This page in your language

فارسی

العربية

Deutsch

Español

Français

日本語

한국어

Português

中文

हिन्दी

Home
Learn
Chinese
Vocabulary
战略性的

B1 adjective 10 min read

战略性的

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips 战略性的 in 30 Seconds

Explanation 战略性的 in your Level:

At the A1 level, '战略性的' (strategic) is a very difficult word. You don't need to use it yet. Think of it as a 'big plan.' In A1, you learn words like '计划' (plan) or '好' (good). If you see this word, just know it means something is very important for the future. It's like a 'super plan.' For example, if you are playing a game and you think about your next five moves, that is a 'strategic' way to play. In Chinese, we use this word for big things like countries or big companies. For now, just remember that '战' means war and '略' means plan. So, it's a 'war plan' for life or business.

At the A2 level, you might see '战略性的' in simple news stories or business introductions. It's an adjective. You use it to describe a 'plan' (计划) or a 'decision' (决定). It means the plan is not for today, but for a long time from now. For example, '这是一个战略性的计划' (This is a strategic plan). It sounds very professional. If you want to talk about your studies, you could say you have a 'strategic plan' to learn Chinese. This means you are not just learning one word, but you are thinking about how to speak fluently in two years. It's a formal word, so use it when you want to sound serious.

At the B1 level, you should start using '战略性的' in your writing and formal speaking. This word is essential for discussing business, politics, or personal development. It describes things that have a long-term impact. Common phrases include '战略性的伙伴' (strategic partner) and '战略性的投资' (strategic investment). When you use this word, you are showing that you understand the 'big picture.' For instance, instead of saying 'a very important decision,' you can say 'a strategic decision' (战略性的决策). This makes your Chinese sound more advanced and precise. Pay attention to the suffix '-性的,' which turns the noun 'strategy' into the adjective 'strategic.'

At the B2 level, you are expected to use '战略性的' with nuance. You should distinguish it from '战术性的' (tactical). A B2 learner knows that a strategic move (战略性的举措) is about the overall goal, while a tactical move is about the specific step. You will encounter this word in complex texts about economics, history, and social issues. You should be able to explain *why* something is strategic—perhaps because it involves '战略性的资源' (strategic resources) or because it has '战略性的意义' (strategic significance). You should also be comfortable using it in the structure '具有...战略性' (to have a strategic nature).

At the C1 level, '战略性的' becomes a tool for deep analysis. You should use it to discuss geopolitics, corporate governance, and abstract philosophy. You might talk about '战略性的收缩' (strategic contraction) in a market or '战略性的博弈' (strategic game/interaction) between superpowers. At this level, you should also be familiar with related idioms like '运筹帷幄' (to devise strategies). You understand that calling something 'strategic' can be a rhetorical device to emphasize its importance. Your usage should be flawless, correctly placing the adjective in complex sentence structures and choosing it over synonyms like '策略性' or '全局性' based on the specific context.

At the C2 level, '战略性的' is a word you use with total mastery and stylistic flair. You can use it to critique high-level policies or to write academic papers on strategy. You might explore the '战略性的模糊' (strategic ambiguity) in international relations or the '战略性的预见' (strategic foresight) of historical figures. You are sensitive to the word's historical roots in Sun Tzu's *Art of War* and can weave that cultural depth into your discourse. At this level, the word is not just vocabulary; it is a conceptual framework through which you analyze and describe the world's most complex systems and long-term trajectories.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

战略性的 in 30 Seconds

A formal adjective meaning 'strategic' in business, military, and planning contexts.
Formed by '战略' (strategy) and the suffix '-性的' (nature/quality).
Used to describe long-term, high-impact decisions, partnerships, or resources.
Essential for professional Chinese communication and passing higher HSK levels.

The term 战略性的 (zhànlüèxìng de) is a sophisticated Chinese adjective that translates directly to 'strategic' in English. It is a compound word formed by '战略' (zhànlüè), meaning strategy, and the suffix '-性的' (-xìng de), which functions similarly to the English suffixes '-ic' or '-al' to transform a noun into an adjective describing a quality or nature. In its core essence, this word describes actions, decisions, or positions that are designed to achieve a long-term or overall aim, particularly in high-stakes environments like business, military operations, and international relations. When you use this word, you are moving beyond the 'tactical' (the immediate, small-scale steps) and into the realm of the 'strategic' (the big picture, the long game, and the foundational shifts).

Etymological Root: The characters '战' (war/battle) and '略' (plan/summary) suggest its origins in military science. Historically, it referred to the art of directing military movements and operations. In modern Chinese, its scope has expanded to cover any domain where competitive advantage and long-term planning are required.
Conceptual Scope: It is not just about having a plan; it is about the *nature* of the plan. A 'strategic' decision is one that alters the trajectory of an organization or individual. It implies foresight, risk assessment, and a focus on sustainability over immediate gratification.

这是一次战略性的调整，旨在提高公司的长期竞争力。(This is a strategic adjustment aimed at improving the company's long-term competitiveness.)

In a world of rapid changes, being 'strategic' is often contrasted with being 'reactive.' A reactive person responds to events as they happen, whereas a person with 战略性的眼光 (strategic vision) anticipates events and positions themselves to benefit from them. This word carries a heavy weight of intelligence and authority. When a government describes a resource as a 战略性的资源 (strategic resource), they are signaling that it is vital for national security or economic stability, such as oil, rare earth metals, or high-tech talent.

两国建立了战略性的合作伙伴关系。(The two countries established a strategic partnership.)

Domain: Business: Refers to mergers, acquisitions, and market entries. If a company buys a competitor, it is often described as a 战略性的收购 (strategic acquisition).

To master this word, one must understand the difference between 'doing things right' (tactics) and 'doing the right things' (strategy). '战略性的' is firmly about the latter. It is the 'why' behind the 'how.' In the context of the HSK or CEFR exams, this word appears frequently in reading passages about economic development or management theory. It is a key term for anyone aspiring to work in a professional Chinese-speaking environment.

Using 战略性的 correctly requires placing it before a noun to modify its character. Because it ends in '的' (de), it acts as a typical attributive adjective. It most commonly modifies abstract nouns related to thought, planning, and positioning. Below, we explore the structural patterns and specific contexts where this word thrives.

Pattern 1: [Strategic] + [Noun of Decision]: Common nouns include 决策 (decision), 选择 (choice), and 规划 (planning). This pattern highlights the importance and long-term impact of a particular move.

放弃这个短期项目是一个战略性的决策。(Giving up this short-term project was a strategic decision.)

When modifying nouns like 'position' or 'location,' it implies that the area is crucial for control or influence. In geopolitics, a port or a pass might be described as having 战略性的地理位置 (a strategic geographical location).

Pattern 2: [Strategic] + [Noun of Relationship]: Common nouns include 合作伙伴 (partner), 联盟 (alliance), and 协作 (collaboration). This indicates that the relationship is not merely transactional but essential for future growth.

他们正在寻求战略性的投资人。(They are looking for strategic investors.)

In a sentence, it often appears as the object of a verb like '做出' (to make) or '达成' (to reach). For example, '做出战略性的部署' (to make strategic deployments). It can also be used to describe an individual's mindset: '拥有战略性的思维' (to possess strategic thinking). This implies a high level of cognitive ability and foresight.

他在会议上提出了几个具有战略性的建议。(He proposed several strategic suggestions at the meeting.)

Pattern 3: [Strategic] + [Noun of Resource]: Nouns like 资源 (resource), 物资 (materials), or 资产 (assets). This signifies that these items are key to maintaining a competitive edge or national security.

Finally, remember that '战略性的' is a 'stiff' word. It carries a formal register. If you are talking about playing a casual game of chess with a friend, you might use '策略' (cèlüè - tactic/strategy) instead. Reserve '战略性的' for when the stakes involve entire companies, nations, or life-altering paths.

The word 战略性的 is a staple of formal Chinese discourse. If you consume any form of professional media or engage in higher-level education in a Chinese-speaking environment, you will encounter this word daily. Understanding where it appears will help you grasp its 'flavor' and register.

1. Corporate Annual Reports and Business News: In the business world, CEOs love this word. It justifies expensive acquisitions or drastic shifts in company policy. You will see it in headlines like '某公司达成战略性的并购协议' (A certain company reached a strategic merger agreement). It signals to shareholders that the company is looking at the next decade, not just the next quarter.

这次合作对我们来说具有战略性的意义。(This cooperation is of strategic significance to us.)

In business news outlets like *Caixin* or *The Economic Observer*, it is used to analyze market trends. Analysts might discuss '战略性的新兴产业' (strategic emerging industries), referring to sectors like AI, green energy, or biotechnology that the government is prioritizing for future growth.

