梳理 in 30 Seconds
- Comb hair (literal).
- Organize/sort/clarify complex information (metaphorical, common).
- Implies systematic process and bringing order.
- Used in academic, professional, and problem-solving contexts.
The Chinese word 梳理 (shūlǐ) is a versatile verb with two primary meanings, one literal and one metaphorical. Its literal meaning is to comb one's hair, a common daily activity. However, it is far more frequently used in its metaphorical sense, which means to systematically organize, sort out, clarify, or untangle complex information, thoughts, or situations. This metaphorical usage is particularly prevalent in academic, professional, and problem-solving contexts.
- Literal Meaning
- To comb hair. This is the most straightforward meaning, often used in everyday conversation when talking about personal grooming.
- Metaphorical Meaning
- To organize, sort out, clarify, or untangle complex information, ideas, or issues. This implies a process of bringing order to chaos, making something understandable or manageable.
我需要 梳理 一下我的思绪，才能更好地回答这个问题。
The act of 'shūlǐ' implies a deliberate and methodical process. It's not just a quick glance; it's about delving into the details, identifying connections, and creating a coherent structure. This can apply to anything from a messy desk to a complex research paper, a confusing set of instructions, or even a tangled relationship. The emphasis is on making something clear, logical, and accessible. The process often involves reviewing, analyzing, and reorganizing.
请你帮我 梳理 一下这些数据，找出其中的规律。
In a professional setting, 'shūlǐ' is commonly used when discussing project planning, data analysis, report writing, or strategic thinking. For example, a manager might ask an employee to 'shūlǐ' the project requirements to ensure everyone understands the scope. In academia, students might be asked to 'shūlǐ' their research findings to present them clearly. Even in everyday life, one might 'shūlǐ' their schedule to fit in appointments or 'shūlǐ' their belongings to declutter.
她花了一个下午的时间 梳理 了她的旧照片。
The act of 'shūlǐ' often precedes a decision, a plan, or a presentation, as it lays the groundwork for clear communication and effective action. It’s a crucial step in understanding and managing complexity.
- Key Aspects
- Methodical process, bringing order, clarification, understanding complexity, preparation for action.
Mastering the usage of 梳理 (shūlǐ) involves understanding its grammatical role and common sentence structures. As a verb, it typically follows the subject and precedes the object, or it can be used in imperative sentences. It can also be modified by adverbs indicating the manner or extent of the action.
我们需要仔细 梳理 整个项目的流程。
The object of 'shūlǐ' is often abstract, such as information, data, thoughts, or plans. This is where its metaphorical power shines. For instance, when you need to make sense of a complicated situation, you would 'shūlǐ' the details.
- Subject + 梳理 + Object
- This is the most common structure. The subject performs the action of organizing or clarifying the object.
老师要求学生们 梳理 课堂笔记，以便复习。
The verb can also be followed by directional complements or resultative complements to indicate the outcome of the 'shūlǐ' process. For example, '梳理清楚' (shūlǐ qīngchu) means to sort out clearly, and '梳理完毕' (shūlǐ wánbì) means to finish sorting out.
- Adverb + 梳理 + Object
- Adverbs like '仔细' (zǐxì - carefully), '认真' (rènzhēn - earnestly), or '重新' (chóngxīn - again) can precede '梳理' to specify the manner of the action.
在做出决定之前，他花了很多时间 梳理 了所有可能的选项。
Imperative sentences using 'shūlǐ' are common when giving instructions or making requests.
- Imperative: 梳理 + Object
- Often used as a command or request, e.g., '请梳理一下你的报告' (Please organize your report).
会议之前，我们需要 梳理 清楚这个问题的症结所在。
The ability to use 'shūlǐ' effectively demonstrates a higher level of fluency, as it allows for nuanced expression of analytical and organizational processes. It's a key verb for discussing complex tasks and problem-solving.
You'll encounter 梳理 (shūlǐ) in a wide array of contexts, reflecting its broad utility, especially in its metaphorical sense. It's a staple in professional and academic environments, but also appears in everyday discussions about problem-solving and organization.
在项目启动前，我们需要 梳理 清楚项目的目标和范围。
Professional Settings: In meetings, reports, and strategy sessions, 'shūlǐ' is used to describe the process of making complex information digestible. For example, a manager might ask their team to 'shūlǐ' market research data to identify key trends. A consultant might explain that they are hired to 'shūlǐ' a company's operational inefficiencies. It's about bringing order to business processes, financial reports, or strategic plans.
- Business & Management
- Used when analyzing business strategies, financial data, project plans, or workflows to identify issues and propose solutions.
这项研究的目的是 梳理 历史文献，发现新的研究方向。
Academic Environments: Students and researchers frequently use 'shūlǐ' when referring to organizing their thoughts for essays, clarifying complex theories, or synthesizing information from multiple sources. A professor might instruct a student to 'shūlǐ' their argument before writing the final paper. It's about making academic content coherent and logical.
- Education & Research
- Common in academic writing and discussions about literature reviews, thesis structuring, and conceptual analysis.
他花了整晚的时间 梳理 他的法律案件细节。
Problem-Solving and Personal Development: In everyday conversations, people might use 'shūlǐ' when talking about organizing their personal finances, planning a complex trip, or even untangling a misunderstanding with a friend. It signifies the effort to bring clarity and order to personal challenges.
