At the A1 level, you don't need to use the word 突破口 (tūpòkǒu) yourself, but you can understand it as 'a way to help.' Think of it like this: when you have a big problem and you find a small way to start fixing it, that is a 突破口. It comes from the word 'break' (突破) and 'opening' (口). Imagine you are trying to open a very tight jar. If you find one little spot where the lid moves, that is the 突破口. In simple Chinese, you might say '一个好的办法' (a good way) instead. However, if you hear a teacher say '找到突破口' (find the breakthrough point), they just mean 'find the starting point for the answer.' It's a very 'big' word for a 'small' starting point. You can remember it as 'the door to the solution.' Just remember: 突破 (break through) + 口 (opening).
For A2 learners, 突破口 (tūpòkǒu) is a useful word to recognize in stories or news. It is a noun that means 'a breakthrough point.' You use it when you are stuck and need a way out. For example, if you are learning Chinese and you find that watching cartoons helps you understand everything else, then cartoons are your 突破口 for learning Chinese. You will often see it with the verb '找' (zhǎo - to look for) or '找到' (zhǎodào - to find). A common sentence is '找到问题的突破口' (find the breakthrough point of the problem). It is more formal than '办法' (method). It sounds like you are being a detective! If you are stuck on a homework question, your teacher might give you a hint. That hint is the 突破口. It is the 'gap' in the wall of the problem that lets you see the answer on the other side.
At the B1 level, you should start using 突破口 (tūpòkǒu) in your writing and speaking to describe strategies. It is a B2-level word, but using it at B1 shows you have a good grasp of metaphorical Chinese. It literally means a breach in a defense, but it's used for any situation where progress is blocked. You might use it in a business context: '我们需要一个市场突破口' (We need a market breakthrough point). This means your company is trying to enter a new market but it's difficult, so you need a specific strategy to get in. It is different from '机会' (opportunity) because a 突破口 is something you often have to work hard to find or create. It's about finding the 'weakest point' of a challenge. When you write about solving problems, try to replace '第一步' (the first step) with '突破口' if that first step is the key to solving everything else. It makes your Chinese sound much more professional and precise.
As a B2 learner, you are expected to use 突破口 (tūpòkǒu) accurately in various professional and social contexts. This word is essential for discussing reforms, scientific research, and complex problem-solving. You should understand the common pattern '以...为突破口' (taking... as a breakthrough point). This is a standard way to describe a strategic focus. For example, '以教育改革为突破口' means that by fixing education first, you hope to solve many other social problems. You should also distinguish it from '切入点' (entry point). While '切入点' is where you start, '突破口' is where you break through resistance. Use 突破口 when there is a '瓶颈' (bottleneck) or '僵局' (deadlock) involved. In business, it's about finding a competitive advantage. In science, it's the key discovery. In law, it's the piece of evidence that wins the case. Mastering this word allows you to discuss high-level concepts with native-like nuance.
At the C1 level, you should be able to appreciate the strategic and philosophical depth of 突破口 (tūpòkǒu). It is a staple of political discourse and high-level management. You should be able to use it in complex sentence structures and understand its nuances in different registers. For instance, in a diplomatic context, a 突破口 might be a minor concession that leads to a major treaty. In literature, it could be the moment a character's internal conflict is resolved. You should also be aware of its historical and military connotations—how a single breach in a city wall can lead to the fall of an entire empire. At this level, you can use it to describe abstract systemic changes. For example, '数字经济是传统产业转型升级的突破口' (The digital economy is the breakthrough point for the transformation and upgrading of traditional industries). It implies a catalyst that triggers a systemic shift. Your usage should reflect an understanding that a 突破口 is not just a 'start,' but a 'pivot' that changes the entire dynamic of a situation.
For C2 learners, 突破口 (tūpòkǒu) is a word you use with absolute precision to describe tactical brilliance or systemic vulnerabilities. You understand that in the game of Go (围棋) or in complex geopolitical strategies, finding the 突破口 is the difference between victory and defeat. You can use it to critique policies, analyze market trends, or discuss deep philosophical problems. You might use it in a sentence like '在纷繁复杂的社会矛盾中,精准寻找突破口是治理能力现代化的关键' (In the midst of numerous and complex social contradictions, accurately finding the breakthrough point is the key to the modernization of governance capacity). At this level, you are also sensitive to the word's ability to frame a narrative—by defining something as a 突破口, you are prioritizing it above all other factors. You can use it to argue why one specific action will have a disproportionate impact on a whole system. It is a word of power, strategy, and intellectual clarity.

突破口 em 30 segundos

  • Literally means a 'breach' in a wall, used metaphorically as a 'breakthrough point' for solving complex problems or making progress in difficult situations.
  • Commonly paired with verbs like '寻找' (look for), '找到' (find), and '打开' (open), often appearing in business, politics, and crime-solving contexts.
  • Differs from '突破' (the act) by focusing on the specific 'point' or 'opening' where the breakthrough occurs, emphasizing tactical precision over brute force.
  • A staple of formal Chinese discourse, frequently used in the pattern '以...为突破口' to describe a strategic focus or the start of a reform.

The word 突破口 (tūpòkǒu) is a powerful Chinese noun that literally translates to a 'breach' or a 'gap' in a defensive line, but in modern usage, it serves as a vital metaphor for finding the key to solving a complex problem or making progress in a stalled situation.

Literal Origin
In a military context, a 突破口 is the specific point in an enemy's fortifications where an attacking force manages to break through. It is the weakest link that, once compromised, allows the entire defense to be dismantled. If you imagine a great stone wall, the 突破口 is the first crack that allows the army to enter the city.
Modern Abstract Meaning
Today, it is most commonly used in business, science, and daily problem-solving. It refers to the 'breakthrough point'—that specific angle, strategy, or piece of information that makes a difficult task suddenly manageable. It is the 'thin end of the wedge' that allows you to start solving a massive puzzle.

我们需要找到解决这个问题的突破口,否则项目无法进展。(We need to find the breakthrough point for this problem, otherwise the project cannot progress.)

When people use 突破口, they are usually expressing a sense of being stuck or facing a 'bottleneck' (瓶颈). The search for a 突破口 implies that the solution exists, but it requires a specific, clever entry point rather than brute force. It is the 'Aha!' moment before the actual work begins. For example, in a criminal investigation, a small piece of DNA evidence might be the 突破口 that leads to the suspect. In a scientific research project, a specific experiment that yields unexpected results could be the 突破口 for a major discovery.

市场营销是公司扭亏为盈的突破口。(Marketing is the breakthrough point for the company to turn losses into profits.)

This word is extremely frequent in Chinese news reports and official speeches. When a government official talks about 'reform' (改革), they often mention finding a 突破口 to signify where the changes will start. It carries a connotation of precision and tactical intelligence. You don't just 'hit' a problem; you find the 突破口 to 'dismantle' it. In personal development, people might say that learning a new language is the 突破口 to understanding a new culture. It is the catalyst that sets off a chain reaction of success.

他在实验中发现了一个关键的突破口。(He found a key breakthrough point in the experiment.)

Common Contexts
1. **Business**: Finding a gap in the market. 2. **Technology**: Solving a coding bug that was holding up a release. 3. **Diplomacy**: A small agreement that leads to a major peace treaty. 4. **Learning**: Mastering a specific grammar point that makes the rest of the language click.

寻找法律上的突破口是律师的首要任务。(Finding a legal breakthrough point is the lawyer's primary task.)

Ultimately, 突破口 is about efficiency. It is the opposite of 'muddling through' (浑浑噩噩). It implies a focused effort on a single point to achieve a larger result. Whether you are a student trying to understand a complex theory or a CEO trying to save a failing company, you are always searching for that one 突破口 that will change everything.

Using 突破口 correctly requires pairing it with the right verbs and contexts. Since it is a noun, it often acts as the object of a search or the subject of a discovery. Here is a guide on how to integrate it naturally into your Chinese speech and writing.

Verbal Pairings (Collocations)
  • 寻找 (xúnzhǎo) - To look for: Used when you are in the planning stage. '我们要寻找新的突破口' (We need to look for a new breakthrough point).
  • 找到 (zhǎodào) - To find: Used when the search is successful. '他终于找到了问题的突破口' (He finally found the breakthrough point of the problem).
  • 选择 (xuǎnzé) - To choose: Used when there are multiple options for where to start. '我们将把教育作为改革的突破口' (We will choose education as the breakthrough point for reform).
  • 打开 (dǎkāi) - To open: Used to describe the act of breaking through. '这封信打开了案件的突破口' (This letter opened the breakthrough point of the case).

警方希望通过这名证人找到案件的突破口。(The police hope to find a breakthrough in the case through this witness.)

The word is often used with the possessive '的' (de) to specify what kind of breakthrough it is. Common modifiers include '技术' (technology), '市场' (market), '法律' (law), and '心理' (psychology). For example, a '心理突破口' (psychological breakthrough) might refer to finding the specific emotional trigger that makes someone tell the truth in an interrogation.

创新是企业发展的唯一突破口。(Innovation is the only breakthrough point for corporate development.)

In formal writing, you will often see 突破口 used in the structure '以...为突破口' (taking... as the breakthrough point). This is a very common way to describe a strategy or a starting point for a large-scale project. For instance, '以农村改革为突破口' (taking rural reform as the breakthrough point) describes how the Chinese economic reforms began in the countryside before moving to the cities.

我们应当以降低成本作为提高竞争力的突破口。(We should take reducing costs as the breakthrough point for improving competitiveness.)

Sentence Patterns
  • Subject + 是 + (Modifier) + 突破口: '这个小细节是我们的突破口' (This small detail is our breakthrough point).
  • 寻找 + 突破口 + 来 + Verb: '寻找突破口来打破僵局' (Look for a breakthrough to break the deadlock).
  • 从...寻找突破口: '我们要从消费者需求中寻找突破口' (We need to find a breakthrough from consumer demand).

科研团队在基因编辑技术上取得了重大突破口。(The research team achieved a major breakthrough point in gene editing technology.)

Finally, remember that 突破口 implies a solution to a difficult or complex situation. You wouldn't use it for finding your lost keys in your pocket; you use it for finding the witness who can prove someone's innocence or the marketing strategy that saves a dying brand. It carries a weight of importance and strategic depth.

Understanding the 'vibe' of 突破口 is key to knowing when to use it. It isn't just a word; it's a staple of certain professional and social environments in the Chinese-speaking world. Here is where you are most likely to encounter it in the wild.

1. The News and Political Discourse
Turn on CCTV-1 or read the 'People's Daily' (人民日报), and you will see 突破口 everywhere. In government reports, it is used to describe the 'starting point' of new policies. For example, '以科技创新为突破口' (taking technological innovation as the breakthrough point) is a common phrase to describe national development strategies. It signals that the government is focusing its energy on a specific area to drive broader change.
2. Business Meetings and Strategy Sessions
In a tech startup or a corporate boardroom, 突破口 is the word of choice when discussing market entry. '我们的突破口在哪里?' (Where is our breakthrough point?) is a question asked when a company is struggling to compete. It refers to finding a niche market or a unique feature that will allow the company to gain a foothold against larger competitors.

在激烈的市场竞争中,我们必须找到差异化的突破口。(In fierce market competition, we must find a differentiated breakthrough point.)

You will also hear it frequently in **Crime Dramas and Detective Movies**. When the lead detective is staring at a board full of photos and strings, they will eventually point to a single detail—a receipt, a phone call, a blurry face—and say, '这就是我们的突破口' (This is our breakthrough point). In this context, it has a high-stakes, dramatic feel. It is the 'crack in the case' that leads to the capture of the criminal.

这个证人的供词成为了案件审理的突破口。(This witness's testimony became the breakthrough point for the trial.)

In **Academic and Scientific Research**, researchers use 突破口 to describe the moment a theory is proven or a new phenomenon is discovered. It’s the specific experiment or data set that allows them to publish a paper. If a professor says, '你的研究需要一个更明确的突破口' (Your research needs a clearer breakthrough point), they mean your topic is too broad and needs a specific focus that can yield results.

3. Personal Development and Self-Help
In the world of Chinese 'Life Coaching' or motivational speaking, 突破口 is used to talk about overcoming personal obstacles. '改变生活,从找到你的突破口开始' (Changing your life starts with finding your breakthrough point). Here, it might refer to a habit you need to change or a new skill you need to learn to advance your career.

如果你觉得生活陷入了僵局,试着寻找一个小的突破口。(If you feel life is at a stalemate, try looking for a small breakthrough point.)

Finally, you might hear it in **Sports Commentary**. When a team is struggling to score against a strong defense, the commentator will say they are '寻找对方防线的突破口' (looking for a breakthrough in the opponent's defense). This brings the word back to its literal military roots, describing the physical gap needed to score a goal or win a point.

While 突破口 is a versatile word, English speakers often stumble when trying to translate 'breakthrough' directly into Chinese. Here are the most common pitfalls to avoid to ensure you sound like a native speaker.

Mistake 1: Confusing Noun and Verb
In English, 'breakthrough' can be both a noun ('We made a breakthrough') and an adjective ('a breakthrough discovery'). In Chinese, 突破 (tūpò) is the verb or the abstract noun for the act of breaking through, while 突破口 (tūpòkǒu) is specifically the point or opening.
Incorrect: 我突破口了这个难题。(I 'breakthrough-pointed' this difficult problem.)
Correct: 我在这个难题上取得了突破。(I made a breakthrough on this problem.) or 我找到了这个难题的突破口。(I found the breakthrough point for this problem.)

错误:他突破口了纪录。 正确:他突破了纪录。(Error: He 'breakthrough-pointed' the record. Correct: He broke the record.)

A 突破口 is a location (real or metaphorical). You find it, you search for it, or you open it. You don't 'do' it. Think of it as a door. You don't 'door' a room; you 'find the door' to the room.

Mistake 2: Overusing it for Simple Solutions
突破口 implies a certain level of difficulty or a strategic struggle. If you just found a simpler way to cook rice, don't call it a 突破口. Use '窍门' (qiàomén - trick/knack) or '方法' (fāngfǎ - method) instead. Using 突破口 for trivial things sounds overly dramatic or slightly pompous. It’s like using the word 'paradigm shift' to describe changing your socks.

不要在日常琐事中使用“突破口”,那会显得太严肃了。(Don't use '突破口' in daily trivialities; it will seem too serious.)

Mistake 3: Misplacing the '口'
Sometimes students forget the '口' (kǒu - mouth/opening) and just say '突破'. While '取得突破' (achieve a breakthrough) is correct, it refers to the result. If you want to talk about the strategy or the beginning of the solution, you must include the '口'.
Example: '我们找到了突破' (We found a breakthrough - sounds a bit incomplete) vs '我们找到了突破口' (We found the breakthrough point - sounds precise and strategic).

找到突破口是解决复杂问题的第一步。(Finding the breakthrough point is the first step to solving complex problems.)

Another subtle mistake is using it for purely positive discoveries that didn't involve overcoming an obstacle. For example, if you accidentally discover a beautiful park, it's not a 突破口. A 突破口 is always the solution to a challenge. It is born out of struggle and strategic thinking.

To truly master 突破口, you need to know its 'neighbors'—other words that mean something similar but have slightly different nuances. Choosing the right one will make your Chinese sound more precise and sophisticated.

突破口 (tūpòkǒu) vs. 切入点 (qiērùdiǎn)
切入点 literally means 'entry point'. While 突破口 implies breaking through a barrier, 切入点 is more neutral. It’s simply where you start your analysis or work.
Example: '从这个角度切入' (Enter from this angle) vs '寻找防线的突破口' (Find a breakthrough in the defense). Use 切入点 for academic papers or research topics; use 突破口 for crises or hard-to-solve problems.
突破口 (tūpòkǒu) vs. 关键 (guānjiàn)
关键 means 'the key' or 'crucial'. It is much broader. A 突破口 is always a 关键, but a 关键 isn't always a 突破口. 关键 can be a person, a time, or a factor. 突破口 is specifically the way in.
Example: '他是成功的关键' (He is the key to success) - You wouldn't say 'He is the 突破口' unless he is the person who allows you to break through a specific barrier.

虽然找到了切入点,但真正的突破口还在寻找中。(Although we found an entry point, the real breakthrough point is still being sought.)

Another common alternative is **转机 (zhuǎnjī)**, which means 'a turn for the better' or 'a favorable turn'. 突破口 is something you actively look for and create through strategy, while a 转机 often feels like something that happens due to external circumstances or luck. If the weather clears up during a rescue mission, that's a 转机. If the rescuers find a secret tunnel, that's a 突破口.

这次会议是改善两国关系的契机。(This meeting is an opportunity to improve relations between the two countries.)

Summary of Alternatives
  • 窍门 (qiàomén): A 'knack' or 'trick' for simple tasks.
  • 捷径 (jiéjìng): A 'shortcut'. Unlike 突破口, which is about overcoming difficulty, a shortcut is about saving time.
  • 着力点 (zhuólìdiǎn): 'Focal point'—where you apply your strength. Similar to 突破口 but focuses more on the application of force than the opening itself.

我们不应寻找捷径,而应寻找真正的突破口。(We should not look for shortcuts, but for real breakthrough points.)

By understanding these distinctions, you can navigate the nuances of Chinese problem-solving vocabulary with confidence. 突破口 remains the most 'active' and 'strategic' of all these terms, making it perfect for high-level discussions and storytelling.

How Formal Is It?

Curiosidade

The character '突' (tū) depicts a dog (犬) rushing out of a hole (穴), which perfectly captures the sudden, forceful nature of a breakthrough.

Guia de pronúncia

UK /tuː pɔː kəʊ/
US /tu poʊ koʊ/
The primary stress is on the first syllable 'tū', with a rising tone on 'pò' and a falling-rising tone on 'kǒu'.
Rima com
入口 (rùkǒu - entrance) 出口 (chūkǒu - exit) 借口 (jièkǒu - excuse) 伤口 (shāngkǒu - wound) 胸口 (xiōngkǒu - chest) 门口 (ménkǒu - doorway) 胃口 (wèikǒu - appetite) 口口 (kǒukǒu - every mouthful)
Erros comuns
  • Pronouncing 'tu' as 'tyu' (like 'Tuesday'). It should be a pure 'oo' sound.
  • Mixing up the tones: Tū (1st), Pò (4th), Kǒu (3rd).
  • Pronouncing 'pò' like English 'poe'. In Chinese, it has a slight 'w' glide (p-w-oh).
  • Pronouncing 'kou' like 'cow'. It should be 'koh' (rhymes with 'go').
  • Forgetting the aspiration on 't' and 'p'. They should have a puff of air.

Nível de dificuldade

Leitura 4/5

Easy to recognize characters, but requires understanding of metaphorical context.

Escrita 6/5

Requires knowledge of specific formal patterns like '以...为突破口'.

Expressão oral 5/5

Tones can be tricky (1st, 4th, 3rd sequence).

Audição 4/5

Very common in news and professional settings; easy to hear.

O que aprender depois

Pré-requisitos

突破 (tūpò) 口 (kǒu) 解决 (jiějué) 问题 (wèntí) 寻找 (xúnzhǎo)

Aprenda a seguir

瓶颈 (píngjǐng) 僵局 (jiāngjú) 切入点 (qiērùdiǎn) 契机 (qìjī) 关键 (guānjiàn)

Avançado

以点带面 (yǐ diǎn dài miàn) 迎刃而解 (yíng rèn ér jiě) 势如破竹 (shì rú pò zhú) 另辟蹊径 (lìng pì xī jìng)

Gramática essencial

The '以...为...' Structure

以科技为突破口 (Taking technology as the breakthrough point).

Noun Modifiers with '的'

案件的突破口 (The breakthrough point of the case).

Resultative Complements with '找到'

找到了突破口 (Successfully found the breakthrough point).

Locative Phrases with '在于'

突破口在于创新 (The breakthrough point lies in innovation).

Prepositional Phrases with '从...中'

从失败中寻找突破口 (Look for a breakthrough from failure).

Exemplos por nível

1

我找到了一个突破口。

I found a breakthrough point.

Simple Subject + Verb + Object structure.

2

这是一个好的突破口。

This is a good breakthrough point.

Using '是' to define the noun.

3

我们需要突破口。

We need a breakthrough point.

Using '需要' (need) with the noun.

4

突破口在哪里?

Where is the breakthrough point?

Basic question form with '在哪里'.

5

他看出了突破口。

He saw the breakthrough point.

Verb '看出' means to see or discern.

6

这个突破口很小。

This breakthrough point is very small.

Adjective '小' modifying the noun.

7

我们要找突破口。

We want to find a breakthrough point.

'要' (want/need) + '找' (find).

8

那是我的突破口。

That is my breakthrough point.

Possessive '我的' used with the noun.

1

我们要找到问题的突破口。

We need to find the breakthrough point of the problem.

Using '的' to connect problem and breakthrough point.

2

学习汉字是我的突破口。

Learning Chinese characters is my breakthrough point.

Gerund-like phrase as the subject.

3

警察正在寻找突破口。

The police are looking for a breakthrough point.

Present continuous with '正在'.

4

这个方法是一个突破口。

This method is a breakthrough point.

Identifying a 'method' as a 'breakthrough'.

5

他终于找到了突破口。

He finally found the breakthrough point.

Adverb '终于' (finally) adds emphasis.

6

我们从这里寻找突破口。

We look for a breakthrough point from here.

'从...寻找' (search from...).

7

这个消息是案子的突破口。

This news is the breakthrough point of the case.

Possessive '案子的' (of the case).

8

不要放弃,寻找突破口!

Don't give up, look for a breakthrough point!

Imperative sentence with '不要'.

1

公司需要找到一个市场突破口来增加收入。

The company needs to find a market breakthrough point to increase revenue.

Using '来' to show purpose.

2

这个新产品是我们进入市场的突破口。

This new product is our breakthrough point for entering the market.

Noun phrase as a complement.

3

他从对方的话语中找到了突破口。

He found a breakthrough point from the other person's words.

'从...中' (from within...).

4

我们要把质量作为竞争的突破口。

We should take quality as the breakthrough point for competition.

'把...作为' (take... as...).

5

科研人员在实验中发现了一个突破口。

Researchers found a breakthrough point during the experiment.

Location '在实验中' (in the experiment).

6

寻找法律突破口是解决这个纠纷的关键。

Finding a legal breakthrough point is the key to solving this dispute.

Subject is a verbal phrase.

7

这个突破口让整个项目起死回生。

This breakthrough point brought the whole project back to life.

Causative verb '让' (make/let).

