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March 24, 2026
把柄()bǎbǐng(ba3bing3)
把柄 (bǎ bǐng) refers to a handle or grip on an object, but it is often used metaphorically to describe compromising information or leverage against someone. In contexts such as politics or negotiations, having someone's 把柄 can provide an advantage or control over them.
Frequency#7791DifficultyHard
Cultural Note
In Chinese politics and business, having someone's 把柄 implies a level of manipulation or control that is often exploited during negotiations or conflicts, reflecting the competitive nature of these environments.
Memory Tip
Imagine a hand gripping a handle (把) and using it to control a situation. The character '柄' resembles a grip, and when you think of having a handle on someone's secrets, it helps you remember that 把柄 is about having leverage.
Meanings of 把柄
bǎbǐng(ba3bing3)
1handle
2(fig.) information that can be used against sb
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About 把柄
把柄Simplified
Traditional
—Strokes
—Radical
名词míngcínoun (n.)Part of Speech
#—Frequency Rank
HSK 3.0L7AdvancedTOCFLL5CEFRC2
Podcast: 把柄
Podcast: 把柄
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AI Study Notes for 把柄
Memory Mnemonic
Imagine a hand gripping a handle (把) and using it to control a situation. The character '柄' resembles a grip, and when you think of having a handle on someone's secrets, it helps you remember that 把柄 is about having leverage.
Usage Notes
Be cautious with the tone when using 把柄, as it carries a negative connotation when referring to compromising information. It's often used in informal contexts, such as gossip or discussions about politics, but can be inappropriate in formal settings.
HSK Study Tips
While 把柄 is not included in the HSK vocabulary lists, it connects well with other words about power dynamics and influence, such as 权力 (quánlì - power) and 控制 (kòngzhì - control). Students should focus on understanding its figurative use.
Cultural Note
In Chinese politics and business, having someone's 把柄 implies a level of manipulation or control that is often exploited during negotiations or conflicts, reflecting the competitive nature of these environments.
Common Mistakes
Learners often confuse 把柄 with similar words like 把手 (bǎ shǒu - handle), which means 'hand' rather than 'leverage.' Remember that 把柄 has a negative implication regarding control or secrets.
AI-enhanced 2026-03-24
Pronunciation of 把柄
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Cultural Notes for 把柄
🏮Cultural insight
In Chinese politics and business, having someone's 把柄 implies a level of manipulation or control that is often exploited during negotiations or conflicts, reflecting the competitive nature of these environments.
🌏Cross-cultural Insight
In Western cultures, the idea of having 'dirt' on someone can be similar, but it's often viewed as unethical, whereas in Chinese contexts, it can be seen as a strategic advantage.
Frequently Asked Questions about 把柄
You can say, '他知道我的把柄,' meaning 'He knows my weaknesses.'
把柄 is commonly used in spoken Chinese, especially in informal conversations.
Make sure to use the third tone for both 把 (bǎ) and the third tone for 柄 (bǐng) to convey the correct meaning.
