割伤 in 30 Seconds
- 割伤 (gē shāng) means to cut oneself.
- It's used for accidental injuries from sharp objects.
- Common in daily life, kitchen accidents, and warnings.
- Similar to 'get cut' or 'cut yourself' in English.
The Chinese word 割伤 (gē shāng) is a verb that directly translates to 'to cut oneself' or 'to sustain a cut'. It's a very common and practical word used to describe accidental injuries, usually minor ones, that happen when a sharp object makes contact with the skin. Think of it as the Chinese equivalent of saying you 'got cut' or 'cut yourself' in English. People use 割伤 in everyday conversations when discussing everyday accidents, whether it's a paper cut, a kitchen knife slip, or a scrape from a sharp edge.
It's important to note that 割伤 specifically implies an unintentional cut. If someone is intentionally cutting something or someone, different verbs would be used. This word is often used in contexts related to safety, first aid, and describing minor injuries. For example, if you accidentally cut your finger while preparing food, you would say '我割伤了手指 (wǒ gē shāng le shǒu zhǐ)'. The character 割 (gē) means 'to cut', and 伤 (shāng) means 'injury' or 'wound'. Together, they form this specific verb for self-inflicted cuts.
Consider situations like:
- Common Scenarios
- Kitchen Accidents: When chopping vegetables or fruits, a slip of the knife can lead to a cut.
- Office Mishaps: Handling paper or opening boxes with sharp edges can result in paper cuts.
- DIY Projects: Working with tools or materials that have sharp points or edges.
- Accidental Contact: Bumping into something with a sharp edge.
The word is straightforward and commonly understood. It doesn't carry any strong connotations of severity unless further context is provided. It's a fundamental vocabulary item for anyone learning Chinese, especially for practical daily communication. Recognizing this word is key to understanding descriptions of minor injuries and accidents.
小心点，别 割伤 了手。
Using 割伤 (gē shāng) in sentences is quite direct. It functions as a verb and is often followed by the particle '了 (le)' to indicate that the action has occurred or been completed. You can also use it with objects to specify what was cut, such as '手指 (shǒu zhǐ)' for finger, '手 (shǒu)' for hand, or '腿 (tuǐ)' for leg.
Here are some common sentence structures:
- Subject + 割伤 + 了 + Object (Body Part)
This is the most frequent pattern.
我不小心 割伤 了我的手指。
I accidentally cut my finger. 他做饭的时候 割伤 了手。
He cut his hand while cooking.
- Subject + 割伤 + 了 + Noun (Object causing the cut)
This structure implies the object caused the cut.
这张纸太锋利了，我的手被 割伤 了。
This paper is too sharp; my hand got cut.
- In questions or warnings
You can use it in interrogative or cautionary sentences.
你有没有 割伤 自己？
Did you cut yourself? 小心，刀很锋利，别 割伤 了。
Be careful, the knife is very sharp, don't get cut.
You'll encounter 割伤 (gē shāng) in a variety of everyday situations, reflecting its practical nature. It's a word that pops up in casual conversations among friends and family, in medical contexts (especially for minor injuries), and even in safety warnings.
Here are some typical scenarios and conversations where you might hear or read this word:
- Casual Conversations
Imagine talking to a friend about your day:
A: "今天在家做饭，不小心 割伤 了手指，真疼！" (Jīntiān zài jiā zuò fàn, bù xiǎoxīn gē shāng le shǒuzhǐ, zhēn téng!) - "Today I was cooking at home and accidentally cut my finger, it really hurts!"
B: "啊？快去拿创可贴！" (Ā? Kuài qù ná chuāngkětiē!) - "Oh? Go get a band-aid quickly!"
- Medical Settings (Minor Injuries)
At a clinic or talking to a nurse:
Nurse: "您哪里 割伤 了？" (Nín nǎlǐ gē shāng le?) - "Where did you get cut?"
Patient: "我的胳膊 割伤 了，需要包扎一下。" (Wǒ de gēbo gē shāng le, xūyào bāozā yīxià.) - "My arm got cut, it needs to be bandaged."
- Safety Warnings
On product packaging or in public announcements:
"请小心使用，避免 割伤。" (Qǐng xiǎoxīn shǐyòng, bìmiǎn gē shāng.) - "Please use with care to avoid cuts."
"注意锋利的边缘，不要 割伤 手。" (Zhùyì fēnglì de biānyuán, bùyào gē shāng shǒu.) - "Beware of sharp edges, do not cut your hand."
- News or Reports (Minor Incidents)
A local news report might mention:
"一名儿童在公园玩耍时不慎 割伤 了腿，已被送往医院。" (Yī míng értóng zài gōngyuán wánshuǎ shí bùshèn gē shāng le tuǐ, yǐ bèi sòng wǎng yīyuàn.) - "A child accidentally cut his leg while playing in the park and has been sent to the hospital."
While 割伤 (gē shāng) is a relatively straightforward verb, learners might occasionally make mistakes, especially when differentiating it from other verbs related to injury or when conjugating it correctly.
- Confusing with general 'injury' verbs
Mistake: Using 伤 (shāng) as a verb meaning 'to cut oneself'. While 伤 means 'injury' or 'wound', it's not typically used as a verb for 'to cut oneself'.
Correct: Always use 割伤 (gē shāng) for the specific action of cutting oneself.
Example of incorrect usage: 我伤了我的手。(Wǒ shāng le wǒ de shǒu.) - This sounds like 'I injured my hand' generally, not specifically 'I cut my hand'.
Correct usage: 我割伤了我的手。(Wǒ gē shāng le wǒ de shǒu.) - I cut my hand.
- Omitting '了 (le)' when describing a past event
Mistake: Saying "我割伤手指" (Wǒ gē shāng shǒuzhǐ) when referring to a past incident.
Correct: For completed actions in the past, especially personal accidents, '了 (le)' is commonly used after the verb. So, it should be "我割伤了手指" (Wǒ gē shāng le shǒuzhǐ).
Explanation: The particle '了' often indicates a change of state or completion of an action. In the context of an accident like a cut, it signals that the event has happened.
- Using it for intentional cutting
Mistake: Using 割伤 when describing someone intentionally cutting something, like fabric or wood.
Correct: For intentional cutting of objects, verbs like 剪 (jiǎn - to cut with scissors), 切 (qiē - to cut with a knife, e.g., food), or 砍 (kǎn - to chop) are more appropriate.
Example of incorrect usage: 我用刀割布。(Wǒ yòng dāo gē bù.) - This implies you cut yourself with the knife while cutting cloth, or you intentionally cut the cloth with a cutting action that resulted in a wound.
Correct usage for cutting cloth: 我用剪刀剪布。(Wǒ yòng jiǎndāo jiǎn bù.) - I used scissors to cut the cloth.
Correct usage for cutting food: 我用刀切菜。(Wǒ yòng dāo qiē cài.) - I used a knife to cut vegetables.
- Pronunciation
Mistake: Mispronouncing the tones, especially the first tone on 割 (gē) and the first tone on 伤 (shāng).
Correct pronunciation: gē (first tone) shāng (first tone).
Explanation: Incorrect tones can sometimes lead to misunderstandings, although in this case, the meaning is usually clear from context.
While 割伤 (gē shāng) is specific to cutting oneself, there are other words in Chinese that describe injuries or the act of cutting. Understanding these distinctions helps in precise communication.
- 伤 (shāng) - Injury/Wound/To injure
Usage: 伤 is a very general term for 'injury' or 'wound'. It can also be used as a verb meaning 'to injure' or 'to hurt' someone or something.
Difference from 割伤: 割伤 is a specific type of injury (a cut), while 伤 is broad and can encompass bruises, sprains, cuts, and more. 伤 is not typically used as a verb to mean 'to cut oneself'.
Example:
- 他受了伤。(Tā shòu le shāng.) - He got injured. (General injury)
- 小心，不要伤到孩子。(Xiǎoxīn, bùyào shāng dào háizi.) - Be careful not to hurt the child. (General harm)
- 我割伤了手。 (Wǒ gē shāng le shǒu.) - I cut my hand. (Specific cut)
- 划伤 (huá shāng) - To scratch; a scratch
Usage: 划伤 refers to an injury caused by something sharp and thin, like a fingernail, a sharp edge of plastic, or a light scrape from a rough surface. It's a scratch rather than a deep cut.
Difference from 割伤: 割伤 implies a cut made by a sharp blade (like a knife or razor), usually deeper than a scratch. 划伤 is more superficial, like a scrape or a light cut.
Example:
- 我的猫 划伤 了我的脸。(Wǒ de māo huá shāng le wǒ de liǎn.) - My cat scratched my face.
- 这个塑料盒的边缘 划伤 了我的手。(Zhège sùliào hé de biānyuán huá shāng le wǒ de shǒu.) - The edge of this plastic box scratched my hand.
- 我用刀 割伤 了手指。(Wǒ yòng dāo gē shāng le shǒuzhǐ.) - I cut my finger with a knife.
- 弄伤 (nòng shāng) - To injure; to hurt
Usage: 弄伤 is a more colloquial and general way to say 'to injure' or 'to hurt' oneself or someone else. It's less specific about the type of injury.
Difference from 割伤: 弄伤 is very broad. You could 弄伤 yourself by falling (bruise), by cutting yourself (割伤), or by spraining your ankle. 割伤 specifically means to cut.
Example:
- 他摔倒了，弄伤 了膝盖。(Tā shuāidǎo le, nòng shāng le xīgài.) - He fell and hurt his knee.
- 小心点，别 弄伤 了自己。(Xiǎoxīn diǎn, bié nòng shāng le zìjǐ.) - Be careful not to hurt yourself. (Can refer to any kind of injury)
- 我切菜的时候 割伤 了手指。(Wǒ qiē cài de shíhòu gē shāng le shǒuzhǐ.) - I cut my finger while cutting vegetables.
