一手

• Pinyin: yī shǒu
• Hanzi breakdown: 一 = 一 (one); 手 = 手 (hand)

Meaning

Single-handedly; firsthand. Also refers to a skill or trick; in some contexts, exclusive control.

Can mean doing something alone without help, obtaining information directly from the source, or possessing a particular skill. Also used for underhanded tactics in phrases like 耍一手.

Examples

1. 这个项目是她一手创建的。 She built this project single-handedly.
2. 记者获得了一手资料。 The reporter obtained firsthand information.
3. 他练就了一手好厨艺。 He has developed excellent cooking skills.

Usage Guide

Context: achievements, skills, information

Tone: emphatic

Do Say

• 这家企业是他一手打造的。(He built this enterprise single-handedly.)
• 她写得一手好字。(She writes beautiful calligraphy.)

Don't Say

• 我一手拿了杯子 — for literal single-hand holding, use 用一只手; 一手 implies sole effort or skill

Origin & History

一 (one) + 手 (hand)

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal