to cut weeds and eliminate the roots (idiom); to destroy root and branch
HSK 7, unknown, 36 strokes, rank #24118, Very Hard
斩草除根
zhǎncǎochúgēn
to eliminate completely
HSK 7, unknown, 36 strokes, rank #24118, Very Hard
zhǎncǎochúgēn(zhan3cao3chu2gen1) T3
1to cut weeds and eliminate the roots (idiom); to destroy root and branch
2to eliminate completely
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March 24, 2026
斩草除根(斬草除根)zhǎncǎochúgēn(zhan3cao3chu2gen1)
The idiom 斩草除根 (zhan3 cao3 chu2 gen1) literally translates to 'cutting weeds and eliminating the roots.' It is used to describe the act of completely eradicating a problem or threat to ensure it does not return, often in contexts related to conflict resolution or dealing with adversaries.
Strokes36Frequency#24118DifficultyVery Hard
Cultural Note
In Chinese culture, the concept of completely resolving issues is often linked to traditional practices of ensuring harmony and stability, reflecting a proactive approach to conflict that is valued in both personal and societal contexts.
Memory Tip
Imagine a gardener who not only cuts the visible weeds but also pulls out the roots to prevent them from growing back. The sound of '斩' (zhan3) resembles the sharp sound of cutting, while '草' (cao3) is grass, and '根' (gen1) means root, helping you visualize the complete removal of an unwanted plant.
Meanings of 斩草除根
zhǎncǎochúgēn(zhan3cao3chu2gen1)
1to cut weeds and eliminate the roots (idiom); to destroy root and branch
2to eliminate completely
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About 斩草除根
斩草除根Simplified
斬草除根Traditional
36Strokes
—Radical
#—Frequency Rank
HSK 3.0L7AdvancedCEFRC2
Podcast: 斩草除根
Podcast: 斩草除根
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AI Study Notes for 斩草除根
Usage Notes
This idiom is often used in serious contexts, such as politics or corporate strategies, and can sound overly harsh if used in light-hearted situations. Be cautious with its use, as it conveys a sense of finality and determination. Common collocations include '彻底' (che4 di3, thoroughly) and '解决' (jie3 jue2, solve).
HSK Study Tips
Though not classified under HSK levels, understanding 斩草除根 can enhance vocabulary related to problem-solving and conflict management. Focus on the individual characters to grasp their meanings and how they combine to create this idiomatic expression.
Common Mistakes
Learners often misinterpret this idiom as simply meaning to remove something without understanding the finality implied. For example, saying '我想斩草' (I want to cut the weeds) misses the essence of completely eliminating the issue or threat.
AI-enhanced 2026-03-24
Pronunciation of 斩草除根
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How to say to cut weeds and eliminate the roots (idiom); to destroy root and branch in Chinese
“to cut weeds and eliminate the roots (idiom); to destroy root and branch” in Chinese is斩草除根zhǎncǎochúgēn
The idiom 斩草除根 (zhan3 cao3 chu2 gen1) literally translates to 'cutting weeds and eliminating the roots.' It is used to describe the act of completely eradicating a problem or threat to ensure it does not return, often in contexts related to conflict resolution or dealing with adversaries.
When to use 斩草除根
This idiom is often used in serious contexts, such as politics or corporate strategies, and can sound overly harsh if used in light-hearted situations. Be cautious with its use, as it conveys a sense of finality and determination. Common collocations include '彻底' (che4 di3, thoroughly) and '解决' (jie3 jue2, solve).
What learners get wrong
Learners often misinterpret this idiom as simply meaning to remove something without understanding the finality implied. For example, saying '我想斩草' (I want to cut the weeds) misses the essence of completely eliminating the issue or threat.
Write 斩草除根
斩
草
除
根
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Frequently Asked Questions about 斩草除根
It's best to reserve this idiom for more serious discussions, as its connotation can seem too severe for light-hearted contexts.
'Cutting weeds and eliminating the roots' is the literal translation, emphasizing complete eradication.
While it is a well-known idiom, it is more frequently used in formal or serious discussions rather than everyday conversation.
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