- Daily Life & Personal Growth
- Used when discussing personal organization, planning, or resolving personal issues.
心理咨询师帮助他 梳理 自己的情感困惑。
Media and News: News reports and documentaries might use 'shūlǐ' to describe how experts are analyzing a complex event, or how authorities are trying to 'shūlǐ' the aftermath of a disaster. It highlights the effort to make sense of chaotic situations.
While 梳理 (shūlǐ) is a valuable word, learners can sometimes make mistakes in its application. These errors often stem from confusion with similar words or overgeneralization of its usage.
- Mistake 1: Overusing the Literal Meaning
- Error: Using 'shūlǐ' for any action involving hair, even simple combing.
Correct: While 'shūlǐ tóufǎ' (梳理头发) is correct for combing hair, in many everyday situations, the simpler verb 'shū' (梳) is more natural for just combing. 'Shūlǐ' implies a more thorough or systematic process, even for hair, perhaps detangling or styling it carefully.
Example: Instead of saying '我每天早上都梳理头发' (I comb my hair every morning), it's more common to say '我每天早上都梳头' (wǒ měitiān zǎoshang dōu shū tóu). However, if you're talking about carefully styling or detangling very long or tangled hair, '梳理' becomes more appropriate.
Incorrect: 他正在 梳理 他的猫。
- Mistake 2: Confusing with Simpler Organizing Verbs
- Error: Using 'shūlǐ' when a simpler verb like '整理' (zhěnglǐ - to tidy up, put in order) or '收拾' (shōushi - to tidy up, pack up) would suffice.
Correct: 'Shūlǐ' implies a deeper, more systematic process of clarifying and organizing complex or messy information, thoughts, or issues. 'Zhěnglǐ' is more about general tidying and arranging. 'Shōushi' is often about cleaning up a mess or packing.
Example: For a messy room, you'd use '整理房间' (zhěnglǐ fángjiān). For organizing research data, '梳理数据' (shūlǐ shùjù) is more appropriate than '整理数据'.
Incorrect: 我需要 梳理 我的书桌。
- Mistake 3: Using it for Simple Actions
- Error: Applying 'shūlǐ' to actions that are too simple or don't involve complexity.
Correct: 'Shūlǐ' is best reserved for situations where there's a degree of complexity, confusion, or mess that needs systematic clarification or organization. It implies a mental or informational untangling.
Example: If you're just listing items on a page, you wouldn't say you're 'shūlǐ' them. But if you're analyzing those items to find patterns, then 'shūlǐ' becomes appropriate.
Incorrect: 我在 梳理 我要买的菜。
- Mistake 4: Incorrect Word Order or Missing Components
- Error: Placing 'shūlǐ' incorrectly in a sentence or omitting the object when it's implied but necessary for clarity.
Correct: Ensure 'shūlǐ' functions as a transitive verb with an object, or is used in a context where the object is clear. Adverbs modifying it should typically precede it.
Example: '我正在梳理' is incomplete if the context isn't extremely clear. It's better to say '我正在梳理我的思路' (I am sorting out my thoughts).
Understanding the nuances of 梳理 (shūlǐ) is best achieved by comparing it with similar Chinese words. These alternatives often overlap in meaning but differ in their specific connotations, formality, or the type of object they typically act upon.
The word 梳理 implies a careful, systematic process of untangling or organizing.
- 梳理 (shūlǐ) vs. 整理 (zhěnglǐ)
- 梳理 (shūlǐ): Focuses on clarifying, untangling, and systematically organizing complex or abstract information, thoughts, or issues. It suggests a deeper level of analysis and bringing order to confusion. Often used for data, research, plans, or even emotional states.
整理 (zhěnglǐ): A more general term for tidying up, putting things in order, or organizing physical objects or less complex information. It's about making something neat and presentable.
Example: You '梳理' your research findings (to organize and analyze them) but '整理' your desk (to tidy it up).
We '梳理' complex theories but '整理' scattered papers.
- 梳理 (shūlǐ) vs. 清理 (qīnglǐ)
- 梳理 (shūlǐ): As discussed, involves systematic organization and clarification of complex matters.
清理 (qīnglǐ): Primarily means to clean up, clear out, or dispose of unwanted items or clutter. It has a stronger sense of removal and making space.
Example: You '梳理' your thoughts to understand them, but you '清理' a room full of junk.
After '梳理' the situation, they decided to '清理' the problematic elements.
- 梳理 (shūlǐ) vs. 归纳 (guīnà)
- 梳理 (shūlǐ): The process of sorting, organizing, and clarifying information, often as a precursor to generalization.
归纳 (guīnà): Specifically means to summarize, generalize, or induce. It's about drawing general conclusions from specific instances.
Example: You might '梳理' several case studies to understand them individually, and then '归纳' common themes or principles from them.
The '梳理' of data leads to the '归纳' of findings.
- 梳理 (shūlǐ) vs. 梳 (shū)
- 梳理 (shūlǐ): The verb with both literal and metaphorical meanings. When literal, it implies a more thorough combing, detangling, or styling.
梳 (shū): The basic verb 'to comb'. It's more direct and less emphatic than 'shūlǐ' when referring to hair.
