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March 24, 2026
一把手()yībǎshǒu(yi1ba3shou3)
一把手 (yī bǎ shǒu) refers to a leading figure or primary person in a team or organization, often implying someone who is in charge or holds significant responsibility. It can also denote someone who is hands-on and actively involved in tasks, particularly in a work context.
Frequency#27248DifficultyVery Hard
Cultural Note
In Chinese workplaces, the concept of 一把手 reflects a hierarchical structure where the leader is expected to be actively involved in decision-making and guiding the team, contrasting with more decentralized leadership styles sometimes seen in Western organizations.
Memory Tip
Imagine a strong hand (把手) holding a big sword (一), symbolizing a leader who takes charge. The '一' represents the singularity of this leader as the foremost person, while '把手' emphasizes their active role in directing and executing tasks.
Meanings of 一把手
yībǎshǒu(yi1ba3shou3)
1working hand
2member of a work team
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About 一把手
一把手Simplified
Traditional
—Strokes
—Radical
#—Frequency Rank
HSK 3.0L7AdvancedBCT✓CEFRC2
Podcast: 一把手
Podcast: 一把手
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AI Study Notes for 一把手
Memory Mnemonic
Imagine a strong hand (把手) holding a big sword (一), symbolizing a leader who takes charge. The '一' represents the singularity of this leader as the foremost person, while '把手' emphasizes their active role in directing and executing tasks.
Usage Notes
This term is typically used in professional or organizational contexts and can carry a slightly formal tone. Be cautious not to confuse it with other terms for 'leader' which may imply different levels of authority. It often collocates with terms like '团队' (team) or '工作' (work).
HSK Study Tips
Though not an HSK vocabulary word, understanding 一把手 can enhance comprehension of leadership roles discussed in higher-level HSK contexts. Students should focus on the nuances of leadership and active participation in teams when learning this term.
Cultural Note
In Chinese workplaces, the concept of 一把手 reflects a hierarchical structure where the leader is expected to be actively involved in decision-making and guiding the team, contrasting with more decentralized leadership styles sometimes seen in Western organizations.
Common Mistakes
Learners might mistakenly use 一把手 to refer to any team member, but it specifically denotes the leader. For instance, saying '她是这个团队的一把手' (She is a member of this team) is incorrect if she's not the leader.
AI-enhanced 2026-03-24
Pronunciation of 一把手
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Cultural Notes for 一把手
🏮Cultural insight
In Chinese workplaces, the concept of 一把手 reflects a hierarchical structure where the leader is expected to be actively involved in decision-making and guiding the team, contrasting with more decentralized leadership styles sometimes seen in Western organizations.
Frequently Asked Questions about 一把手
Generally, no. 一把手 is more appropriate in formal or professional settings.
Not exactly; it specifically refers to the primary leader or person in charge, not just any team member.
You can say, '他是这个项目的一把手' (He is the leader of this project).
