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线索 — pronunciations, definitions, and tags
Hanzi
Pinyin
English
Tags
线索
xiànsuǒ
trail
HSK 6, n, 18 strokes, rank #947, Hard
线索
xiànsuǒ
clues
HSK 6, n, 18 strokes, rank #947, Hard
线索
xiànsuǒ
thread (of a story)
HSK 6, n, 18 strokes, rank #947, Hard
xiànsuǒ(xian4suo3)xian suo T4
1trail
2clues
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March 24, 2026
线索(線索)xiànsuǒ(xian4suo3)
线索 (xiàn suǒ) refers to clues or threads that help in solving a mystery or understanding a situation. Commonly used in contexts such as detective stories, investigations, or when discussing narrative elements in literature, it implies a connection that leads to further understanding or discovery.
Strokes18Frequency#947DifficultyHard
Cultural note
In Chinese detective fiction, the concept of 线索 is vital, often reflecting the cultural value placed on intellect and deduction. Popular genres like 'gong'an' (公案) feature intricate plots where uncovering clues is a key theme.
Memory tip
Think of 线 (xiàn) as a 'line' or 'thread' and 索 (suǒ) as 'to search' or 'to seek'. Imagine a detective following a thread of yarn that leads to a hidden treasure. The thread represents the clues that guide them on their journey.
Meanings of 线索
xiànsuǒ(xian4suo3)
1trail
2clues
Exercise 1 of 2
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About 线索
线索Simplified
線索Traditional
18Strokes
—Radical
名词míngcínoun (n.)Part of Speech
#947Frequency Rank
HSK 2.0L6HSK 3.0L6IntermediateHSKKL3CEFRB2
Podcast: 线索
Podcast: 线索
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AI study notes for 线索
Quick Contrast
提示 (tíshì) - use 线索 for clues that lead to deeper investigation, while 提示 is more about giving hints or suggestions.
Usage Notes
Be careful not to confuse 线索 with similar terms like 线 (xiàn), which means 'line'. It is used in both formal and informal contexts, but is particularly common in narratives and discussions about problem-solving. Common collocations include '寻找线索' (to look for clues) and '失去线索' (to lose a clue).
HSK Study Tips
As an HSK 6 word, 线索 connects well with other advanced vocabulary related to investigation and analysis. Students should focus on its usage in literary contexts and practice forming sentences that incorporate this word alongside other narrative terms.
Common Mistakes
Learners often confuse 线索 with 线 (xiàn), leading to incorrect phrases like '我找到了一个重要的线' (I found an important line). The correct usage would be '线索' to emphasize the clue aspect.
AI-enhanced 2026-03-24
Pronunciation of 线索
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线索 (xiàn suǒ) refers to clues or threads that help in solving a mystery or understanding a situation. Commonly used in contexts such as detective stories, investigations, or when discussing narrative elements in literature, it implies a connection that leads to further understanding or discovery.
When to use 线索
Be careful not to confuse 线索 with similar terms like 线 (xiàn), which means 'line'. It is used in both formal and informal contexts, but is particularly common in narratives and discussions about problem-solving. Common collocations include '寻找线索' (to look for clues) and '失去线索' (to lose a clue).
线索 or something close to it
提示 (tíshì) - use 线索 for clues that lead to deeper investigation, while 提示 is more about giving hints or suggestions.
What learners get wrong
Learners often confuse 线索 with 线 (xiàn), leading to incorrect phrases like '我找到了一个重要的线' (I found an important line). The correct usage would be '线索' to emphasize the clue aspect.
Write 线索
线
索
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Grammar patterns of 线索
线索 functions as a noun — it names a person, place, thing, or concept. Place it as a subject before the verb (主+谓) or as an object after the verb (谓+宾). Most Chinese nouns require a measure word between the number and the noun (e.g. 一个/三本). It carries 3 related meanings, each with its own usage notes below. The example sentences below show it in action, with practice buttons (Listen, Practice Writing, Practice Speaking) on every line.