Example: '梳头' (shū tóu) is the standard way to say 'comb hair'. '梳理头发' (shūlǐ tóufǎ) might be used for very tangled hair or a detailed styling process.
How Formal Is It?
Fun Fact
The character '理' itself has a complex etymology, originally depicting a silkworm's thread being unraveled. This imagery of untangling and bringing order to something complex strongly resonates with the metaphorical use of '梳理'. The character also contains the radical '王' (king), suggesting that bringing order is a noble or important task.
Pronunciation Guide
- Incorrect tone on 'lǐ' (e.g., using a flat tone instead of falling).
- Pronouncing 'shū' too short or with the wrong vowel sound.
- Confusing the tones with other similar-sounding words.
Difficulty Rating
At B1 level, learners can understand the main points of clear standard input. '梳理' is common enough in written texts at this level, especially in contexts related to study, work, or problem-solving, that learners will encounter it frequently. Recognizing its metaphorical meaning is key.
At B1 level, learners can write clear, detailed text on a range of subjects. Using '梳理' appropriately in writing requires understanding its nuance between literal and metaphorical meanings, and choosing it over simpler verbs like '整理' when complexity or clarification is involved.
At B1 level, learners can interact with a degree of fluency and spontaneity. Using '梳理' in speaking allows for more sophisticated expression when discussing plans, organizing thoughts, or analyzing situations. It's a valuable verb for moving beyond basic communication.
At B1 level, learners can understand the main points of clear standard speech. Recognizing '梳理' in spoken contexts, especially when discussing work, studies, or problem-solving, is achievable. Its metaphorical use is frequent in these scenarios.
What to Learn Next
Prerequisites
Learn Next
Advanced
Grammar to Know
Resultative Complements (e.g., 清楚, 完毕)
我们必须 梳理 清楚 这个问题。 (We must clarify the problem thoroughly.) 他 梳理 完毕 了 所有的 文件。 (He has finished organizing all the documents.)
Directional Complements (e.g., 出)
通过 梳理，他 找出 了 几个 关键点。 (Through organizing, he identified several key points.)
Adverbial Modifiers (e.g., 仔细, 好好)
请 仔细 梳理 你的 报告。 (Please carefully organize your report.) 这件事 需要 好好 梳理。 (This matter needs to be properly sorted out.)
Verb-Object Structure with Abstract Objects
我需要 梳理 我的 思绪。 (I need to sort out my thoughts.) 她 正在 梳理 市场 数据。 (She is organizing the market data.)
Using '一下' for a less intensive action
我需要 梳理 一下 我的 计划。 (I need to sort out my plan a bit.)
Examples by Level
我梳头。
I comb hair.
Simple subject-verb-object structure.
妈妈梳理我的头发。
Mom combs my hair.
Adding a subject (Mom) and object (my hair).
早上我梳理头发。
In the morning I comb hair.
Adding a time adverbial.
他的头发很长，需要梳理。
His hair is very long, needs combing.
Describing a condition that requires the action.
我喜欢梳理我的娃娃。
I like to comb my doll.
Using 'like to' + verb.
请帮我梳理一下。
Please help me comb.
Polite request using 'please help'.
我梳理得很干净。
I combed it very neatly.
Using an adverb to describe the manner.
这是我的梳子。
This is my comb.
Simple identification of an object.
我需要梳理一下我的思绪。
I need to sort out my thoughts.
Introduction to metaphorical use: 'sort out thoughts'.
她每天早上都会仔细梳理头发。
She carefully combs her hair every morning.
Using an adverb '仔细' (carefully) and a time phrase.
请你帮我梳理一下这个报告。
Please help me organize this report.
Metaphorical use with a concrete object (report).
我们应该梳理一下今天的学习内容。
We should review today's learning content.
Metaphorical use in an educational context.
他花了很多时间梳理他的项目计划。
He spent a lot of time organizing his project plan.
Describing time spent on metaphorical organization.
梳理完头发，我感觉清爽多了。
After combing my hair, I feel much refreshed.
Using a temporal clause 'after...'
这个问题的答案需要我们好好梳理。
The answer to this question requires us to sort it out properly.
Metaphorical use indicating a need for careful clarification.
她正在梳理衣柜里的衣服。
She is organizing the clothes in the wardrobe.
Literal organization of physical items, borderline between 'shūlǐ' and 'zhěnglǐ'.
在做出决定之前，我们需要仔细梳理所有相关信息。
Before making a decision, we need to carefully sort out all relevant information.
Metaphorical use in a decision-making context, emphasizing carefulness.
教授要求学生们梳理文献，写一篇综述。
The professor asked the students to sort through the literature and write a review.
Academic context: organizing research material.
他花了整个下午梳理他的财务报表。
He spent the entire afternoon organizing his financial statements.
Professional context: organizing complex data.
请你帮我梳理一下思路，我有点乱。
Please help me organize my thoughts; I'm a bit confused.
Metaphorical use for personal confusion, requesting help.
这次会议的目的是梳理项目进展，发现潜在问题。
The purpose of this meeting is to review project progress and identify potential issues.
Business context: reviewing progress and identifying issues.
她正在梳理她的人生经历，准备写自传。
She is sorting through her life experiences, preparing to write an autobiography.
Personal development context: organizing past events for a creative work.