8

我们需要一个新的突破口来打破目前的僵局。

We need a new breakthrough point to break the current deadlock.

'打破僵局' is a common collocation.

1

政府决定以农村改革为突破口,推动全国经济发展。

The government decided to take rural reform as a breakthrough point to promote national economic development.

Standard formal pattern '以...为突破口'.

2

在复杂的谈判中,他敏锐地捕捉到了一个突破口。

In complex negotiations, he keenly captured a breakthrough point.

Adverb '敏锐地' (keenly) and verb '捕捉' (capture).

3

这个技术难题的突破口在于材料的改进。

The breakthrough point for this technical problem lies in the improvement of materials.

'在于' (lies in) defines the location of the breakthrough.

4

我们需要从消费者的心理需求中寻找突破口。

We need to look for a breakthrough point in the psychological needs of consumers.

Abstract noun phrase '心理需求'.

5

这次成功的营销活动成为了品牌升级的突破口。

This successful marketing campaign became the breakthrough point for brand upgrading.

Using '成为了' (became) to show transformation.

6

警方通过对银行账目的调查,终于打开了案件的突破口。

Through the investigation of bank accounts, the police finally opened a breakthrough in the case.

'通过对...的调查' (Through the investigation of...).

7

在激烈的竞争中,差异化服务是我们的突破口。

In fierce competition, differentiated service is our breakthrough point.

Identifying a strategy as the breakthrough point.

8

他试图寻找情感上的突破口来化解两人的矛盾。

He tried to find an emotional breakthrough point to resolve the conflict between the two.

Abstract modifier '情感上的' (emotional).

1

深化体制改革,必须选准突破口,以点带面。

To deepen institutional reform, we must choose the right breakthrough point to promote overall progress through specific points.

Idiom '以点带面' (promote the whole area by starting from a point).

2

该学说在传统理论的薄弱环节找到了突破口,引发了学术界的震动。

This theory found a breakthrough point in the weak links of traditional theory, causing a stir in academia.

Sophisticated vocabulary like '薄弱环节' (weak link) and '震动' (stir/shock).

3

企业若想在红海市场中突围,寻找技术创新的突破口至关重要。

If a company wants to break out of a 'red ocean' market, finding a breakthrough point in technological innovation is crucial.

Conditional '若...则' (if... then) implied structure.

4

这封偶然发现的信件,成为了揭开历史谜团的突破口。

This accidentally discovered letter became the breakthrough point for uncovering historical mysteries.

Participial-like phrase '偶然发现的' modifying the noun.

5

在处理这类复杂的社会问题时,基层治理往往是最佳的突破口。

When dealing with such complex social issues, grassroots governance is often the best breakthrough point.

Contextualizing a social strategy.

6

他善于从纷繁的表象中理出头绪,找到解决问题的突破口。

He is good at finding clues in the complicated appearances and finding the breakthrough point to solve problems.

Idiom '理出头绪' (find a clue/sort things out).

7

这项研究以跨学科的视角为突破口,填补了该领域的空白。

This research took an interdisciplinary perspective as a breakthrough point, filling a gap in the field.

Academic phrase '填补空白' (fill a gap).

8

外交上的突破口往往始于非正式的民间交流。

Diplomatic breakthroughs often begin with informal non-governmental exchanges.

Abstract subject '外交上的突破口'.

1

在宏观经济调控中,精准识别风险积聚的突破口是防范系统性危机的首要任务。

In macroeconomic regulation, accurately identifying the breakthrough point of risk accumulation is the primary task for preventing systemic crises.

Complex noun phrases and high-level economic terminology.

2

文学批评家认为,该作家的叙事策略在于以边缘人物为突破口,解构主流价值观。

Literary critics believe that the writer's narrative strategy lies in taking marginal characters as a breakthrough point to deconstruct mainstream values.

Philosophical verbs like '解构' (deconstruct).

3

面对算法霸权,法律规制应以透明度原则为突破口,重塑数字正义。

Faced with algorithmic hegemony, legal regulation should take the principle of transparency as a breakthrough point to reshape digital justice.

Modern concepts like '算法霸权' (algorithmic hegemony).

4

这种寻找突破口的思维方式,本质上是一种对系统脆弱性的深刻洞察。

This way of thinking about finding breakthrough points is, in essence, a profound insight into system vulnerability.

Abstract philosophical definition of the term.

5

在漫长的历史进程中,每一次重大的文明飞跃都伴随着生产力的突破口被打开。

In the long course of history, every major leap in civilization has been accompanied by the opening of a breakthrough in productive forces.

Passive-like structure with '伴随着' (accompanied by).

6

辩护律师在控方证据链中找到了一个致命的突破口,从而扭转了整个战局。

The defense lawyer found a fatal breakthrough point in the prosecution's chain of evidence, thereby turning the tide of the entire battle.

Metaphorical use of '战局' (battle situation) for a trial.

7

这种以点带面、寻求突破口的改革逻辑,是中国改革开放成功的秘诀之一。

This reform logic of promoting overall progress through specific points and seeking breakthrough points is one of the secrets of the success of China's reform and opening up.

Appositive structure defining '改革逻辑'.

8

在博弈论中,寻找对手策略的突破口是制定最优反应函数的前提。

In game theory, finding the breakthrough point in an opponent's strategy is a prerequisite for formulating an optimal response function.

Technical academic context.

Colocações comuns

寻找突破口
找到突破口
打开突破口
作为突破口
关键的突破口
心理突破口
技术突破口
市场突破口
唯一的突破口
选择突破口

Frases Comuns

以...为突破口

— Taking... as the breakthrough point. A standard formal way to describe a strategy.

我们要以科技创新为突破口。

寻求新的突破口

— Seeking new breakthrough points. Used when old methods are no longer working.

