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B1 verb #1,800 most common 9 min read

指出

zhichu Top 1,800

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips 指出 in 30 Seconds

Explanation 指出 in your Level:

When embarking on the journey of learning Mandarin Chinese, A1 learners are primarily focused on the most fundamental and concrete vocabulary necessary for basic survival and daily interactions. At this initial stage, the word '指出' (zhǐ chū), which translates to 'to point out' or 'to indicate', might seem slightly advanced, as it often pertains to abstract concepts like pointing out mistakes or highlighting specific information in a text. However, introducing this compound verb early on provides a profound advantage in understanding Chinese word formation. The word is composed of two highly frequent characters: '指' (zhǐ), meaning 'finger' or 'to point', and '出' (chū), meaning 'out' or 'to emerge'. For an A1 learner, grasping the literal mechanics of this word—literally 'pointing outward'—creates a strong mnemonic foundation. Although A1 students might not use '指出' in complex debates, they can begin to recognize it in classroom settings. For instance, a teacher might say '老师指出' (the teacher points out) when correcting a pronunciation error or directing attention to a specific character on the whiteboard. Understanding this word helps A1 learners transition from purely physical actions to communicative actions. It introduces them to the concept of directional complements, where '出' modifies the action of '指' to show the result or direction of the pointing. This foundational knowledge is critical because directional complements are a major grammatical feature in Chinese that learners will encounter repeatedly. Furthermore, A1 learners can practice using '指出' in very simple subject-verb-object sentences, such as '他指出那个字' (He points out that character). This bridges the gap between physical pointing and verbal indication. By familiarizing themselves with '指出' at the A1 level, learners build confidence in decoding compound words, a skill that will exponentially accelerate their vocabulary acquisition as they progress to higher proficiency levels. The exposure to '指出' also prepares them for understanding instructions and feedback, which are essential components of the language learning process itself. Therefore, while it is officially categorized as a B1 word, its components and literal meaning make it highly accessible and immensely beneficial for A1 learners to encounter, analyze, and begin to integrate into their passive vocabulary repertoire, setting the stage for more active and nuanced usage in the future.

As learners progress to the A2 level, their communicative needs expand beyond basic survival phrases to encompass simple descriptions, expressing basic opinions, and navigating routine social exchanges. At this stage, the utility of '指出' (zhǐ chū) becomes significantly more apparent and practical. A2 learners are beginning to form more complex sentences and are starting to talk about past events and basic observations. Consequently, they can start using '指出' to describe actions related to identifying and highlighting things in their immediate environment or recent experiences. For example, an A2 learner can comfortably say '朋友指出了我的错误' (My friend pointed out my mistake) or '经理指出了那个问题' (The manager pointed out that problem). This represents a crucial step in language development: the ability to talk about the communication of information itself. Furthermore, at the A2 level, learners are heavily engaged in expanding their vocabulary and refining their grammar. They frequently receive feedback, making '指出' a highly relevant word in their learning context. They understand when a language partner 'points out' a tone error. This word also helps A2 learners practice the crucial grammatical particle '了' (le) for completed actions, as pointing something out is typically a discrete, completed event. The structure 'Subject + 指出 + 了 + Object' becomes a reliable and frequently used sentence pattern. Additionally, encountering '指出' in simple reading texts—such as short news snippets or graded readers—helps A2 learners develop reading comprehension skills. They learn to identify who is providing information and what specific information is being highlighted. While they might not yet use it to introduce complex clauses or abstract arguments, mastering the basic transitive use of '指出' with concrete nouns (mistakes, problems, locations, facts) empowers A2 learners to participate in more meaningful dialogues, report on what others have said, and acknowledge feedback constructively. It acts as a bridge word, moving them from merely describing what *is* to describing what people *say* about what is, thereby significantly enriching their expressive capabilities in everyday Mandarin.

The B1 level is the official CEFR categorization for '指出' (zhǐ chū), and it is at this intermediate stage that the word truly becomes an indispensable part of the learner's active vocabulary. B1 learners are expected to handle a wide variety of communicative tasks, including expressing opinions, providing explanations, summarizing information, and participating in discussions on familiar topics. '指出' is the perfect lexical tool for these functions. At this level, learners transition from using the word solely with simple noun objects (like 'mistake' or 'problem') to using it with full clauses. This is a major syntactic leap. A B1 learner can confidently construct sentences like '老师指出，我们必须多练习听力' (The teacher pointed out that we must practice listening more) or '新闻指出，明天的天气会变坏' (The news pointed out that tomorrow's weather will turn bad). This ability to introduce indirect speech and summarize the main points of an article or a conversation is a hallmark of B1 proficiency. Furthermore, B1 learners begin to encounter '指出' extensively in authentic materials, such as news articles, podcasts, and intermediate textbooks. It is a high-frequency signpost word that helps them navigate the structure of a text, indicating where the author or a cited authority is making a key claim. To master the word at this level, learners must also become comfortable with common adverbial collocations that modify the verb, such as '明确指出' (clearly point out) or '特别指出' (specifically point out). These modifiers add precision and nuance to their speech and writing. Additionally, B1 learners must solidify the distinction between '指出' (pointing out an existing fact) and '提出' (putting forward a new idea), as confusing these two is a classic intermediate plateau error. By actively practicing '指出' in writing summaries, giving presentations, and debating everyday topics, B1 learners consolidate their ability to structure arguments logically and attribute information accurately, skills that are absolutely essential for progressing toward advanced fluency and professional competency in Chinese.

At the B2 upper-intermediate level, learners are expected to understand the main ideas of complex text on both concrete and abstract topics, and interact with a degree of fluency and spontaneity. The usage of '指出' (zhǐ chū) at this stage becomes highly refined, nuanced, and frequent, particularly in academic, professional, and formal contexts. B2 learners are no longer just pointing out simple mistakes; they are analyzing arguments, critiquing texts, and synthesizing information from multiple sources. Consequently, '指出' becomes a critical structural element in their discourse. They use it to navigate complex debates, attributing specific viewpoints to different stakeholders: '专家指出...' (Experts point out...), '研究报告指出...' (The research report indicates...), or '批评家尖锐地指出...' (Critics sharply point out...). The ability to seamlessly integrate these phrases demonstrates a high level of linguistic sophistication. Furthermore, B2 learners employ '指出' in more complex grammatical structures, such as passive voice constructions ('这一点已经被多次指出' - This point has already been pointed out multiple times) and formal rhetorical patterns ('值得指出的是...' - It is worth pointing out that...). These structures are essential for writing coherent essays and delivering professional presentations. At this level, the word is also used to highlight abstract concepts, systemic flaws, logical fallacies, and subtle trends, moving far beyond the concrete physical world. The precision of vocabulary is paramount at B2, and learners must instinctively know when to use '指出' versus its near-synonyms like '说明' (explain), '表明' (demonstrate), or '揭示' (reveal), depending on the exact rhetorical effect they wish to achieve. Mastery of '指出' at the B2 level means it operates as a seamless cognitive tool, allowing the learner to effortlessly direct the listener's or reader's attention to the crux of an argument, thereby demonstrating not just language proficiency, but analytical competence in Mandarin.

Reaching the C1 advanced level signifies that a learner can express ideas fluently and spontaneously without much obvious searching for expressions, and can use language flexibly and effectively for social, academic, and professional purposes. For a C1 learner, '指出' (zhǐ chū) is a fully internalized, automatic component of their rhetorical arsenal. It is used with surgical precision to dismantle arguments, highlight subtle contradictions, and guide complex academic or professional discourse. At this level, the focus is not on the grammar of the word, but on its pragmatic application in high-stakes environments. A C1 user will deploy '指出' in sophisticated collocations, such as '一针见血地指出' (to point out piercingly/hit the nail on the head) or '毫不留情地指出' (to point out mercilessly). They use it to navigate the intricate polite fictions of Chinese professional culture, where 'pointing out' a superior's error requires careful framing, perhaps using mitigating structures like '我冒昧地指出...' (I take the liberty to point out...). In academic writing, which is a major focus at the C1 level, '指出' is the standard, indispensable verb for literature reviews and data analysis, used to synthesize decades of research into coherent narratives. The C1 learner understands the subtle tonal differences it carries depending on the context—it can be an objective scientific statement, a gentle reminder, or a devastating critique. Furthermore, they can effortlessly comprehend dense, formal texts where '指出' is buried within deeply nested clauses, quickly identifying the core argument being advanced. The mastery of this word at C1 reflects a deep understanding of Chinese textual cohesion and the cultural norms surrounding the presentation of facts, criticism, and authoritative statements, allowing the learner to participate as an equal in sophisticated intellectual and professional exchanges.

At the C2 mastery level, the learner's proficiency approaches that of a highly educated native speaker. They can understand with ease virtually everything heard or read, and can summarize information from different spoken and written sources, reconstructing arguments and accounts in a coherent presentation. For the C2 user, '指出' (zhǐ chū) is not merely a vocabulary item; it is a fundamental cognitive linguistic mechanism for structuring reality and discourse in Mandarin. They manipulate the word with absolute effortless grace across all possible registers, from the most esoteric academic treatises to nuanced diplomatic negotiations and high-level literary critique. A C2 speaker understands the historical and etymological weight of the characters, recognizing how the literal act of 'pointing outward' translates into the metaphorical shedding of light on truth. They can use it in highly stylized, rhetorical ways, perhaps employing it in parallel structures for dramatic effect in a speech. They are acutely aware of the sociolinguistic implications of who has the authority to '指出' something in a given hierarchical context. In literature, they appreciate how an author uses the verb to shift narrative focus or reveal a character's epiphany. The C2 user can also play with the word, perhaps using it ironically or subversively. They never confuse it with synonyms, as their semantic mapping of the Chinese language is complete and precise. At this ultimate stage of language acquisition, '指出' functions invisibly, a perfect, transparent vehicle for the transmission of complex thought, critical analysis, and profound insight, demonstrating the user's absolute command over the subtleties and power of the Chinese language.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

指出 in 30 Seconds

Means 'to point out' or 'to indicate'.
Used for facts, mistakes, or data.
Often followed by a full clause.
Common in news and academic writing.

The Chinese verb 指出 (zhǐ chū) is a highly versatile and frequently used lexical item in Modern Standard Mandarin, officially categorized at the CEFR B1 level. At its core, it means 'to point out', 'to indicate', or 'to state clearly'. To truly grasp its meaning, one must look at its morphological structure. The word is a compound of two characters: 指 (zhǐ), which primarily functions as a verb meaning 'to point' or a noun meaning 'finger', and 出 (chū), a directional complement meaning 'out' or 'to emerge'. When combined, they create a vivid metaphorical image of taking something that is perhaps hidden, overlooked, or implicit, and 'pointing it out' so that it becomes visible and clear to everyone involved. This action is not merely physical; in fact, in modern usage, it is overwhelmingly abstract. You are not just pointing a finger at a physical object; you are directing someone's cognitive attention to a fact, an error, a trend, or a crucial piece of information.

Literal Meaning: To physically point outward using a finger or indicator.

老师指出了黑板上的错别字。

Understanding the cognitive linguistics behind this word helps learners appreciate its weight. When a report 'points out' a statistic, or a teacher 'points out' a mistake, the verb carries an authoritative and clarifying tone. It implies that the subject doing the pointing has a level of insight or observation that the receiver needs to acknowledge.

Abstract Meaning: To draw attention to a specific concept, error, or piece of data in a discussion or text.

报告明确指出了经济下滑的原因。

Furthermore, the directional complement 出 (chū) is crucial here. In Chinese grammar, directional complements often extend beyond physical direction to indicate a result. Here, 出 indicates the transition from an unobserved state to an observed state. The information 'comes out' into the open. This makes 指出 a powerful tool in academic, professional, and formal discourse.

Grammatical Function: Transitive verb that almost always requires an object, which can be a noun phrase or a full clause.

专家指出，环境保护刻不容缓。

It is also important to note the emotional neutrality of the word itself, although the context can color it. Pointing out a beautiful landscape is positive, while pointing out a fatal flaw is negative. The verb itself merely facilitates the revelation.

他毫不客气地指出了我的缺点。

In English, we might use 'state', 'indicate', 'highlight', or 'note' depending on the exact nuance, but in Chinese, 指出 covers this entire semantic field efficiently. Whether you are reading a news article where the government 'states' a new policy, or a scientific paper where the data 'indicates' a trend, you will encounter this word constantly.

历史已经指出了这条道路的正确性。

By mastering this word, learners unlock a significant portion of intermediate to advanced Chinese comprehension, allowing them to engage with texts and conversations that go beyond simple descriptions and enter the realm of analysis, critique, and formal presentation.

Using 指出 (zhǐ chū) correctly involves understanding its syntactic behavior and the types of collocations it forms. As a transitive verb, it strictly requires an object. You cannot simply say '他指出' (He pointed out) and end the sentence; you must specify *what* was pointed out. The object can take several forms, ranging from simple nouns to complex clauses.

Noun Phrase Object: The most basic usage is followed by a noun, often representing a mistake, a problem, or a fact.

经理指出了计划中的漏洞。

Beyond simple nouns, the true power of this verb lies in its ability to take an entire clause as its object. This is extremely common in news reporting and academic writing. When used this way, it functions similarly to 'pointed out that...' in English.

Clause Object: Used to introduce a full statement, opinion, or finding.

研究指出，睡眠不足会影响记忆力。

Adverbial modifiers frequently precede 指出 to add nuance to *how* the pointing out is done. Common adverbs include 明确 (clearly), 尖锐地 (sharply/pointedly), 准确地 (accurately), and 详细地 (in detail). These adverbs help set the tone of the sentence, whether it is a neutral scientific observation or a harsh critique.

文章明确指出了未来的发展方向。

Passive Voice: It can be used in passive structures, often with 被 (bèi) or in a notional passive sense.

这个问题已经被多次指出。

Another structural pattern to master is the use of the particle 了 (le) to indicate completion. Because pointing something out is usually a punctual action (it happens in a specific moment), 了 is very naturally attached to it in past tense contexts.

他一针见血地指出了核心矛盾。

When constructing sentences, pay attention to the subject. The subject can be a person (e.g., a teacher, an expert, a critic) or an inanimate entity that carries information (e.g., a report, data, history, a survey). This flexibility makes it an indispensable word for summarizing information and attributing statements to sources in both spoken and written Chinese.

The contexts in which you will encounter 指出 (zhǐ chū) are incredibly diverse, spanning from the most formal academic and political discourse to everyday workplace interactions and interpersonal feedback. Because it serves the fundamental communicative function of directing attention to specific information, its utility is universal across different registers of the language.

News and Media: It is a staple of journalistic writing, used to report statements from officials, experts, or documents.

新闻发言人指出，新政策将于下月实施。

In the academic realm, it is the go-to verb for citing literature, presenting research findings, and analyzing data. When writing essays or reading textbooks, you will constantly see phrases like '研究指出' (research indicates) or '作者指出' (the author points out). It lends an air of objectivity and clarity to the presentation of facts.

Academic Writing: Used to cite sources and highlight significant findings in research.

大量数据指出，全球变暖正在加速。

The workplace is another common environment for this word. During meetings, performance reviews, or project evaluations, managers and colleagues use it to highlight areas for improvement, identify flaws in a strategy, or clarify objectives. It is professional yet direct.

Workplace Communication: Employed during feedback sessions, meetings, and professional critiques.

老板在会议上指出了销售策略的失误。

Even in daily life, among friends or family, the word finds its place when someone needs to correct a misconception or draw attention to an overlooked detail. While slightly more formal than just saying '你看' (look), it is perfectly natural when making a logical argument or resolving a dispute.

朋友指出我理解错了他的意思。

Finally, in literature and narrative writing, authors use it to guide the reader's attention to a character's realization or a thematic element.

书评人指出了这部小说的深刻内涵。

Its ubiquitous presence across these domains makes it a high-priority vocabulary item for anyone aiming for fluency.

Despite its straightforward definition, learners frequently make subtle errors when using 指出 (zhǐ chū), primarily due to negative transfer from their native languages or confusion with similar Chinese verbs. One of the most prevalent mistakes is omitting the object. In English, one might say 'As he pointed out,' leaving the object implied. In Chinese, you cannot simply say '正如他指出'. You must provide a dummy object or rephrase the structure.

Missing Object Error: Failing to include what is being pointed out.

正确：正如他所指出的那样。 (Correct: As he pointed out.)

Another major area of confusion is mixing it up with 提出 (tí chū), which means 'to put forward' or 'to propose'. While both end in 出 and deal with bringing information to light, their core actions are different. You 'point out' (指出) a mistake that already exists, but you 'put forward' (提出) a new question, suggestion, or plan.

Confusing 指出 and 提出: Using the wrong verb for the noun it pairs with.

错误：他指出一个建议。 (Wrong) -> 正确：他提出一个建议。 (Right)

Learners also sometimes confuse it with 指责 (zhǐ zé), which means 'to criticize' or 'to accuse'. While pointing out a mistake can feel like criticism, 指出 is inherently neutral regarding blame, whereas 指责 carries strong negative judgment.

Tone Confusion: Assuming 指出 always means to scold or criticize.

他指出了事实，并没有指责任何人。

Syntactically, a common error is placing adverbs incorrectly. Adverbs must go before the verb. For example, 'point out clearly' should be 明确指出, not 指出明确.

请你明确地指出问题所在。

Lastly, learners sometimes try to separate the two characters, treating 出 as a detachable complement in a way that breaks the compound word's unity in formal contexts. While technically a verb-complement structure, it functions as a single lexical unit in modern Chinese.

不要说“指出来那个错”，最好说“指出那个错误”。

By being mindful of these pitfalls, particularly the distinction between existing facts (指出) and new proposals (提出), learners can dramatically improve the accuracy and naturalness of their expression.

The Chinese lexicon is rich with verbs that describe the act of revealing, stating, or explaining information. Navigating these near-synonyms is a hallmark of an advanced learner. The most commonly confused counterpart is 提出 (tí chū). As discussed, 提出 means 'to put forward' or 'to raise' (a question, a suggestion, a theory). The key difference lies in the origin of the object. If the object is a pre-existing fact, error, or detail that needs attention, use 指出. If the object is a new idea, demand, or proposal being brought into existence for discussion, use 提出.

指出 vs 提出: 指出 targets existing things (mistakes, facts); 提出 targets new things (ideas, questions).

他指出了错误，并提出了建议。

Another similar word is 说明 (shuō míng), which means 'to explain' or 'to illustrate'. While 指出 simply directs attention to a fact, 说明 goes a step further to provide the reasoning, context, or mechanics behind it. Data might 指出 (indicate) a trend, but a scientist must 说明 (explain) why the trend is happening.

指出 vs 说明: 指出 is to highlight; 说明 is to explain in detail.

这个例子指出了问题，也说明了原因。

表明 (biǎo míng) is also frequently encountered, meaning 'to make clear' or 'to demonstrate'. It is often used with abstract subjects like attitudes, data, or actions. The difference is subtle: 指出 often implies a conscious act of directing attention (even if metaphorical), whereas 表明 is more about the inherent nature of the evidence revealing a truth.

指出 vs 表明: 指出 is active directing of attention; 表明 is passive revelation by evidence.

他的态度表明他不同意，尽管他没有明确指出。

Finally, 揭示 (jiē shì) means 'to reveal' or 'to bring to light', usually something profound, hidden, or systemic. It is much heavier and more literary than 指出. You point out a typo, but you reveal the secrets of the universe.

科学研究不仅指出现象，更要揭示本质。

Understanding these nuances allows learners to choose the exact verb that matches their intended rhetorical impact, elevating their Chinese from functional to expressive.

How Formal Is It?

Difficulty Rating

Writing 3/5

Grammar to Know

Directional Complements (动向补语)

Noun Clauses as Objects (名词性从句作宾语)

Passive Voice with 被 (被动句)

Adverbial Modifiers with 地 (状语)

The Particle 了 for Completed Action (动态助词'了')

Examples by Level

老师指出了黑板上的字。

The teacher pointed out the character on the blackboard.

Subject + 指出 + 了 + Object (Noun).

他指出那个红色的苹果。

He points out that red apple.

Basic Subject-Verb-Object structure.

妈妈指出我的衣服脏了。

Mom pointed out my clothes are dirty.

Object can be a simple descriptive clause.

请指出你在哪里。

Please point out where you are.

Used in an imperative sentence with 请.

我指出了正确的路。

I pointed out the correct road.

Using 了 for a completed action.

他没有指出那个东西。

He did not point out that thing.

Negative form using 没有.

你能指出我的书吗？

Can you point out my book?

Question form with 能...吗.

医生指出了我的手。

The doctor pointed out my hand.

Simple physical pointing context.

朋友指出了我发音的错误。

My friend pointed out my pronunciation mistake.

Common collocation: 指出错误 (point out a mistake).

经理在会上指出了这个问题。

The manager pointed out this problem at the meeting.

Adding a time/location phrase: 在会上.

他指出了文章里的错别字。

He pointed out the typos in the article.

Using a modifier for the object: 文章里的.

我马上指出了他的不对。

I immediately pointed out he was wrong.

Using an adverb: 马上 (immediately).

老师指出，我们需要多练习。

The teacher pointed out that we need to practice more.

指出 followed by a full clause/sentence.

他不仅指出了问题，还帮我解决了。

He not only pointed out the problem but also helped me solve it.

Used in a 不仅...还... (not only... but also) structure.

大家都没有指出这个明显的错误。

Nobody pointed out this obvious mistake.

Using 大家都没有 (nobody did).

请你明确地指出我该怎么做。

Please clearly point out what I should do.

Using an adverbial modifier with 地: 明确地.

研究报告指出，这种药有副作用。

The research report points out that this medicine has side effects.

Common academic/formal subject: 研究报告.

专家明确指出，保护环境非常重要。

Experts clearly pointed out that protecting the environment is very important.

Collocation: 明确指出 (clearly point out).

他毫不客气地指出了我的缺点。

He bluntly pointed out my shortcomings.

Advanced adverbial phrase: 毫不客气地 (bluntly/without holding back).

历史事实指出了这条道路的正确性。

Historical facts point out the correctness of this path.

Abstract subject (历史事实) and abstract object (正确性).

我想指出的是，我们没有足够的时间。

What I want to point out is that we don't have enough time.

Useful rhetorical structure: 我想指出的是... (What I want to point out is...).

这个问题已经被多次指出，但仍未解决。

This problem has been pointed out multiple times, but remains unresolved.

Passive voice construction with 被.

数据指出，今年的销量下降了百分之十。

The data indicates that sales dropped by 10% this year.

Using 指出 to mean 'indicate' with data as the subject.

她敏锐地指出了计划中隐藏的风险。

She astutely pointed out the hidden risks in the plan.

Adverb 敏锐地 (astutely/keenly).

批评家一针见血地指出了这部电影的致命弱点。

The critic hit the nail on the head by pointing out the movie's fatal flaw.

Idiom usage: 一针见血地 (hit the nail on the head).

值得指出的是，该政策的实施并未达到预期效果。

It is worth pointing out that the implementation of the policy did not achieve the expected results.

Formal transition phrase: 值得指出的是 (It is worth pointing out that).

作者在序言中指出，本书旨在探讨现代社会的异化现象。

The author points out in the preface that this book aims to explore the phenomenon of alienation in modern society.

Academic/literary context.

调查结果指出，公众对这一议题的看法存在严重分歧。

The survey results indicate that there is a serious divide in public opinion on this issue.

Complex object clause.

他委婉地指出了我的方案中不切实际的部分。

He tactfully pointed out the impractical parts of my proposal.

Adverb 委婉地 (tactfully/mildly).

尽管困难重重，他还是指出了前行的方向。

Despite the numerous difficulties, he still pointed out the direction forward.

Metaphorical usage of pointing out a direction.

该理论的核心在于指出人类行为背后的潜意识动机。

The core of the theory lies in pointing out the subconscious motives behind human behavior.

Used as a verbal noun/infinitive phrase.

面对质疑，发言人郑重指出，公司的财务状况完全健康。

Facing doubts, the spokesperson solemnly pointed out that the company's financial status is completely healthy.

Adverb 郑重 (solemnly/seriously).

多项实证研究一致指出，社会经济地位与健康状况呈正相关。

Multiple empirical studies consistently point out that socioeconomic status is positively correlated with health outcomes.

Highly formal academic vocabulary (实证研究, 正相关).

他毫不留情地指出了对方辩友逻辑上的荒谬之处。

He mercilessly pointed out the logical absurdities of his opponent in the debate.

Strong emotional adverb: 毫不留情地 (mercilessly).

正如马克思所指出的那样，资本的本性是逐利的。

As Marx pointed out, the nature of capital is profit-seeking.

Citation structure: 正如...所指出的那样.

该法案的反对者敏锐地指出，此举可能引发违宪争议。

Opponents of the bill astutely pointed out that this move could trigger constitutional controversies.

Legal/political discourse.

我必须直言不讳地指出，目前的战略正在将公司引向深渊。

I must point out bluntly that the current strategy is leading the company into the abyss.

Idiom: 直言不讳地 (bluntly/without mincing words).

文献综述部分详细指出了前人研究的局限性与空白。

The literature review section detailedly pointed out the limitations and gaps of previous research.

Academic writing structure.

审计报告不仅指出了财务漏洞，更揭示了深层的管理危机。

The audit report not only pointed out financial loopholes but also revealed a deeper management crisis.

Contrasting 指出 (point out surface facts) with 揭示 (reveal deep truths).

他以极其克制的口吻指出了协议中暗藏的陷阱。

He pointed out the hidden traps in the agreement with an extremely restrained tone.

Describing the manner of speaking (极其克制的口吻).

历史的吊诡之处恰恰在于，它总是以重复自身的方式指出人类的健忘。

The paradox of history lies precisely in the fact that it always points out human amnesia by repeating itself.

Philosophical/literary reflection.

在浩如烟海的史料中，学者独具慧眼地指出了这一看似微不足道却影响深远的细节。

Amidst the vast sea of historical documents, the scholar, with a discerning eye, pointed out this seemingly insignificant yet profoundly influential detail.

Highly literary vocabulary (浩如烟海, 独具慧眼).

外交辞令的精妙往往体现在，不直接指责，却能清晰无误地指出对方的违约行为。

The subtlety of diplomatic rhetoric is often reflected in the ability to clearly and unmistakably point out the other party's breach of contract without directly accusing them.

Discussing the pragmatics of the word itself.

这首诗籍由对残荷的描写，隐晦地指出了盛极必衰的宇宙法则。

Through the description of withered lotuses, this poem obscurely points out the universal law that extreme prosperity must lead to decline.

Literary analysis context.

他那番看似漫不经心的话语，实则字字珠玑，精准地指出了时代的症候。

His seemingly casual remarks were actually full of wisdom, accurately pointing out the symptoms of the era.

Idiom usage (字字珠玑) and abstract object (时代的症候).

任何试图掩盖真相的努力，最终都会被时间无情地指出其虚妄。

Any effort to cover up the truth will ultimately be mercilessly pointed out as illusory by time.

Personification of time as the subject.

法官在判词中高屋建瓴地指出，法律的尊严不容任何形式的践踏。

In the verdict, the judge pointed out from a commanding height that the dignity of the law tolerates no form of trampling.

Idiom: 高屋建瓴 (operating from a high vantage point).

与其说这部小说是在控诉社会，不如说它是在冷静地指出人性的幽暗面。

Rather than saying this novel is accusing society, it is better to say it is calmly pointing out the dark side of human nature.

Complex comparative structure (与其说...不如说...).