我们必须梳理清楚这个问题的所有细节。
We must clarify all the details of this problem.
Emphasis on clarifying details of a complex issue.
他每天早上都会花时间梳理自己的着装。
Every morning he spends time organizing his outfit.
Literal interpretation, but implies careful selection and organization.
在制定新的市场策略之前，我们必须对现有的数据进行深入的梳理和分析。
Before formulating a new market strategy, we must conduct an in-depth organization and analysis of the existing data.
Professional context, emphasizing 'in-depth' and 'analysis'.
这位历史学家花了数年时间梳理了大量的原始文献，才得以写出这部巨著。
This historian spent years sorting through a vast amount of original documents before being able to write this monumental work.
Academic/historical context, highlighting extensive effort and volume of material.
心理学家帮助患者梳理童年创伤，以便更好地理解其成年后的行为模式。
The psychologist helps the patient untangle childhood traumas to better understand their adult behavioral patterns.
Psychological context, using 'untangle' for complex emotional issues.
我们需要梳理一下公司目前的组织架构，看看是否存在冗余或效率低下的环节。
We need to review the company's current organizational structure to see if there are any redundancies or inefficient links.
Business context: analyzing organizational structure for efficiency.
在辩论赛前，选手们会反复梳理自己的论点，确保逻辑严谨。
Before a debate, contestants repeatedly organize their arguments to ensure logical rigor.
Academic/competitive context: structuring arguments for logical rigor.
她面对复杂的法律条文，逐条梳理，力求找出关键点。
Facing complex legal clauses, she sorted them out clause by clause, striving to find the key points.
Professional (legal) context: detailed clause-by-clause analysis.
政府正在努力梳理和公开受灾地区的最新情况。
The government is working hard to organize and publicize the latest situation in the disaster-stricken areas.
Societal context: organizing and disseminating information during a crisis.
为了提高工作效率，他开始梳理自己的工作流程，并进行了优化。
To improve work efficiency, he began to organize his workflow and optimize it.
Workplace context: analyzing and optimizing workflow.
该研究旨在通过对海量基因序列数据的系统梳理，揭示潜在的疾病关联性。
This research aims to reveal potential disease associations by systematically organizing massive amounts of genetic sequence data.
Scientific research context: systematic organization of massive datasets.
这位作家擅长将纷繁复杂的社会现象，通过细腻的人物内心梳理，展现在读者面前。
This writer excels at presenting complex social phenomena to readers by meticulously organizing the characters' inner thoughts.
Literary context: organizing complex psychological and social elements.
在后现代语境下，对历史叙事的梳理往往伴随着对权力结构的解构。
In a postmodern context, the organization of historical narratives often accompanies the deconstruction of power structures.
Academic (postmodern theory) context: deconstructing and re-organizing narratives.
公司面临的危机需要高层进行战略层面的梳理，以重塑企业形象。
The crisis facing the company requires top management to conduct a strategic-level review to reshape the corporate image.
Corporate strategy context: strategic-level review for image reshaping.
哲学家们试图梳理出人类意识的本质，这一过程充满了挑战与未知。
Philosophers attempt to clarify the essence of human consciousness, a process fraught with challenges and unknowns.
Philosophical context: clarifying the essence of abstract concepts.
通过对不同文化符号的梳理，我们可以更深入地理解一个民族的集体无意识。
By organizing and analyzing different cultural symbols, we can gain a deeper understanding of a nation's collective unconscious.
Anthropological/cultural studies context: analyzing cultural symbols for deeper meaning.
在信息爆炸的时代，学会梳理和筛选有效信息成为一项关键技能。
In the era of information explosion, learning to organize and filter relevant information has become a key skill.
Modern society context: skill development for information management.
艺术家通过对过往创作的梳理，寻找新的艺术表达的可能性。
The artist seeks new possibilities for artistic expression by reviewing their past creations.
Artistic context: reviewing past works for new creative directions.
该理论的构建，源于作者对复杂社会现象的细致梳理，并试图从中提炼出普遍性规律。
The construction of this theory originates from the author's meticulous organization of complex social phenomena, attempting to distill universal laws from them.
Advanced academic discourse: 'meticulous organization' of 'complex social phenomena' to 'distill universal laws'.
在解构主义批评的视角下，文本的意义并非固定不变，而是通过读者对其的不断梳理与重构而生成。
From the perspective of deconstructionist criticism, the meaning of a text is not fixed but is generated through the reader's continuous organization and reconstruction of it.
Literary theory context: 'continuous organization and reconstruction' of text meaning.
历史学家在梳理帝国的兴衰历程时，往往需要权衡宏观的政治经济因素与微观的个体命运。
When organizing and analyzing the rise and fall of an empire, historians often need to weigh macro political and economic factors against micro individual destinies.
Historiography context: balancing macro and micro perspectives during analysis.
面对海量且碎片化的信息，有效的梳理能力已成为信息时代个体生存与发展的核心竞争力。
In the face of massive and fragmented information, effective organizational skills have become a core competency for individual survival and development in the information age.
Societal/technological context: 'effective organizational skills' as a 'core competency'.
艺术评论家通过对艺术家创作历程的梳理，试图解读其作品中潜藏的深层哲学意涵。
The art critic attempts to interpret the deep philosophical implications hidden within the artist's works by organizing and analyzing their creative journey.
