手续

• Pinyin: shǒu xù
• Hanzi breakdown: 手 = pictograph of a hand; 续 = 纟 (silk) + 卖 (sell, phonetic), meaning to continue

Meaning

Procedures; formalities. The steps and paperwork required to complete an official process.

Commonly used when discussing bureaucratic processes: 办手续 (handle formalities), 入学手续 (enrolment procedures), 签证手续 (visa procedures). Often paired with 办理 (to process/handle).

Examples

1. 办理入住手续需要出示身份证。 You need to show your ID to check in.
2. 出国留学的手续比较复杂。 The procedures for studying abroad are quite complicated.
3. 他已经办好了所有的手续。 He has already completed all the formalities.

Usage Guide

Context: official, travel, bureaucracy

Tone: neutral

Do Say

• 请问办签证需要什么手续？(What procedures are needed to apply for a visa?)
• 入学手续已经办好了。(The enrolment procedures have been completed.)

Don't Say

• 吃饭需要办什么手续？(Don't use 手续 for everyday activities — it refers to formal or official procedures, not casual actions.)

Origin & History

手 (hand) + 续 (continue/follow up). Originally referred to the sequence of steps one follows, now meaning formal procedures.

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal