hanky

/ˈhæŋki/ (bre, ipa) · /ˈhæŋki/ (ame, ipa)

hanky — noun

  • hankysingular
  • hankiesplural

1. a small square of soft fabric or disposable paper that people carry in their poc

1.名詞B1
釋義

a small square of soft fabric or disposable paper that people carry in their pocket, bag, or sleeve to wipe their nose, dry their eyes, or blow their nose — the casual, friendly word for handkerchief

例句

Wei pulled a clean hanky from his pocket and handed it to the crying child.

collocation: clean hanky / pull a hanky from one's pocket

On cold winter mornings, Sofia always stuffs a warm hanky into her coat sleeve.

collocation: stuff a hanky into [place]

同義詞
  • handkerchief

    the full, more formal name for the same item; used in writing and formal contexts

  • tissue

    a disposable paper version, more common in modern households for blowing one's nose

  • kerchief

    an older, less common word; usually refers to a cloth worn on the head or around the neck rather than used for the nose

文法句型

a + hanky

possessive + hanky

用法筆記

Very common in everyday speech, especially with children or when talking about minor everyday needs. The full form handkerchief sounds more formal or old-fashioned and is preferred in writing, formal situations, and when referring to a fashion accessory worn in a suit pocket.

常見錯誤

❌The bride cried, so her mother passed her a hanky.
✅The bride cried, so her mother passed her a handkerchief.
💡Weddings are formal occasions where the full word handkerchief is more suitable than the casual hanky.
❌I forgot my hanky at home, so I used my sleeve.
✅I forgot my handkerchief at home, so I used my sleeve.
💡In a complaint or explanation to an adult, the full word sounds more natural. However, 'hanky' is fine in casual conversation with friends or family.