unknown, 8 strokes, radical 木, rank #43955, Very Hard
shū(shu1) T1
1door hinge; pivot; center of power
2hinge
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March 24, 2026
枢(樞)shū(shu1)
The character 枢 (shū) primarily refers to a door hinge or pivot, indicating a point around which something rotates or turns. It can also metaphorically denote a center of power or authority in a political or organizational context, reflecting its role as a crucial point of movement or decision-making.
Strokes8Radical木Frequency#43955DifficultyVery Hard
Cultural Note
In traditional Chinese architecture, door hinges were crafted with precision, symbolizing stability. The idea of a 'pivot' is also reflected in Chinese political philosophy, where the central figure often determines the direction of governance.
Memory Tip
Imagine a large door that can only swing open and closed thanks to its 'shū' (hinge). Visualize the hinge as the 'central pivot' for the entire door, much like a powerful leader who is the pivot of an organization, guiding decisions and movements.
Meanings of 枢
shū(shu1)
1door hinge; pivot; center of power
2hinge
Exercise 1 of 2
Listen & Choose the Meaning
Choose the correct answer:
About 枢
枢Simplified
樞Traditional
8Strokes
木Radical
名词míngcínoun (n.)Part of Speech
#—Frequency Rank
Podcast: 枢
Podcast: 枢
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AI Study Notes for 枢
Memory Mnemonic
Imagine a large door that can only swing open and closed thanks to its 'shū' (hinge). Visualize the hinge as the 'central pivot' for the entire door, much like a powerful leader who is the pivot of an organization, guiding decisions and movements.
Usage Notes
Learners often confuse 枢 with similar-sounding words; ensure you distinguish it from 书 (shū), meaning 'book'. It is generally used in both formal and informal contexts, but be mindful of using it in political discussions where its metaphorical meaning may be more relevant.
HSK Study Tips
Though 枢 is not on the HSK list, it connects with other HSK vocabulary related to parts of objects (like 门 for 'door') and concepts of authority. Focus on the radicals; 枢 contains the 木 (wood) radical, linking it to physical structures.
Cultural Note
In traditional Chinese architecture, door hinges were crafted with precision, symbolizing stability. The idea of a 'pivot' is also reflected in Chinese political philosophy, where the central figure often determines the direction of governance.
Common Mistakes
Learners might mistakenly use 枢 in contexts where another word would be more appropriate, such as using it for 'door' instead of '门' (mén). Always remember that 枢 specifically refers to the hinge or pivot itself.
AI-enhanced 2026-03-24
Pronunciation of 枢
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Grammar Patterns of 枢
枢 functions as a noun — it names a person, place, thing, or concept. Place it as a subject before the verb (主+谓) or as an object after the verb (谓+宾). Most Chinese nouns require a measure word between the number and the noun (e.g. 一个/三本). It carries 2 related meanings, each with its own usage notes below. The example sentences below show it in action, with practice buttons (Listen, Practice Writing, Practice Speaking) on every line.
Exercise 1 of 1
Complete the Sentence
这是通过中____神经系统的调节作用实现的。
This works through the mediation of the central nervous system.
Example Sentences for 枢 (1)
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1
这是通过中枢神经系统的调节作用实现的。
zhè shì tōng guò zhōng shū shén jīng xì tǒng de tiáo jié zuò yòng shí xiàn de。
This works through the mediation of the central nervous system.
Cultural Notes for 枢
🏮Cultural insight
In traditional Chinese architecture, door hinges were crafted with precision, symbolizing stability. The idea of a 'pivot' is also reflected in Chinese political philosophy, where the central figure often determines the direction of governance.
Word Family of 枢
Words Containing This Character8
中枢center中樞
枢纽shūniǔhinge樞紐
枢shūhinge樞
枢密院privy council樞密院
枢机cardinal (Catholicism)樞機
枢轴pivot樞軸
户枢不蠹lit. a door hinge never becomes worm-eaten戶樞不蠹
要枢key crossroad要樞
Exercise 1 of 4
Compound Meaning
What does 中枢 mean?
Frequently Asked Questions about 枢
It means 'hinge' or 'pivot', referring to something that allows for movement or rotation.
Yes, it can describe physical hinges in doors or metaphorically refer to central figures in politics.
It is pronounced as 'shū', with a high-level tone.
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