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B2 adjective 7 min read

卓著

zhuozhu
Examples
Explanation 卓著 in your Level:
At the A1 level, learners are just beginning their journey into the Chinese language. They focus on basic survival vocabulary like greetings, numbers, and simple daily objects. The word 卓著 (zhuózhu) is far beyond the scope of an A1 curriculum. It involves complex characters and abstract concepts that beginners do not yet need. If an A1 learner encounters this word, it might be entirely by accident, perhaps seeing it on a plaque or a certificate without understanding its meaning. At this stage, instead of learning 卓著, a student should focus on simple adjectives like 好 (good) or 很好 (very good). For example, if they want to praise someone, they would simply say '你很好' (You are very good). The concept of 'outstanding contributions' is too advanced. However, it is useful for A1 learners to recognize that Chinese has a vast vocabulary for different levels of formality. Just knowing that words like 卓著 exist helps them understand that as they progress, they will learn to express themselves with much greater precision and elegance. For now, mastering basic sentence structures and essential vocabulary is the priority, leaving highly formal words for later stages of their language learning journey.
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At the A2 level, learners are expanding their vocabulary to include more descriptive words and are beginning to form compound sentences. They can talk about their hobbies, routines, and simple past experiences. While 卓著 (zhuózhu) is still too advanced for active use at this level, an A2 learner might start noticing more complex characters in their environment. They might learn the character 著 in the context of 著名 (famous), which is a much more common and useful word for A2 students. Understanding that 著 relates to being known or visible is a great stepping stone. If an A2 learner wants to say something is excellent, they would likely use 很好 (very good) or maybe 非常好 (extremely good). They might also learn 不错 (not bad/pretty good). The word 卓著, meaning 'outstanding' in a formal sense, is not necessary for their daily communication needs. However, if they are exposed to Chinese media or read simple biographies, they might see 卓著 and can deduce from context that it is a strong positive adjective. Teachers at this level should encourage learners to stick to simpler synonyms while building a foundation for these high-level vocabulary words in the future.
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At the B1 level, learners are becoming independent users of the language. They can handle most situations likely to arise while traveling in an area where Chinese is spoken. They are learning to express opinions, describe events, and give reasons for their views. At this stage, the concept of 'outstanding' or 'excellent' becomes more nuanced. While they might still rely heavily on 非常好 (extremely good), they are introduced to words like 优秀 (excellent) and 杰出 (outstanding). 卓著 (zhuózhu) might appear in reading comprehension texts, especially those dealing with history, science, or famous personalities. A B1 learner should be able to recognize 卓著 as a formal synonym for 'very good' or 'outstanding', but they might not yet use it actively in their own writing or speaking. The focus at B1 is on clear communication rather than highly formal elegance. If a B1 student tries to use 卓著, they might misuse it by applying it to everyday situations, like saying a movie was 卓著. It is important for them to learn the specific collocations, such as 贡献卓著 (outstanding contributions), as set phrases rather than trying to use 卓著 as a flexible, standalone adjective. This prepares them for the more rigorous vocabulary demands of the B2 level.
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At the B2 level, learners achieve a degree of fluency and spontaneity that makes regular interaction with native speakers quite possible without strain for either party. This is the exact level where 卓著 (zhuózhu) becomes a crucial part of the active vocabulary. B2 learners are expected to understand complex texts on both concrete and abstract topics, including technical discussions in their field of specialization. They are learning to navigate formal registers and understand the difference between spoken and written Chinese (书面语 vs. 口语). 卓著 is a quintessential B2 written word. Learners at this stage must master its collocations: 成绩卓著 (outstanding achievements), 贡献卓著 (outstanding contributions), and 信誉卓著 (outstanding reputation). They need to know that 卓著 cannot be modified by adverbs of degree like 很 or 非常. Using 卓著 correctly in an essay or a formal presentation demonstrates a sophisticated command of the language. It shows the examiner or the native speaker that the learner has moved beyond basic descriptions and can articulate high-level praise appropriately. Misusing it at this stage indicates a lack of register awareness, which is a key focus of B2 assessment. Therefore, practicing sentences with 卓著 is highly recommended for B2 students aiming to refine their formal expression.
At the C1 level, learners can express themselves fluently and spontaneously without much obvious searching for expressions. They use language flexibly and effectively for social, academic, and professional purposes. For a C1 learner, 卓著 (zhuózhu) is a familiar and comfortable tool in their vocabulary arsenal. They not only know what it means and how to use it, but they also understand its subtle nuances compared to synonyms like 卓越 (zhuóyuè) or 杰出 (jiéchū). A C1 learner can effortlessly incorporate 卓著 into complex sentence structures, using it to build compelling arguments or write elegant formal prose. They might use it in a business proposal to describe a company's track record or in an academic paper to summarize the impact of a historical figure. At this level, the focus is on stylistic appropriateness. A C1 learner knows exactly when to deploy 卓著 for maximum rhetorical effect and when to opt for a simpler word to avoid sounding overly pretentious. They can also play with the rhythm of the sentence, utilizing the four-character structure (e.g., 功勋卓著) to create a cadence that sounds highly native and literary. Mastery of words like 卓著 is what separates a proficient speaker from an advanced, eloquent communicator.
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At the C2 level, learners have mastered the language to a point where they can understand with ease virtually everything heard or read. They can summarize information from different spoken and written sources, reconstructing arguments and accounts in a coherent presentation. They express themselves spontaneously, very fluently, and precisely, differentiating finer shades of meaning even in more complex situations. For a C2 learner, 卓著 (zhuózhu) is used with native-like intuition. They fully appreciate the etymological depth of the characters 卓 and 著, understanding how the visual and historical context of these characters informs the word's modern usage. A C2 learner might encounter or use 卓著 in classical literature, highly formal state documents, or profound philosophical discourses. They can seamlessly transition between the highly formal register of 卓著 and colloquial slang depending on the audience and context. Furthermore, a C2 user can creatively adapt the word, perhaps using it in a slightly ironic or deeply poetic manner, fully aware of the linguistic rules they are bending. Their use of 卓著 is not just about grammatical correctness; it is about cultural resonance, stylistic brilliance, and an absolute command over the Chinese language's rich vocabulary.
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Examples
The Chinese adjective 卓著 (zhuózhu) is a formal, high-level vocabulary word that translates to outstanding, eminent, remarkable, or distinguished. When you encounter this word, it is almost exclusively used in formal written Chinese, academic contexts, news broadcasts, or official commendations. It is not typically used in casual daily conversation, such as praising a friend's cooking or a child's drawing. Instead, it is reserved for significant achievements, long-standing reputations, or profound contributions to society, science, or business. To truly grasp the essence of 卓著, we must break down its constituent characters. The first character, 卓 (zhuó), means tall, erect, profound, or outstanding. It conveys a sense of rising above the rest, standing tall among peers. The second character, 著 (zhù or zhuo), means manifest, clear, or to make known. When combined, 卓著 literally paints a picture of something that stands so tall and is so profoundly clear that it cannot be ignored. It is an undeniable, highly visible form of excellence.
Character Analysis: 卓
The character 卓 implies a vertical superiority, an excellence that reaches upward, surpassing ordinary standards.