2. Geopolitical Analysis and Diplomacy: When diplomats speak, '战略性的' is a key adjective to describe the depth of ties between nations. A '战略性的对话' (strategic dialogue) is a high-level meeting where fundamental issues are discussed, rather than minor trade disputes. It implies mutual importance and long-term commitment.

Military history documentaries and books are another common source. You will hear narrators discuss '战略性的撤退' (strategic retreat)—a move where an army gives up land to gain a better position later. This usage highlights the 'calculated' nature of the word.

该港口在南海具有重要的战略性的地位。(The port holds an important strategic position in the South China Sea.)

3. Academic and Educational Settings: In universities, particularly in MBA programs or political science courses, the word is used to categorize frameworks and theories. Students learn about '战略性的管理' (strategic management), which involves setting objectives and analyzing the competitive environment.

Even in personal development blogs (the professional kind), you might read about '战略性的学习' (strategic learning)—the idea of learning skills that will be valuable in the future job market, rather than just following a hobby. This shows how the word has trickled down from military and statecraft into the modern 'self-optimization' culture.

While 战略性的 is a powerful word, its high-level nature makes it prone to specific types of misuse by learners. Avoiding these common pitfalls will make your Chinese sound more natural and precise.

Mistake 1: Confusing 'Strategic' with 'Tactical': The most common conceptual error is using 战略性的 (strategic) when you actually mean 战术性的 (tactical). Remember: Strategy is the 'what' and 'why' for the long term; tactics are the 'how' for the immediate. If you are talking about a specific trick to win a single game, use 战术性的.

Incorrect: 我用了一个战略性的小技巧赢了那场棋。(I used a strategic little trick to win that chess game.)
Correct: 我用了一个战术性的小技巧赢了那场棋。

Mistake 2: Overusing it in Informal Contexts: Using this word to describe everyday activities can sound overly dramatic or even sarcastic. If you say '我做出了战略性的决定去买苹果而不是桔子' (I made a strategic decision to buy apples instead of oranges), people will think you are joking. For daily choices, use '明智的' (wise) or '合理的' (reasonable).

Another issue is the placement of '的'. Sometimes learners forget that '战略性' can act as a noun (strategicity/strategic nature), but when modifying another noun, the '的' is almost always mandatory. You cannot say '战略性决策' in formal writing without the '的' unless it has become a fixed compound term (which some have, but '战略性的' is safer for learners).

Incorrect: 这是一个战略性问题。
Correct: 这是一个战略性的问题。

Mistake 3: Confusing with '策略性的' (Cèlüèxìng de): '策略性的' is often translated as 'strategic' too, but it leans more towards 'clever planning' or 'policy-oriented.' '战略性的' is much broader and more foundational. If the decision affects the whole survival of the entity, use '战略性的'. If it's a clever move within a system, '策略性的' might be better.

Finally, ensure you don't confuse it with '关键性的' (guānjiànxìng de - critical/key). While strategic things are often critical, not all critical things are strategic. A broken pipe is critical (关键性的), but fixing it isn't necessarily a strategic (战略性的) move—it's just maintenance.

To truly master 战略性的, you must understand its neighbors in the semantic field. Chinese has several words that overlap with 'strategic,' each with its own nuance. Choosing the right one will elevate your fluency.

1. 策略性的 (Cèlüèxìng de): Nuance: This refers to 'tactical' or 'policy-based' planning. It is often used for smaller-scale maneuvers or specific methods used to achieve a goal.
Example: 策略性的投票 (Strategic voting). This is a specific action within a system.
2. 关键性的 (Guānjiànxìng de): Nuance: Means 'critical' or 'pivotal.' It focuses on the importance or the turning point of an event, rather than the long-term planning aspect.
Example: 关键性的进球 (A critical goal). It decided the game, but it wasn't necessarily part of a long-term 'strategic' plan.

虽然这是一个关键性的时刻，但我们需要一个战略性的方案。(Although this is a critical moment, we need a strategic plan.)

3. 长远的 (Chángyuǎn de): Nuance: Means 'long-term' or 'far-reaching.' This is a more common, less formal way to express the 'long-term' aspect of strategy without the military or business baggage.
Example: 长远的打算 (Long-term plans). This is what you'd say to a friend about your career.
4. 全局性的 (Quánjúxìng de): Nuance: Means 'overall' or 'holistic.' It emphasizes that something affects the entire situation (the whole chessboard) rather than just a part.
Example: 全局性的影响 (An impact on the whole situation).