- 切伤 (qiē shāng) - A cut (noun); to cut oneself (less common as verb)
Usage: 切伤 is primarily used as a noun meaning 'a cut' resulting from slicing with a knife. As a verb, it's less common for self-inflicted cuts compared to 割伤, but it can sometimes be used in medical contexts to describe a cut wound.
Difference from 割伤: 割伤 is the active verb 'to cut oneself'. 切伤 is more often the noun 'a cut' or describes the injury itself. The verb 切 (qiē) means 'to slice' or 'to cut' when referring to food or other materials.
Example:
- 医生说这是 切伤。(Yīshēng shuō zhè shì qiē shāng.) - The doctor said it's a cut. (Noun)
- 刀子造成了 切伤。(Dāozi zàochéng le qiē shāng.) - The knife caused a cut. (Noun)
- 我不小心 割伤 了手指。(Wǒ bù xiǎoxīn gē shāng le shǒuzhǐ.) - I accidentally cut my finger. (Verb, preferred for self-inflicted)
How Formal Is It?
"请注意操作规程，以避免发生<mark>割伤</mark>事故。"
"我不小心<mark>割伤</mark>了手指，需要贴个创可贴。"
"哎呀，又<mark>割伤</mark>了！"
"小朋友，小心点，不要<mark>割伤</mark>小手哦。"
Fun Fact
The character 割 (gē) is composed of 刀 (dāo - knife) and 害 (hài - harm/damage), suggesting that cutting inherently involves harm. This etymology reinforces the meaning of 割伤 as an injury caused by cutting.
Pronunciation Guide
- Mispronouncing the first tone on either 割 (gē) or 伤 (shāng).
- Confusing the 'g' sound with a 'k' sound.
- Pronouncing 'sh' as 's'.
- Adding an 'r' sound after 'sh' (like 'shrang').
Difficulty Rating
This word is very common in everyday texts like news articles about accidents, personal blogs, and product warnings. Understanding it is crucial for basic comprehension.
Learners at the A2 level should be able to use this word correctly in simple sentences to describe minor injuries.
It's a practical word for daily communication, especially when discussing accidents or health.
You will frequently hear this word in spoken Chinese, particularly in contexts related to safety and everyday incidents.
What to Learn Next
Prerequisites
Learn Next
Advanced
Grammar to Know
The particle '了' (le) often indicates completion of an action. When describing a past event of cutting oneself, '了' is commonly used after 割伤.
我割伤了手指。(Wǒ gē shāng le shǒuzhǐ.) - I cut my finger.
Using modal verbs like '会' (huì - will/can) or '可能' (kěnéng - may/might) to describe the potential for causing a cut.
这个刀很锋利，会 割伤人。(Zhège dāo hěn fēnglì, huì gē shāng rén.) - This knife is very sharp and can cut people.
Using '别' (bié - don't) or '不要' (bùyào - don't) for warnings.
别 割伤了！(Bié gē shāng le!) - Don't get cut!
Using '由于' (yóuyú - due to) or '因为' (yīnwèi - because) to explain the cause of a cut.
他由于不小心割伤了。(Tā yóuyú bù xiǎoxīn gē shāng le.) - He cut himself due to carelessness.
Using '即使...也' (jíshǐ...yě - even if...still) or '虽然...但是' (suīrán...dànshì - although...but) to contrast carefulness with the occurrence of a cut.
虽然他很小心，但是还是割伤了。(Suīrán tā hěn xiǎoxīn, dànshì háishì gē shāng le.) - Although he was very careful, he still cut himself.
Examples by Level
我割伤了手。
I cut my hand.
Simple past tense with '了'.
小心，别割伤。
Be careful, don't get cut.
Imperative, warning.
纸很锋利，我割伤了。
The paper is sharp, I got cut.
Reason and consequence.
他割伤了腿。
He cut his leg.
Third person, past event.
你的手指割伤了吗？
Did you cut your finger?
Question form.
我需要创可贴，割伤了。
I need a band-aid, I got cut.
Stating a need due to an injury.
这是割伤。
This is a cut.
Identifying the type of injury.
她不小心割伤了。
She accidentally cut herself.
Accidental action.
我做饭时不小心割伤了手指。
I accidentally cut my finger while cooking.
Using '时' for 'while'.
小心使用刀子，别割伤了。
Use the knife carefully, don't get cut.
Instruction and warning.
他跑步时，腿被树枝割伤了。
When he was running, his leg was cut by a branch.
Passive voice implied, cause of injury.
这张纸的边缘很锋利，我差点割伤。
The edge of this paper is very sharp, I almost got cut.
'差点' meaning 'almost'.
你有没有割伤过自己？
Have you ever cut yourself?
Using '过' for past experience.
我需要去医院，我的手割伤得很深。
I need to go to the hospital, my hand is cut very deeply.
Indicating severity and need for medical attention.
他玩刀的时候不小心割伤了。
He accidentally cut himself while playing with a knife.
Context of playing with a dangerous object.
这种材料很容易割伤人。
This material can easily cut people.
Describing the property of a material.
我用剪刀剪纸时，不小心割伤了手指。
When I was cutting paper with scissors, I accidentally cut my finger.
Complex sentence structure with '时'.
医生说这个伤口是由于 割伤 造成的。
The doctor said this wound was caused by a cut.
Using '造成' (to cause) and specifying the type of wound.
请注意，这个工具的边缘非常锋利，很容易 割伤。
Please note, the edge of this tool is very sharp and can easily cause cuts.
Formal warning, using '很容易' (easily).
我昨天在厨房 割伤 了手，今天有点疼。
I cut my hand in the kitchen yesterday, and it hurts a bit today.
Combining past event with current feeling.
孩子在玩耍时 割伤 了胳膊，流了很多血。
The child cut his arm while playing and bled a lot.
Describing a more serious situation.
你有没有尝试过用 割伤 止痛膏？
Have you ever tried using a cut pain relief cream?
Introducing a related product.
我最害怕的就是 割伤 自己。
What I fear most is cutting myself.
Expressing fear.
这次 割伤 不严重，只需要简单处理一下。
This cut is not serious, it only needs simple treatment.
Assessing severity and treatment.
在进行精细的手工操作时，务必小心，以免 割伤。
When performing delicate manual operations, be sure to be careful to avoid cuts.
Formal instruction, '务必' (must), '以免' (to avoid).
尽管他已经非常小心了，但还是在切菜时 割伤 了拇指。
Although he was very careful, he still cut his thumb while chopping vegetables.
'尽管' (although), '但' (but), '还是' (still).
他分享了自己的经历，说自己曾经 割伤 过手，需要缝针。
He shared his experience, saying he had cut his hand before and needed stitches.
Reporting past experiences, '缝针' (to stitch).
这种新型材料的刀口非常锋利，稍有不慎就可能 割伤。
The cutting edge of this new material is very sharp, and a slight carelessness can result in a cut.
'稍有不慎' (slight carelessness), '就可能' (could possibly).
她在处理锋利的玻璃碎片时不慎 割伤 了手掌。
She accidentally cut her palm while handling sharp glass fragments.
Specific body part, '碎片' (fragments).
对于 割伤 这种类型的伤口，保持清洁是预防感染的关键。
For wounds like cuts, keeping them clean is key to preventing infection.
Medical advice, '预防感染' (prevent infection).
他抱怨说，每次刮胡子都 割伤 自己，可能是因为刀片不够锋利。
He complained that he cuts himself every time he shaves, possibly because the blade is not sharp enough.
Expressing complaint, '抱怨' (complain), '刮胡子' (shave).
在野外活动时，要警惕尖锐的植物和岩石，以防 割伤。
When engaging in outdoor activities, be wary of sharp plants and rocks to prevent cuts.
'警惕' (be wary), '以防' (to prevent).
尽管他接受了专业的急救培训，但在一次意外事故中，他还是 割伤 了自己，伤势颇为严重。
Despite receiving professional first-aid training, he still cut himself during an accident, and the injury was quite serious.
'尽管' (despite), '颇为' (quite).
医生的诊断表明，患者的 割伤 并非由钝器造成，而是锐器所致。
The doctor's diagnosis indicated that the patient's cut was not caused by a blunt object, but by a sharp one.
'表明' (indicate), '并非...而是...' (not... but...), '锐器' (sharp object), '钝器' (blunt object).
在处理工业废料时，工人们被反复警告，要警惕那些隐藏的锋利边缘，以防 割伤。
When handling industrial waste, workers are repeatedly warned to be wary of hidden sharp edges to prevent cuts.
'反复警告' (repeatedly warned), '隐藏的' (hidden).
她回忆起童年时的一次经历，当时她不小心 割伤 了手，留下了至今可见的疤痕。
She recalled an experience from her childhood when she accidentally cut her hand, leaving a scar that is still visible today.
'回忆起' (recall), '至今可见的' (still visible today).
这项新发明旨在通过磁场效应来辅助切割，从而最大限度地减少使用者 割伤 的风险。
This new invention aims to assist cutting through magnetic field effects, thereby minimizing the risk of users cutting themselves.
'旨在' (aims to), '最大限度地减少' (minimize), '风险' (risk).
虽然 割伤 通常被认为是小伤，但在某些情况下，若处理不当，也可能引发严重的并发症。
Although cuts are generally considered minor injuries, in certain circumstances, if not treated properly, they can lead to serious complications.
'通常被认为是' (generally considered), '并发症' (complications).
在进行户外探险时，任何细微的 割伤 都可能因为环境的恶劣而变得棘手。
During outdoor adventures, any minor cut can become tricky due to the harsh environment.
'棘手' (tricky/difficult), '恶劣' (harsh).
专家建议，对于 割伤，首先要做的就是立即止血并保持伤口清洁。
Experts advise that for cuts, the first thing to do is to stop the bleeding immediately and keep the wound clean.
'首先要做的就是' (the first thing to do is), '止血' (stop bleeding).
这位外科医生以其精湛的技艺而闻名，即使是处理最细微的 割伤，也总能做到完美无瑕。
This surgeon is renowned for his exquisite skill; even when dealing with the most minute cuts, he always achieves perfection.
'精湛的技艺' (exquisite skill), '完美无瑕' (flawless).
在进行高风险的实验操作时，研究人员必须采取一切预防措施，以杜绝任何可能导致 割伤 的意外。
When conducting high-risk experimental operations, researchers must take all precautionary measures to eliminate any accidents that could lead to cuts.
'高风险' (high-risk), '杜绝' (eliminate), '意外' (accident).
他回忆起在一次登山事故中，他 割伤 了手臂，当时他以为自己无法继续前行，但最终凭借顽强的毅力坚持了下来。
He recalled that during a mountaineering accident, he cut his arm, and at the time, he thought he wouldn't be able to continue, but he ultimately persisted with tenacious willpower.
'凭' (rely on), '顽强的毅力' (tenacious willpower).
专家指出，长期暴露在含有微小锋利颗粒的环境中，即使是看似无害的接触，也可能逐渐导致累积性的 割伤。
Experts point out that prolonged exposure to environments containing tiny sharp particles, even seemingly harmless contact, can gradually lead to cumulative cuts.
'长期暴露' (prolonged exposure), '累积性的' (cumulative).
在评估伤情时，医生需要区分是 割伤 还是撕裂伤，因为它们的治疗方法和愈合过程可能大相径庭。
When assessing the injury, doctors need to differentiate between a cut and a tear, as their treatment methods and healing processes can differ greatly.
'区分' (differentiate), '撕裂伤' (tear wound), '大相径庭' (differ greatly).
尽管现代医学技术取得了长足的进步，但对于深度 割伤，特别是涉及重要神经或血管的，仍然需要高度的专业知识和精密的修复手术。
Despite the significant advancements in modern medical technology, deep cuts, especially those involving important nerves or blood vessels, still require a high degree of expertise and precise reconstructive surgery.
'长足的进步' (significant advancements), '涉及' (involve), '神经' (nerve), '血管' (blood vessel), '大相径庭' (differ greatly).
他曾在一篇关于工业安全的文章中提到，许多 割伤 的事故源于操作人员对设备潜在危险性的低估。
In an article on industrial safety, he mentioned that many cut accidents stem from operators underestimating the potential hazards of equipment.
'源于' (stem from), '低估' (underestimate), '潜在危险性' (potential hazards).
为了应对日益增长的 割伤 风险，该行业正在积极研发更安全、更符合人体工程学的设计。
To cope with the increasing risk of cuts, the industry is actively developing safer and more ergonomic designs.
'日益增长的' (increasing), '应对' (cope with), '符合人体工程学' (ergonomic).
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
— Got cut; cut oneself. This is the most common way to express having sustained a cut.
我不小心<mark>割伤了</mark>手指。(I accidentally cut my finger.)
— Be careful not to cut yourself. Used as a warning.
这个刀很锋利，<mark>小心割伤</mark>。(This knife is very sharp, be careful not to cut yourself.)
— To accidentally cut oneself. Emphasizes the unintentional nature of the injury.
我<mark>不小心割伤</mark>了手。(I accidentally cut my hand.)
— To make a cut wound. Often used when describing the action that caused the injury.
刀子<mark>割伤口</mark>了。(The knife made a cut wound.)
— To avoid getting cut. Used in safety instructions.
请按照说明操作，以<mark>避免割伤</mark>。(Please follow the instructions to avoid getting cut.)
— A cutting accident. Refers to an incident where someone gets cut.
公司报告了一起<mark>割伤事故</mark>。(The company reported a cutting accident.)
— The area of the cut. Used in medical contexts.
这个<mark>割伤面积</mark>不大。(The area of this cut is not large.)
— The depth of the cut. Also used in medical contexts.
医生需要评估<mark>割伤深度</mark>。(The doctor needs to assess the depth of the cut.)
— Treatment for a cut. Refers to the medical care provided.
请告诉我如何进行<mark>割伤处理</mark>。(Please tell me how to treat a cut.)
— The healing of a cut. Describes the recovery process.
这个<mark>割伤</mark>需要几天才能<mark>愈合</mark>。(This cut needs a few days to heal.)
Often Confused With
划伤 refers to a scratch, usually superficial and caused by a sharp, thin object like a fingernail or a rough edge. 割伤 implies a cut, typically made by a blade, and is often deeper than a scratch.
擦伤 means to graze or abrade the skin, like when you fall and scrape your knee. It's a superficial wound but not a clean cut like 割伤.
弄伤 is a general term for injuring oneself and can cover a wide range of accidents, including cuts, bruises, or sprains. 割伤 is specific to cuts.
Idioms & Expressions
— To cut something in two with one stroke; metaphorically, to break off relations completely and decisively.
他们之间的关系已经一刀两断了。
Idiomatic— Gleaming blades and flashing swords; refers to a scene of fighting or conflict.
这部电影充满了刀光剑影的场面。
Idiomatic— To kill the hen to get the eggs; refers to sacrificing long-term interests for short-term gain.
这样做无异于杀鸡取卵。
Idiomatic— Mistaking the reflection of a bow in the cup for a snake; refers to being overly suspicious or paranoid.
你太杯弓蛇影了，那只是一个影子。
Idiomatic— To carve the boat to find the lost sword; refers to acting inflexibly and foolishly without adapting to changing circumstances.
他的想法太刻舟求剑了。
Idiomatic— To draw a snake and add feet; refers to doing something superfluous that spoils the effect.
你的建议是画蛇添足。
Idiomatic— To cut the feet to fit the shoes; refers to compromising one's principles or needs to conform to external standards.
我们不能削足适履。
Idiomatic— To mend the pen after the sheep are lost; refers to taking action to remedy a situation after suffering a loss.
现在亡羊补牢还来得及。
Idiomatic— Cannot be cut, but still tangled; describes complicated and unending troubles or emotions.
这件事情真是剪不断，理还乱。
Literary/Idiomatic— Heart feels like it's being cut by a knife; describes extreme emotional pain or heartbreak.
听到这个消息，我心如刀割。
IdiomaticEasily Confused
Both involve injury from a sharp object.
割伤 specifically means to cut with a blade or sharp edge, often implying a deeper wound. 划伤 means to scratch, typically a more superficial injury from a sharp, thin object like a fingernail or a rough edge.
猫<mark>划伤</mark>了我的脸。(Māo huá shāng le wǒ de liǎn.) - The cat scratched my face. / 我用刀<mark>割伤</mark>了手指。(Wǒ yòng dāo gē shāng le shǒuzhǐ.) - I cut my finger with a knife.
Both are common types of minor injuries.
擦伤 is an abrasion or graze, like when you fall and scrape your skin. It's a superficial wound. 割伤 is a cut, typically made by a sharp object like a knife, and can be deeper.
摔倒后<mark>擦伤</mark>了膝盖。(Shuāidǎo hòu cā shāng le xīgài.) - Grazed my knee after falling. / 我<mark>割伤</mark>了手。(Wǒ gē shāng le shǒu.) - I cut my hand.
Both mean to injure oneself.
弄伤 is a very general and colloquial term for injuring oneself, covering any type of accident (falling, spraining, cutting, etc.). 割伤 is specific to the action of cutting oneself with a sharp object.
他<mark>弄伤</mark>了脚踝。(Tā nòng shāng le jiǎohuái.) - He hurt his ankle. (Could be a sprain, bruise, etc.) / 我<mark>割伤</mark>了手指。(Wǒ gē shāng le shǒuzhǐ.) - I cut my finger.
Both involve the action of cutting.
切 (qiē) is a verb meaning 'to slice' or 'to cut' when referring to food or other materials, usually with a knife. It's an intentional action. 割伤 (gē shāng) is a verb specifically meaning 'to cut oneself' (accidentally).
我用刀<mark>切</mark>菜。(Wǒ yòng dāo qiē cài.) - I use a knife to cut vegetables. / 我不小心<mark>割伤</mark>了手指。(Wǒ bù xiǎoxīn gē shāng le shǒuzhǐ.) - I accidentally cut my finger.
Both are verbs related to cutting.
剪 (jiǎn) means 'to cut' with scissors or shears. It's an intentional action performed on objects. 割伤 (gē shāng) means 'to cut oneself' (accidentally).
请帮我<mark>剪</mark>一下纸。(Qǐng bāng wǒ jiǎn yīxià zhǐ.) - Please help me cut this paper. / 小心，别<mark>割伤</mark>了！(Xiǎoxīn, bié gē shāng le!) - Be careful, don't get cut!
Sentence Patterns
Subject + 割伤 + 了 + Object (Body Part)
我<mark>割伤了</mark>手指。
Warning: 小心 + 割伤
<mark>小心割伤</mark>！
Subject + 不小心 + 割伤
他<mark>不小心割伤</mark>了。
Context + 时 + Subject + 割伤
做饭<mark>时</mark>，我<mark>割伤了</mark>。
Subject + 割伤 + (程度补语)
她<mark>割伤</mark>得不轻。(Tā gē shāng de bù qīng.) - She cut herself quite badly.
Object + 造成 + 割伤
玻璃<mark>造成</mark>了<mark>割伤</mark>。(Bōlí zàochéng le gē shāng.) - The glass caused a cut.
Subject + 避免 + 割伤
我们应该<mark>避免</mark> <mark>割伤</mark>。(Wǒmen yīnggāi bìmiǎn gē shāng.) - We should avoid cuts.
Subject + 尽管...还是 + 割伤
<mark>尽管</mark>很小心，他<mark>还是割伤</mark>了。(Jíshǐ hěn xiǎoxīn, tā háishì gē shāng le.) - Although he was careful, he still cut himself.
Word Family
Nouns
Verbs
Adjectives
Related
How to Use It
High
-
Using 伤 (shāng) as a verb for 'to cut oneself'.
→
Use 割伤 (gē shāng) for 'to cut oneself'.
伤 (shāng) means 'injury' or 'wound' and can be a verb meaning 'to injure', but it's not specific to cuts and not used for 'to cut oneself'. 割伤 is the precise term.
-
Omitting '了' (le) when describing a past cut.
→
我割伤了手指。
For completed actions like an accidental cut, '了' is typically used after the verb to indicate the past event or change of state.
-
Confusing 割伤 with 划伤 (scratch).
→
Use 割伤 for cuts from blades, and 划伤 for scratches from sharp edges or nails.
割伤 implies a cut, often deeper, made by a sharp object. 划伤 is a scratch, usually more superficial.
-
Using 割伤 for intentional cutting of objects.
→
Use 切 (qiē) for slicing food or 剪 (jiǎn) for cutting with scissors.
割伤 specifically refers to cutting oneself (accidentally). For intentionally cutting other things, more specific verbs are needed.
-
Mispronouncing the tones.
→
gē (1st tone) shāng (1st tone).
Both characters have a high, flat first tone. Incorrect tones can lead to miscommunication, although context often helps.
Tips
Distinguish from 'Scratch'
Remember that 割伤 (gē shāng) is for cuts, usually made by blades, while 划伤 (huá shāng) is for scratches, often from fingernails or rough edges. The depth and cause of the injury are key differences.
Use '了' for Past Events
When talking about an accidental cut that has already happened, it's very common to add the particle '了' (le) after 割伤. For example, '我割伤了手指' (Wǒ gē shāng le shǒuzhǐ) means 'I cut my finger'.
Master the Tones
Both 割 (gē) and 伤 (shāng) are first tone. Practice saying them with a high, flat tone to ensure clear pronunciation and avoid confusion with other tones.
Common Scenarios
You'll frequently hear 割伤 in contexts related to cooking, DIY projects, handling sharp objects, or describing minor accidents. Be prepared to use it in these situations.
Related Terms
Learn related words like 刀 (dāo - knife), 锋利 (fēnglì - sharp), and body parts like 手 (shǒu - hand) and 手指 (shǒuzhǐ - finger) to build a richer vocabulary around this topic.
Visual Association
Picture a knife (刀 dāo) and a wound (伤 shāng) together. The action of cutting yourself with the knife is 割伤.
Sentence Building
Try creating your own sentences using 割伤 to describe hypothetical or real-life accidents. For example, 'Be careful with the new scissors, you might割伤 yourself.'
Warnings
When giving warnings, use phrases like '小心割伤' (xiǎoxīn gē shāng) or '请勿割伤' (qǐng wù gē shāng - please do not cut yourself). This is common on product labels or in instructions.
Cut vs. Abrasion
Remember that 割伤 is a cut, whereas 擦伤 (cā shāng) is an abrasion or graze. The nature of the wound is different.
Casual Conversation
In casual chats, people often say '我割伤了' (Wǒ gē shāng le) or '割伤了手' (gē shāng le shǒu) to describe minor injuries. It's a very practical and frequently used term.
Memorize It
Mnemonic
Imagine you are using a knife (刀 dāo) to cut wheat (which 割 gē originally meant). If you are not careful, you might accidentally cut yourself (伤 shāng)!
Visual Association
Picture a hand with a small cut on the finger, and a sharp knife nearby. The knife represents '割' (gē), and the cut represents '伤' (shāng).
Word Web
Challenge
Try to describe three different scenarios where someone might 割伤 themselves, using the word in each description.
Word Origin
The word 割伤 is a compound word formed by the verb 割 (gē) meaning 'to cut' and the noun/verb 伤 (shāng) meaning 'injury' or 'wound'. The character 割 itself has ancient origins, depicting a knife cutting through wheat or grass. 伤 is also an ancient character, often depicted as a person being wounded.
Original meaning: The character 割 originally referred to the act of reaping grain. Over time, its meaning expanded to include cutting in general. 伤 originally depicted a wound. Together, 割伤 specifically denotes the act of inflicting a cut wound.
Sino-TibetanCultural Context
The term 割伤 refers to accidental injuries. It is not used for intentional self-harm or violence, which would involve different vocabulary and contexts.
In English, we would say 'I cut myself' or 'I got a cut'. The Chinese 割伤 directly translates to this concept.
Practice in Real Life
Real-World Contexts
Kitchen safety
- 小心<mark>割伤</mark>手。
- 刀很锋利，会<mark>割伤</mark>。
- 做饭时<mark>割伤</mark>了手指。
Office/Paper cuts
- 纸张会<mark>割伤</mark>人。
- 我<mark>割伤</mark>了，是纸<mark>割伤</mark>。
- 小心<mark>割伤</mark>。
Medical advice/First aid
- 这个<mark>割伤</mark>需要处理。
- 注意<mark>割伤</mark>的清洁。
- 如何<mark>割伤</mark>处理？
General warnings
- 请<mark>避免割伤</mark>。
- 当心<mark>割伤</mark>。
- 这个东西容易<mark>割伤</mark>。
Describing accidents
- 他不小心<mark>割伤</mark>了。
- 她<mark>割伤</mark>了胳膊。
- 我<mark>割伤</mark>了。
Conversation Starters
"Have you ever accidentally cut yourself? What happened?"