他在医学领域的贡献十分卓著。

Character Analysis: 著
The character 著 emphasizes visibility and fame. It is the same character used in 著名 (famous), highlighting that the excellence is widely recognized.

这家公司在国际市场上信誉卓著。

Usage Context: Formal Commendations
You will frequently see this word on certificates, awards, and official biographies of historical figures or leading scientists.

为了表彰他卓著的功勋，政府颁发了特别奖章。

该团队在环保方面的成效卓著。

她凭借卓著的才华赢得了大家的尊重。

Understanding the specific register of 卓著 is crucial for mastering CEFR B2 Chinese. While a beginner might use 很好 (very good) or 非常棒 (excellent), an upper-intermediate to advanced learner will elevate their language by using 卓著 when discussing professional or historical greatness. It shows a deep appreciation for the nuances of Chinese vocabulary and an ability to match the tone of the language to the gravity of the subject matter. This word is a powerful tool in your vocabulary arsenal, allowing you to articulate respect and admiration in a highly sophisticated manner.
Using 卓著 correctly requires an understanding of its typical grammatical structures and collocations. As an adjective, it most commonly modifies specific two-character nouns. The most frequent structures are 'Noun + 卓著' (acting as a predicate) and '卓著的 + Noun' (acting as an attributive modifier). For example, you can say '成绩卓著' (the achievements are outstanding) or '卓著的成绩' (outstanding achievements). Both are grammatically correct, but the former is often used as a four-character set phrase, giving it a rhythmic, almost idiomatic quality that native speakers appreciate.
Structure 1: Noun + 卓著
This structure is often used at the end of a sentence or clause to summarize the high quality of the noun.

这位老教授在教育界声誉卓著。

Structure 2: 卓著的 + Noun
Use this when the outstanding quality is just one part of a larger sentence, modifying the noun directly before a verb.

他以卓著的战功被提升为将军。

Common Pairing: 成效 (Results/Effects)
Often used in business or policy to describe strategies that have worked incredibly well.

这项新政策实施以来，成效卓著。

经过几年的努力，公司的改革取得了卓著的成效。

他因为在科研上的卓著表现获得了诺贝尔奖。

When constructing sentences, pay attention to the rhythm. Chinese formal writing favors four-character rhythms. Therefore, saying 成绩卓著 (chéng jì zhuó zhù) flows perfectly. If you are writing an essay, a cover letter, or a formal speech, incorporating these four-character patterns will make your Chinese sound highly native and polished. Remember that 卓著 elevates the entire sentence, so the surrounding vocabulary should also be relatively formal. Mixing highly formal words like 卓著 with casual slang will create a jarring stylistic clash.
While you might not hear 卓著 at a night market or in a casual chat with friends, it is incredibly common in specific professional and formal environments. If you are studying Chinese for business, academic research, or diplomacy, this word is unavoidable. You will frequently encounter it in news broadcasts on CCTV, particularly during segments honoring national heroes, scientists, or successful diplomatic missions. It is also a staple in corporate environments, especially in annual reports, company profiles, and letters of recommendation.
Context 1: News and Media
News anchors use it to describe the lifetime achievements of significant figures upon their retirement or passing.

新闻报道了这位科学家卓著的一生。

Context 2: Corporate Profiles
Companies use it to build trust, often describing their reputation or past performance.

我们是一家在业内信誉卓著的跨国企业。

Context 3: Academic Recommendations
Professors writing letters of recommendation for top students will use this to emphasize exceptional academic performance.

该生在校期间学习成绩卓著。

这本传记详细记录了他卓著的政治生涯。

市长在致辞中感谢了志愿者们卓著的贡献。

Furthermore, historical texts and museum plaques are prime locations for spotting this word. When visiting China and touring historical sites, you will often read descriptions of ancient generals, emperors, or scholars whose '功勋卓著' (distinguished merit) shaped the course of history. Being able to recognize and understand this word in these contexts will greatly enrich your cultural and historical comprehension. It bridges the gap between everyday conversational Chinese and the sophisticated, literary language used to document the nation's heritage.
Even advanced learners can stumble when integrating a formal word like 卓著 into their vocabulary. The most common mistakes stem from a misunderstanding of its register, its collocations, and its intrinsic degree. Because it translates to 'outstanding', learners often try to use it exactly like the English word, applying it to food, weather, or casual skills. This results in sentences that sound highly unnatural to a native speaker. Additionally, learners often try to intensify the word with adverbs, forgetting that 卓著 already represents the absolute peak of excellence.
Mistake 1: Casual Application
Using 卓著 to describe everyday things like a good meal or a nice painting.

Incorrect: 妈妈做的菜很卓著。 (Correct: 妈妈做的菜很好吃/很棒。)

Mistake 2: Redundant Intensifiers
Adding 很 (very) or 非常 (extremely) before 卓著.

Incorrect: 他的贡献非常卓著。 (Correct: 他的贡献卓著。)

Mistake 3: Modifying Physical Objects
Using it to describe buildings, mountains, or physical beauty.

