锈

• Pinyin: xiù
• Hanzi breakdown: 锈 = 钅(metal radical) + 秀 (phonetic element)

Meaning

Rust; corrosion. As a verb, to rust or become corroded.

Refers to the oxidation of metal surfaces and the resulting deterioration. Also used metaphorically for skills or abilities that have degraded from lack of use.

Examples

1. 这把旧锁已经生锈打不开了。 This old lock is rusted shut and won’t open.
2. 铁制品如果保养不当就容易锈蚀。 If iron products aren’t properly maintained, they rust easily.
3. 他好久没练琴，手都锈了。 He hasn’t practiced the piano in a long time—his fingers are rusty.

Usage Guide

Context: maintenance, materials, metaphorical

Tone: neutral

Do Say

• 自行车链条锈了需要换新的。(The bicycle chain is rusted and needs replacing.)
• 常年不用的技能会慢慢锈掉。(Skills not used for years will gradually rust away.)

Don't Say

• 木头锈了 — wood does not rust; use 腐烂 (rot) for wood decay

Origin & History

锈 = 钅(metal) + 秀 (phonetic)

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal