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起跑线 — pronunciations, definitions, and tags
HanziPinyinEnglishTags
起跑线qǐpǎoxiànthe starting line (of a race)HSK 7, unknown, 30 strokes, rank #23346, Very Hard
起跑线qǐpǎoxiànscratch line (in a relay race)HSK 7, unknown, 30 strokes, rank #23346, Very Hard
qǐpǎoxiàn(qi3pao3xian4)qi pao xian T3
  1. 1the starting line (of a race)
  2. 2scratch line (in a relay race)
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March 24, 2026

起跑线(起跑線)qǐpǎoxiàn(qi3pao3xian4)

起跑线 refers to the starting line in a race, marking the point where runners begin. It is commonly used in both literal and figurative contexts, such as discussing the starting point of an endeavor or competition.

Strokes30Frequency#23346DifficultyVery Hard
Cultural note

In sports, the starting line is a significant symbol of competition and fairness, reflecting the importance of equal beginnings in Chinese culture, much like the concept of '公平' (fairness).

Memory tip

Imagine a runner poised at the '起' (rise) of the race, ready to dash past the '跑' (run) towards the '线' (line). Picture the excitement of the starting gun going off, symbolizing new beginnings.

Meanings of 起跑线

qǐpǎoxiàn(qi3pao3xian4)
1the starting line (of a race)
2scratch line (in a relay race)
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About 起跑线

起跑线Simplified
起跑線Traditional
30Strokes
—Radical
名词míngcínoun (n.)Part of Speech
#—Frequency Rank
HSK 3.0L7AdvancedCEFRC2

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AI study notes for 起跑线

Usage Notes

This term is primarily used in sports contexts but can also be used metaphorically to discuss beginnings in various situations. Be careful not to confuse it with '起跑' (to start running), which focuses on the action rather than the line itself.

HSK Study Tips

While '起跑线' is not a specific HSK vocabulary word, it incorporates HSK Level 3 characters. Focus on understanding the individual components '起' (to rise), '跑' (to run), and '线' (line) to deepen comprehension.

Common Mistakes

Learners often mistakenly say '起跑' alone when they mean the starting line, missing the context. The correct term to use is '起跑线' to specify the line itself.

AI-enhanced 2026-03-24

Pronunciation of 起跑线

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Component characters

起qǐto rise
HSK 310 strokes走
View full entry
跑pǎoto run
HSK 212 strokes足
View full entry
线xiànthread
HSK 68 strokes纟
View full entry

How to say the starting line (of a race) in Chinese

“the starting line (of a race)” in Chinese is起跑线qǐpǎoxiàn

起跑线 refers to the starting line in a race, marking the point where runners begin. It is commonly used in both literal and figurative contexts, such as discussing the starting point of an endeavor or competition.

When to use 起跑线

This term is primarily used in sports contexts but can also be used metaphorically to discuss beginnings in various situations. Be careful not to confuse it with '起跑' (to start running), which focuses on the action rather than the line itself.

What learners get wrong

Learners often mistakenly say '起跑' alone when they mean the starting line, missing the context. The correct term to use is '起跑线' to specify the line itself.

Write 起跑线

起
跑
线

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Cultural Notes for 起跑线

🌏Cross-cultural Insight

In Western cultures, the concept of the starting line often emphasizes individual performance and competition, while in Chinese culture, there is also a strong focus on collective effort and harmony in achieving success.

Frequently asked questions about 起跑线

It is pronounced as 'qi3 pao3 xian4', with the third tone for '起', the third tone for '跑', and the fourth tone for '线'.

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