企业必须不断寻求新的突破口。

打开局面

— To open up a situation. Often used alongside finding a 突破口.

找到突破口后,他迅速打开了局面。

攻克难关

— To overcome a difficult pass. The act of using a 突破口 to succeed.

我们终于攻克了技术难关。

另辟蹊径

— To find a new path. Related to finding a unique 突破口.

如果这条路不通,我们要另辟蹊径。

瓶颈期

— Bottleneck period. The time when you most need a 突破口.

我的学习进入了瓶颈期。

打破僵局

— To break a deadlock. The main goal of finding a 突破口.

这次谈话打破了双方的僵局。

立足点

— Foothold. Similar to a 突破口 in market entry.

我们需要在海外市场找到立足点。

切入点

— Entry point. Often used interchangeably with 突破口 in softer contexts.

这是一个很好的工作切入点。

点石成金

— To turn dross into gold. A breakthrough that changes everything.

这个创意简直是点石成金。

Frequentemente confundido com

突破口 vs 突破 (tūpò)

突破 is the action of breaking through. 突破口 is the specific point where you do it.

突破口 vs 入口 (rùkǒu)

入口 is a literal entrance (like a door). 突破口 is metaphorical and implies overcoming resistance.

突破口 vs 出口 (chūkǒu)

出口 is an exit. 突破口 is an opening to get *in* to a solution.

Expressões idiomáticas

"以点带面"

— Using a single point to lead or influence the whole area. This is the philosophy behind a 突破口.

我们要以点带面,全面推进改革。

Formal
"一语破的"

— To hit the mark with a single word. Like finding a linguistic 突破口.

他的分析一语破的,找到了问题的核心。

Literary
"另起炉灶"

— To start fresh (literally: set up a new stove). When you can't find a 突破口, you start over.

这个方案不行,我们只能另起炉灶。

General
"势如破竹"

— Like splitting bamboo—unstoppable momentum once the first knot (the 突破口) is broken.

找到突破口后,我军势如破竹。

Formal/Literary
"迎刃而解"

— To be solved easily once the key problem is tackled. The result of finding a 突破口.

只要解决了资金问题,其他事都迎刃而解。

Formal
"拨云见日"

— To see the sun through the clouds. The feeling of finding a 突破口 after being confused.

听了他的解释,我有种拨云见日的感觉。

Literary
"柳暗花明"

— Finding a new path when all seems lost. A poetic way to describe a breakthrough.

真是山重水复疑无路,柳暗花明又一村。

Literary
"开门见山"

— To get straight to the point. Finding a direct 突破口.

我们开门见山地谈谈突破口吧。

General
"对症下药"

— To prescribe the right medicine for the illness. Finding the correct 突破口 for a specific problem.

只有对症下药,才能找到解决问题的突破口。

General
"水到渠成"

— When the water comes, the channel is formed. A natural breakthrough.

只要努力,成功自然水到渠成。

General

Fácil de confundir

突破口 vs 突破

They share the same root.

突破 is a verb (to break through) or an abstract noun (a breakthrough). 突破口 is a concrete/metaphorical noun for the point of entry.

他在技术上取得了突破 (He made a breakthrough). 他找到了技术的突破口 (He found the breakthrough point).

突破口 vs 切入点

Both mean 'starting point'.

切入点 is neutral (where you start). 突破口 implies there is a barrier or difficulty to overcome.

从历史角度切入 (Enter from a historical perspective). 寻找防线的突破口 (Find a breach in the defense).

突破口 vs 关键

Both refer to important things.

关键 means 'the key' (essential factor). 突破口 means 'the opening' (the way to solve it).

信心是成功的关键 (Confidence is the key to success). 找到案件的突破口 (Find the breakthrough point of the case).

突破口 vs 窍门

Both mean a 'way' to solve something.

窍门 is informal and used for simple tasks. 突破口 is formal and used for complex strategies.

做饭的小窍门 (Cooking tips). 改革的突破口 (The breakthrough point of reform).

突破口 vs 捷径

Both are ways to get to a goal.

捷径 is a shortcut (saving time). 突破口 is a breach (overcoming difficulty).

学习没有捷径 (There are no shortcuts to learning). 找到问题的突破口 (Find the breakthrough point of the problem).

Padrões de frases

A2

找到 + (Problem) + 的突破口

找到问题的突破口。

B1

我们需要一个 + (Modifier) + 突破口

我们需要一个技术突破口。

B1

从...寻找突破口

从对话中寻找突破口。

B2

以...为突破口

以教育改革为突破口。

B2

突破口在于...

突破口在于细节。

C1

把...作为...的突破口

把降低成本作为提高竞争力的突破口。

C1

敏锐地捕捉到突破口

他敏锐地捕捉到了市场突破口。

C2

精准识别...的突破口

精准识别风险积聚的突破口。

Família de palavras

Substantivos

突破 (tūpò - breakthrough/achievement)
口子 (kǒuzi - opening/hole)
突围 (tūwéi - breaking through an encirclement)

Verbos

突破 (tūpò - to break through/surpass)
突入 (tūrù - to burst into)
突袭 (tūxí - to surprise attack)

Adjetivos

突破性的 (tūpòxìng de - breakthrough/pioneering)

Relacionado

缺口 (quēkǒu - gap/breach)
切入点 (qiērùdiǎn - entry point)
着力点 (zhuólìdiǎn - focal point)
关键点 (guānjiàndiǎn - key point)
转折点 (zhuǎnzhédiǎn - turning point)

Como usar

frequency

Very common in professional, academic, and media Chinese.

Erros comuns
  • Using it as a verb. 找到突破口

    突破口 is a noun. You cannot say 'I breakthrough-pointed the problem.' You must 'find' or 'open' it.

  • Mixing up with 突破. 取得了突破

    If you want to say 'made a breakthrough', use '取得突破'. If you want to say 'found the point of entry', use '找到突破口'.

  • Using it for simple things. 做饭的窍门

    Don't use 突破口 for how to boil an egg. It's too grand. Use 窍门 (knack) for small, daily things.

  • Forgetting the '口'. 寻找突破口

    If you just say '寻找突破', it sounds like you are looking for the act of breaking through, which is slightly awkward compared to 'looking for the point'.

  • Using '个' incorrectly. 这个突破口

    While '一个突破口' is okay, in formal writing, we often omit the measure word when it's abstract. '寻找突破口' sounds better than '寻找一个突破口'.

Dicas

Pair with Strategy

Always use 突破口 when you want to sound strategic. It shows you aren't just working hard, but working smart by finding the right angle.

The 'DE' Link

Remember to use '的' to connect the problem to the breakthrough point. '问题的突破口' is the standard way to phrase it.

Tone Accuracy

Practice the transition from the 4th tone of 'pò' to the 3rd tone of 'kǒu'. It should feel like a sharp drop followed by a low dip.

Beyond 'Method'

If you are writing a B2 or C1 level essay, try to replace '第一个方法' (the first method) with '突破口' if it fits the context of overcoming a barrier.

News Watch

Watch the evening news (Xinwen Lianbo). You will hear '突破口' at least once a week in reports about reform or science.

Formal Pattern

Memorize '以...为突破口'. It is a 'cheat code' for writing high-scoring sentences in Chinese exams like the HSK.

Detective Clues

In TV shows, whenever a character says '突破口', pay attention—the plot is about to move forward significantly.

The Mouth Metaphor

Think of the problem as a giant monster. The 'kǒu' (mouth) is its only weak spot. Find the mouth to defeat it!

Difficulty Level

Only use 突破口 for things that are actually hard. If it's too easy, use '窍门' or '办法' to avoid sounding melodramatic.

Personal Context

Apply the word to your own life. 'Learning 5 new words a day is the 突破口 for my Chinese progress.' This makes it stick.

Memorize

Mnemônico

Think of a 'TWO-PAW-HOLE'. Imagine a dog using its TWO PAWS to dig a HOLE (KOU) through a wall to BREAK THROUGH. Tū-Pò-Kǒu.

Associação visual

Visualize a massive, grey concrete wall representing a problem. Now see a single, glowing golden crack in the center. That crack is the 突破口.

Word Web

突破 (Breakthrough) 口 (Opening) 解决 (Solve) 问题 (Problem) 寻找 (Search) 找到 (Find) 关键 (Key) 策略 (Strategy)

Desafio

Try to identify one '突破口' in your Chinese learning this week. Is it a specific app? A certain grammar rule? Write a sentence about it using the word.

Origem da palavra

The word is a compound of '突破' (tūpò) and '口' (kǒu). '突破' dates back to ancient military texts describing the act of charging through enemy lines. '口' is one of the oldest Chinese characters, representing an opening or mouth.

Significado original: A literal breach in a physical wall or defensive formation during a siege or battle.

Sino-Tibetan (Chinese).

Contexto cultural

Generally a positive, proactive word. No major sensitivities, but avoid using it to describe people unless you mean they are the 'key' to a solution, as it can sound slightly objectifying.

Similar to 'breakthrough' or 'the thin end of the wedge', but 突破口 is used much more frequently in formal planning and policy discussions than its English counterparts.

Deng Xiaoping's use of 'Economic Special Zones' as a 突破口 for national reform. Commonly used in 'CSI'-style Chinese police dramas (e.g., 'The Knockout' / 狂飙). Frequent in 'Sun Tzu's Art of War' commentaries regarding weak points.

Pratique na vida real

Contextos reais

Criminal Investigation

  • 寻找线索作为突破口
  • 打开案件突破口
  • 心理突破口
  • 致命的突破口

Business Strategy

  • 市场突破口
  • 技术创新突破口
  • 寻找差异化突破口
  • 作为进入市场的突破口

Scientific Research

  • 发现科研突破口
  • 寻找理论突破口
  • 实验的突破口
  • 取得重大突破口

Political Reform

  • 以...改革为突破口
  • 找准突破口
  • 制度突破口
  • 寻求政策突破口

Personal Learning

  • 学习的突破口
  • 找到提分的突破口
  • 语言学习突破口
  • 寻找职业突破口

Iniciadores de conversa

"你觉得我们解决这个问题的突破口在哪里? (Where do you think the breakthrough point for solving this problem is?)"

"在你的学习中,你找到过什么样的突破口吗? (Have you found any breakthrough points in your studies?)"

"如果你是老板,你会选择什么作为公司的突破口? (If you were the boss, what would you choose as the company's breakthrough point?)"

"这个案子一直没有进展,我们需要一个新的突破口。 (This case hasn't progressed; we need a new breakthrough point.)"

"你认为人工智能会是未来科技发展的突破口吗? (Do you think AI will be the breakthrough point for future technological development?)"

Temas para diário

描述一次你感到被困住(僵局)的经历,以及你最终是如何找到突破口解决它的。 (Describe an experience where you felt stuck and how you eventually found a breakthrough point to solve it.)

如果你想在一年内精通中文,你会把什么作为你的突破口?为什么? (If you wanted to master Chinese in a year, what would you take as your breakthrough point? Why?)

分析一个你喜欢的成功公司,找出他们进入市场的突破口。 (Analyze a successful company you like and find their breakthrough point for entering the market.)

在你的生活中,有没有哪个小的习惯成为了你个人成长的突破口? (In your life, has any small habit become a breakthrough point for your personal growth?)

讨论一下,为什么在解决复杂社会问题时,寻找一个“突破口”比全面出击更有效。 (Discuss why finding a 'breakthrough point' is more effective than an all-out attack when solving complex social problems.)

Perguntas frequentes

10 perguntas

Yes, but only metaphorically. For example, '他是这个项目的突破口' means he is the person who can help solve the project's problems. It doesn't mean he is a physical hole! It's better to say '他是解决问题的关键人物' unless you want to emphasize his role as a tactical entry point.

突破 (tūpò) is the act of breaking through (verb) or the general achievement (noun). 突破口 (tūpòkǒu) is the specific spot or strategy you use to achieve that 突破. For example, '取得突破' (achieve a breakthrough) vs '寻找突破口' (look for the breakthrough point).

It is used, but it sounds a bit formal. In a casual conversation about finding lost keys, you'd just say '办法'. But if you are talking about a difficult life decision or a complex puzzle, 突破口 is perfectly appropriate.

You would usually say '重大突破' (zhòngdà tūpò). If you mean a major breakthrough *point*, you could say '关键的突破口', but '重大突破' is more common for the result.

In Chinese, you don't change the word for plural. You can say '多个突破口' (multiple breakthrough points) or '一些突破口' (some breakthrough points).

It is almost always positive, as it implies finding a solution or making progress. However, from the perspective of the person being 'broken through' (like a defense), it could be seen as a vulnerability.

The most common are 寻找 (look for), 找到 (find), 打开 (open), and 选择 (choose).

Yes. 切入点 (entry point) is where you start. 突破口 (breakthrough point) is where you overcome resistance. Use 突破口 when things are difficult; use 切入点 when you are just starting an analysis.

Yes! It's very common in sports commentary to describe finding a gap in the opponent's defense. '寻找对方防线的突破口'.

Yes, literally a breach in a wall or defensive line, used in military contexts. All other uses are metaphorical extensions of this.

Teste-se 200 perguntas

writing

Write: 'I found a breakthrough point.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Write: 'We need to find the breakthrough point of the problem.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Write: 'Taking innovation as the breakthrough point.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Write: 'He keenly captured a market breakthrough point.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Write: 'Where is the breakthrough point?'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Write: 'This is a key breakthrough point.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Write: 'The police are looking for a breakthrough in the case.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Write: 'The breakthrough point lies in the improvement of technology.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Write: 'Learning Chinese is my breakthrough point.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Write: 'He saw the breakthrough point.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Write: 'We must find a new breakthrough point.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Write: 'Identify the breakthrough point of risk accumulation.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Write: 'This product is our market breakthrough point.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Write: 'To break the deadlock, we need a breakthrough point.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Write: 'Take rural reform as the breakthrough point.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Write: 'This is a good breakthrough point.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Write: 'Search for a breakthrough from consumer demand.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Write: 'Differentiated service is our breakthrough point.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Write: 'Finding a legal breakthrough point is difficult.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Write: 'The writer takes marginal characters as a breakthrough point.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
speaking

Say: 'Tū pò kǒu'

Read this aloud:

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
speaking

Say: 'Zhǎo dào tū pò kǒu'

Read this aloud:

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
speaking

Say: 'Wèn tí de tū pò kǒu'

Read this aloud:

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
speaking

Say: 'Yǐ chuàng xīn wéi tū pò kǒu'

Read this aloud:

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
speaking

Say: 'Mǐn ruì de bǔ zhuō dào tū pò kǒu'

Read this aloud:

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
speaking

Say: 'Tū pò kǒu zài nǎ lǐ?'

Read this aloud:

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
speaking

Say: 'Zhè shì guān jiàn de tū pò kǒu'

Read this aloud:

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
speaking

Say: 'Dǎ kāi le àn jiàn de tū pò kǒu'

Read this aloud:

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
speaking

Say: 'Tū pò kǒu zài yú jì shù gǎi jìn'

Read this aloud:

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
speaking

Say: 'Xún zhǎo xīn de tū pò kǒu'

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Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
speaking

Say: 'Tā shì tū pò kǒu'

Read this aloud:

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
speaking

Say: 'Shì chǎng tū pò kǒu'

Read this aloud:

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
speaking

Say: 'Xì tǒng xìng fēng xiǎn de tū pò kǒu'

Read this aloud:

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
speaking

Say: 'Dǎ pò jiāng jú de tū pò kǒu'

Read this aloud:

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
speaking

Say: 'Yǐ nóng cūn gǎi gé wéi tū pò kǒu'

Read this aloud:

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
speaking

Say: 'Kuà xué kē shì jiǎo de tū pò kǒu'

Read this aloud:

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
speaking

Say: 'Hěn xiǎo de tū pò kǒu'

Read this aloud:

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
speaking

Say: 'Xué xí de tū pò kǒu'

Read this aloud:

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
speaking

Say: 'Jiè jué wèn tí de tū pò kǒu'

Read this aloud:

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
speaking

Say: 'Zhàn lüè tū pò kǒu'

Read this aloud:

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
listening

Listen and transcribe: '突破口'

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
listening

Listen and transcribe: '找到突破口'

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
listening

Listen and transcribe: '以改革为突破口'

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
listening

Listen and transcribe: '敏锐地发现突破口'

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
listening

Listen and transcribe: '突破口在哪里?'

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
listening

Listen and transcribe: '关键的突破口'

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
listening

Listen and transcribe: '打开了突破口'

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
listening

Listen and transcribe: '精准识别突破口'

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
listening

Listen and transcribe: '市场突破口'

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
listening

Listen and transcribe: '技术突破口'

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
listening

Listen and transcribe: '他是突破口'

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
listening

Listen and transcribe: '寻找突破口'

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
listening

Listen and transcribe: '法律上的突破口'

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
listening

Listen and transcribe: '打破僵局的突破口'

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
listening

Listen and transcribe: '战略上的突破口'

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:

/ 200 correct

Perfect score!

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