a woman, known as '妇工' (women's work).
Guía de pronunciación
- Pronouncing 'zh' as 'z' (sen instead of zhen).
- Confusing the fourth tone of 'xiàn' with the first tone.
- Making the 'x' sound too much like an English 's'.
- Failing to aspirate or correctly place the tongue for the retroflex 'zh'.
- Merging the two syllables into one.
Nivel de dificultad
The characters are relatively common and the meaning is literal.
The character '线' has several strokes, and '针' requires remembering the metal radical.
Pronunciation is straightforward if tones are mastered.
Easily recognizable in domestic or craft contexts.
Qué aprender después
Requisitos previos
Aprende después
Avanzado
Gramática que debes saber
Measure words for sets
一套针线 (A set of needle and thread)
Resultative complements
缝好了 (Sewn well/finished)
Using '用' (with/using)
用针线补衣服 (Mend clothes with needle and thread)
Verb reduplication for casual action
动动针线 (Do a bit of sewing)
Noun + 活 (task/chore)
针线活 (Needlework task)
Ejemplos por nivel
你有针线吗？
Do you have needle and thread?
Simple Subject-Verb-Object question.
我需要针线。
I need needle and thread.
Using '需要' (need) with a noun.
这是针，这是线。
This is a needle, this is thread.
Basic demonstrative sentence.
针线在桌子上。
The needle and thread are on the table.
Location sentence with '在'.
买一点针线吧。
Let's buy some needle and thread.
Suggestion using '吧'.
不贵，针线很便宜。
Not expensive, needle and thread are very cheap.
Adjective description with '很'.
妈妈有针线。
Mom has needle and thread.
Simple possessive sentence.
我要红色的线。
I want red thread.
Specifying a color for part of the set.
请给我一个针线包。
Please give me a sewing kit.
Using the specific noun '针线包'.
我找不到针线了。
I can't find the needle and thread.
Resultative complement '找不到'.
你可以借我针线吗？
Can you lend me needle and thread?
Using '借' (lend/borrow).
这盒针线有很多颜色。
This box of needle and thread has many colors.
Measure word '盒' (box).
我要用针线缝纽扣。
I want to use needle and thread to sew a button.
Serial verb construction: use... to do...
这里的针线质量很好。
The quality of the needle and thread here is very good.
Using '质量' (quality).
他在商店买针线。
He is buying needle and thread at the store.
Location + Action structure.
衣服破了，需要针线。
The clothes are torn, need needle and thread.
Topic-comment structure.
她的针线活做得非常细致。
Her needlework is done very meticulously.
Using '针线活' for needlework skill.
老一辈的人都擅长针线。
The older generation are all skilled at needlework.
Using '擅长' (to be good at).
你能不能帮我动下针线？
Can you help me do some sewing?
Idiomatic use of '动针线'.
这件旗袍的针线非常讲究。
The stitching on this Qipao is very sophisticated.
Using '讲究' (fastidious/sophisticated).
从小我就看奶奶拿针线。
Since I was little, I watched my grandma pick up the needle and thread.
Using '拿针线' as a general term for sewing.
出门旅行记得带上针线。
Remember to bring needle and thread when traveling.
Imperative with '记得'.
这种针线活太费眼睛了。
This kind of needlework is too hard on the eyes.
Colloquial expression '费眼睛'.
他是个大男人，竟然会针线。
He's a grown man, and yet he can sew.
Expressing surprise with '竟然'.
他在这笔交易中起到了穿针引线的作用。
He played the role of a go-between in this deal.
Idiomatic use of '穿针引线'.
整篇文章针线缜密，逻辑严密。
The whole article is meticulously woven and logically tight.
Metaphorical use for writing structure.
这种传统针线手艺快要失传了。
This traditional needlework craft is almost becoming extinct.
Using '失传' (fail to be passed down).
他虽然是个裁缝，但针线功夫一般。
Although he is a tailor, his needlework skills are just average.
Using '功夫' to mean skill/effort.
细微之处见针线。
The needlework is seen in the small details.
Philosophical observation.
这件衣服的针线已经松了。
The stitching of this garment has already come loose.
Referring to the physical stitches.
别小看这几针线，里面都是学问。
Don't look down on these few stitches; there's a lot of knowledge in them.
Using '学问' to mean profound knowledge.
她整天忙于针线，很少出门。
She is busy with needlework all day and rarely goes out.
Using '忙于' (busy with).
母亲手中的针线，编织出了我对故乡的回忆。
The needle and thread in my mother's hands wove my memories of my hometown.
Poetic and metaphorical usage.
该剧在剧情安排上针线极其细密，毫无破绽。
The plot arrangement of this drama is extremely meticulous, with no flaws.
Literary criticism terminology.
古人云：慈母手中线，这针线里藏着无限深情。
The ancients said: 'The thread in a mother's hand'; in this needlework hides infinite deep emotion.
Quoting classical literature.
这种苏绣作品，其针线之精妙令人叹为观止。
The exquisiteness of the needlework in this Suzhou embroidery is breathtaking.
Using '叹为观止' (to acclaim as the peak of perfection).
他不仅在外交上穿针引线，还致力于文化交流。
He not only acts as a bridge in diplomacy but also dedicates himself to cultural exchange.
Extended metaphorical use.
这件古董旗袍的针线活儿反映了那个时代的审美。
The needlework of this antique Qipao reflects the aesthetics of that era.
Cultural historical analysis.
由于常年从事针线活，她的手指布满了老茧。
Due to doing needlework for years, her fingers were covered in calluses.
Descriptive narrative.
我们需要一位能为这个项目穿针引线的关键人物。
We need a key person who can facilitate and connect the parts of this project.
Business metaphor.
夫文章之体，犹针线之功，必得其理而后成。
The structure of an essay is like the skill of needlework; one must grasp its underlying principles for it to be successful.
Classical Chinese prose style (文言文 style).
其外交策略可谓是针线缜密，步步为营。
His diplomatic strategy can be described as meticulously woven and cautious at every step.
High-level political analysis.
透过这些细碎的针线，我们得以窥见传统社会的女性生活。
Through these fragments of needlework, we gain a glimpse into the lives of women in traditional society.
Sociological observation.
此画之线条如针线般游走，灵动而不失法度。
The lines of this painting move like a needle and thread, lively yet disciplined.
Artistic criticism.
他试图在破碎的社会关系中，用宽容来做针线，重新缝合信任。
He tries to use tolerance as a needle and thread to restitch trust within broken social relationships.
Deeply philosophical metaphor.
这不仅仅是针线之劳，更是匠人精神的传承。
This is not just the labor of needle and thread, but the inheritance of the craftsman's spirit.
Cultural value discussion.
在那个匮乏的年代，针线是每个家庭最重要的生产工具。
In that era of scarcity, needle and thread were the most important production tools for every family.
Historical contextualization.
其诗作针线细腻，情感真挚，读来令人动容。
His poetry is delicately woven and emotionally sincere, moving the reader deeply.
Literary appreciation.
Colocaciones comunes
Frases Comunes
— To engage in sewing or mending.
他在灯下做针线。
— Handiwork involving sewing; needlework chores.
她靠做针线活儿养家。
— To look for sewing tools.
你能帮我找下针线吗？
— To do a little bit of sewing.
这件衣服破了，得动动针线。
— The skill or effort put into sewing.
这件衣服很费针线功夫。
— A more formal or regional way to say needlework tasks.
她整天忙于针线活计。
— A sewing basket or bin.
线团掉在针线篓子里了。
— A life or career spent in tailoring or sewing.
他度过了四十年的针线生涯。
— Tightly and closely sewn stitches.
针线密密，满含深情。
— Not knowing how to sew at all (literally: needle and thread don't pass).
她对针线一窍不通。
Se confunde a menudo con
A sewing machine, whereas 针线 usually implies hand-sewing.
Knitting wool/yarn, which is thicker than the '线' in 针线.
Electric wire; both end in '线' but are completely different.
Modismos y expresiones
— Literally threading a needle; figuratively acting as a go-between or facilitator.
他在两家公司之间穿针引线。
Common— Describing someone who sews very quickly and skillfully.
她飞针走线，一会儿就缝好了。
Literary— To sew closely and carefully; symbolizes deep care and worry.
临行前，母亲为他密密缝衣。
Literary/Poetic— Small, trifling things related to sewing; small household items.
家里都是些针头线脑的小东西。
Colloquial— Sharp point against wheat awn; used to describe a fierce confrontation between equals.
他们两个真是针尖对麦芒，谁也不让谁。
Common— Looking for a needle in the ocean; a hopeless search.
在这么大的城市找人，真是大海捞针。
Very Common— Hitting the mark with a single needle; to point out the essence of a matter directly.
他的评价一针见血。
Common— Like sitting on a rug of needles; to feel extremely uneasy or anxious.
他在等待结果时如坐针毡。
Common— Grinding an iron bar into a needle; persistence leads to success.
只要功夫深，铁杵磨成针。
Common— To be industrious and frugal; often associated with traditional needlework values.
她一生克勤克俭，忙于针线。
FormalFácil de confundir
Both relate to fixing clothes.
针线 is the noun for tools; 缝补 is the verb for the action of mending.
我用针线(noun)来缝补(verb)衣服。
Both involve a needle and thread.
针线 is general; 刺绣 is specifically decorative embroidery.
她正用针线做刺绣。
Both are needles.
毛针 is a knitting needle; 针 in 针线 is a small sewing needle.
织毛衣用毛针，缝扣子用针线。
Both mean thread for sewing.
缝线 is often used for medical stitches or specific industrial threads.
医生在为伤口拆缝线。
Contains the character for thread.
引线 can mean a fuse or a lead, not necessarily sewing thread.
炸药的引线很短。
Patrones de oraciones
我有[Noun]。
我有针线。
请给我[Noun]。
请给我针线包。
[Subject]擅长[Activity]。
她擅长针线活。
[Subject]在[Action]。
她在做针线。
[Subject]起到了[Idiom]的作用。
他起到了穿针引线的作用。
[Noun]非常[Adjective]。
针线非常细致。
透过[Noun]，我们可以看到[Concept]。
透过这些针线，我们可以看到母亲的爱。
[Concept]犹[Noun]之功。
文章之体，犹针线之功。
Familia de palabras
Sustantivos
Verbos
Adjetivos
Relacionado
Cómo usarlo
High in domestic and craft contexts; medium in general conversation.
-
Using '一个针线' for a single needle.
→
一根针
针线 is collective; use 根 for a single needle.
-
Saying '我玩针线' for sewing.
→
我做针线
Sewing is considered a task (做) or an action (动), not play (玩).
-
Using 针线 for electric wires.
→
电线
线 is a general category; you must specify '电' for electricity.
-
Confusing 针线 with 针灸 (acupuncture).
→
针灸
Although both use needles, they are entirely different fields.
-
Using 针线 to describe a professional tailor's machine work.
→
缝纫
针线 implies manual, hand-held work.
Consejos
The Visual Hook
Imagine the '钅' in 针 as the metal needle and the '纟' in 线 as the silk thread.
Poetic Connection
Remember the poem 'Song of the Parting Son' to associate the word with deep emotion and care.
Collective Noun
Treat it like 'cutlery' - you don't say 'a needle-and-thread,' you say 'some' or 'a set of' it.
Travel Essential
Learn '针线包' (sewing kit) for hotel stays; it's a lifesaver for lost buttons.
Business Logic
Use '穿针引线' to describe a mediator; it makes you sound very fluent.
Noun vs Verb
Pair 针线 with verbs like 拿 (take), 动 (move/do), or 找 (find).
Not Machine Sewing
Use '缝纫' for machines, '针线' for hand work.
Northern Accent
Listen for '针线活儿' with the 'r' sound in Beijing and northern China.
Radical Awareness
The metal and silk radicals are keys to remembering the characters.
Complimenting
Compliment someone's '针线活' to show appreciation for their manual skill.
Memorízalo
Mnemotecnia
Think of a 'ZEN' (zhēn) monk calmly following a 'LINE' (xiàn) with his needle. Zen-Line = Zhēn-Xiàn.
Asociación visual
Imagine a shiny silver needle with a long, flowing red thread trailing behind it, forming the shape of the characters.
Word Web
Desafío
Try to find three items in your house that were made or repaired using 针线 and name them in Chinese.
Origen de la palabra
The character 针 (zhēn) consists of the 'metal' radical (钅) and a phonetic component. Historically, needles were made of bone or stone before metal. 线 (xiàn) consists of the 'silk' radical (纟) and a phonetic component, reflecting that ancient thread was primarily made of silk.
Significado original: The combination of the tool (needle) and the material (thread) used to join fabrics.
Sino-TibetanContexto cultural
While traditionally associated with women, modern usage is gender-neutral when referring to the tools or the professional craft.