Art criticism context: interpreting 'deep philosophical implications' through creative journey analysis.
在诊断复杂疾病时，医生需要系统地梳理患者的病史、症状和检查结果，以排除其他可能性。
When diagnosing complex diseases, doctors need to systematically organize the patient's medical history, symptoms, and test results to rule out other possibilities.
Medical context: 'systematically organize' patient data for diagnosis.
语言学研究中，对语料库数据的梳理是分析语言结构和演变规律的基础。
In linguistic research, the organization of corpus data is fundamental to analyzing language structure and evolutionary patterns.
Linguistics context: 'organization of corpus data' as a 'fundamental' step.
他通过对自身经历的深度梳理，最终找到了人生的意义和价值所在。
Through an in-depth organization of his own experiences, he finally found the meaning and value of his life.
Existential/personal growth context: 'in-depth organization of experiences' leading to self-discovery.
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
— To sort out a bit; implies a less intensive or more immediate need for organization/clarification.
我需要梳理一下我的想法，然后告诉你。 (I need to sort out my thoughts a bit, then I'll tell you.)
— To carefully organize or sort out; emphasizes the meticulous nature of the process.
在做决定前，请仔细梳理所有的选项。 (Before making a decision, please carefully sort out all the options.)
— To organize or sort out properly/thoroughly; suggests a need for careful and complete attention.
这件事需要我们好好梳理一下。 (This matter needs us to sort it out properly.)
— To clarify thoroughly; to make something completely understandable and organized.
我们必须梳理清楚这个复杂的问题。 (We must clarify this complex problem thoroughly.)
— To have finished organizing or sorting out; indicates completion of the process.
等我把这些资料梳理完毕，就可以开始写报告了。 (Once I've finished organizing this material, I can start writing the report.)
— To organize/sort and analyze; often used together in professional or academic contexts.
我们需要先梳理和分析这些数据。 (We need to first organize and analyze this data.)
— To sort out and discover/identify (something); implies finding key elements or patterns after organizing.
通过梳理，我们梳理出了几个关键的营销策略。 (Through sorting out, we identified several key marketing strategies.)
— Spent a long time sorting out/organizing; indicates considerable effort and time invested.
我梳理了半天，才把这些文件找出来。 (I spent a long time sorting through them before I could find these documents.)
— To sort out one's thoughts; a common phrase for mental organization.
我需要一点时间梳理一下思绪。 (I need a little time to sort out my thoughts.)
— After sorting out/organizing; indicates a sequence of actions.
梳理了之后，情况就变得清晰多了。 (After sorting it out, the situation became much clearer.)
Often Confused With
'整理' is a more general term for tidying up or putting things in order, often applied to physical objects or simpler information. '梳理' implies a deeper, more systematic process of clarifying and organizing complex or abstract information, thoughts, or issues.
'清理' means to clean up, clear out, or dispose of unwanted items. It focuses on removal and making space, whereas '梳理' is about organizing and making sense of what remains or what is complex.
'分析' means to analyze, which involves breaking down something into parts to understand it. '梳理' often precedes or is a part of analysis, focusing on the organization and clarification of components before detailed examination.
Idioms & Expressions
— To clarify one's thoughts; to organize one's thinking process. This is a very common phrase closely related to the metaphorical use of '梳理'.
我需要安静一下，好好理清思路。 (I need some quiet to sort out my thoughts properly.)
General— To analyze something in great detail, point by point; meticulously organized and explained. This idiom describes the result of effective '梳理'.
这位教授的讲解总是条分缕析，让人一听就懂。 (This professor's explanations are always meticulous and easy to understand.)
Formal, Academic— To correct disorder and restore order; to set right what has been wrongly arranged. This idiom describes a large-scale act of '梳理' and rectification.
政府的目的是拨乱反正，恢复社会秩序。 (The government's aim is to correct disorder and restore social order.)
Formal, Political— Literally 'to draw silk from a cocoon' or 'to peel layers off an onion'; metaphorically, to investigate a matter thoroughly, revealing its complexities step by step. This idiom describes a methodical process of '梳理' to uncover truth.
侦探抽丝剥茧，最终找到了真凶。 (The detective painstakingly investigated, and finally found the real culprit.)
General, Figurative— To be at a loss for words because one's argument is weak or unjust; to be unable to argue further. This is the opposite of having clearly 'shūlǐ'ed' one's thoughts and arguments.
他被问得理屈词穷，只好承认错误。 (He was questioned until he was at a loss for words, and had to admit his mistake.)
General— Numerous and complicated threads or clues; a state of confusion or disorganization. This describes a situation that requires '梳理'.
这件事情头绪纷繁，一时难以理清。 (This matter has too many complicated threads, making it difficult to sort out at once.)
General— Neatly arranged, orderly, in perfect order. This describes the state achieved after successful '梳理'.
他的书房总是井井有条。 (His study is always neatly arranged.)
General— A thousand threads and ten thousand clues; extremely complex and intricate, with many details to sort out. Similar to '头绪纷繁'.
这个项目千头万绪，需要耐心去梳理。 (This project is extremely complex and requires patience to sort out.)