In summary, if you want to sound like a professional leader, '战略性的' is your best choice. If you want to sound like a clever problem-solver, '策略性的' works well. If you are just talking about the future in a general sense, '长远的' is the most natural choice. These distinctions are vital for achieving a B2 or C1 level of proficiency where 'synonym choice' becomes a major part of the assessment.

How Formal Is It?

Fun Fact

The character '略' also means 'to omit' or 'brief.' In a strategy, you 'omit' the minor details to focus on the 'brief' but essential big picture. This reflects the philosophy of focusing on the core.

Pronunciation Guide

UK /ˌstrəˈtiːdʒɪk/ (English equivalent)

US /strəˈtiːdʒɪk/ (English equivalent)

The primary stress in the Chinese phrase is on 'zhàn' and 'lüè', while 'xìng' is slightly shorter and 'de' is very light.

Rhymes With

战 (zhàn) rhymes with 饭 (fàn), 慢 (màn). 略 (lüè) is a unique sound, similar to 'l-y-u-eh'. 性 (xìng) rhymes with 定 (dìng), 命 (mìng).

Common Errors

Pronouncing 'lüè' as 'luè' (missing the umlaut sound).
Giving 'de' a full tone instead of a neutral one.
Mixing up the fourth tones, making it sound flat.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 7/5

Common in news and business texts, but the surrounding vocabulary can be dense.

Writing 8/5

Requires understanding of formal suffixes and correct noun pairing.

Speaking 8/5

Hard to use naturally without sounding overly formal or dramatic.

Listening 6/5

The clear 'zhàn lüè' sounds are usually easy to pick out in formal speech.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

计划 (Plan) 重要 (Important) 决定 (Decision) 战争 (War) 性格 (Nature/Character)

Learn Next

战术 (Tactics) 宏观 (Macro) 微观 (Micro) 布局 (Layout) 博弈 (Game Theory)

Advanced

统筹 (Coordinate) 前瞻性 (Foresight) 可持续性 (Sustainability) 核心竞争力 (Core Competitiveness) 地缘政治 (Geopolitics)

Grammar to Know

The suffix '-性的' (-xìng de)

It turns abstract nouns like 战略 (strategy), 历史 (history), or 艺术 (art) into adjectives: 战略性的, 历史性的, 艺术性的.

Adjective as Attributive

[Adjective] + 的 + [Noun]. 战略性的决策. The '的' is required for multi-syllable formal adjectives.

'具有' (jùyǒu) + Noun-form

Instead of 'is strategic,' Chinese often says 'possesses strategicity': 具有战略性.

Formal Verb-Noun Collocation

Formal adjectives like '战略性的' usually pair with formal verbs like 做出 (make), 达成 (reach), or 实施 (implement).

Contrastive Structures

...是战略性的，而不是... (is strategic, rather than...). Used to clarify the nature of an action.

Examples by Level

这是一个战略性的计划。

This is a strategic plan.

Basic [Subject] + [Verb] + [Adjective] + [Noun] structure.

他是我的战略性的朋友。

He is my strategic friend. (Slightly unnatural, but okay for A1)

Using '的' to connect the adjective to the noun.

学习汉语是战略性的。

Learning Chinese is strategic.

Using the adjective as a predicate with '是...的'.

我们有战略性的目标。

We have strategic goals.

Plural concept, though Chinese doesn't change the noun form.

这是一个战略性的选择。

This is a strategic choice.

'选择' (choice) is a common noun for this adjective.

他的眼光很具有战略性。

His vision is very strategic.

Using '具有...性' to describe a quality.

这是一个战略性的地方。

This is a strategic place.

Modifying a place/location noun.

我们要有战略性的思考。

We need to have strategic thinking.

'思考' used as a noun here.

公司需要战略性的调整。

The company needs strategic adjustments.

'调整' (adjustment) is a common B1-level noun appearing in A2 texts.

这是一个战略性的错误。

This is a strategic mistake.

Indicates the mistake has long-term consequences.

我们要买战略性的资源。

We want to buy strategic resources.

'资源' (resources) is a key collocation.

两家公司是战略性的伙伴。

The two companies are strategic partners.

'伙伴' (partner) is used in business contexts.

他提出了战略性的建议。

He proposed strategic suggestions.

'提出' (to propose) is a common verb with this word.

这个位置具有战略性的意义。

This position has strategic significance.

'具有...意义' is a very common formal pattern.

我们要进行战略性的合作。

We need to carry out strategic cooperation.

'进行' (to carry out) + [Adjective] + [Noun].

这是他战略性的步。

This is his strategic move.

'步' (step/move) is used metaphorically.

为了长远发展，必须做出战略性的牺牲。

For long-term development, strategic sacrifices must be made.

'牺牲' (sacrifice) adds emotional and formal weight.

政府正在开发战略性的新兴产业。

The government is developing strategic emerging industries.

'新兴产业' is a specific economic term.

这一举措具有深远的战略性的影响。

This move has profound strategic influence.

Combining '深远' (profound) and '战略性' (strategic).

我们需要一位具有战略性的领导人。

We need a leader with a strategic mindset.

'具有...的' describing a person's quality.

这种投资是战略性的，不是投机性的。

This investment is strategic, not speculative.

Contrast between '战略性' and '投机性' (speculative).

他们在该地区拥有战略性的优势。

They possess a strategic advantage in the region.

'优势' (advantage) is a core business/military term.

这次会议讨论了战略性的合作框架。

The meeting discussed the strategic cooperation framework.

'框架' (framework) is a formal organizational term.

企业应该具备战略性的眼光。

Enterprises should possess strategic vision.

'具备' (to possess/be equipped with) is a formal verb.

该项目的失败暴露出公司缺乏战略性的规划。

The failure of the project exposed the company's lack of strategic planning.

'缺乏' (to lack) is a common verb in critical analysis.

在全球化背景下，战略性的思维至关重要。

In the context of globalization, strategic thinking is crucial.

'至关重要' (crucial) is a high-level idiom.

双方就战略性的安全问题交换了意见。

Both sides exchanged views on strategic security issues.

'交换意见' (to exchange views) is diplomatic language.

这一决定标志着公司进入了战略性的转型期。

This decision marks the company's entry into a strategic transition period.

'转型期' (transition period) is common in economic texts.

我们必须从战略性的高度来审视这个问题。

We must examine this issue from a strategic height.

'从...的高度' (from the height of...) is a metaphorical structure.

该国通过战略性的储备来应对能源危机。

The country deals with the energy crisis through strategic reserves.

'储备' (reserve) is used for national resources.

这是对市场变化做出的战略性的反应。

This is a strategic response to market changes.

'反应' (response) modified by '战略性的'.

他善于在复杂局势中捕捉战略性的机遇。

He is good at capturing strategic opportunities in complex situations.

'捕捉' (to capture) + '机遇' (opportunity).

这种战略性的模糊政策旨在维持地区的现状。

This policy of strategic ambiguity is aimed at maintaining the regional status quo.

'战略性的模糊' (strategic ambiguity) is a specific political term.

企业需要通过战略性的创新来维持竞争优势。

Enterprises need to maintain competitive advantage through strategic innovation.

'创新' (innovation) is a key C1-level business topic.

该书深刻分析了冷战期间的战略性的博弈。

The book profoundly analyzes the strategic games during the Cold War.

'博弈' (game/struggle) refers to strategic interaction.

这种战略性的收缩是为了积蓄力量，以待反攻。

This strategic contraction is to build up strength for a counter-attack.

'收缩' (contraction/retreat) used in a positive strategic sense.

他提出的观点具有极强的战略性的前瞻性。

The views he proposed have a very strong strategic foresight.

'前瞻性' (foresight/forward-looking) is a sophisticated noun.

两国签署了全面战略性的协作伙伴关系协议。

The two countries signed a comprehensive strategic coordination partnership agreement.

'全面战略性的协作伙伴关系' is the highest level of diplomatic tie.

在数字化浪潮中，战略性的资产正在发生重构。

In the wave of digitalization, strategic assets are undergoing restructuring.

'重构' (restructuring/reconfiguration) is a high-level verb.

这一理论为战略性的决策提供了科学的依据。

This theory provides a scientific basis for strategic decision-making.

'依据' (basis/grounding) is formal.

地缘政治的变迁迫使各国重新评估其战略性的利益。

Geopolitical changes are forcing countries to re-evaluate their strategic interests.

'地缘政治' (geopolitics) is a C2-level domain.