Incorrect: 这座大楼很卓著。 (Correct: 这座大楼很宏伟。)

Correct usage: 他的学术成就卓著。

Correct usage: 该药品的疗效卓著。

By avoiding these common pitfalls, you will immediately sound more proficient and culturally aware. The key is to reserve 卓著 for truly monumental, abstract concepts. It is a word of high praise, meant to be used sparingly and with respect. Practice writing sentences using the approved collocations, and soon, reaching for 卓著 in the right context will become second nature, greatly enhancing your formal Chinese expression.
In Chinese, there are many ways to say 'outstanding' or 'excellent', but they are not all interchangeable. Understanding the nuances between 卓著 and its synonyms is a hallmark of advanced proficiency. Words like 卓越 (zhuóyuè), 杰出 (jiéchū), and 优秀 (yōuxiù) share similar meanings but differ in their specific applications and emotional weight. By comparing these words, we can carve out the exact semantic space that 卓著 occupies.
Comparison 1: 卓著 vs 卓越 (zhuóyuè)
卓越 also means outstanding, but it is more often used to describe a person's abilities, talents, or leadership. You say 卓越的领导人 (an outstanding leader), but you say 贡献卓著 (outstanding contributions). 卓著 focuses more on the visible results or reputation, while 卓越 focuses on the inherent quality or capability.

他具有卓越的才能，并且取得了卓著的成绩。

Comparison 2: 卓著 vs 杰出 (jiéchū)
杰出 (outstanding/prominent) is very commonly used to describe people. 杰出青年 (outstanding youth) or 杰出科学家 (prominent scientist). While 卓著 can technically modify a person's life or career, it rarely modifies the person directly as a noun. You wouldn't say 卓著青年.

这位杰出的人才做出了卓著的贡献。

Comparison 3: 卓著 vs 优秀 (yōuxiù)
优秀 (excellent) is a much broader, lower-register word. It can be used for students, grades, products, or employees. It is the everyday word for 'very good'. 卓著 is several levels higher in formality and gravity.

他不仅是一名优秀的学生，未来必将成就卓著。

这家医院的医疗效果卓著。

在众多企业中，他们的信誉最为卓著。

Navigating these synonyms allows you to express precise shades of meaning. When you want to highlight the undeniable, highly visible, and monumental nature of an achievement or reputation, 卓著 is your best choice. It carries a weight and dignity that the other words lack, making it perfect for formal tributes, official documents, and high-level academic discourse.
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Examples by Level

1

他很好。

He is very good. (Focus on basic adjectives instead of 卓著)

Basic subject + adverb + adjective structure.

2

这个苹果很好吃。

This apple is very delicious.

Using 好 to describe quality.

3

她是一个好人。

She is a good person.

Basic attributive modifier.

4

今天天气很好。

The weather is very good today.

Describing weather.

5

我的书很好。

My book is very good.

Possessive pronoun + noun.

6

他很高。

He is very tall.

Basic description.

7

我喜欢这个。

I like this.

Basic subject + verb + object.

8

老师很好。

The teacher is very good.

Noun + adjective.

1

他是一个非常有名的人。

He is a very famous person. (Using 有名 instead of 卓著)

Using 非常 to intensify.

2

这个电影非常好看。

This movie is extremely good.

Describing media.

3

他的成绩不错。

His grades are not bad.

Using 不错 for positive feedback.

4

那家公司很有名。

That company is very famous.

Describing a company.

5

他做的事情很重要。

The things he does are very important.

Using 重要 (important).

6

大家都认识他。

Everyone knows him.

Expressing fame/recognition.

7

这是一本著名的书。

This is a famous book. (Introducing the character 著)

Using 著名 as an attributive.

8

他的工作做得很好。

He does his job very well.

Verb + 得 + complement.

1

他在科学方面有很大的贡献。

He has made great contributions to science.

Using 贡献 (contribution).

2

这家公司的产品非常优秀。

This company's products are very excellent.

Using 优秀 (excellent).

3

他是一位杰出的领导。

He is an outstanding leader.

Using 杰出 (outstanding).

4

这本小说的作者非常著名。

The author of this novel is very famous.

Using 著名.

5

我们取得了很好的成绩。

We achieved very good results.

Using 取得...成绩.

6

他在学校的表现很突出。

His performance at school is very prominent.

Using 突出 (prominent).

7

这个计划的效果很明显。

The effect of this plan is very obvious.

Using 明显 (obvious).

8

他因为工作出色受到了表扬。

He was praised because of his excellent work.

Using 出色 (excellent).

1

他在医学领域的贡献十分卓著。

His contributions in the medical field are extremely outstanding.

Noun + 卓著 as predicate.

2

这家企业在国际市场上信誉卓著。

This enterprise has an outstanding reputation in the international market.

