zi1 cyu5支柱
Jyutpingzi1 cyu5
Yalejī chyúh
Definition
Pillar; a physical support column, or figuratively, an essential supporting force.
- pillar; support column
- figurativean essential force or core strength providing reliable support
neutralpeoplework
How it's used
While often used in formal contexts like government policy or economics, it is also frequently applied to people who provide essential emotional or financial stability to a family or organization. It carries a strong sense of reliability and structural importance, implying that the entity would collapse or struggle significantly without this support.
Measure word
tiu4條tìuhExamples
He is the financial pillar of this company.
Related words
Common mistake
Avoid using this to describe a literal physical pole or post in a building, as that is more commonly referred to as 柱 or 柱躉. Using 支柱 for a physical construction element can sound overly formal or slightly unnatural in daily speech.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- TonesCantonese has six tones, and the tones can change in certain grammatical contexts. Learn the six tones and the rules for tone change.
- Time and datesClock time, days of the week, months, and years. The patterns you need to make plans and talk about when things happen.
- Modal verbsHow to say can, will, may, should, must, and want. The core modal verbs of Cantonese and the differences that trip up beginners.