General— To distinguish right from wrong; to discern truth from falsehood. This is a higher-level cognitive process that often requires '梳理' of information.
在复杂的局面下，我们必须明辨是非。 (In a complex situation, we must distinguish right from wrong.)
General— Clear and logical; well-organized. This describes the quality of something that has been well 'shūlǐ'ed'.
他的演讲条理分明，深受听众喜爱。 (His speech was clear and logical, and well-liked by the audience.)
GeneralEasily Confused
Both '梳理' and '整理' relate to bringing order. They can sometimes be used interchangeably in very general contexts.
'梳理' implies a more meticulous, systematic, and often intellectual process of untangling complexity, clarifying abstract ideas, or organizing data. '整理' is broader, covering general tidying, arranging physical objects, or putting less complex information into order. For instance, you '梳理' research data to find patterns, but you '整理' a messy desk.
我需要梳理一下我的思路，才能更好地写报告。 (I need to sort out my thoughts to write the report better.) 我需要整理一下我的房间，它太乱了。 (I need to tidy up my room, it's too messy.)
'理清' also means to clarify or sort out, and is very close in meaning to the metaphorical use of '梳理'.
'理清' often emphasizes achieving clarity and resolving confusion, particularly with thoughts, relationships, or tangled situations. '梳理' can imply a more extensive process of systematic organization that leads to clarity. While '理清思路' (clarify thoughts) is very common, '梳理思路' suggests a more deliberate and structured approach to organizing those thoughts.
我需要一点时间理清我的思绪。 (I need a little time to clarify my thoughts.) 她花了很多时间梳理了自己的人生经历。 (She spent a lot of time organizing her life experiences.)
Both involve dealing with complex information.
'梳理' is about organizing, sorting, and clarifying information or ideas to make them understandable and manageable. '分析' is about breaking down information into its components to examine its structure, function, or meaning. '梳理' often serves as a preparatory step for '分析'. You first '梳理' the data, then '分析' it.
在分析数据之前，我们先要梳理清楚数据结构。 (Before analyzing the data, we first need to clarify the data structure.) 这份报告需要进行详细的分析。 (This report needs detailed analysis.)
This is the root character for the literal meaning.
'梳' is the basic verb 'to comb', primarily used for hair. '梳理' extends this to a more thorough, systematic combing process (literal) or a comprehensive process of organizing and clarifying abstract information (metaphorical). '梳头' (shū tóu) is the standard phrase for combing hair, while '梳理头发' might imply detangling or styling carefully.
我每天早上都梳头。 (I comb my hair every morning.) 他仔细梳理了自己凌乱的头发。 (He carefully combed his messy hair.)
Both involve processing information to find meaning.
'梳理' is the process of organizing, sorting, and clarifying information. '归纳' is the process of generalizing or summarizing based on specific instances or information. '梳理' helps in gathering and structuring the pieces, which then allows for '归纳' to draw broader conclusions.
通过对案例的梳理，我们可以归纳出一些共同特点。 (By organizing the cases, we can generalize some common characteristics.) 我们需要梳理这些信息，然后进行归纳总结。 (We need to organize this information, and then summarize it.)
Sentence Patterns
Subject + 梳理 + Object (literal)
我 + 梳理 + 头发。
Subject + 需要 + 梳理 + Object (metaphorical)
我 + 需要 + 梳理 + 思绪。
Subject + Adverb + 梳理 + Object
他 + 仔细 + 梳理 + 报告。
Subject + 梳理 + Object + Complement (e.g., 清楚)
我们 + 梳理 + 问题 + 清楚。
在 + Context + 之前, Subject + 梳理 + Object
在 + 做决定 + 之前, 我 + 梳理 + 了 + 所有信息。
Subject + 正在/在 + 梳理 + Object
她 + 正在 + 梳理 + 数据。
通过 + Object + 梳理, Subject + Verb + Result
通过 + 文献 + 梳理, 他 + 发现了 + 新的联系。
Subject + 旨在/致力于 + 对 + Object + 进行 + 梳理
研究 + 旨在 + 对 + 基因数据 + 进行 + 梳理。
Word Family
Verbs
Related
How to Use It
High (especially the metaphorical meaning).
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Using '梳理' for simple tidying of physical objects.
→
Use '整理' (zhěnglǐ) for general tidying up of rooms, desks, or files.
'梳理' implies a deeper, more systematic process of organizing and clarifying complex information or abstract concepts. '整理' is more appropriate for basic arrangement of physical items.
-
Using '梳理' for very casual combing of hair.
→
Use '梳头' (shū tóu) for everyday hair combing.
'梳理头发' (shūlǐ tóufǎ) suggests a more thorough process, like detangling or styling, whereas '梳头' is the standard, simpler term for basic hair combing.
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Confusing '梳理' with '分析' (fēnxī - analyze).
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Use '梳理' for the process of organizing and clarifying information, and '分析' for breaking it down to understand its components or meaning.
'梳理' is often a precursor to '分析'. You organize and clarify the data first ('梳理'), then you break it down and examine it ('分析').
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Omitting the object when it's necessary for clarity.
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Specify what is being '梳理', unless the context makes it extremely obvious.
Sentences like '我正在梳理' can be vague. It's better to say '我正在梳理我的思路' or '我正在梳理这些文件' for clarity.