"What are some common ways people get cut in daily life?"
"What should you do immediately after you cut yourself?"
"Are there any tools or objects you find particularly prone to causing cuts?"
"How can we be more careful to avoid getting cut?"
Journal Prompts
Describe a time you cut yourself. What were you doing, and how did you feel afterward?
Think about the objects in your home that are sharp. How do you ensure safety to avoid getting cut?
Imagine you are giving advice to someone about kitchen safety. What would you tell them to prevent cuts?
Write a short story where the main character gets a cut and has to deal with the consequences.
Reflect on the difference between a 'cut' (割伤) and a 'scratch' (划伤) or 'bruise' (瘀伤).
Frequently Asked Questions
10 questions割伤 (gē shāng) specifically refers to a cut, usually made by a sharp object like a knife or blade, and can imply a deeper wound. 划伤 (huá shāng) means to scratch or be scratched, typically a more superficial injury caused by something sharp and thin, like a fingernail or a rough edge. Think of 割伤 as a cut and 划伤 as a scratch.
No, 割伤 primarily refers to accidental self-inflicted cuts. If someone is intentionally cutting something or someone, different verbs like 切 (qiē - to slice), 剪 (jiǎn - to cut with scissors), or even more violent verbs would be used depending on the context.
The most common and direct way to say 'I accidentally cut my finger' is '我不小心割伤了手指 (Wǒ bù xiǎoxīn gē shāng le shǒuzhǐ)'. You can also simply say '我割伤了！(Wǒ gē shāng le!)' if the context is clear.
While 割伤 is primarily a verb, the concept of 'a cut' is often implied. The noun form for 'cut' is more commonly 切伤 (qiē shāng), especially in medical contexts, but the verb 割伤 is used to describe the action of getting cut.
Yes, warnings often use phrases like '小心割伤' (xiǎoxīn gē shāng - be careful not to get cut) or '避免割伤' (bìmiǎn gē shāng - avoid cuts). You'll see these on products with sharp edges or in safety instructions.
The pronunciation is gē shāng. Both characters are pronounced with the first tone, which is a high, flat tone. So, it's gē (high, flat) followed by shāng (high, flat).
伤 (shāng) is a general term for 'injury' or 'wound'. It can refer to cuts, bruises, sprains, etc. 割伤 (gē shāng) is a specific type of injury – a cut – and is used as a verb for the action of cutting oneself.
Common objects include knives, scissors, broken glass, sharp edges of paper or metal, and even sharp thorns or shells.
For a deep 割伤, the priority is to stop the bleeding by applying pressure with a clean cloth. Seek immediate medical attention. Do not try to clean a deep wound yourself without proper training.
Yes, while blades are common, 割伤 can refer to cuts from any sharp object, such as broken glass, sharp plastic edges, or even very sharp thorns, as long as it results in a cut wound.
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Summary
割伤 (gē shāng) is the Chinese verb for accidentally cutting yourself with a sharp object. It's a common term for minor injuries like paper cuts or kitchen knife slips.
- 割伤 (gē shāng) means to cut oneself.
- It's used for accidental injuries from sharp objects.
- Common in daily life, kitchen accidents, and warnings.
- Similar to 'get cut' or 'cut yourself' in English.
Distinguish from 'Scratch'
Remember that 割伤 (gē shāng) is for cuts, usually made by blades, while 划伤 (huá shāng) is for scratches, often from fingernails or rough edges. The depth and cause of the injury are key differences.
Use '了' for Past Events
When talking about an accidental cut that has already happened, it's very common to add the particle '了' (le) after 割伤. For example, '我割伤了手指' (Wǒ gē shāng le shǒuzhǐ) means 'I cut my finger'.
Master the Tones
Both 割 (gē) and 伤 (shāng) are first tone. Practice saying them with a high, flat tone to ensure clear pronunciation and avoid confusion with other tones.
Common Scenarios
You'll frequently hear 割伤 in contexts related to cooking, DIY projects, handling sharp objects, or describing minor accidents. Be prepared to use it in these situations.
Example
不小心，她的手指被刀割伤了。
Related Content
This Word in Other Languages
More health words
一粒
A2One pill; a grain (for small, round objects like pills).
一片
A2One tablet; a slice (for flat objects like pills).
不正常
A2abnormal
以上
A2Above, over (a number)
酸痛
A2Sore; aching (especially muscles).
倒是
A2On the contrary; actually.
针灸
A2Acupuncture; traditional Chinese therapy.
扎针
A2to give an injection
急性
B1acute (illness)
急性病
B1Acute disease.