信誉 + 卓著.

3

经过几年的努力，改革取得了卓著的成效。

After years of effort, the reform has achieved remarkable results.

卓著的 + Noun.

4

他凭借卓著的才华赢得了大家的尊重。

He won everyone's respect relying on his outstanding talent.

凭借 + 卓著的 + Noun.

5

为了表彰他卓著的功勋，政府颁发了奖章。

To commend his distinguished merit, the government awarded a medal.

表彰 + 卓著的 + 功勋.

6

该团队在环保方面的成绩卓著。

The team's achievements in environmental protection are outstanding.

成绩 + 卓著.

7

这是一位成就卓著的科学家。

This is a scientist with outstanding achievements.

成就卓著 as a modifier.

8

这部法律实施以来，成效卓著。

Since the implementation of this law, the results have been remarkable.

成效 + 卓著.

1

这位老一辈革命家一生功勋卓著，深受人民爱戴。

This older generation revolutionary had distinguished merits throughout his life and is deeply loved by the people.

Complex sentence with four-character idioms.

2

在应对此次全球经济危机中，该国的表现尤为卓著。

In dealing with this global economic crisis, the country's performance was particularly outstanding.

Using 尤为 to highlight the adjective.

3

他不仅在学术上建树卓著，在人才培养上也倾注了大量心血。

Not only has he made outstanding accomplishments academically, but he has also poured a lot of effort into cultivating talent.

建树 + 卓著 (outstanding accomplishments).

4

该品牌凭借其卓著的品质和完善的售后服务，占据了市场主导地位。

Relying on its outstanding quality and perfect after-sales service, the brand has occupied a dominant market position.

Formal business language.

5

历史将永远铭记那些为民族独立做出卓著贡献的英雄们。

History will forever remember those heroes who made outstanding contributions to national independence.

Formal historical narrative.

6

这家百年老店以其卓著的商业信誉，度过了无数次行业危机。

This century-old shop, with its outstanding commercial reputation, has survived countless industry crises.

商业信誉 + 卓著.

7

新疗法的临床试验结果显示，其抑制肿瘤生长的功效卓著。

The clinical trial results of the new therapy show that its efficacy in inhibiting tumor growth is remarkable.

功效 + 卓著 in a medical context.

8

市长在年度总结大会上，对各部门卓著的工作成绩给予了高度评价。

At the annual summary conference, the mayor spoke highly of the outstanding work achievements of all departments.

Formal administrative language.

1

纵观其波澜壮阔的一生，可谓功业卓著，彪炳史册。

Looking throughout his magnificent life, it can be said his achievements are outstanding and will shine in the annals of history.

Highly literary and classical phrasing.

2

在浩如烟海的古代典籍中，这部著作以其卓著的史料价值脱颖而出。

Among the vast sea of ancient texts, this work stands out with its outstanding historical value.

Using 卓著 to modify abstract value.

3

该学派在思想史上的地位之卓著，无需赘言。

The outstanding status of this school of thought in intellectual history needs no further elaboration.

地位之卓著 (the outstandingness of its status).

4

不仅其外交辞令优雅得体，其在斡旋国际冲突中的成效亦属卓著。

Not only is his diplomatic rhetoric elegant and appropriate, but his effectiveness in mediating international conflicts is also outstanding.

Formal diplomatic discourse.

5

此项工程规模宏大，设计精妙，其在建筑史上的贡献堪称卓著。

This project is massive in scale and exquisite in design; its contribution to architectural history can be called outstanding.

堪称 + 卓著 (can be called outstanding).

6

大师虽已仙逝，但其遗留的艺术瑰宝及卓著的艺术理念，将永垂不朽。

Although the master has passed away, the artistic treasures he left behind and his outstanding artistic concepts will be immortal.

Eulogistic language.

7

该国在推行绿色能源转型方面，展现出了卓著的远见与执行力。

In promoting the transition to green energy, the country has demonstrated outstanding foresight and execution.

Modifying abstract qualities like foresight.

8

观其行，察其言，其品行之高洁、学识之卓著，实乃吾辈之楷模。

Observing his actions and examining his words, the nobility of his character and the outstandingness of his knowledge truly make him a model for our generation.

Classical Chinese influence (文言文).

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