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Chinese

gǒngshǒu
Meaning: to clasp one's hands before the chest as a respectful greeting; to yield without resistance
Part of Speech: Verb

Listen to pronunciation

Example

他向長輩拱手致意,然後才坐下。
他向长辈拱手致意,然后才坐下。
He respectfully greeted the elder with his hands clasped before his chest, then sat down.

Usage Notes

This usually describes a traditional greeting with both hands held together before the chest. In older or figurative contexts, it can also suggest yielding or giving something up without resistance.

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