雨衣

• Pinyin: yǔ yī
• Hanzi breakdown: 雨 = pictograph of raindrops falling from clouds; 衣 = pictograph of a garment

Meaning

Raincoat; rain jacket. A waterproof garment worn to protect against rain.

Can refer to any waterproof outerwear. Common types: 一次性雨衣 (disposable raincoat), 透明雨衣 (clear raincoat), 儿童雨衣 (children's raincoat). Related: 雨伞 (umbrella), 雨靴 (rain boots), 雨披 (rain poncho).

Examples

1. 天气预报说今天有雨，别忘了带雨衣出门。 The weather forecast says it will rain today; don't forget to bring a raincoat.
2. 骑自行车的时候穿雨衣比打伞方便多了。 Wearing a raincoat while cycling is much more convenient than using an umbrella.
3. 景区门口有卖一次性雨衣的，五块钱一件。 There are disposable raincoats for sale at the scenic area entrance, five yuan each.

Usage Guide

Context: weather, everyday, outdoor activities

Tone: practical

Do Say

• 你带雨衣了吗？(Did you bring a raincoat?)
• 这件雨衣防水性能很好。(This raincoat has great waterproofing.)

Don't Say

• 我穿雨衣游泳 — 雨衣不是泳衣，游泳用泳衣或潜水服

Origin & History

Compound of 雨 (rain) + 衣 (clothing). A straightforward compound meaning clothing for rain.

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal