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March 24, 2026
骨干(骨幹)gǔgàn(gu3gan4)
The term 骨干 (gǔgàn) literally refers to the diaphysis, the long segment of a bone, but it is also used metaphorically to denote the backbone or the essential part of a group or organization. In this context, it signifies the core members or the main structure that supports the rest.
Frequency#32354DifficultyVery Hard
Cultural Note
In Chinese culture, the concept of 骨干 is often linked to the importance of leadership and structure within both familial and organizational settings, highlighting the value placed on strong foundational roles.
Memory Tip
Think of 骨 (gǔ) as 'bone' and 干 (gàn) as 'stem' or 'backbone.' Imagine a strong tree where the stem holds up all the branches, just like the 骨干 holds up a group. The shape of 骨 resembles a bone, and 干 can remind you of a sturdy pole.
Meanings of 骨干
gǔgàn(gu3gan4)
1diaphysis (long segment of a bone)
2fig. backbone
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About 骨干
骨干Simplified
骨幹Traditional
—Strokes
—Radical
名词míngcínoun (n.)Part of Speech
#32354Frequency Rank
HSK 2.0L6HSK 3.0L7AdvancedCEFRC2
Podcast: 骨干
Podcast: 骨干
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AI Study Notes for 骨干
Quick Contrast
中坚 (zhōngjiān) — use 骨干 for the literal or structural backbone, while 中坚 emphasizes the core or central role in a group.
Memory Mnemonic
Think of 骨 (gǔ) as 'bone' and 干 (gàn) as 'stem' or 'backbone.' Imagine a strong tree where the stem holds up all the branches, just like the 骨干 holds up a group. The shape of 骨 resembles a bone, and 干 can remind you of a sturdy pole.
Usage Notes
This term is often used in formal contexts, particularly in discussions about organizational structure or leadership. A common mistake is to confuse 骨干 with similar terms like 成员 (chéngyuán), which means 'member'—the former emphasizes centrality and importance. Ensure you use the correct tone when pronouncing it, as mispronouncing 干 can lead to misunderstandings.
HSK Study Tips
As an HSK 6 word, 骨干 connects well with other advanced terms related to structure and organization. Students should focus on its metaphorical use in societal and organizational contexts, as well as practice its pronunciation and tones to avoid common errors.
Cultural Note
In Chinese culture, the concept of 骨干 is often linked to the importance of leadership and structure within both familial and organizational settings, highlighting the value placed on strong foundational roles.
Common Mistakes
Learners often confuse 骨干 with 领导 (lǐngdǎo), which means 'leadership.' For example, saying '他是这个项目的骨干' (Tā shì zhège xiàngmù de gǔgàn) is correct, whereas '他是这个项目的领导' may not reflect the same meaning unless he is in a leadership role.
AI-enhanced 2026-03-24
Pronunciation of 骨干
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Grammar Patterns of 骨干
骨干 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.
A core of about six staff would continue with the project.
Cultural Notes for 骨干
🏮Cultural insight
In Chinese culture, the concept of 骨干 is often linked to the importance of leadership and structure within both familial and organizational settings, highlighting the value placed on strong foundational roles.
Frequently Asked Questions about 骨干
No, while it can refer to the diaphysis in a medical sense, it is more commonly used metaphorically in discussions about leadership or core members of a team.
Yes, it can also describe the main structure of a project or organization, not just individuals.
The opposite might be a term like 边缘 (biānyuán), which means 'marginal' or 'peripheral,' referring to less central or important members.
