Overview
The word 'mano' in Italian is a fascinating example of a common word with a rich history and diverse applications. Derived directly from the Latin 'manus', it has retained its core meaning of 'hand' across millennia. Unusually for Italian nouns ending in '-o', 'mano' is feminine, a characteristic inherited from its Latin root, which was also feminine. This grammatical peculiarity is one of the first things Italian learners encounter when studying 'mano'.
Beyond its literal anatomical meaning, 'mano' is incredibly versatile and forms the basis of numerous idiomatic expressions and figurative uses, reflecting the central role hands play in human life and interaction. For instance, 'dare una mano' is a ubiquitous way to offer help, directly translating to 'to give a hand'. This highlights the universal concept of assistance being physically extended. Similarly, 'a portata di mano' literally means 'within reach of the hand', effectively conveying the idea of something being readily accessible.
Figuratively, 'mano' can extend to inanimate objects. When talking about painting or plastering, 'dare una mano di vernice' means to apply 'a coat' or 'a layer' of paint. Here, 'mano' metaphorically represents the action of applying a layer, much like a hand applies something. In card games, 'a mano' refers to the set of cards a player holds, mirroring the physical act of holding cards in one's hand. Even in artistic contexts, 'la mano dell'artista' speaks to the distinctive 'touch' or 'style' of a creator, where the artist's hand is seen as the instrument of their unique expression.
The grammatical gender of 'mano' also influences its agreement with articles and adjectives, always requiring feminine forms (e.g., 'la mano', 'le mani belle'). Its plural form, 'mani', is regular for feminine nouns ending in '-o' (which are few, but 'mano' follows the pattern). Understanding the nuances of 'mano' goes beyond simple translation; it involves grasping the cultural and historical ways in which the concept of the 'hand' has permeated the Italian language, creating a word that is both foundational and remarkably adaptable.
例句
Ho una mela in mano.
everydayI have an apple in my hand.
Dammi una mano con questo pacco pesante.
idiomatic expressionGive me a hand with this heavy package.
La mano destra del pittore era ferita.
descriptiveThe painter's right hand was injured.
Ci siamo tenuti per mano durante la passeggiata.
social interactionWe held hands during the walk.
Ha una mano ferma, perfetta per la chirurgia.
descriptive, skillHe has a steady hand, perfect for surgery.
常见搭配
容易混淆的词
common typo
common typo
语法模式
如何使用
使用说明
The Italian word 'mano' is feminine and singular, meaning 'hand'. Its plural form is 'mani'. While most feminine nouns ending in '-o' in Italian are irregular (e.g., 'foto' from 'fotografia'), 'mano' is one of the few common feminine nouns that end in '-o' and follows standard pluralization. When referring to parts of the body, definite articles are typically used instead of possessive adjectives unless there's ambiguity or a need for emphasis. For example, 'Mi fa male la mano' (My hand hurts) rather than 'Mi fa male la mia mano'. Common idiomatic expressions include 'dare una mano' (to give a hand/to help), 'a portata di mano' (within reach), 'fuori mano' (out of the way/inconveniently located), and 'mettere le mani avanti' (to make excuses/to anticipate criticism). The word can also be used metaphorically, such as 'la mano della giustizia' (the hand of justice) or 'avere la mano leggera/pesante' (to have a light/heavy touch). Context is key to understanding the specific nuance of 'mano' in various phrases.
常见错误
小贴士
Gender Exception
While most Italian nouns ending in -o are masculine, 'mano' is an exception and is feminine. Remember to use feminine articles and adjectives with it (e.g., 'la mano', 'le mani', 'bella mano').
Common Idioms
Mano is used in many common Italian idioms: 'dare una mano' (to help), 'a portata di mano' (within reach), 'fuori mano' (out of the way), 'di prima mano' (first-hand), 'lavarsene le mani' (to wash one's hands of something).
Plural Form
The plural of 'mano' is 'mani'. Note that the ending changes from -o to -i, which is typical for feminine nouns in Italian.
词源
From Latin 'manus', meaning 'hand'.
文化背景
In Italian culture, 'mano' (hand) carries significant weight beyond its literal meaning. Gestures involving hands are fundamental to communication, often conveying emotions, emphasis, and intent in a way that words alone cannot. For instance, the 'mano a borsa' (fingers brought together, pointing upwards) can express anything from 'What do you want?' to 'What are you talking about?' The act of shaking hands is a common greeting and a sign of agreement or respect. The phrase 'dare una mano' (to give a hand) means to help, highlighting the communal aspect of Italian society. Superstitions also involve hands; touching iron ('toccare ferro') with a hand is believed to ward off bad luck, similar to knocking on wood. Artistically, hands are a recurring motif, symbolizing creation, prayer, and human connection in countless masterpieces. In daily life, the expressiveness of Italian conversation is deeply intertwined with hand movements, making 'mano' a central element of cultural identity.
记忆技巧
Think of 'manual' or 'manicure' – words related to hands. Even though it ends in -o, it's feminine, which is a common exception to remember.
常见问题
4 个问题The Italian word for 'hand' is 'mano'. It's a very common noun and is used in a similar way to its English counterpart in many contexts. For example, you might say 'la mia mano' to mean 'my hand' or 'dare una mano' to mean 'to give a hand' or 'to help'.
Despite ending in '-o', 'mano' is a feminine noun in Italian. This can be a bit tricky for learners as most nouns ending in '-o' are masculine. So, you would say 'la mano' (the hand) and 'le mani' (the hands) using the feminine definite articles.
Yes, there are many! Some popular ones include: 'dare una mano' (to lend a hand/to help), 'a portata di mano' (within reach), 'fuori mano' (out of the way/inconveniently located), 'di prima mano' (first-hand), and 'mettere le mani avanti' (to make excuses/to anticipate criticism). These expressions highlight the versatility of 'mano' in everyday Italian conversation.
Even though 'mano' is feminine and ends in '-o', its plural form follows the general rule for feminine nouns ending in '-e' by changing to '-i'. So, the plural of 'mano' is 'mani'. For example, 'una mano' (one hand) becomes 'due mani' (two hands). It's an exception to the typical '-o' to '-i' masculine plural rule.
自我测试
Ho una _____ destra e una _____ sinistra.
Dammi la tua _____!
Con le _____ si può fare molte cose.
得分: /3
Gender Exception
While most Italian nouns ending in -o are masculine, 'mano' is an exception and is feminine. Remember to use feminine articles and adjectives with it (e.g., 'la mano', 'le mani', 'bella mano').
Common Idioms
Mano is used in many common Italian idioms: 'dare una mano' (to help), 'a portata di mano' (within reach), 'fuori mano' (out of the way), 'di prima mano' (first-hand), 'lavarsene le mani' (to wash one's hands of something).
Plural Form
The plural of 'mano' is 'mani'. Note that the ending changes from -o to -i, which is typical for feminine nouns in Italian.
例句
5 / 5Ho una mela in mano.
I have an apple in my hand.
Dammi una mano con questo pacco pesante.
Give me a hand with this heavy package.
La mano destra del pittore era ferita.
The painter's right hand was injured.
Ci siamo tenuti per mano durante la passeggiata.
We held hands during the walk.
Ha una mano ferma, perfetta per la chirurgia.
He has a steady hand, perfect for surgery.
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