Similar to the Western idiom 'a stitch in time saves nine,' but with a stronger focus on the tools and the person (mother) doing the work.
Practica en la vida real
Contextos reales
At home mending clothes
- 针线在哪里？
- 缝个扣子
- 补个洞
- 线断了
In a hotel
- 针线包
- 借用针线
- 缝补服务
- 前台
Discussing a hobby
- 喜欢针线活
- 做刺绣
- 手工活
- 打发时间
Describing quality
- 针线细致
- 做工精良
- 走线平整
- 针脚密
Metaphorical/Business
- 穿针引线
- 逻辑缜密
- 建立联系
- 中间人
Inicios de conversación
"你会做针线活吗？ (Do you know how to do needlework?)"
"你知道哪里可以买到质量好的针线吗？ (Do you know where I can buy high-quality needle and thread?)"
"这件衣服的针线真漂亮，是在哪儿买的？ (The stitching on this garment is beautiful; where did you buy it?)"
"你觉得现在的年轻人还拿针线吗？ (Do you think young people nowadays still pick up a needle and thread?)"
"你能帮我穿下针线吗？我眼睛看不清。 (Can you help me thread this? My eyes can't see clearly.)"
Temas para diario
写一段关于你第一次尝试做针线活的经历。 (Write about your first experience trying to do needlework.)
描述一个你见过的针线非常精美的物品。 (Describe an item you've seen that had very exquisite needlework.)
如果你的衣服在旅行中破了，你会如何找针线解决？ (If your clothes tore during a trip, how would you find needle and thread to solve it?)
谈谈你对‘慈母手中线’这句话的理解。 (Talk about your understanding of the phrase 'The thread in a mother's hand.')
在现代社会，你认为针线活这种手艺还有必要学习吗？ (In modern society, do you think it is still necessary to learn the craft of needlework?)
Preguntas frecuentes
10 preguntasNo, knitting usually uses '毛衣针' (knitting needles) and '毛线' (wool). 针线 specifically refers to sewing and mending with small needles and thin thread.
It is a compound word treated as a single noun in Chinese, representing the set of tools.
The most common term is '针线包' (zhēnxiànbāo) or '针线盒' (zhēnxiànhé).
Not at all. It is a very practical request if you need to fix your clothing.
Yes, although historically associated with women, anyone doing needlework is doing '针线活'.
For a set, use '套' (tào) or '盒' (hé). For some unspecified amount, use '点' (diǎn) or '些' (xiē).
Mostly yes, but in literature and business, it can metaphorically mean 'connections' or 'fine details'.
It means you are good at connecting different departments or facilitating communication between people.
You can say '我在做针线' or '我在缝衣服'.
Rarely. Medical professionals use '缝合线' or '缝针'.
Ponte a prueba 200 preguntas
Translate to Chinese: 'Do you have needle and thread?'
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Translate to Chinese: 'I need to find a sewing kit.'
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Write a sentence using '针线活'.
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Explain the metaphorical meaning of '穿针引线' in English.
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Translate to Chinese: 'This article is logically meticulous.' (Use '针线')
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Translate to Chinese: 'My mother is sewing under the lamp.'
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Translate to Chinese: 'I bought a box of needle and thread at the supermarket.'
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Write a short paragraph about why needlework is important (3 sentences).
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Translate to English: '慈母手中线，游子身上衣。'
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Translate to Chinese: 'The tailor's needlework is very fine.'
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Write a dialogue between a guest and a hotel receptionist asking for a sewing kit.
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Translate to Chinese: 'Don't look down on these small sewing items.'
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Translate to Chinese: 'He is a bridge for cultural exchange.' (Use '穿针引线')
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Describe a sewing kit in Chinese (list 3 items it contains).
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Translate to Chinese: 'Grandma can no longer see the needle clearly.'
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Translate to English: '针尖对麦芒' in a social context.
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Translate to Chinese: 'Exquisite embroidery requires a lot of effort.'
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Write a sentence using '动针线' in the negative form.
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Translate to Chinese: 'I lost my needle on the carpet.'
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Translate to Chinese: 'The logic of this story is flawless.' (Use '针线')
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Pronounce correctly: 针线 (zhēn xiàn)
Read this aloud:
Dijiste:
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Say in Chinese: 'I need to buy a sewing kit.'
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Dijiste:
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Describe what '针线' is used for in 3 sentences.
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Dijiste:
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Use the idiom '穿针引线' in a sentence about teamwork.
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Dijiste:
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Recite the first two lines of '游子吟'.
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Dijiste:
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Ask a store clerk if they sell needles and thread.
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Dijiste:
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Explain to a friend how to thread a needle in Chinese.
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Dijiste:
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Compliment someone's sewing skills.
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Dijiste:
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Discuss the importance of traditional crafts in modern life.
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Dijiste:
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Roleplay: You are at a hotel and your button fell off. Call the front desk.
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Dijiste:
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Explain the meaning of '一针见血'.
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Dijiste:
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Talk about a time you had to repair something yourself.
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Dijiste:
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What does '大海捞针' mean? Give an example.
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Dijiste:
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Describe a sewing box's contents.
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Dijiste:
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Why is '针线' associated with mothers in China?
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Dijiste:
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Pronounce: 穿针引线 (chuān zhēn yǐn xiàn)
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Dijiste:
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Use '缜密' to describe a plan.
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Dijiste:
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Say: 'Grandma is sewing a dress for me.'
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Dijiste:
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Ask someone to help you thread a needle.
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Dijiste:
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Say: 'I don't know how to sew.'
Read this aloud:
Dijiste:
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Identify the word: 'zhēn xiàn'
What object is being described? 'It has a sharp point and uses thread.'
Listen to the sentence: '我买了一盒针线。' What did I buy?
Listen to the idiom: 'chuān zhēn yǐn xiàn'. What is its figurative meaning?
Listen to the poem line: 'Cí mǔ shǒu zhōng xiàn'. Who is holding the thread?
What is 'zhēn xiàn bāo'?
In the phrase 'dòng zhēn xiàn', what does 'dòng' imply?
Listen to the description: 'Traditional women's handiwork.' What is the word?
True or False: '针线' can refer to a sewing machine.
Listen to the sentence: '她的针线活很细。' Is her work good or bad?
Identify the tones in 'zhēn xiàn'.
What is a 'zhēn xiàn hé'?
Listen to the phrase: 'yī zhēn jiàn xiě'. What does it literally mean?
Listen to: 'zhēn xiàn zhěnmì'. What is being praised?
Listen to: 'fèng bǔ'. What action is this?
/ 200 correct
Perfect score!
Summary
针线 (zhēnxiàn) is the essential Chinese term for 'needle and thread.' Beyond its literal meaning, it represents the skill of needlework and is a powerful symbol of care and precision. For example: '找点针线缝补衣服' (Find some needle and thread to mend clothes).
- 针线 literally means needle and thread, the basic tools for hand-sewing and mending clothes.
- It is often used as a collective noun for a sewing kit or the act of sewing itself.
- Culturally, it symbolizes maternal love, domestic diligence, and traditional craftsmanship in Chinese society.
- Metaphorically, it describes someone who connects people (go-between) or a very detailed and logical plan.
The Visual Hook
Imagine the '钅' in 针 as the metal needle and the '纟' in 线 as the silk thread.
Poetic Connection
Remember the poem 'Song of the Parting Son' to associate the word with deep emotion and care.
Collective Noun
Treat it like 'cutlery' - you don't say 'a needle-and-thread,' you say 'some' or 'a set of' it.
Travel Essential
Learn '针线包' (sewing kit) for hotel stays; it's a lifesaver for lost buttons.
Ejemplo
她的针线活做得很好。
Contenido relacionado
Más palabras de clothing
配饰
B1Los accesorios son la clave para un look sofisticado.
显得
B1Parecer, verse. 'Esa casa parece muy pequeña desde aquí.' (那座房子从这儿看显得很小。)
围裙
B1Un '围裙' es un delantal que se usa para no ensuciarse.
皮带
A1Un cinturón de cuero que se usa alrededor de la cintura.
腰带
A1Belt.
靴子
A2'靴子' son botas, un tipo de calzado que cubre el pie y parte de la pierna.
胸罩
A1Sujetador; brasier. Es el término estándar en chino para esta prenda.
品牌
A1Una marca; un nombre comercial.
牌子
A1La palabra '牌子' significa 'marca' o 'letrero'. Es el término común para referirse a la marca de un producto en la vida diaria.
弄坏
A1To damage; to ruin.