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Using '梳理' when '理清' (lǐqīng - clarify) might be more direct for thoughts.
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While both can be used, '理清思路' is a very common idiom for clarifying thoughts. '梳理思路' suggests a more structured and detailed process of organizing them.
'理清' focuses on achieving clarity. '梳理' implies the systematic process that leads to that clarity. Choose based on the nuance you want to convey.
Tips
Visualize the Comb
Imagine a special comb that can untangle not just hair, but also messy ideas, data, or plans. This visual helps remember the core meaning of '梳理' as bringing order to complexity.
Mind the Tones
Pay close attention to the tones: 'shū' is first tone (high and flat), and 'lǐ' is third tone (falling then rising). Incorrect tones can change the meaning or make the word difficult to understand.
'梳理' vs. '整理'
Remember '梳理' for complex, systematic organization and clarification, especially of abstract information. Use '整理' for general tidying and ordering of physical objects or simpler matters.
Practice with Abstract Nouns
Try forming sentences using '梳理' with abstract nouns like '思路' (thoughts), '问题' (problems), '信息' (information), and '计划' (plans). This will reinforce its metaphorical usage.
Learn Collocations
Memorizing common collocations like '梳理信息', '梳理思路', and '梳理数据' will help you use the word more naturally and accurately in context.
Resultative Complements
Using '梳理' with resultative complements like '清楚' (clearly) or '完毕' (finished) adds precision and shows the outcome of the organizing process. For example, '梳理清楚问题'.
Value of Order
Understand that the emphasis on systematic organization and clarity in Chinese culture makes '梳理' a highly relevant and frequently used verb in many aspects of life.
Avoid Overgeneralization
Don't use '梳理' for very simple actions like just brushing hair (unless it's detailed styling) or casually tidying a desk. Reserve it for situations requiring a more in-depth, systematic approach to complexity.
Listen and Repeat
Listen to native speakers say '梳理' and repeat it. Pay attention to the tone changes and the quality of the vowels to improve your pronunciation.
Memorize It
Mnemonic
Imagine your hair is a tangled mess of thoughts and data. You use a special 'comb' (梳) to 'organize' (理) it all. The 'shū' sound is like 'shooing away' the mess, and 'lǐ' sounds like 'lead'ing you to clarity. So, 'shūlǐ' is like shooing away the mess to lead yourself to clear thoughts.
Visual Association
Picture a person meticulously combing their hair, but the strands of hair are actually lines of text, data points, or abstract ideas. As they comb, the tangled mess transforms into neat, orderly rows of information.
Word Web
Challenge
Try to explain a complex topic you know well (like a hobby or a subject you study) using the verb '梳理' at least three times to describe how you would organize or clarify the information for someone else.
Word Origin
The word '梳理' is a compound word formed from two characters: '梳' (shū) and '理' (lǐ). Both characters have meanings related to organization and order, which contributes to the word's overall sense of systematic clarification.
Original meaning: '梳' (shū) originally meant 'to comb hair'. '理' (lǐ) originally meant 'to arrange', 'to manage', or 'to reason'. Together, they extend the meaning of combing to a more general and abstract process of organizing and clarifying.
Sino-TibetanCultural Context
The term '梳理' itself is neutral and generally does not carry negative connotations. However, the context in which it is used matters. For example, '梳理' sensitive historical events or personal traumas should be done with care and respect.
In English-speaking cultures, similar concepts are expressed through phrases like 'to sort out,' 'to organize,' 'to clarify,' 'to untangle,' 'to make sense of,' or 'to structure.' The Chinese term '梳理' often encapsulates the methodical and sometimes intensive nature of these processes, particularly when dealing with abstract or complex information.
Practice in Real Life
Real-World Contexts
Organizing thoughts or ideas before a task.
- 我需要梳理一下我的思路。
- 在写论文之前，先梳理好大纲。
- 让我们一起梳理一下今天的讨论要点。
Reviewing or structuring complex information for work or study.
- 请帮我梳理一下这些研究数据。
- 我们需要梳理清楚项目的每一个环节。
- 老师要求我们梳理课本内容，准备考试。
Problem-solving and clarifying a situation.
- 我们必须梳理清楚这个问题的根源。
- 她花了很多时间梳理了事情的原委。
- 在解决冲突之前，先梳理各自的立场。
Planning and strategy development.
- 公司正在梳理新的市场策略。
- 我们需要梳理一下未来的发展方向。
- 他仔细梳理了每一步行动计划。
Personal organization and decluttering (can be literal or metaphorical).
- 我需要梳理一下我的衣柜。
- 她正在梳理她的人生经历。
- 花点时间梳理一下自己的目标。
Conversation Starters
"What's the most complex thing you've had to '梳理' recently, and how did you do it?"
"When you feel overwhelmed with information, what's your go-to method for '梳理' your thoughts?"
"Can you share a time when '梳理' a problem helped you find a solution?"
"How do you think '梳理' differs from simply 'organizing' or 'tidying up'?"
"If you were to '梳理' your learning journey in Chinese so far, what would be the main points?"
Journal Prompts
Describe a situation where you had to '梳理' a lot of information for a project or assignment. What was the challenge, and how did you approach it?
Reflect on a time you felt confused or overwhelmed. How did you '梳理' your thoughts or feelings to gain clarity?
