About

The word **二手** (èrshǒu) is formed through a straightforward numeral-noun compound in Chinese. Literally meaning "second hand," it combines **二** (èr, "two") with **手** (shǒu, "hand") to metaphorically indicate something that has passed from the first owner's "hand" to a second one, hence describing a pre-owned or secondhand item, such as a car or furniture. This formation efficiently conveys the concept of indirect ownership through the imagery of sequential possession.

Word Definition - 二手

èr shǒu indirectly acquired; second-hand (information, equipment etc); assistant

Individual Character Details