Definition
顺手 (shùn shǒu) means 'handy' as an adjective (e.g., a tool that feels natural to use) and 'while you're at it' as an adverb (doing a small extra task without extra effort). As an adverb, it's similar to 顺便 (shùn biàn) but more physical — 顺手 implies using your hands in the same motion, while 顺便 is broader (any errand). As an adjective, it's distinct from 方便 (fāng biàn), which means 'convenient' in a general sense (location, time, ease).
adjective
convenient and easy to handlehandy
adverb
while one is at itin passing
Examples
- 顺手。Zhè zhī bǐ xiě qǐlái hěn shùn shǒu.This pen writes very smoothly / is very handy.
- 顺手。Nǐ chū qù de shíhou shùn shǒu bǎ lājī rēng le.Take out the trash when you go out, while you're at it.
- 顺手。Zhège ruǎnjiàn yòng qǐlái hěn shùn shǒu.This software is very convenient to use.
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