Definition
扭 (niǔ) is a general verb for twisting, turning, or spraining — used for handles, ankles, and wringing. For sprains, 扭 is the typical word (ankle, wrist), while 闪 (shǎn) implies a sudden, sharp sprain (e.g., back). To screw a lid or wring a cloth, 拧 (nǐng) is more precise; 扭 is for turning a knob, not tightening.
verb
to twistto wringto sprainto turn (e.g., a knob, handle)
Easily confused
- 牛niúsound-alike(noun) ox, cow, bull
Examples
- 扭。Tā bǎ máojīn niǔ gān le.He wrung the towel dry.
- 扭，。Tā bù xiǎoxīn niǔ le jiǎo, bùnéng zǒulù le.She accidentally sprained her ankle and can't walk.
- ，。Tā niǔ dòng zhe shēntǐ, gēn zhe yīnyuè tiàowǔ.She swayed her body and danced to the music.
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