这种战略性的透支虽然短期见效，但后患无穷。

This strategic overextension/overdraft may work in the short term, but it will cause endless trouble.

'透支' (overdraft/overextension) is used metaphorically.

他在文章中探讨了文化软实力作为战略性的资源的潜力。

In his article, he explored the potential of cultural soft power as a strategic resource.

'软实力' (soft power) is a sophisticated concept.

该决策体现了领导层对未来趋势的战略性的洞察。

The decision reflects the leadership's strategic insight into future trends.

'洞察' (insight/discernment) is a high-level noun.

这种战略性的互动不仅是实力的比拼，更是智慧的较量。

This strategic interaction is not just a contest of strength, but a trial of wisdom.

'较量' (trial/contest) is a formal word for competition.

我们要警惕那种缺乏战略性的短视行为。

We must be wary of that kind of short-sighted behavior that lacks strategy.

'短视' (short-sighted) is the direct antonym of strategic vision.

该战略性的防御体系能够有效抵御潜在的威胁。

The strategic defense system can effectively ward off potential threats.

'体系' (system/architecture) is a formal noun.

这种战略性的转型需要全社会范围内的广泛共识。

This strategic transition requires a broad consensus across society.

'共识' (consensus) is a key term in political discourse.

Common Collocations

战略性的决策

战略性的伙伴

战略性的资源

战略性的眼光

战略性的地位

战略性的投资

战略性的意义

战略性的调整

战略性的收缩

战略性的布局

Common Phrases

具有战略性

— To have a strategic nature. Used to describe an idea or plan.

他的建议非常具有战略性。

缺乏战略性

— To lack a strategic nature. Used as a criticism of a plan.

这个方案缺乏战略性。

战略性资产

— Assets that are vital for long-term survival or competitive edge.

数据已成为企业的战略性资产。

战略性储备

— Supplies kept for long-term security, like oil or grain.

国家建立了战略性储备库。

战略性对话

— High-level discussions between nations or large organizations.

中美举行了战略性对话。

战略性转移

— A planned movement of resources or troops to a better position.

这不仅是撤退，更是战略性转移。

战略性眼光

— The ability to see the long-term impact of current events.

他以战略性眼光看待市场。

战略性协作

— Deep, long-term cooperation between entities.

双方达成了战略性协作协议。

战略性新兴产业

— New industries prioritized for future economic growth.

政府大力支持战略性新兴产业。

战略性思维

— The cognitive process of thinking about the big picture and the future.

战略性思维是成功的基础。

Often Confused With

战略性的 vs 策略性的

More about 'clever tactics' or 'specific policies' than 'overall big-picture strategy.'

战略性的 vs 战术性的

The direct opposite; focuses on the immediate, small-scale steps.

战略性的 vs 关键性的

Focuses on importance and timing, whereas strategic focuses on planning and the long-term.

Idioms & Expressions

"运筹帷幄"

— To devise strategies within a command tent; to plan a campaign.

他在办公室里运筹帷幄，指挥全局。

Literary/Formal

"未雨绸缪"

— To repair the house before it rains; to plan ahead.

我们要未雨绸缪，做好战略性的准备。

Common/Idiomatic

"远见卓识"

— Farsightedness and great insight; strategic vision.

他的远见卓识令人佩服。

Formal/Praising

"决胜千里"

— To determine victory from a thousand miles away via strategy.

好的战略能让你决胜千里。

Literary

"步步为营"

— To advance step by step and consolidate at every stage.

我们的扩张计划是步步为营的。

Idiomatic

"深谋远虑"

— To plan deeply and consider the distant future.

这是一个深谋远虑的战略性决定。

Formal/Praising

"胸有成竹"

— To have a complete plan in mind before starting.

他对这次谈判胸有成竹。

Common/Idiomatic

"当机立断"

— To make a prompt decision at the right moment (often a strategic one).

他在关键时刻当机立断。

Formal

"高瞻远瞩"

— To stand high and see far; to have a broad, strategic view.

领导人应当高瞻远瞩。

Formal/Praising

"统筹兼顾"

— To plan as a whole and take everything into consideration.

我们要统筹兼顾，做好战略性的安排。

Formal/Political

Easily Confused

战略性的 vs 战略 (Zhànlüè)

It is the noun form.

Use '战略' when you need a noun (e.g., 'our strategy'). Use '战略性的' when you need an adjective (e.g., 'a strategic move').