Synonyms

表明提示说明宣称

Antonyms

隐瞒回避

Common Collocations

明确指出

尖锐地指出

专家指出

报告指出

历史指出

事实指出

毫不客气地指出

准确指出

详细指出

郑重指出

Common Phrases

必须指出

值得指出的是

正如...所指出的

明确指出

专家指出

研究指出

调查指出

报告指出

数据指出

事实指出

Often Confused With

指出 vs 提出

指出 vs 指责

指出 vs 说明

Idioms & Expressions

"一针见血地指出"

"直言不讳地指出"

"毫不留情地指出"

"高屋建瓴地指出"

"独具慧眼地指出"

"委婉地指出"

"敏锐地指出"

"明确地指出"

"郑重地指出"

"客观地指出"

Easily Confused

指出 vs

Sentence Patterns

How to Use It

note

While physically pointing is the literal meaning, over 90% of its usage in intermediate/advanced Chinese is abstract (pointing out facts/errors).

Common Mistakes

Saying '他指出一个建议' instead of '他提出一个建议'.
Omitting the object: '正如他指出' instead of '正如他所指出'.
Confusing it with 指责 (to criticize/blame).
Placing the adverb after the verb: '指出明确' instead of '明确指出'.
Separating the characters inappropriately in formal writing.

Tips

Always use an object

Never leave 指出 hanging at the end of a sentence without an object or a following clause. It feels incomplete to a native speaker.

Pair with 错误

The most common beginner collocation is 指出错误 (point out a mistake). Memorize this chunk first.

Use in essays

Elevate your essays by replacing '说' (say) with '指出' when citing articles or data. It sounds much more academic.

Softening the blow

If you must point out a friend's error, say '我想指出一个小问题' (I want to point out a small problem) to be polite.

News cue

When listening to Chinese news, hear '指出' as a bullet point marker. Whatever follows is the main takeaway.

指出 vs 提出

Remember: 指出 (point out) the old/existing; 提出 (put forward) the new.

一针见血

Learn the idiom '一针见血地指出' (to point out piercingly/accurately). It will impress native speakers.

值得指出的是

Use '值得指出的是...' as a transition phrase in your writing to introduce an important caveat or detail.

Tone practice

Practice the transition from the low 3rd tone of 指 to the high flat 1st tone of 出. It requires vocal control.

Identify the source

In reading comprehension tests, questions often ask 'What did the author point out?'. Scan the text for '作者指出'.

Memorize It

Word Origin

Cultural Context

In performance reviews, managers will '指出' areas for improvement. It is expected and professional.

When pointing out a superior's mistake, always use mitigating phrases. Never just say '我指出你的错误'.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Conversation Starters

"你觉得老师指出的问题严重吗？"

"新闻里指出明天会下雨吗？"

"我想指出一点，你同意吗？"

"专家指出了什么新的发现？"

"你能指出地图上的位置吗？"

Journal Prompts

写下今天别人向你指出的一个错误。

总结一篇新闻，写出它指出的核心观点。

描述一次你勇敢地指出别人问题的经历。

分析一份报告，列出它指出的三个数据。

写一段话，指出你目前学习中文的最大困难。

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

No, 指出 is a transitive verb and strictly requires an object. If the object is understood from context, you must use a pronoun like 这一点 (this point) or nominalize it using 所...的.

指出 means to point out something that already exists, like a mistake or a fact. 提出 means to put forward something new, like a suggestion, a question, or a plan.

No, it is emotionally neutral. While it is often used to point out mistakes (which is negative), it can also be used to point out positive facts, directions, or important data.

Yes, you can say '他指出了那栋楼' (He pointed out that building), but its abstract usage is much more common in intermediate and advanced Chinese.

The standard translation is '正如...所指出的那样'. For example, 'As pointed out by the expert' is '正如专家所指出的那样'.

Yes, absolutely. This is very common. For example, '老师指出，我们必须努力学习' (The teacher pointed out that we must study hard).

Common adverbs include 明确 (clearly), 详细 (in detail), 准确 (accurately), and 尖锐地 (sharply). They are placed before the verb.

It is used in both. It is very common in formal written Chinese (news, academia) but also frequently used in professional spoken contexts like meetings.

In modern standard Mandarin, they are treated as a single compound verb in most contexts. You shouldn't insert other words between them like '指了出'.

You can use the 被 structure. For example, '这个错误被指出了' (This mistake was pointed out).