An envelope is a paper cover used to protect and mail letters or documents.
Word in 30 Seconds
- A paper container for mailing letters.
- Used to protect documents during transit.
- Essential tool for traditional correspondence.
Overview
- 1概述：信封（xìnfēng）是日常生活中最基础的办公与通讯用品之一。它由纸质材料制成，通常设计为扁平的袋状，一侧有开口，用于封装信纸、贺卡或重要文件。2) 使用模式：在使用信封时，人们通常会在正面书写收件人的姓名、地址和邮政编码，在背面或左上角注明寄件人的信息。现代信封多带有自粘胶条，方便封口。3) 常见场景：信封广泛应用于私人书信往来、商务合同邮寄、婚礼请柬发放以及节日贺卡赠送。在正式场合，使用信封不仅体现礼貌，还能保护隐私。4) 近义词辨析：与“包裹”（pāoguǒ）相比，信封仅用于装纸质文件或轻薄物品，而包裹用于装体积较大、较重的货物。与“文件夹”（wénjiànjiá）相比，文件夹用于日常整理和分类，而信封主要用于邮政投递或正式转交。
Examples
请把信装进信封里。
everydayPlease put the letter in the envelope.
这份合同已放入密封的信封中。
formalThis contract has been placed in a sealed envelope.
我找不到信封了。
informalI can't find the envelope.
研究报告被装入特制的信封寄出。
academicThe research report was sent in a specially made envelope.
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
信封口
envelope flap
大号信封
large envelope
Often Confused With
A 'baguo' (package) is for shipping goods or heavy items, while an envelope is strictly for paper documents.
A 'wenjianjia' (folder) is for organizing papers inside an office, whereas an envelope is for exterior mailing.
Grammar Patterns
How to Use It
Usage Notes
The word '信封' is used in both formal and informal registers. It is a concrete noun and does not change form. When referring to the act of putting something in an envelope, we use the verb '装'.
Common Mistakes
Beginners sometimes confuse '信封' (envelope) with '信纸' (letter paper). Remember that the envelope is the container, not the content. Also, ensure you use the correct measure word '个' or '只'.
Tips
Always check for correct postage
Make sure to attach the correct stamp based on weight and destination. This ensures your letter is delivered without delays.
Seal envelopes properly
Ensure the adhesive is fully pressed down to prevent the envelope from opening during transit. You may add extra tape for important documents.
Red envelopes in Chinese culture
In China, 'Hongbao' (red envelopes) are used to give money as gifts during festivals. These are different from standard mailing envelopes.
Word Origin
The term combines '信' (letter) and '封' (to seal). Historically, it describes the physical act of sealing a document to maintain confidentiality.
Cultural Context
In traditional Chinese culture, envelopes are symbols of communication. While standard white envelopes are for mail, red envelopes are culturally significant for gifting money during holidays.
Memory Tip
Think of '信' (letter) + '封' (seal). It is literally a 'letter-seal' or something that seals the letter.
Frequently Asked Questions
4 questions根据国际惯例，邮票通常贴在信封正面的右上角。这样方便邮局工作人员进行机器盖戳。
如果是通过邮寄的信封，由于封口处会被撕毁，通常不建议重复使用。如果是内部传递的文件，可以更换封口贴重复使用。
通常收件人地址写在中间，寄件人地址写在左上角或背面。书写时应从大范围（国家/城市）到小范围（街道/门牌号）排列。
有的，常见的有DL标准信封（适合A4纸三折）、C5和C4信封（适合A4纸对折或平铺）。
Test Yourself
请把这封信装进___里。
信件通常装在信封中。
以下哪项不是信封的主要功能？
信封主要用于纸质文件，不适合装重物。
信封 - 我 - 买了 - 一盒
这是标准的中文主谓宾结构。
Score: /3
Summary
An envelope is a paper cover used to protect and mail letters or documents.
- A paper container for mailing letters.
- Used to protect documents during transit.
- Essential tool for traditional correspondence.
Always check for correct postage
Make sure to attach the correct stamp based on weight and destination. This ensures your letter is delivered without delays.
Seal envelopes properly
Ensure the adhesive is fully pressed down to prevent the envelope from opening during transit. You may add extra tape for important documents.
Red envelopes in Chinese culture
In China, 'Hongbao' (red envelopes) are used to give money as gifts during festivals. These are different from standard mailing envelopes.
Examples
4 of 4请把信装进信封里。
Please put the letter in the envelope.
这份合同已放入密封的信封中。
This contract has been placed in a sealed envelope.
我找不到信封了。
I can't find the envelope.
研究报告被装入特制的信封寄出。
The research report was sent in a specially made envelope.
Related Content
This Word in Other Languages
Related Vocabulary
More communication words
承认
A2to admit; to acknowledge
恐怕
B1I'm afraid that...; perhaps; probably. Used to express concern, uncertainty, or to soften a polite refusal.
同意
A1to agree
虽然...但是...
A2although...but...
公告
B1announcement
回答
A1to answer; to reply
接听
B2To answer (a phone call).
致歉
B2To express an apology formally. This is a critical term for IELTS letters of apology.
提问
A1To ask a question; to pose an inquiry.
广播
A2Broadcast.