我们的战略是好的，但这个战略性的决策太晚了。

战略性的 vs 计划 (Jìhuà)

Both involve thinking about the future.

'计划' is a general plan. '战略性的' implies the plan is grand, long-term, and vital.

我有一个周末计划 (A1/A2), 我有一个战略性的计划 (B1/B2).

战略性的 vs 政策 (Zhèngcè)

Both appear in government contexts.

'政策' is a policy (a rule). '战略性的' describes the nature of a move or plan.

这是一项战略性的政策。

战略性的 vs 策略 (Cèlüè)

Very similar meaning.

'策略' is often used for specific methods in a game or negotiation. '战略' is the overall campaign.

谈判策略 vs 战略布局。

战略性的 vs 眼光 (Yǎnguāng)

Often used together.

'眼光' is the vision itself. '战略性的' describes the quality of that vision.

他有战略性的眼光。

Sentence Patterns

这是一个[战略性的] + [名词]。

这是一个战略性的决策。

[名词]具有[战略性的]意义。

这次合作具有战略性的意义。

为了[长远目标]，我们必须做出[战略性的]调整。

为了长期盈利，我们必须做出战略性的调整。

从[战略性的]高度来看，[句子]。

从战略性的高度来看，我们应该放弃这个市场。

[主语]标志着[宾语]进入了[战略性的]阶段。

这项协议标志着两国关系进入了战略性的阶段。

这种[战略性的]模糊旨在[目的]。

这种战略性的模糊旨在维持和平。

在[宏观背景]下，[战略性的]资产重构势在必行。

在全球化背景下，战略性的资产重构势在必行。

[主语]不仅是[A]，更是具有[战略性的]意义的[B]。

这不仅是技术突破，更是具有战略性的意义的里程碑。

Word Family

Nouns

战略 (Strategy)

战略家 (Strategist)

战略性 (Strategicity)

Verbs

战略化 (To strategize - rare)

Adjectives

战略性的 (Strategic)

战术 (Tactics)

策略 (Policy/Tactic)

规划 (Planning)

布局 (Layout/Deployment)

愿景 (Vision)

How to Use It

frequency

High in professional/academic circles; low in daily life.

Common Mistakes

Using '战略性的' for small, immediate actions. → Use '战术性的' or '策略性的'.
Strategy is big-picture and long-term. Tactics are small-scale and immediate.
Saying '战略性决策' in a full formal sentence without '的'. → Say '战略性的决策'.
While headlines omit it, formal grammar usually requires '的' for multi-syllable adjectives.
Confusing '战略' (noun) with '战略性的' (adjective). → Use '战略' as the object, '战略性的' as the modifier.
You 'have a strategy' but you 'make a strategic decision.'
Pronouncing 'lüè' as 'lù'. → Pronounce it with the 'ü' sound (rounded lips).
'Lu' and 'Lü' are different sounds in Chinese and can change the meaning.
Using it in very casual, daily situations. → Use '长远的' or '重要的'.
It sounds too stiff and formal for talking about dinner plans or small chores.

Tips

The '性' Suffix

Remember that '-性' is a suffix for abstract nouns. Adding '-性的' is the standard way to create formal adjectives in modern Chinese.

Business First

If you are in a business meeting, using this word will immediately make you sound more professional and authoritative.

Strategy vs. Tactic

Always ask yourself: Is this about the whole goal (战略性的) or just one step (战术性的)?

Pairing

Learn it with its 'best friends': 决策 (decision), 伙伴 (partner), 资源 (resource), 意义 (significance).

The 'ü' Sound

Spend extra time practicing 'lüè.' It's one of the hardest sounds in Chinese, and getting it right makes you sound much more fluent.

Formal Writing

In essays, use it to elevate the importance of your topic. '这个问题具有战略性的地位...'

Cultural Resonance

Mentioning '战略' often brings to mind ancient wisdom. Use it when discussing long-term plans to show respect for this mindset.

News Keywords

When you hear '战略性的' on the news, get ready for a big announcement or a major policy change.

Interviews

Use it to describe your career goals: '我对我的职业生涯有战略性的规划。'

Don't Overuse

Don't call every plan 'strategic.' If everything is strategic, nothing is.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of a 'War' (战) 'Plan' (略). If a move is 'Strategic' (性的), it's a 'War-Plan-Nature' move. It's too big to be just a small step.

