zhòngdiǎn: 重点 - Main Point, Key Point, Focus, Priority

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Summary: Discover the meaning of 重点 (zhòngdiǎn), a fundamental Chinese word for “main point,” “focus,” or “priority.” This page breaks down how 重点 is used everywhere in China—from the classroom to the boardroom—to cut through the noise and identify what truly matters. Learn why understanding this term is key to more effective communication and a deeper insight into Chinese culture's emphasis on structure and efficiency.

Pinyin (with tone marks): zhòngdiǎn

Part of Speech: Noun, Adjective

HSK Level: HSK 4

Concise Definition: The most important part of something; the main point, focus, or priority.

In a Nutshell: 重点 (zhòngdiǎn) is the word you use when you need to identify the core essence of a topic, discussion, or task. It's about filtering out secondary details to focus on what's most significant. Think of it as the “heavy point” that everything else hinges on. If a teacher says something is a 重点, you write it down immediately. If your boss asks for the 重点 of a report, they want the executive summary, not the fine print.

重 (zhòng): This character can mean “heavy,” “weighty,” or “important.” Here, it signifies importance and significance.

点 (diǎn): This character means “point,” “dot,” or “spot.” It refers to a specific location or concept.

When combined, 重点 (zhòngdiǎn) literally translates to the “heavy/important point.” This is a very intuitive and direct combination that perfectly captures its meaning as the main focus or the most critical element.

The concept of 重点 is deeply embedded in the Chinese mindset, particularly in education and professional environments. The Chinese education system heavily emphasizes identifying the 重点 of a lesson or text, as this is what will likely appear on the exam. This trains individuals from a young age to constantly seek out and prioritize the most critical information.

Comparison with Western Culture: In many Western communication styles, particularly in creative or brainstorming sessions, it's common to explore various ideas before a “main point” emerges organically. The process of discovery is often as valued as the conclusion. In contrast, Chinese communication often values efficiency and clarity by stating the 重点 upfront. A meeting might begin with “Today's 重点 is…” to set a clear agenda and avoid deviation. This isn't about being blunt or rude; it's about respecting everyone's time by focusing on the core issue. This reflects a cultural preference for structure and clear, hierarchical information.

重点 is an extremely common and practical word used daily. Its connotation is generally neutral and objective, simply pointing to what is most important.

In Education: This is perhaps the most common context. Teachers will explicitly state, “这是考试的重点 (zhè shì kǎoshì de zhòngdiǎn)” - “This is a key point for the exam.” Students will constantly ask, “老师，这课的重点是什么？ (lǎoshī, zhè kè de zhòngdiǎn shì shénme?)” - “Teacher, what are the main points of this lesson?”

In Business: In meetings, a manager might say, “请抓住重点 (qǐng zhuāzhù zhòngdiǎn)” - “Please get to the point.” When discussing strategy, you'll hear “我们工作的重点是提高销售额 (wǒmen gōngzuò de zhòngdiǎn shì tígāo xiāoshòu'é)” - “The focus of our work is to increase sales.”