Think about a skill you have. How would you '梳理' the process of learning that skill for someone else?
Imagine you need to explain a complicated topic to a child. How would you '梳理' the information to make it understandable?
Consider your personal goals. How can you '梳理' them to make them more achievable and trackable?
Frequently Asked Questions
10 questions'梳理' (shūlǐ) implies a more systematic, detailed, and often intellectual process of organizing, sorting, and clarifying complex or abstract information, thoughts, or issues. It suggests untangling confusion and bringing order to complexity. '整理' (zhěnglǐ) is a more general term for tidying up, putting things in order, or organizing physical objects or less complex information. For example, you would '梳理' research data to find patterns but '整理' a messy desk.
Yes, but it implies a more thorough and systematic organization than simple tidying. For instance, '梳理衣柜' (shūlǐ yīguì) would mean not just tidying it, but perhaps organizing clothes by season, type, or color, making it more systematic. For general tidying, '整理' is more common.
The literal meaning is used when referring to the act of combing hair. However, it often implies a more thorough combing, perhaps detangling or styling carefully, compared to the simpler verb '梳' (shū) which just means 'to comb'.
Metaphorically, you can '梳理' abstract concepts like thoughts, ideas, logic, or emotions. You can also '梳理' concrete but complex information such as data, reports, project plans, legal documents, historical events, or even relationships. The key is that there's a need for systematic organization and clarification.
'梳理' is not inherently formal, but its metaphorical usage is very common in formal and professional contexts like academia, business, and research because it describes the complex analytical and organizational processes involved. In casual conversation, simpler terms might be used unless the situation truly demands a description of systematic clarification.
The best English translation depends heavily on context. For the literal meaning, it's 'to comb hair'. For the metaphorical meaning, common translations include 'to sort out', 'to organize', 'to clarify', 'to untangle', 'to review', 'to process', or 'to systematize'. The nuance is often about bringing order to complexity.
Yes, you can say '进行梳理' (jìnxíng shūlǐ), meaning 'to carry out the process of organizing/clarifying'. This is common in formal contexts. For example: '我们需要对这些数据进行梳理。' (We need to carry out the organization of this data.)
No, '梳理' generally implies a process that takes time and effort. It suggests a methodical approach rather than a quick action. If you want to indicate a quick sort-out, you might use '梳理一下' (shūlǐ yīxià) or other phrases.
'理清' (lǐqīng) focuses on achieving clarity and resolving confusion. '梳理' (shūlǐ) is often the process that leads to clarity, involving systematic organization and untangling. You might '梳理' your thoughts to '理清' them.
While there isn't a single, universally accepted noun form directly derived from '梳理' in the same way 'organization' is from 'organize', phrases like '信息的梳理' (xìnxī de shūlǐ - the organization of information) or '思路的梳理' (sīlù de shūlǐ - the sorting out of thoughts) are used to refer to the act or result of '梳理'.
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Summary
The verb '梳理' (shūlǐ) is most often used metaphorically to describe the crucial process of systematically organizing, sorting, and clarifying complex information, thoughts, or situations, bringing order and understanding to what might otherwise be chaotic or confusing. While it can literally mean to comb hair, its power lies in its application to abstract concepts and problem-solving.
- Comb hair (literal).
- Organize/sort/clarify complex information (metaphorical, common).
- Implies systematic process and bringing order.
- Used in academic, professional, and problem-solving contexts.
Context is Key
Always consider the context when using '梳理'. If it's about hair, it's literal. If it's about information, plans, or problems, it's metaphorical. The metaphorical use is far more common and indicates a deeper process than simple tidying.
Visualize the Comb
Imagine a special comb that can untangle not just hair, but also messy ideas, data, or plans. This visual helps remember the core meaning of '梳理' as bringing order to complexity.
Mind the Tones
Pay close attention to the tones: 'shū' is first tone (high and flat), and 'lǐ' is third tone (falling then rising). Incorrect tones can change the meaning or make the word difficult to understand.
'梳理' vs. '整理'
Remember '梳理' for complex, systematic organization and clarification, especially of abstract information. Use '整理' for general tidying and ordering of physical objects or simpler matters.
Example
在写综述之前，我需要先梳理一下相关文献。
Related Content
Related Phrases
More Academic words
援助
B1To give help, support, or assistance, especially in the form of money, food, or medical supplies.
剖析
B1To analyze deeply and minutely; to dissect or examine a complex issue or structure thoroughly.
注释
B1Explanatory notes or comments added to a text to clarify meaning, provide context, or cite sources.
架构
B1The basic structure or framework of a system, organization, or piece of work; often used in IT or organizational management.
案例
B1A specific instance or example used as a basis for study, analysis, or as a precedent in law, medicine, or business.
阶层
B1Groups into which people are divided in a society; social stratum or class based on income, education, or status.
繁杂
B2Describes something that is both numerous (many) and miscellaneous (complex/disorganized). Often used for procedures, data, or information.
具象
B1Concrete, tangible, or representational (as opposed to abstract). It refers to things that can be perceived by the senses.
内涵
B2The essential content or underlying meaning of a concept, or the inner qualities/culture of a person.
答辩
B1To defend a thesis or argument, especially in a formal oral examination at the end of a degree program.