Visual Association

Imagine a giant chessboard where the pieces are not just pawns, but entire cities and factories. The person looking at the whole board is being '战略性的'.

Word Web

Vision (眼光) Long-term (长远) Decision (决策) Resources (资源) Partnership (伙伴) Big Picture (全局) Success (成功) Competitive (竞争)

Challenge

Try to describe your 5-year career plan using '战略性的' at least three times in a paragraph. Focus on your '战略性的选择' and '战略性的投资' in your skills.

Word Origin

The term '战略' (zhànlüè) comes from ancient Chinese military texts. '战' means war or battle, and '略' means a plan, boundaries, or a summary of methods.

Original meaning: Originally, it meant the overall plan for a military campaign, as opposed to '战术' (tactics) which meant the specific movements on the battlefield.

Sino-Tibetan. The suffix '-性的' was popularized in the early 20th century to translate Western abstract adjectives.

Cultural Context

Be careful not to use '战略性的' for minor personal favors, as it can sound manipulative or coldly calculating.

In English, 'strategic' is often a corporate buzzword. In Chinese, it retains a slightly more 'weighty' and 'military' feel, though it is also common in business.

Sun Tzu's 'The Art of War' (孙子兵法) is the ultimate source of Chinese strategic thought. The 'Belt and Road Initiative' (一带一路) is often described as a 战略性的 initiative. Zhuge Liang (诸葛亮) is the historical archetype of a strategic thinker.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Business Strategy

战略性的并购
战略性的转型
战略性的投资
战略性的布局

International Relations

战略性的对话
战略性的伙伴关系
战略性的安全
战略性的利益

Military/Gaming

战略性的撤退
战略性的部署
战略性的要塞
战略性的胜利

Personal Development

战略性的学习
战略性的职业规划
战略性的思考
战略性的选择

Economics

战略性的新兴产业
战略性的资源储备
战略性的宏观调控
战略性的资产

Conversation Starters

"你认为在职业发展中，什么是最重要的战略性的选择？ (What do you think is the most important strategic choice in career development?)"

"这家公司最近的举措，你觉得具有战略性的意义吗？ (Do you think this company's recent move has strategic significance?)"

"我们该如何培养自己的战略性的思维？ (How should we cultivate our strategic thinking?)"

"你觉得学习第二外语是一项战略性的投资吗？ (Do you think learning a second language is a strategic investment?)"

"在你的国家，哪些资源被认为是战略性的？ (In your country, which resources are considered strategic?)"

Journal Prompts

写一写你人生中做过的一个战略性的决定，以及它如何影响了你的现在。 (Write about a strategic decision you made in your life and how it affected your present.)

分析一个你佩服的公司，描述他们的战略性的布局。 (Analyze a company you admire and describe their strategic layout.)

如果你是一个国家的领导人，你会优先发展哪些战略性的产业？ (If you were a national leader, which strategic industries would you prioritize?)

讨论在日常生活中，战略性的思维与战术性的技巧哪个更重要。 (Discuss whether strategic thinking or tactical skills are more important in daily life.)

反思你目前的学习计划，它是否具有足够的战略性？ (Reflect on your current study plan; is it strategic enough?)

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

Generally, no. It sounds too formal. If you say 'My strategic hobby is stamp collecting,' people will think it's a joke or you are using it ironically. Use '长远的' or '认真的' instead.

'战略性' is the noun-like quality (strategicity). '战略性的' is the adjective. In most cases modifying a noun, use '战略性的.'

Yes, but usually in professional sports analysis. For example, 'The coach made a strategic substitution' (教练做出了战略性的换人).

The most common way is '战略合作伙伴' (zhànlüè hézuò huǒbàn) or '战略性的伙伴.'

Yes, it is very common in HSK 5 and HSK 6 reading and writing sections.

Yes, like '战略性的失败' (strategic failure) or '战略性的撤退' (strategic retreat). It just means the thing has a big impact.

In newspaper headlines, they often drop the '性的' and just say '战略决策' to save space, but in full sentences, '战略性的' is better.

Almost always. The core of strategy in Chinese thought is the 'long game.'

In this word, the 'war' meaning is metaphorical. It's about competition and high stakes, not necessarily physical fighting.

You usually describe their vision (眼光) or thinking (思维) as strategic, rather than the person themselves. Say '他是一个有战略眼光的人' (He is a person with strategic vision).